LISTEN 
Paul Morley's new book on the North; musical instruments lost and found; news from Cannes.
Matthew Parris marks the passing of the valedictory despatch, the traditional final telegram home in which British ambassadors could let their hair down and settle a few scores
4/5 Despatches which changed the course of history.
3/5 In their valedictories, diplomats recount the hardships of foreign service.
3/3 Valedictory despatches from the last outposts of the British Empire. With Matthew Parris.
Wed 13 Oct 2010 11:00 BBC Radio 4
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