The littoral from Msida to Sliema, including Ta’ Xbiex and Gżira, is a ribbon development marked with pleasant restaurants. On Sunday my wife and I had lunch in one of them. Food was good, service friendly and the terrace view superb.

Back home in Mellieħa, I happened to glance at the bill. We were overcharged on drinks we did not have. I made an objection on the phone. The manager (?) made light of it, giving me the impression that it had happened once too often.

I suggested that I should send him a stamped envelope with his bill enclosed so that he would reimburse the money by cheque. He refused and said that he would refund the money if I went back in person. That was a psychological deterrent knowing that I lived so far away.

Many would have lost heart and preferred to forget it. Many others do not even check the bill. I believe in the Maltese maxim, too rude to print here: I was determined to have my way and slap my presence in his face. I did go in person. He did reimburse the money… grudgingly, so it seemed to me.

Incidentally, my baptismal name is Joseph. Mother had believed that the name spelled honesty. Unfortunately she did not realise that some Josephuses may turn out to be rogues.

Of course, honesty is the best policy but overcharging also pays... sometimes!