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- Herausgeber: Allison & Busby
- Kategorie: Gesellschafts- und Liebesromane
- Sprache: Englisch
October 1943. Nancy Dalton, working at the RAF base at Scampton in Lincolnshire, has been holding vigil for the Lancaster bomber pilots whose missions seem endless. But her watchfulness has not prevented her own pilot brother from failing to return. In the midst of mourning him, fresh recruits arrive to continue the war effort, among them charismatic Canadian Steve Allard. The months ahead will be long and hard, with danger a constant companion, and although both Steve and Nancy never intend to complicate wartime life with romance, their attraction becomes impossible to ignore.
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Seitenzahl: 491
Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2021
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Together Under the Stars
Beryl Matthews
Per Ardua Ad Astra
– Through Adversity to the Stars
Royal Air Force motto
Contents
Chapter One
Scampton, Lincolnshire, October 1943
The lorry swung through the gates and pulled up outside a building. The men surged off, and Steven Allard gazed around, hardly able to believe he was here at last. His bright blue eyes came to rest on a sight that made the excitement rush through him, and without thinking began striding across the grass to take a closer look. Studying the beautiful object up close he knew he was in love. This was what all the training had been for.
‘Sir?’
Forcing himself to turn his head towards the person who had come to stand beside him, Steve found he was looking into a pair of golden-brown eyes. She was around nineteen, he assessed, and several inches below his six foot one. He smiled and nodded towards the Lancaster. ‘Isn’t she beautiful?’
‘And deadly, sir.’ She didn’t return the smile.
It was only then he noticed the dark circles under her eyes, and a deep sadness showing in them. His instinct was to reach out and put his arm around her to offer some comfort for whatever she was suffering. That was crazy, of course – they didn’t even know one another.
‘They are waiting for you, sir.’
‘Yes, of course. I just had to have a closer look.’ They walked together towards the building. ‘Why is that plane down here and not with the others I can see on the airfield?’
‘It’s a replacement, and has only just been delivered, sir.’
‘Ah, I see.’ He didn’t need to say anything else. The word ‘replacement’ said it all.
Once inside they walked along a passage and stopped by a door, which she opened, and with a smile of thanks he went through.
Nancy Dalton closed the door quietly behind him and paused for a moment, head bowed as she tried to control her emotions. These young men had left the safety of their homes in Canada to become bomber crew. Did they know their chances of surviving thirty missions were slim? Yes, of course they did, she had seen it in the eyes of that pilot when she’d told him the Lancaster was a replacement. They all knew and still they went out, night after night, knowing each mission could be their last. Just like her darling brother, Dan. He’d adored flying and had such enthusiasm for life, but sadly at twenty-one his life had been cut short. He was due to land two nights ago and hadn’t returned.
She straightened up. It promised to be a clear night. Once again the planes would roar into the air, and once again they would scan the skies and count how many return. Those that didn’t make it back would be briefly mourned, then everyone would carry on with what had to be done. This dreadful loss of life was happening on land, sea and air, and many kept the grief to themselves, just like Nancy. Even when she was off duty, she counted the planes as they arrived back. Many times she had considered putting in for a transfer away from the airfields, but she would still know the raids were going on. No, this was where she had to be, and here she would stay. Dan hadn’t shirked his duties knowing his chances of survival were not good, and distressing as it was, neither would she.
‘What are they like?’ Jean, her friend, fell into step beside her. ‘I saw you with one of the new arrivals.’
‘He’s the only one I’ve met. He was studying the new Lancaster and Group Captain Jackman asked me to bring him in here.’
‘Well, what was he like?’
‘Tall, nice soft voice …’ she shrugged. ‘I was only with him for a few minutes.’
‘I saw you walking with him and you looked good together.’
Nancy stopped and glared at her. ‘I am not looking for a boyfriend, and certainly not one from a bomber crew. The pain of losing my brother is unbearable and I will not lay myself open to that kind of grief again.’
‘I know this is a terrible time for you, but Dan would want you to get on with your life. You will change your mind eventually.’
‘Never!’
‘There you are!’ Luke Canning made his way across the room towards his old friend. ‘Where the blazes have you been, Steve?’
‘There’s a new Lancaster on the field and I went to have a look at it. Didn’t you see it?’
‘I saw it, but we were told to come straight in here.’
‘I couldn’t resist, and don’t look so worried, a WAAF came and tore me away from it.’
