Over the next few days we'll hear much on Sir Ron's contribution. I'll listen with none of  the reservations one often has about eulogies for people you know from working with them and for them, in strife and in success.

When I opposed the abolition of knighthoods and celebrated their restoration it was Ron I thought of as the embodiment of our version of nobility. It was him I had in mind when arguing that having a title that elevated some of us as models for all, was worth it despite knowing that some undeserving imposters would also benefit.

I do not recall a client who was more worth working for, or more fun to dine with, or more magnanimous in success or more decent in adversity.