My dear colleagues,
I write in response to enquiries concerning my recent and, I understand, somewhat unexpected reappearance at Chester Station during my continuing expedition to Upton.
Having taken suitable refreshment at The Deva Tap, I once again turned my gaze and travelling abode northwards and resumed my journey with renewed vigour, fortified in body and spirit and confident that a successful conclusion to my mission lay ahead.
It was some considerable distance later, when passing Pierogi on Brook Street, that I became conscious of a curious sense that something was amiss. My progress seemed lighter; my burden inexplicably diminished. I paused, reflected upon the matter, and then realised my mission-worn Travelling Tote (pictured) was gone.
Those acquainted with the rigours of field work will appreciate the gravity of my predicament. Within that faithful companion were my identification papers, recruitment documentation, expense forms and sundry materials indispensable to the proper discharge of my duties.
There was nothing for it. I could scarcely present myself in Upton on official Office business bereft of credentials and paperwork.
I therefore turned about to retrace my journey, making diligent enquiries after my tote at each establishment through which I had passed.
After an arduous return passage, with no success, my enquiries brought me once more to The Chester Station Tap.
There, quite unexpectedly, I encountered thousands of colleagues from Health & Safety (Ant Division), celebrating the historic synchronised quadruple somersault with wee parasols fully extended. Naturally, one could hardly decline a celebratory drink.
For the avoidance of doubt, my return to Chester was undertaken solely to recover essential Office property and ensure the successful continuation of my mission.
My Travelling Tote is, regrettably, still missing.
I remain, as ever,
Mr Phileas Moss Esq.