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- Herausgeber: Allison & Busby
- Kategorie: Gesellschafts- und Liebesromane
- Sprache: Englisch
September, 1938. Britain is at war and Ruth Aspinall, a gifted pilot, is determined to join the Air Transport Auxiliary, an organisation of civilian pilots who ferry aircraft to wherever they're needed. Meanwhile over in America, siblings Jack and Lucy Nelson, both experienced pilots themselves, are keen to join too. After a perilous journey by sea, Jack is soon having his first experience of the London Blitz before being posted to White Waltham, where he quite literally bumps into Ruth and romance soon blossoms. On D-Day, Jack is sent to France to deliver a Spitfire, but he is declared missing in action after his plane fails to arrive. Heartbroken, Ruth must accept that the love of her life may never return . . .
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Seitenzahl: 451
Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2016
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A Flight of Golden Wings
BERYL MATTHEWS
Contents
Aetheris Avidi – Eager for the AirMotto of the Air Transport Auxiliary
Chapter One
September, 1938
There wasn’t a cloud in the sky. It was the kind of day Ruth Aspinall’s brother had loved. The pain of loss gripped her as it always did when she thought about Robert. He’d had such a zest for life, not knowing the meaning of caution or fear in his search for any new experience, the more dangerous the better. Six months ago his racing car had overturned and he had been killed instantly.
Ruth sighed. What a waste of a young life, and how she missed her big brother. Her parents were inconsolable at losing their adored son – the son who should have taken over as head of the Aspinall family law firm when they’d gone. Now they only had a daughter left. Oh, Ruth knew she had always come second in their affections, but she didn’t mind. They loved her in their own way, and she them, but Robert had been their pride and joy.
The grief pervading their home had been too much for Ruth. Even with twenty rooms in the house she hadn’t been able to escape it, so she had driven to Yorkshire. Here, in the tranquillity of the Dales, she had finally been able to allow her own grief to surface, and after six days she had found a measure of comfort.
A movement in the air caught Ruth’s attention and she shaded her eyes. There was a large bird soaring above her. Some bird of prey, she guessed, but didn’t know what it was. It was so beautiful though. She watched in fascination as it dived and swooped, revelling in the freedom. Then it became motionless, hovering on the wind.
Her brother had learnt to fly, and she smiled, remembering his excitement. ‘Was that how you felt, Robert?’ she called. ‘Did you love the freedom as much as that bird does?’ She could almost hear her brother’s voice telling her how wonderful it was, and urging her to try it.
She continued to watch as the bird climbed and disappeared from sight, wishing she could be up there with it. The longing almost made her cry out as she turned and ran to her car. She would learn to fly.
The drive back to London took three days. She had taken it slowly for a reason: Ruth was not in the habit of making hasty decisions, and she wanted time to be sure this was what she really wanted. Her emotions had been at a very high pitch and she wanted to be sure that learning to fly wasn’t just a reaction to losing her brother – a desire to emulate him in some way. That wouldn’t be right; her character was more cautious, and she had often tried to instil that trait into Robert as he had set out on one dangerous adventure after another. But he had only laughed at her in his teasing way.
By the time Ruth reached London there was not the slightest doubt in her mind. It was now a burning ambition, and there was only one person to see. Simon Trent was a friend of the family and had been her brother’s instructor. He was highly regarded as a pilot. She would see him before returning to her home in Virginia Water.
It was another beautiful day as Ruth drove through the gates of Heston Airfield and stopped outside the office of the flying school. She got out of her car and gazed around in surprise. The place was alive with activity. She had often come here with her brother, but it had never been this busy. A loud shout caught her attention and she couldn’t help smiling. A young man had just tumbled out of a plane, waving his arms around excitedly. He had obviously just flown solo for the first time. Ruth felt the buzz and excitement around the place and her smile broadened. Oh yes, she was going to do this.
‘Hello, Ruth,’ a quiet voice behind her said.
She spun around, still smiling. ‘Simon! I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to see you. It’s so busy I thought you’d be in the air with a pupil.’
‘I’ve got an hour before my next appointment.’
‘Oh, good. I’ve come at the right time then.’ Another plane was preparing for take-off and one more was waiting its turn. ‘Why are you so busy?’
‘The government is encouraging young men to learn to fly.’ Simon sighed deeply. ‘There’s a war coming, Ruth, and we’re going to need all the pilots we can get.’
She had heard the speculation, of course, but Simon sounded so sure. ‘It might not happen …’
‘No, it might not, but we have to be prepared. What’s going on in Germany is worrying, to say the least.’ He studied Ruth intently, his bright blue eyes curious. ‘How are you, and what brings you here today?’
‘I’ve just come back from Yorkshire after a few days on my own. I needed to get away and try to come to terms with Robert’s death.’
‘And it looks as if you’ve made your peace with the tragedy.’
‘I’ve finally accepted it. The quiet and solitude helped enormously. Now I feel I can get on with my life. That’s what Robert would have wanted. He always said that every moment of life was precious and should be lived to the full. I do wonder if he had a premonition that he would die young.’ Ruth sighed. The sadness was still with her and always would be, but at last the pain was easing.
‘He had a reckless streak, Ruth.’ Simon’s expression was thoughtful as he studied her. ‘So what are you going to do now? You’re an intelligent girl and could get yourself a good job.’
