My sister was at a 40th birthday party at the weekend in a small town in Co. Limerick (pop. 500). Her friend had invited to the local pub a wide range of people of all ages; friends, neighbours and relatives (a goodly percentage of pop. 500). My sister found herself chatting to an older pleasant, gentleman called Michael. The talk veered to the economy and she was very impressed with his knowledge of the euro crisis, the Greek finance Minister and related matters. Doubtless she thought to herself in her urban way that we are inclined to underestimate the elderly, mountainy men and their grasp of current affairs [this may be projection on my part].
It was only later her boyfriend asked how she had enjoyed her chat with the Minister for Finance. A neighbour of the birthday boy, since you ask.
Ouch! This is totally my nightmare situation.
Indeed.