I have been submerged in proofs and other business for several days, but it is impossible not to be affected by the extraordinary events which have been shaking the world's financial institutions. Furrowed brows and glum faces are a reminder that economic meltdown is not a theoretical construct of the media: jobs are going, and along with them much else besides. No one is quite sure what to do any more in order to be financially prudent. Today's podcast (apologies for the delay) comes out of the present situation. While recording it, I was reminded of a small piece of card my father carried in his wallet. It contained a quotation from Juvenal, to the effect that the poor man can laugh when he goes among thieves. To have nothing in a society where little is needed to maintain life and all are ready to share the basic necessities is not really a problem. To have nothing in a society where everything, even the water we drink, must be bought and paid for is indeed a serious problem. But, however bad it gets, we in the west can laugh among thieves, while for those who truly have nothing, who depend on western aid for survival, there may be tears of despair.