‘I’ve broached the subject several times, but Father says it isn’t necessary. The Aspinall law firm is very successful and I don’t need to earn a living.’ Ruth grimaced. ‘I’ve always gone along with him for a quiet life, but Robert’s death has shaken me up. I’m twenty and tired of wasting my life. It’s time to make changes. The first thing I’m going to do is learn to fly.’
‘And what do your parents think of that?’ Simon asked gently, not showing any surprise.
‘I honestly don’t think they’ll mind. You’ve been flying for many years without mishap, Simon, and my parents trusted you with Robert. I’m sure they’ll do the same with me.’ She smiled wryly at the man in front of her. He was around five foot ten and she only had to tilt her head slightly to meet his eyes – eyes that didn’t miss a thing, assessing everything and everyone in his quiet way. But under the quietness there was an aura of strength. At twenty-eight he was a most attractive man, but she had always regarded him as one of the family; more like a cousin. However, if he did ever decide to marry, Ruth had no doubt that he would make a wonderful husband for some lucky girl.
‘Robert turned out to be an excellent pilot and was a lot more careful in the air than on the ground.’ Simon shoved his hands in his pockets and grinned. ‘We had some almighty rows at first, but I eventually managed to instil some caution into him.’
‘And my parents know that.’ Ruth’s expression saddened. ‘This has been very distressing for them. When they had a son they were overjoyed and wanted another. They waited eight years before I came along. A daughter was not what they had hoped for, and to their disappointment they never had any more children. They’ve always loved me and I’ve never minded that Robert was their favourite … But to get back to flying.’ Ruth gave a chuckle. ‘They’ll think I’ve gone crazy, but it wasn’t flying that killed Robert. My parents respect and trust you, Simon, so I don’t think they’ll complain too much if they know you are to be my instructor.’
Simon lit a cigarette, smoking it in silence as he weighed up the situation. He was halfway through the cigarette and still hadn’t spoken.
Ruth became anxious. Was he going to turn her down? She didn’t want anyone else to teach her. ‘Teach me to fly,’ she pleaded, her golden brown eyes gleaming with excitement. ‘I really want to do this.’
He blew smoke into the air and regarded her thoughtfully. Then he tossed the cigarette end down and ground it out with the toe of his shoe. ‘Well, you’re wearing slacks, so come with me.’
Excitement welled up in Ruth and she hurried after Simon as he made for a plane. She knew it was an Avro Cadet, the same as her brother had flown. She almost cried out with joy. He hadn’t said no.
He hoisted her up and then climbed in himself, making sure her harness was securely fastened.
‘That’s tight,’ she muttered, trying to control her nerves. She had thought they would just make a booking now. She hadn’t expected him to dump her in a plane straight away, but she knew him well enough to guess what he was doing. He was going to see if she was really serious about this. Well, she would show him that she was!
Simon was busy taxiing the aircraft and merely ignored her remark, but she was sure she saw his mouth twitch in amusement. Under that quiet exterior there was a wicked sense of humour, and her insides clenched when she wondered what the hell she had let herself in for.
As they left the ground, Ruth gasped, and much to her shame, closed her eyes tight. Simon’s deep chuckle made her open them wide. She was glad he was in the instructor’s seat and couldn’t see her face. ‘Well, I’ve never been in a plane before! Robert wanted to take me up, but I refused.’
‘He was a good pilot, Ruth. In fact, he was one of the best pupils I’ve ever had.’
‘He was good at everything he did.’ The familiar pain of loss welled up in her. Robert had always been urging her to try flying, enthusiastically trying to convince her that it was a truly wonderful feeling to soar in the air as free as a bird.
Ruth’s mouth set in a determined line. She was going to be a good pilot as well.
Apprehension drained from her as she watched the ease with which Simon handled the plane. She began to look around her. What she saw took her breath away. There were a few small clouds, which looked like puffs of cotton wool, and the ground was laid out below them in a patchwork of many shades of green, with patches of gold from the ripe corn.
‘Oh, it’s beautiful!’ she whispered in awe.
‘Nothing better on a day like this,’ Simon agreed. ‘Now, let’s see if you’re really serious about learning to fly, shall we? And if you’ve got the stomach for it.’
The little plane banked, slipped sideways and then dropped, making her gasp. When she was sure they were going to hit the ground, Simon climbed again.
The next few minutes were incredible as Simon put the plane through a series of manoeuvres. My God, she thought, he’s doing part of his air show routine! She had watched him perform many times, wondering what it must feel like to be tossed about like that. Now she knew.
She experienced an overwhelming sense of exhilaration as they spun around in the air. If Simon was endeavouring to make her change her mind, then he hadn’t succeeded. In fact he had done just the opposite. She tipped her head back and laughed with glee.
Much too soon for her they were landing. She would have to get back up there as soon as possible.
Simon taxied back to the office, jumped out and helped Ruth down. She was glad of the help as her legs were shaking rather, but she was determined not to let him see it. It was only excitement, not fear.
‘Nice show, Simon,’ another pilot called as he walked past with a pupil.
Simon just raised his hand in greeting.
Ruth stood with her hands on her hips waiting for Simon to turn his attention back to her. When he did she tilted her head to one side. ‘Were you trying to frighten me, Simon?’
‘Hmm. I don’t think I succeeded, did I?’
‘Ah, you guessed that, did you?’ she teased.
‘I knew it the moment you shouted at me to do that again.’ He was laughing and shaking his head.
Her eyes opened wide. ‘I never did!’
‘I assure you that’s exactly what you did.’ He was obviously amused, but his expression showed only respect.