His friend’s hazel eyes lit up with interest. ‘Was she beautiful?’
‘Exquisite.’
‘Did you find out her name?’
‘Name?’ Steve frowned. ‘She didn’t have a name. It had only just arrived.’
Luke gave an exasperated sigh. ‘I’m talking about the girl, not the plane. What was the WAAF’s name?’
Steve shrugged. ‘I didn’t ask.’
‘Of course you didn’t.’ Luke shook his head in mock despair. ‘Put you in front of a plane and you don’t see anything else. My friend, you have a problem. You must have noticed something about her. Was she dark, fair, tall or short?’
‘Hmm.’ Steve made a show of needing to think for a moment. ‘She was attractive with lovely brown eyes, but she looked tired.’
‘That’s hardly surprising. This country has been at war since September 1939, and for most of that time it has been fighting on its own.’
‘Well, it’s hitting back, and now we are here to help.’
Luke laughed and, nearly as tall as him, rested his hand on Steve’s shoulder. ‘In the grand scheme of things, how much difference do you think our small group are going to make? I’m only twenty and so is Ricky Gregson, you’re twenty-one and Sandy Jenson is the oldest at twenty-two.’
‘I know we’re a bunch of inexperienced boys, but we will be able to do the job we are trained for. Most of those flying are no older than us, but we are here because they badly need aircrews.’
‘Gentlemen!’
They turned their attention to the officer who had just come into the room, and all chatter ceased.
‘Please be seated.’ He waited until they were settled, then introduced himself. ‘I am James Harlow, the commander of this base. Welcome to RAF Scampton.’ His gaze lingered on each of the four men in turn. Steve, Luke, Ricky and Sandy waited expectantly to hear what he had to say. ‘I know you came over in a larger group and I was hoping for more, but we have only been allocated four of you. Nevertheless, we are grateful to have you join us, and you are more than welcome.’ He gave a wry smile. ‘There is a saying in the military I don’t think any of you will have heard. Anyone know what it is?’
All heads shook in denial.
‘Never volunteer for anything.’
Laughter filled the room.
‘You are all volunteers so you might like to remember that, in case you need it sometime. Now, we were expecting you at the beginning of the month and not towards the end, but I know your convoy was delayed. You have had a long journey, and are no doubt curious about the country you have come to fight for, so you have three days’ leave to do some exploring and adjust to your new surroundings.’ He waited for the murmur of approval to die down, and then continued. ‘Don’t expect the kind of conditions you have come from. Many things will be different – especially the food. Being an island, our vital supplies have to come in by sea at great cost to the lives of merchant seamen, so when you are out don’t criticise the food. Rationing is strict and you will often see long queues of people waiting patiently outside shops.’
‘Sir, if everyone gets the same, why do they have to queue up for it?’ Ricky asked.
‘They do that when a shop gets something extra. News spreads and people rush to get there before everything is sold out. Also, when someone sees a queue they will join it without knowing what the shop is selling. However, gentlemen, you will be relieved to hear that we do our best to see our aircrews are well fed, but if you are used to having large steaks, then that is a thing of the past, I’m afraid. When you are flying you will get bacon and an egg for breakfast,’ he told them.
‘I like three eggs, sir,’ Luke called out.
‘You’ll get one and be grateful for that.’ The commander chuckled. ‘You will now be shown to your quarters, so settle in and the evening meal will be served at seven. Tomorrow you start your leave, and after that the hard work begins. Don’t get into any trouble, because we need each and every one of you. Oh, and one more important thing. When you are out and about, you are not to talk about the base or what you are doing here, not to someone you know nor amongst yourselves. Remember, careless talk costs lives. You will see that notice everywhere, so be careful. You never know who is listening.’
They stood as the officer walked out, and then followed the escort to another building. The next couple of hours were spent exploring what was going to be their home for the foreseeable future. Eventually they settled in the mess.
One of the cooks approached them. ‘Would you like a pot of tea, sirs?’
Luke frowned.
‘Yes, please,’ Steve said, before Luke could say anything.
‘I was going to ask for coffee,’ his friend protested.
‘If coffee was available, he would have offered tea or coffee. Remember what we’ve been told about shortages and everyone here drinks tea, so we’ll get used to it.’
‘Ah, yes, I forgot for a moment.’
There were doubtful looks as the pots of tea were placed on the table near them. Back home most of them only drank coffee, but Steve’s family did have tea, especially when the weather was hot, because they found it more refreshing.
