But when Lord Spencer died, a different story emerged.
I have an appointment with Lord Spencer at nine o'clock.
Lord Spencer, who was 68 years old, died of a heart attack on Sunday.
Is it safe to give Lord Spencer all the details?
"Tell him you'll report to Lord Spencer exactly what has happened."
He also says that Lord Spencer's orders to you are being sent under separate cover.
Anyway, the worst of the paperwork was done: the most important was the report for Lord Spencer.
Lord Spencer nodded casually and gestured to a closed folder to his right.
Then he looked up at Lord Spencer and raised an eyebrow.
"So the commander was a comparative new boy to this business," Lord Spencer commented.