‘I don’t remember shouting out.’ She’d known she had loved every minute of the flight, but was quite unaware that she had acted in such an unrestrained manner. It wasn’t like her at all. ‘I loved it. You’re going to have to teach me, Simon.’
He nodded and urged her towards the hut they used as an office. ‘The first thing we’ll have to do is curb all the excitement once you’re in the air. A good pilot is a safe pilot, one who remains focussed, calm and in control whatever the situation.’
‘I understand.’ She watched him flick through the appointment book, feeling more light-hearted than she’d done for some time. She was going to learn to fly. That was a start. The next thing would be to find some kind of a job. She’d had enough of wasting her life, and now she wanted to do something useful and fulfilling. Robert’s death had been a brutal wake-up call.
That evening Ruth watched her parents with affection as they read the papers after dinner. It was a lovely evening and the doors were wide open, allowing the soothing sound of birds and the perfume of roses to filter into the sitting room. They had been so pleased to see her and she had felt relieved to find them looking more composed than when she left. Terrible as the tragedy had been, it had happened, and nothing could bring Robert back. It was time they all got on with their lives, as her brother would have expected of them. Nothing was going to be the same again, and that fact had to be accepted.
Ruth gazed out at the garden, drinking in the beauty. It was only early September so there was still a profusion of colour. Her mother loved gardening and Ruth knew it had given her some solace as she’d tried to cope with the loss of her much-loved son. Her thoughts drifted back to her flight with Simon and a smile touched her mouth. She had her first lesson in two days’ time and couldn’t wait. Simon had drilled into her just how much work it was going to be to gain her private pilot licence. He had insisted that she would have to learn how to maintain the aircraft – which would entail getting her hands dirty, he told her dryly. Navigation was another requisite. It was no good messing about in the air if you didn’t know where you were going.
Ruth’s chuckle at the memory of Simon’s lecture had her parents glancing up.
‘What’s amusing you, my dear?’ her father asked, a smile lighting up his tired face.
‘I called in to see Simon on my way home—’
‘Oh, how is he? Why didn’t you bring him home?’ Her mother’s affection for Simon showed. ‘We haven’t seen him for weeks.’
‘He was busy with pupils. The airfield was a hive of activity, but I managed to catch him when he had an hour to spare. He said the government was encouraging men to learn to fly.’
Her father nodded, his eyes troubled once again. ‘The feeling is that there could be a war and we had better be prepared. Pilots will be needed. Poor devils, these young men don’t know what they might be letting themselves in for.’
‘Do you really think we’ll go to war with Germany again, Father? Surely Hitler won’t take the risk?’
‘Who knows?’ Her father shrugged. ‘He’s a fanatic, and fanatics are notoriously unpredictable.’
A deep sigh came from her mother. ‘If it does come I hope Simon keeps out of it.’
‘He won’t be able to, my dear, and I doubt he would want to.’ George Aspinall laid aside his newspaper and turned to his daughter. ‘Let’s hope it’s all talk, shall we?’
Ruth was relieved the subject had been closed. Now was the time to talk seriously to them about her future. ‘I’m sure you’re right, Father. It’s the immediate future I’ve been thinking about. I want to find a job.’
‘You can help me with my charity work,’ her mother suggested. ‘We’re always grateful for willing hands.’
‘Thank you, Mother, but I want to earn my own living. I’ve relied on you and Father for far too long.’
‘You know you don’t have to worry about that, Ruth.’
‘But I do. Couldn’t you find me something to do in your offices? I don’t care what it is.’ Ruth’s eyes gleamed as she teased, ‘Don’t you need a tea girl, or a filing clerk?’
A look of horror crossed her father’s face. ‘I’m not having my daughter running around at everyone’s beck and call! Why don’t you go back to university and study law?’
Ruth grimaced and stifled a sigh of exasperation. This subject had come up before, but quite honestly she had no interest in law, as she’d quickly discovered during her time at university. ‘I don’t want to go back to school. I’ll ask Simon if I can work at the flying school while he’s teaching me to fly.’
There was a stunned silence as her parents studied their daughter in horror.
‘Pardon?’ her father growled. ‘Did I hear you correctly?’
Ruth cursed herself for dropping that news so carelessly. It wasn’t what she had planned at all, but she had spoken without thinking. ‘I’ve asked Simon to teach me to fly and he’s agreed.’ She leant forward, her expression pleading for understanding. ‘I’m wasting my life, and I just can’t go on like this.’
‘But what use will flying be to you, darling?’ Alice Aspinall looked thoroughly confused.
‘I don’t know, but it’s something I really want to do.’
Her father cleared his throat, the first one to recover. ‘You say Simon’s going to be your instructor?’
She nodded. ‘I start in two days’ time.’
George looked steadily at his wife. ‘Simon’s a good pilot, my dear – one of the best. Ruth won’t come to any harm with him. We ought to give her our blessing in this endeavour.’
‘Of course, you’re right, my dear.’ Alice straightened her shoulders. ‘We always gave Robert full rein to follow his dreams, and we shouldn’t stop our daughter doing the same.’
Ruth leapt to her feet with joy, rushing over to hug them both. She had always known they were kind, loving people, but this showed what immense, unselfish courage they had.
‘Oh, thank you!’ she said gratefully. ‘I promise I’ll be careful. I’ll be the safest pilot there is in the air.’
