Even in these uncertain times, you would have thought that selling alcohol to lawyers would be a surefire business proposition. In recent weeks, however, a large padlock and a ‘lease for sale’ sign have appeared on the door of Obiter’s neighbour, the splendid Hodgsons Wine Bar. Over the years, the Chancery Lane hostelry next door to the Law Society has been the venue for many a legal celebration – and the occasional drowning of sorrows too. Obiter looks forward to popping a cork again there soon.