Smithers and Teapots

There are certain mornings in a man's life when he wakes with the serene confidence that nothing, absolutely nothing, can go wrong. Birds chirp merrily. The sun peeks through the curtains in a most agreeable fashion. And one's valet arrives with a tray of tea, toast, and the morning paper, exuding calm competence.

On such mornings, a man might stretch luxuriously, glance at the clock, and think to himself, Ah, today will be peaceful. No geese. No engagements. No aunts.

For Reginald "Reggie" M...