Chapter Two
As Ruth walked towards the plane for her first lesson she felt excited, but there was also an absolute certainty that this was what she was meant to do. It was a strange feeling, but she had always followed her instinct. Robert had teased her about it constantly. A smile touched her lips as she thought, I’ll show you, Robert. One day this will prove to be the best thing I’ve ever done.
Simon had just spent half an hour outlining what lay ahead of her. If he considered she was going to make a good pilot they would work towards her ‘A’ licence. Then she would have to log 100 hours solo before trying for the ‘B’ licence. He had said firmly that if she were serious about this then he expected her to do the thing properly. He was clearly expecting much of her, but that had only increased her determination to succeed. She knew some women flew at air shows and took passengers on paying fun trips, so the prospect was exciting.
However, that was all speculation at the moment, she reminded herself, climbing into the plane. Simon had just been opening the possibilities to her. Everything depended upon her ability as a pilot.
Once in the air Simon ran through the controls again, then told her to take over. ‘Stay below the clouds, Ruth, and fly straight and level.’
She followed his instruction, revelling in the thrill of being given a chance so soon. Her concentration was total, listening to the quiet voice of her instructor when she needed to make adjustments to keep straight. It was comforting to know that he would take over in a second if she did something wrong. That knowledge increased her confidence.
The first lesson was only thirty minutes, and when they landed they went straight to the flying school office.
Ruth waited patiently while Simon filled in details of her first flight. When he looked up, she asked eagerly, ‘How did I do?’
‘Too early to say.’ Simon sat back and regarded her thoughtfully. ‘But you were calm, obeyed instructions and made necessary adjustments without hesitation. You seemed to have a good feel for the controls, but only time will tell.’
She blew out a breath of relief. Simon’s assessment was encouraging, and she knew he didn’t waste unnecessary words by saying things he didn’t mean. ‘Thank you.’
His expression was serious. ‘I want you to try and go solo by the end of the month. If you can do that then we’ll consider taking the next step. But bear this in mind, Ruth: if you do want to progress to the ‘B’ private pilot licence, then you’ll be doing it during the winter months. It won’t be easy, but I’ll help you all I can.’
‘I know that, but I promise I’ll give it all I’ve got.’
He got to his feet. ‘I can’t ask for more than that.’
‘Simon, is there any work I can do in the office or around the airfield?’
‘I know this is going to be expensive, so do you need to earn money to help with the costs?’ His expression was understanding. ‘I realise that you won’t want to ask your parents for help.’
‘Oh, no, it’s nothing like that. They would help, but I don’t need to ask them for financial help. I’m in the fortunate position of being able to pay my own way. It’s just that I would like something useful to do between lessons. I’m tired of being a lady of leisure.’
‘Do you mind what you do?’
‘No, I’ll take anything. I offered to be a tea girl in my father’s law firm, but he refused.’
Simon tipped his head back and laughed. ‘I’ll bet he did. Well, I’m snowed under with paperwork and I’d appreciate your help for a couple of days a week. I’ll pay you, of course.’
‘That’s marvellous, thank you, Simon.’
Over the next four weeks, Simon watched Ruth carefully. It was clear she was enjoying the lessons, and her eagerness to get in the air increased with every flight. He’d had serious doubts about Robert’s little sister learning to fly. She had always appeared to be a dedicated socialite with nothing to do but enjoy herself, but he was fast revising that opinion; he now suspected that that was no more than a facade. He knew whenever she had voiced the desire to do something useful, her parents had just waved it away, telling her to go out and have some fun. Robert’s death had obviously shaken her and made her take stock of her life. There was a new Ruth Aspinall emerging. She was happy to help in any way she could around the office, and Simon was happy to pay her for that. Paperwork was not his favourite job, and she was a skilled organiser. But more importantly, she was showing a real feel for flying, revelling in each new manoeuvre she mastered, and showing none of her brother’s reckless nature.
He sat back away from the controls and said quietly, ‘All right, Ruth, take her in.’
With a quick smile she turned for the approach. Her height and speed were all good, but the thing he was most impressed with was her concentration. It was total. He wished some of the boys he was teaching had the same ability. She was going to make a damned good pilot.
The plane touched down with a smoothness even he would have been proud of. At that moment he made up his mind. Jumping out as soon as they had stopped he shut the door, tapped it twice with his hand, and nodded to her. It was time for her to go solo.
‘Now’s your chance, Ruth, show me what you can do.’ Then he walked away from the plane, leaving her on her own for the first time.
When Simon reached the flying school hut, he turned. She was already taxiing into position. Phil, another instructor, joined him. ‘Is she ready, Simon? Many of the eager boys don’t go solo this quickly.’
‘She’s ready.’ Simon spoke with confidence. ‘She’s a family friend. I wouldn’t dare let her do this if I had the slightest doubt.’
The men watched in silence as Ruth took off, circled the airfield a couple of times and then made a good landing. ‘Impressive,’ Phil said.
Simon’s smile spread. ‘Oh, she’s more than that, Phil. Ruth Aspinall was meant to fly and is a first-class pilot in the making.’
As Ruth taxied the plane back to where Simon was standing she was surprised at how calm she had been. He hadn’t given any indication that he was about to let her go solo, so there hadn’t been time to get worked up about it. Over the last four weeks she had often wondered what it would be like to be alone in the air. Now she knew. It was wonderful! The sheer beauty and feeling of freedom had been breathtaking, and much to her astonishment she hadn’t been frightened.
Switching off the engine, she clambered out, determined to be dignified about this and not go mad with excitement. But as she walked towards Simon and saw his smiling face, she knew she had done well, and couldn’t help laughing out loud in glee.
