But the trains are fantastic

Given my earlier whinge about airlines, it is only fair that I say how fantastic the trains are. Earlier this week I went to see Professor Hibbard at the University of Oregon (about 500 miles down the coast). I went by train. They were fantastic. The cost was about 60 quid return, which is substantially less than the UK (unless you booked about 3 months advance at 2 o'clock in the morning on alternate Wednesdays). I took business class out as I intended to work on the train. But frankly the coach class I took back was as good as English First Class. You had in train movies if you wanted, AC power points for lap tops in Business and Coach. And the stations were something else. All polished wood and tile, beautifully clean and well cared-for.

I was massively impressed with Grand Central when I was in New York. My experience suggested that its elegance (if not its grandeur) is not so atypical.

For the record my meeting went well, and I continue to make pleasing progress. Eugene is an intriguing little town, and the University campus itself is a genuine delight.