Q. The forthcoming Chatsworth attic sale has inspired me to stage a similar, though much smaller event. The problem is opposition from my 85-year-old mother, who resists any kind of change and does not like to see things going out which she imagines could be put to use at some stage in the future. Our attics and farm buildings are bursting with things which will not see active service again — monogrammed unwieldy suitcases, meat domes, rusty scythes, etc… but they are things which would do well in a so-called country house sale because of their ‘provenance’. How should I tackle my mother, Mary?
Name and address withheld
A. The sale you mention will take place at Chatsworth between 5 and 7 October, with viewing between 1 and 4 October. Readers will sympathise with you and also with your mother.
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