‘How did I do?’ she asked when she reached him.
‘Not bad.’
‘What do you mean, “not bad”? That was pretty nigh on perfect.’
‘No, it wasn’t –’ Simon held out a bottle of champagne he’d been hiding behind his back ‘– it was flawless.’
Phil shook her hand. ‘Well done, Ruth. We’ll have you at the air shows in no time at all. Wish I could stay and enjoy the drink with you, but I’ve got a lesson now.’
As Phil walked away, Simon draped an arm around Ruth’s shoulder. ‘Two of my students have cancelled so I’ve got some free time. What say we go and break the good news to your parents? We could crack open the champagne with them.’
It was a fine Saturday afternoon and they found George and Alice Aspinall in the garden. Ruth was grateful for Simon’s presence to help her with this news. Her parents had been very supportive of her desire to fly, but she knew they worried, even though they tried hard to hide it.
‘Simon, how lovely to see you!’ Ruth’s mother greeted him with obvious affection, for he had been a regular visitor to their home when Robert was alive.
‘Hello, Mrs Aspinall.’ Simon kissed her cheek and then shook hands with George. ‘How are you, sir?’
‘Fine, fine.’ George studied his daughter’s flushed face and saw the bottle of champagne. ‘It looks as if we have something to celebrate.’
‘We have!’ Ruth’s excitement bubbled over. ‘I’ve just flown solo for the first time.’
‘Oh, that’s wonderful, darling!’ Alice stood up. ‘We must indeed drink to such an achievement. I’ll go and get some glasses.’
‘Well done, my dear.’ Her father smiled proudly. ‘And you’ve done it so quickly.’
‘Ah, well, Simon’s the best instructor anyone could have.’
‘He certainly is.’ George winked at Simon. ‘A good student then, is she?’
‘Very good.’ Simon popped the cork when Alice returned with the glasses and then poured the champagne. He held up his glass. ‘To Ruth. That was an excellent solo flight. From what I’ve seen so far, I believe you have the makings of a very good pilot.’
‘Thank you.’ This was high praise from a man who didn’t waste words. To be told that she could reach such lofty heights in his eyes was more than she had dared to hope for.
‘Sit down,’ George urged, then turned to his daughter. ‘Tell us all about it. Were you nervous?’
‘No, Simon didn’t give me the chance. He just jumped out of the plane after we’d landed and told me to show him what I could do.’
‘And she did.’ Simon refilled their glasses, but left his own. He had only taken a couple of sips for the toast. ‘No more for me. I have three more lessons today.’
‘What comes next, Simon?’ Alice squeezed her daughter’s hand to show her how pleased she was for her.
‘Ruth is good enough to go for her “A” licence. I will now take her through everything necessary to pass the tests. Once that’s done she will be able to do cross-country flights to log up 100 hours solo so she can apply for the “B” licence.’ Simon faced her, his expression serious. ‘All this will take a great deal of study and practise, but if you approach it with the same dedication and enthusiasm you have shown so far, you will be able to do it.’
‘I won’t let you down, Simon.’ That he had such trust in her ability was overwhelming, and she would work hard over the next few months. She wanted to succeed in this more than she had ever wanted anything in her life.
‘I know you won’t, Ruth. If I had any doubts I wouldn’t be pushing you like this.’
‘I suppose you’ll want me to buy you a plane, Ruth?’ George gave a mock sigh, but his mouth twitched. ‘As long as you promise not to land on our lawn.’
That made everyone laugh. The Aspinalls’ garden was a picture, and the lawn perfection in emerald.
‘I wouldn’t dare, Father.’
Ruth’s mother looked at Simon with concern in her eyes. ‘Things are getting nasty in Germany and there’s much speculation about war. What do you think will happen, Simon?’
‘I really don’t know. The signs aren’t good, but we’ll just have to wait and see how things work out. I don’t think anyone knows which way Hitler will jump next.’
‘Oh, it might not come to anything.’ Ruth didn’t like to see her mother so concerned, but she knew Alice followed the news avidly and was no fool. She was clearly digesting each development and weighing up the situation.
‘Still, it’s something we need to watch. If the worst happens I suppose you’ll go in the RAF, Simon? They’ll be crying out for pilots with your experience and skill.’
‘I expect they will, and it would be an obvious choice for me.’ Simon glanced at his watch. ‘I won’t make a decision until I have to. See you tomorrow, Ruth. You must get in as much flying as possible while the weather’s good.’
‘I’ll be there at nine,’ Ruth told him.
After saying goodbye, they watched Simon walk away, and Alice frowned. ‘He’s being kept busy teaching, isn’t he? The government must think that war with Germany is a possibility and they want as many pilots as possible.’
‘Just a precaution, my dear; it’s sensible to be prepared.’ George drained his glass and smiled at his daughter. ‘But enough of this gloomy talk or we’ll spoil Ruth’s special day.’
‘Of course.’ Alice’s expression cleared. ‘I’ve always been such a worrier, but I’m very proud of our daughter, the pilot!’
Simon had been right when he’d said that the next few months would need complete dedication. As the autumn turned to winter the flying became more and more difficult, and many days Ruth prowled the airfield begging the clouds to lift, rain to stop, or strong winds to drop. She spent almost every day waiting for the weather to clear enough for her to take off. Simon did his best to keep her busy studying navigation, learning about the engines and, in her spare time, helping him around the office.