‘That’s freshly made so let it draw for a while,’ the orderly told them.
‘Draw?’ Ricky asked.
A slight smile touched the man’s face and he patiently explained that it would be too weak if not allowed to stand. ‘Would you like me to show you how to pour a good cup of tea, gentlemen?’
‘Yes, please.’
‘First you put a little cold milk in the cup, and then when the tea is the right colour, you fill the cups.’
They watched as he did this and then handed the cups around.
‘Now, you must taste it because some of you might like sugar. Personally, I prefer my tea without, but it is a matter of taste.’
Steve was the first to sip his, and after a moment said, ‘That’s lovely and I don’t take sugar.’
‘Do you drink tea in Canada?’ the cook wanted to know.
‘Oh, yes, but coffee is generally the preferred drink,’ Steve explained, draining the cup and holding it out for a refill. ‘That was most welcome. Can I have another, please?’
The man refilled Steve’s cup and gave him a smile of approval. ‘There’s a knack to making a good cup of tea. Call if you need anything, sirs.’
‘Where are the aircrews?’ Ricky asked.
‘They will be sleeping, sir. The weather is good so they will be going out tonight.’
By the time they had drained the pots, the men agreed that tea wasn’t so bad after all.
‘We haven’t tried the food here yet,’ Sandy said.
‘I don’t care what it’s like,’ Luke declared. ‘I’m so hungry I’ll eat anything.’
They laughed, feeling relaxed and happy to have reached their destination after months of intensive training.
It had been quiet on the base since they had arrived, but suddenly there was the sound of vehicles running and voices calling out orders. Without a word the Canadians got up and went out to the airfield. It was a hive of activity, with a flood of vehicles heading towards the Lancaster planes.
‘They are loading bombs for the raid tonight,’ Luke murmured. ‘I wonder where they are going.’
‘They won’t know until the briefing.’ A sergeant came and stood beside them. ‘No one is told the destination until the last minute.’
‘When do they take off?’ Steve wanted to know.
‘In two hours. I have been told to inform you that dinner is about to be served. Do you know where to go?’
Luke nodded. ‘We’ve explored and got our bearings.’
‘Off you go then, sirs.’
The mess was buzzing with talk and laughter when they took their seats.
‘Late again, Steve,’ Ricky, the navigator, remarked. ‘Couldn’t you find your way?’
‘Trust you to beat us to the food,’ Steve remarked dryly. ‘Did you run all the way?’
The joking and friendly insults continued while they devoured the food, and not one of them complained about the simple offering. It was plentiful, and that was all the group of young, healthy men needed. It had been a long day, and after a tense sea journey the relief of reaching the base was immense.
They were all sitting around talking and enjoying a cigarette when the sudden roar of engines had them on their feet and running outside to watch the majestic planes taxi for take-off. The reaction to the sight was different for each one of them. Someone drew in a deep breath, another clenched their hands in excitement and one murmured a prayer. Apart from that, every one of them was quiet, well aware they would soon be the crews embarking on a raid.
Steve watched each of the huge Lancasters heave itself into the air with its heavy burden of bombs, and could almost feel his hands on the controls. His expression was impassive, giving nothing away.
Ricky came to stand beside him and asked quietly, ‘Do you think they will let us choose our own crews?’
‘I don’t know. Why?’
‘I’d like to fly with you, if possible.’
Steve tipped his head to one side and his mouth twitched in amusement. ‘Do you think I’ll get lost without a good navigator?’
‘There is that, of course,’ Ricky chuckled, ‘but you’ve got the reputation of being a damned good pilot, and unflappable. I’d feel easy knowing you were with me. Try and fix it, Steve. I’m the best navigator you could have. I was top of the class.’
‘I know, I’ll see what I can do.’
Ricky smiled in relief. ‘Thanks.’
Sandy had overheard the conversation and joined them. ‘I don’t know how true it is, but I’ve been told they put all those up for active duty in a room together and the pilots can choose who they want for a crew.’
‘That would be great,’ Luke exclaimed, grinning at his friend. ‘If that’s true, Ricky and I won’t leave your side. You’ve already got two of your crew, a navigator and a flight engineer.’
‘We’ll have to wait and see if Sandy is right.’
‘I hope I am because it is going to be damned important to be up there with people you like and trust.’ Sandy stifled a yawn, running a hand through his dark blond hair. ‘I need some sleep.’
‘Good idea.’ The men turned and made their way towards their quarters.
