Vertical living

Anybody who has called round at my house (not quite as grand as this one in Calle Isabel) will know that if I'm not expecting you, I probably won't hear the door. Sound does not travel between floors, the ceilings are very high. This is an excellent method of keeping the house cool in the summer (though dark) and warmer in the winter (though very dark).

I've never heard more than the occasional peep out of our neighbours either side. Round the back is another story, and from the terrace, I've been ready to call the police with some of the shouting that can go on occasionally.

So, I was mortified when one neighbour caught me today and asked me very politely if the boys could turn down the volume of their CD story at night. After reading to them, they fall asleep to a story or some music. It seems that someone had upped the volume a bit. I didn't think it particlarly loud, but I was on another floor (there are 5 in total, and a lot of exhausting stairs). I did hear a banging, and even went to the front door, but it appears that it was from next door through the wall. I am so upset that we've disturbed them. It was a bit later than usual, on account of huge amounts of homework after football. Even more homework tonight, unbelievable amounts in fact. I must speak to them at the school, and no more Horrid Henry.