The chain letter

The bundle of papers from the manager was marked READ AND RETURN. Breaking my normal habit, I read. The circulars were quickly initialled. The glossy newsletter with its uplifting messages was wearily skimmed. Next, a letter from the general manager of St Elsewhere's, consisting of one sentence: “I can't believe I'm doing this.” Attached to it was a wad of photocopies of similar memos, and a chain letter.

It had originated in Holland and promised good luck within four days if the recipient passed it on. Should the chain be broken, it warned, bad luck would follow. It was typed in capitals and the English was …