Steve was already clothed and on his feet when the others began to scramble out of bed.
‘They’re coming back!’ someone shouted, but Steve was out of the door with Ricky and Luke right behind him.
There were people and vehicles everywhere, the fire appliances and ambulances lined up, ready to move in if needed. Two planes had landed and more were coming into view. They watched in silence and scanned the horizon, just as everyone else was doing. Plane after plane landed, then all went quiet – the sky was empty.
‘Is that all of them?’ Luke wondered.
‘Still five more.’ A man with wings on his chest came and stood with them. He held out his hand to Steve. ‘Wing Commander Robert Jackman,’ he said, shaking each of their hands in turn.
After introducing themselves, Steve asked, ‘Have you flown on these raids?’
The wing commander nodded. ‘Finished my second tour of duty last week, but most of my crew is still up there, and I’d rather be with them instead of waiting down here, but my request was refused.’
‘I can hear another one, look.’ Rick was pointing.
Suddenly the vehicles near them burst into life, and when the plane was nearly down they raced after it.
‘Oh hell – fire!’ Luke swore.
The next half-hour was a nightmare. The ground crews were pulling men out of the plane when another one came into view missing an undercarriage and badly damaged.
They breathed a sigh of relief when it stopped just before hitting the burning plane. After that the sky was empty. Three planes still unaccounted for. As the Canadians watched the drama unfold before their eyes, they were in no doubt as to the dangers they would face. The men were so absorbed in the action, not one of them noticed the young girl standing by the control tower.
Chapter Two
‘You’ve got to stop doing this, Nancy. You are putting yourself through unnecessary anguish.’
‘Unnecessary? Is that what you think this is? Night after night these young men are going out never knowing if they will survive.’ Nancy shot Jean an angry look. ‘Do you think they are giving their lives for nothing?’
Jean sighed. ‘That isn’t what I mean at all. Of course it’s necessary if we are going to win this blasted war. What I meant was you are adding to your grief by scanning the sky each time and counting them as they return. It’s as if you are waiting for Dan’s plane to arrive.’
‘I know that isn’t going to happen, and don’t you dare insult me by suggesting I’m stupid. My concern is for those flying now. We know them all and have even had drinks with them at the pub. Don’t you care what happens to them?’
‘Now you are insulting me. Of course I care.’ She gestured toward the frenzy of activity going on to save the crew of the crashed plane, and there was a catch of distress in her voice when she spoke. ‘I am here now because I am on duty, but you are not. You should be in bed asleep, not watching this.’
Nancy turned her head and saw a tear trickling down Jean’s face and grasped her hand. ‘I’m sorry for snapping at you. I know you care – we all do, but it’s so bloody hard, isn’t it?’
Jean nodded. ‘I try not to watch them coming in, but can’t avoid it when I’m on duty. I don’t think you have ever missed waiting for them, though. I could understand it when Dan was flying, but why continue to put yourself through this, especially now when you are reeling from the shock of losing him?’
Nancy shrugged. ‘I feel someone should be waiting and sending up a prayer for them.’
‘I didn’t know you were religious.’
‘I’ve never been much of a church-goer, but I do it because I hope it will be of some help. What else can we do?’
‘Who knows, but one can’t help feeling powerless. Are there any more to come?’
‘Three are now overdue.’
They gazed up at the empty sky and Jean murmured, ‘Perhaps they’ve landed somewhere else.’
‘Maybe, but we won’t know for a while.’
‘This must be torture for you, Nancy, why don’t you ask for a transfer, preferably away from an airfield? We can still keep in touch and meet up from time to time.’
‘I’ve thought about it, but Dan and all these boys have never shirked their duty, and neither will I. Don’t worry about me.’
Jean placed an arm around her shoulder. ‘I can’t help it. I can only imagine what you are going through. You were so close to your brother.’
‘He was only two years older than me, but he’d always been there for me. He was very caring, and I’m not alone in my grief.’ She watched an ambulance drive away, leaving the firemen tackling the blazing plane and said softly, ‘There are many like me, and after tonight there will be more.’
‘There’s two more!’ Jean pointed to the incoming planes. ‘One is in trouble, though, and it looks as if the other has been guiding it home.’
The damaged plane came in to land first while the other gained height to come round again for landing. Both girls gasped when the damaged machine’s undercarriage collapsed and it began to swerve across the field. Emergency vehicles rushed towards the stricken plane and they held their breath until it came to a stop.