Ruth was overjoyed when she was given her ‘A’ licence early in December. But it wasn’t until the end of May 1939 that she finally succeeded in earning her ‘B’ private pilot licence. The required night flight had been tough, and although Simon had flown with her along the route a few times, she had still been terrified that she would get lost. But she hadn’t, and her sense of achievement had been enormous. Her parents had thrown a large party in her honour, and now appeared to be quite happy that she had chosen to fly. Any misgivings they might have were carefully hidden and she loved them for that. Knowing what had happened to their son must make them anxious that their daughter was now pursuing such a dangerous pastime. One thing she knew they were happy about was the fact that her instructor was Simon. They trusted him as a pilot and knew he wouldn’t allow her to take unnecessary risks.
However, there was a blot on her happiness. They were living in troubled times and speculation about war was growing. Ruth couldn’t help wondering if all her effort might turn out to have been wasted. If the country did go to war then pilots like her would be grounded. The men could fly for the RAF, of course, but there wouldn’t be anything for women with a private licence.
With this in mind, Ruth spent as much time flying as possible, logging up hours while she had the chance. In the summer months she went with Simon to a couple of air shows and enjoyed them very much.
But everyone was edgy, wondering what the future held.
On the 3rd of September they found out. Britain was at war with Germany.
Chapter Three
Nothing was happening! When war had been declared there had been a flurry of activity as the RAF had taken over the airfield and they’d had to move the flying-school planes. Ruth had helped Simon and Phil to fly them to a base in Cornwall where they would stay for the time being. After that, many pilots like Ruth had been grounded, and the happy days of flying wherever they pleased were over.
She gazed around the garden. It was a riot of colour as flowers of every kind burst into bloom and lifted their faces to the sunshine. Christmas had come and gone, and the New Year of 1940 had arrived to an uncertain future. Now it was spring and such a lovely day. Tipping her head back Ruth studied the clear blue sky. The longing to be up there again was like a physical pain.
‘They’re calling this the phoney war.’ Alice joined her daughter in the garden and smiled as she enjoyed the lovely sight of so much colour.
Ruth jumped. She had been lost in thought and hadn’t heard her mother come out. ‘Yes, but I don’t suppose it feels like that to the boys in France. Things aren’t going well, are they?’
‘No, it’s worrying. Your father thinks this is the calm before the storm here, and things could get very nasty soon. I hope he’s wrong.’
‘Hmm.’ Ruth watched the birds and sighed deeply. ‘I thought I might join the WAAF, Mother. I can’t hang around doing nothing. It’s driving me mad.’
‘They don’t fly, darling,’ Alice pointed out gently, ‘and I know that’s what you want to do. What about this Air Transport Auxiliary you were telling us about? They’ve taken on some women, haven’t they?’
‘Only eight, and they are all instructors with a lot more flying hours than I’ve logged.’
‘Why don’t you try them before you make a decision? I don’t believe you would be happy in the WAAF.’
‘They’ve got my name on their list, but I don’t hold out much hope. There are strong objections to women flying planes in wartime.’ She gave a dry laugh. ‘At least if I join the WAAF I’ll be near planes and be able to weep all over them.’
‘Bad as that, is it?’ Alice slipped her hand through her daughter’s arm.
‘It’s terrible. I feel bereft and lost. Simon must have felt like this when he failed his physical for the RAF.’
Alice shook her head. ‘I think it’s ridiculous to fail someone with Simon’s flying experience and ability just because his eyesight isn’t perfect. I know he does wear glasses for close work, and what difference is being colour-blind going to make? And he didn’t even know he had that problem.’
‘No, it’s never bothered him. But at least the ATA have snapped him up.’
‘I know you’ve explained it to me, Ruth, but what exactly do they hope to achieve?’
‘The idea is to utilise pilots with private licences, and that includes some airline pilots, I believe. They are to be used in case of emergency for communication, delivering medical supplies or patients to hospitals, and generally being useful in any kind of an emergency. Planes also need to be ferried from manufacturers to airfields all over the country.’ Ruth shrugged. ‘There are plenty of women who could do that, as well.’
‘Is it a part of the military?’
‘No, they are all civilians who have signed a contract to do this work.’ Ruth looked at her mother and smiled. ‘So what do you really think about me joining the WAAF?’
‘That’s up to you, darling. You must do what you feel is right for you, but I would urge you not to make a hasty decision.’
At that moment they heard the sound of footsteps on the gravel path and saw Simon walking towards them, looking very smart in his dark blue uniform with gold wings embroidered on the jacket. He also had dark circles of exhaustion around his eyes.
‘Simon!’ Alice smiled. ‘We were just talking about you. Were your ears burning?’
He grinned and held out an envelope to Ruth. ‘I’ve been asked to deliver this to you in person.’ She frowned. ‘What is it?’
‘Open it and see.’
‘I’ll go and make some tea. Come inside and sit down.’ Alice patted Ruth’s arm and then walked back in to the house.
‘Well, don’t you want to know what’s in the letter?’ Simon asked when they were settled in the living room.
The envelope was neatly typed and rather official looking, but there was nothing on it to indicate who it was from. Puzzled, Ruth glanced at Simon. ‘What is this, and why have you delivered it by hand?’
Simon sat back, his eyes gleaming in amusement at her hesitation. ‘Stop fussing, Ruth. Read it and then all your questions will be answered.’
Without further delay, she slit open the envelope and removed a single sheet of paper. She had to read it twice before she could actually believe what she was seeing. She didn’t know whether to laugh or cry.
