A 1996 Beringer Merlot from California's Napa Valley offered good value a pounds 5 a glass.PeopleThe restaurant is under the same ownership as the Feathers Hotel in in Woodstock and Bishopstrow House in Wiltshire, which both have a reputation for good food. Mark-ups appear to be about 200 per cent on retail prices at the affordable end of the list Wines by the glass are chosen equally carefully. I regard the set menu as decent value and the a la carte as on the expensive side for what was on offer.DrinkThere is a quality wine list, including the Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 1998 from New Zealand at pounds 40 a bottle. The place had a relaxed feel.FoodThe prix fixe lunch menu offers two choices for each course Two courses cost pounds 19.50 and three pounds 23.50. Coffee, tea and tisanes are a further pounds 2.75 and an "optional" service charge of 15 per cent is added.A la carte starters range from pounds 6.50 to pounds 14.50, and a wide choice of main courses from pounds 16.50 to pounds 22.50 The desserts cost pounds 7.50.

Huge wall mirrors and dried lavender displays complete the decor, giving the place the feel of a designer restaurant.ClienteleAt lunch there was a wide cross-section of people, with expense-account diners, couples, lunch- ing ladies and a table of 20 somethings. There is a smaller dining area at the back, but this is less attractive, so ask for seats in the main dining room when you make your reservation.The room is dominated by two huge hanging lights, and a copy of Magritte's striking painting Contemplation of the World hangs over the fireplace, and fuels endless speculation about what the artist had in mind. A striking blue canopy at the front door, bearing a single gold "M", makes it easy to find. The front door leads into a rather boring hall, where coats are stored before diners are escorted up to the dining room on the first floor, which has full-length windows overlooking the square. Environment Morton's is located at the north end of Berkeley Square. Do not enclose SAEs or any documents you wish to be returned.

We cannot give personal replies, nor can we guarantee to answer letters We accept no legal responsibility for advice given.. Long-term friendly society plans, like long term savings plans from life insurance companies, are inflexible. You can lose out badly if you want to stop paying premiums or cash in the policy early.Write to the personal finance editor, Independent on Sunday, 1 Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5DL, and include a phone number; or fax 0171-293 2096; or e-mail i.berwick independent.co.uk. They have a somewhat anomalous tax status but "tax exempt" is a great tag to sell to investors. However high charges on low premiums can soon gobble up any tax advantage. But don't rush a decision.In any case, you say you don't have vast sums to invest.