"......Towards the end of the exceptionally splendid lunch, there was magic in the air - literally. An unknown guest arrived, attired in unconventional dress by the Connaught standards, and rudely interrupted a fascinating speech being given by Laurent Perrier's managing director, Guy Salter. The latter, it transpired, was the maker of the mischief, as the guest began to pour wine through newspapers and make engagement rings disappear into thin air. The guests were bouche bée."