Alice returned with the tea, and when she noticed her daughter’s stunned expression, asked, ‘What is it, darling? I hope it isn’t bad news.’
It took a while for Ruth to find her voice, so great was her excitement. She spoke in a breathless rush. ‘It’s the ATA! They’ve asked to see me. They’re going to take on more women pilots!’
This astounding news was too much for Ruth and she was on her feet, reading the letter again – just to make sure. ‘Oh, Simon, tell me this is true. Tell me I’m not dreaming!’
‘It’s true.’ Simon leant forward. ‘They’ve decided that women pilots can ferry the trainers and release the men for other types of aircraft.’
‘We could fly anything,’ Ruth declared with confidence.
‘I know that, but don’t rush things. Get in first and see how things develop after that.’
She nodded. Simon was sensible, as always. She waved the letter. ‘They’re asking me to go for an interview next week at Hatfield. Do you know how many more they are taking, Simon?’
‘I’m not sure, but I think it’s only five or six at the moment.’
Ruth grimaced. ‘What do you think my chances are?’
‘I can’t answer that,’ he told her. ‘But you have a number of things in your favour. You have a ‘B’ licence and have taken a navigation course. You’ve also done quite a bit of cross-country flying, so that will help. Don’t forget to take your log books.’
‘I won’t.’
‘Don’t look so worried. I believe you’re just the kind of pilot they’re looking for, and I’ve told them so.’
‘Oh, thank you!’ Ruth’s doubt faded as excitement took over. ‘I’m sure your recommendation will help enormously.’
‘You’d have got in eventually.’ Simon rubbed a hand over his eyes. ‘Things are not going well in France, as you know, Ruth. A lot of RAF boys have been doing ferry work, but they are now needed as operational pilots. If the signs are correct, then the ATA are going to need all the pilots they can find, male and female.’
‘That is good news.’ Alice smiled at her daughter. ‘I told you to wait before joining the WAAF. You’ll be much happier if you’re flying, won’t she, Simon?’
‘Absolutely. You’d have found the WAAF very frustrating, Ruth.’
‘How are your parents, Simon?’ Alice handed him a cup of tea. ‘I haven’t seen them for a while.’
‘They’re fine. Dad’s rushed off his feet with the practice. He’s just lost his junior doctor to the army.’
‘Oh dear. Is he still cross with you for not going to medical school?’
‘No, I think he’s come to terms with the disappointment, and is even showing some interest in my flying now.’ He stood up. ‘I must get back. Don’t worry, Ruth. Fly in your usual calm and efficient way and you’ll sail through the tests.’
With Simon’s advice fixed in her mind, Ruth made her way to Hatfield on the appointed day, determined to become a member of the ATA.
She was early and stood by a window watching the planes landing and taking off. It was very busy and there was an air of urgency about the place. No one believed they were being told the whole truth about the situation in France, but it was clear that the Germans were advancing. Ten days earlier on 10th May Winston Churchill had become prime minister and the Germans had invaded Holland, Belgium and Luxembourg.
Ruth’s mouth firmed. She had skill as a pilot and was going to damned well use it, she thought. A Magister landed and the pilot stepped out carrying a parachute and headed for the building. The door swung open and a diminutive girl walked in, tossed her parachute on a chair, and then grinned at Ruth.
‘Hello, my name’s Tricia.’ They shook hands. ‘God, I’m gasping for a cup of tea.’
‘I’m not sure if there’s any around. I’m waiting to be interviewed for the ATA.’
‘Ah, good, we need more women pilots.’
The door opened again and another woman looked in. ‘Tricia, can you take that Magister you’ve just brought in up to Lee-on-Solent? It’s urgent and you’re the only one back so far. There’s a Tiger Moth waiting there for you to bring back.’
‘Oh, and there I thought you were going to ask me to collect a Spitfire!’ Both women laughed at the joke. ‘I’ll just go and check with the Met to see what the weather’s doing, then I’ll be on my way.’ Tricia was already grabbing her parachute and taking some papers from the other woman.
‘Don’t take any chances with the weather, Tricia. Keep below the clouds.’
The girl nodded in agreement and headed for the door, where she paused and looked at Ruth. ‘Good luck. I’ll see you around soon, I expect.’
‘I really hope so.’
Then she was gone and Ruth was alone again. As the Magister took off and disappeared from sight, she shook her head. Tricia hadn’t managed to grab a cup of tea before she’d left. Ruth fidgeted. She wanted to be a part of this so much it hurt.
There was no more time for thought as Ruth was called in for the interview and then taken on a short flight to assess her handling of a plane. She felt she had acquitted herself well, but couldn’t help feeling a pang of disappointment when told that she must go to White Waltham for a final test in a few days’ time. She had been hoping to get everything settled today, but she was well aware they had to be sure they were going to get a competent and reliable pilot. The women especially were under scrutiny, because some people still believed that women shouldn’t be doing such work. Ruth didn’t know how many women they had asked to see, but it was certain that she wasn’t the only one.
On her way home, Ruth mulled over Tricia’s joke about delivering a fighter plane when they were only allowed to fly the trainers. The women must be finding that frustrating, knowing that many of them were more experienced pilots than a lot of the young men now taking to the air …
Before Ruth’s test at White Waltham, Calais had fallen and the evacuation of Dunkirk was under way. Britain was now in a desperate situation as they tried to rescue the army from the beaches. She hadn’t seen or heard from Simon and guessed that he was busy trying to keep the RAF supplied with planes. Her desire to do something to help was increasing with every piece of news she received.
