Sir Guestling

I am as you have, surmised by now, a knight of the realm. A great honor. I am the first of the Thorn clan to achieve this distinction. It is no great mystery why it was presented to me. It's recognition for my long years of representing Her Majesties Government all over the world, in what I immodestly like to think was a distinguished career in the foreign office. The knighthood was bestowed upon me after four stints as an Ambassador in four separate embassies, a feat, which I understand is unique. 
We were just leaving the last of those four embassies, Paris, where we had been in residence for two years. I had decided to bring my career to an end,the good lady and I had decided that it was time to settle down in Thorn Towers at last and retire from the diplomatic service. 
I was exhausted, Paris may sound like a comfortable and civilized embassy to be the ambassador of but on the contrary it was and is one of the busiest and sometimes most difficult places to practice British diplomacy. En ton cordial and all that we may have but the French can be the most infuriating of people to deal with, however charming they are. Not to mention the succession of other nationalities within our great European union, that one had to handle. France is a big player in the European community, there is a lot to do, with endless meetings, functions, events and people whom you have to meet. The UK is always sending lots of requests for all sorts of business they wish taken care of and so it had proved to be one of my toughest appointments. Lady Guestling, as she was about to become, played her full part to, I can tell you it is almost impossible to run an embassy without the help and support of your better half and of course I also had the faithful Pomfrey to look after me. Pomfrey would act as a butler when we had formal occasions. His subtle but imposing presence was always a comfort to me and often helped in tricky situations. I am sure that he intimidated many of the representatives, that I had to meet, seeing this silent 6' 7', bearded figure, being attentive in anticipation of everyone's needs, was a home advantage, that I make no excuse for using. I am sure many a visitor, whom may have been getting hot under the collar was put off by the ethereal presence of Pomfrey.

There were perks and Paris can be an exciting and culturally wonderful city, we have since visited it as private citizens and whilst naturally we had the advantage of my previous reputation to smooth the stay, found Paris to be a charming place, if not a little full of it's own importance!
Just before we had packed up ready to leave the embassy, I received a call from a member of the government asking if I would be amenable to receiving an honor in the Queens new year list. Well what does one say at such moments, I could only say yes. A few weeks later a very official letter arrived at our home back in blighty, which informed me that I would be made a Knight of the Realm but that I had to keep it secret until the list was released. Excitement and pride echoed through Thorn Towers and Mrs Thorn went straight out to her dressmaker to get the perfect outfit for the day. Pomfrey smile was more beaming than ever and as usual his comment was profound
Congratulations sir on becoming a Sir but always remember that you are still just Mr Guestling Thorn.
I have always tried to live up to that advice.
On the big day we arrived at the palace and after being briefed on the etiquette of the occasion, I eventually found myself kneeling before the Queen and was duly touched on the shoulder with a ceremonial sword and became Sir Guestling the humble writer of these pages.
So I am now and will forever be Sir Guestling Thorn.