‘Do stop pacing, darling,’ Ruth’s mother urged. ‘Your test is tomorrow, then you’ll soon be flying again.’
‘Sorry I’m so restless, Mother.’ Ruth grimaced. ‘I hate standing around doing nothing.’
‘I know you do, and you’ve always been the same. Even as a little girl we could never keep you still, but I think we’ll all have plenty to do soon.’
Ruth sat down, frowning fiercely. ‘What’s going to happen to us now? Will Hitler just continue his advance and come straight across the Channel?’
‘He’d be a fool not to.’ George Aspinall entered. ‘But we all know he’s unpredictable, and the Channel won’t be that easy to cross. My guess is he’ll attack by air first.’
For the rest of the day Ruth helped her mother in the garden. This wasn’t her favourite activity, but she would do anything to pass the time before her test. And the beauty of the garden helped to ease the worry about the future.
She spent a restless night praying that the weather would be good enough to take the test, and was relieved when morning dawned clear and bright. She was keyed up and had no intention of failing.
When she arrived at the airfield, the examiner wasted no time in taking her up. He said very little except to give her instructions to carry out certain manoeuvres. The only indication he gave after she’d landed was a brief smile and to tell her that she handled a plane well.
Then it was back home to wait again.
The evacuation of Dunkirk ended on the 4th of June, and by some miracle hundreds of thousands of British, Commonwealth, French and Belgian troops had been rescued. To snatch so many from the beaches was an astonishing achievement, but everyone was conscious that the Germans were on the other side of a narrow strip of water.
During the next two weeks, Ruth waited impatiently for the post to arrive. She was sure she had done well in the tests, but didn’t dare hope too much, for she knew that if she received a rejection the disappointment would be crushing. She had also been told that the ATA were expanding the women’s section and were examining quite a few applicants. She was up against quite a lot of competition and they would be careful about making the right selection.
At last the letter arrived and she couldn’t help giving a little jig of delight. She had been accepted and had to report to Hatfield in three days’ time.
After telling her parents the good news, Ruth began to pack a small bag, taking only the essentials and two decent dresses, just in case they had time for a social life.
‘Didn’t you say you had three days before you needed to report?’ Ruth’s mother came in and frowned at the case on the bed.
‘I’m going straight away to see if I can get digs near the airfield.’ Ruth smiled to soften the news. Her parents were going to miss having her around, but so many families were facing the same situation. ‘I want to get settled first.’
‘Of course you do, and that’s very sensible,’ Alice agreed. ‘I’m sure if Robert were still alive he would already be in the RAF.’
Ruth gave an affectionate laugh as she remembered her brother. ‘And he’d be right in the thick of things as a fighter pilot.’
‘Be careful, darling.’ Alice couldn’t hide her worry.
‘I will, and please try not to worry too much.’
‘You know you’re asking the impossible of your mother.’ Her father joined them. ‘Are you taking your car?’
‘No, I haven’t got enough petrol so I’ll leave it here. I’ll go by train.’
‘Stay and have lunch with us and I’ll take you to the station.’ George picked up her case. ‘I’ll put this in my car.’
Ruth agreed to stay for lunch, although she was eager to be on her way – eager to become a part of the war effort and get back in the air again.
Chapter Four
After a rather lengthy lunch, Ruth arrived at her destination later than expected, so she booked a room for the night in the local pub. She dumped her case and went straight downstairs to see if she could get a meal, and while she was enquiring, Tricia came into the bar with another girl.
‘Ruth, isn’t it?’ Tricia smiled broadly when Ruth nodded. ‘Nice to see you again. This is Ellen.’ Tricia introduced her friend, then said, ‘I’m guessing that you’ve been accepted for the ATA?’
‘Yes, I start in three days’ time, but thought I’d come early and find somewhere to stay near the airfield.’
‘You can share with us, if you like,’ Ellen offered without hesitation. ‘We rent a cottage just down the road.’
‘Oh, thank you!’ Ruth was delighted, called the landlord over and cancelled her room right away. He then rustled them up a meal of homemade vegetable soup with hunks of bread.
All conversation stopped while they enjoyed the meal.
‘Oh, that’s better,’ Ellen moaned as she mopped up the last of her soup. ‘I haven’t had anything but a quick sandwich since breakfast. I’ve done three deliveries today and a lot of hanging around.’
Tricia laughed. ‘The longer the daylight hours the more we can fly, and the way things are going we’ll get even busier.’
Ellen nodded, then turned to Ruth. ‘We need more pilots, so you are very welcome, but you don’t know what you’re letting yourself in for.’
‘I don’t care. I just want to fly.’
‘Same as all of us, and we love every minute of it. We are now going to be allowed to ferry all types of non-operational aircraft, like Tigers, Oxfords and Masters.’ Tricia gave a satisfied nod at Ruth. ‘You’ve come in at the right time because we can now go to the RAF Central Flying School at Upavon for conversion courses.’
Ruth’s eyes opened wide at this news. ‘I didn’t know that. What are the chances of getting on the course?’
‘Ah, another eager one. Just what we want,’ Ellen said. ‘I expect most of us will eventually do the course because they want to take the men off the trainers so there will be more of them to ferry the operational planes.’
‘It’s a step in the right direction.’ Tricia stood up. ‘Come on, Ruth, collect your bag and we’ll get you settled in.’