‘No fire, thank heavens, but look at that gaping hole in the fuselage, Jean. That pilot must have fought hard to get his crew back. Here comes the one who had stayed with it. That leaves one missing.’
‘One too many,’ Jean murmured, turning to her friend. ‘I know you’re not on duty, but will you join me for breakfast?’
‘Yes, of course.’
‘Dalton!’
‘Sir?’ She spun to face the commander.
‘Come with me.’ He turned on his heel and headed for his office.
‘I’ll see you later,’ she told Jean, and ran to catch up with him.
‘Close the door,’ he said as soon as they were inside.
She did so and stood to attention in front of his desk.
‘You are on compassionate leave from this moment.’
‘I am not due leave at the moment, sir, and I don’t want any.’
‘This isn’t open for discussion, Dalton, it’s an order.’ When she opened her mouth to protest, he rose to his feet and stopped her. ‘Go home to your family and grieve with them. Your brother was an excellent pilot and a fine young man. He is greatly missed by everyone who knew him. Your parents need your support at this time.’
She lowered her eyes as the pain shot through her.
‘Go home,’ he told her gently, handing her the authorisation. ‘You are needed there. And when you return, I don’t want to see you standing out there at dawn counting the planes. Is that understood?’
‘Yes, sir.’
‘Make sure you obey my orders, because if you don’t, I will have you transferred to a desk job away from any airfield. Now get some breakfast and go home.’
‘Sir.’ She saluted and left the office, heading for the dining room.
He was right, of course, her parents did need her. She should have gone to them the moment Dan was lost, but she was hurting so much and didn’t want to leave the base. She felt close to her brother here, and that had been selfish.
‘What did he want?’ Jean asked the moment Nancy joined her.
‘I’ve been ordered to go home.’
‘It’s the right thing to do.’
‘I know, but in an odd way staying on duty has helped me. Take a look at the men who have just returned. They are sitting there with empty seats around them. They’ve lost friends during the night. They feel the loss, I know, but they won’t let grief get in the way of what they have to do. Tonight they will go again, and tomorrow it might be their chairs that are empty.’
‘Where does such courage come from?’
Nancy took a gulp of tea. ‘Who knows, but their example has helped me handle the loss of my brother. Though I fear that control will crumble the moment I arrive home.’
‘No, it won’t,’ her friend assured her. ‘Your parents will need you to be strong, and you will be. You are as brave as Dan was. You have the same smile he had, and I’m sure it will comfort them to see it.’
That remark made her feel better, and for the first time in two days she smiled at Jean, though it didn’t quite reach her eyes. She glanced to where the new arrivals were sitting, looking relaxed and enjoying a cigarette. ‘They’ve been given three days’ leave to help them settle in before they go on active duty. I wonder what they will do with that time.’
‘Go exploring, I expect, and probably get into mischief by the look of them. Why don’t we go and ask if they need any help?’
‘Oh, no.’ Nancy raised her hands in protest. ‘They seem quite capable of looking after themselves. I must pack my kit and catch the first train to London.’
Ricky stubbed out his cigarette and sat back. ‘So, what are we going to do with this leave?’
There were several suggestions about visiting places they had heard about, but only Sandy had a clear idea of what he wanted to see. ‘I’ve always wanted to go to York,’ he told them. ‘What about you, Steve?’
‘I’m going to London. My parents know someone there and have asked me to look him up if I have a chance.’
‘Really?’ Luke was surprised. ‘You never told me about that.’
‘Hey, I’d like to have a look at London.’ Ricky leant forward. ‘Let’s all go. Sandy, you can visit York another time.’
‘I suppose so, and London ought to be the first place we see. Where does this man live, Steve?’
‘A place called Woolwich. I looked it up before we left home, and I think I can find it.’
‘Right, pay attention everyone.’ Luke called order. ‘Who’s for London?’
Four hands shot up.
‘That’s settled, then. All we have to do now is find out how to get there. Let’s ask those two girls.’
Steve smiled wryly as the entire group got up and sauntered over to the WAAFs, and watched the girls quickly stand up as they noticed the men approach.
‘How can we help you, sirs?’ one of them asked.
‘Ow, you don’t have to call us sirs.’ Luke grinned at her. ‘What’s your name?’
‘Jean, and this is Nancy.’
After they had all introduced themselves, Luke said, ‘We’ve got three days’ leave and need advice on how to get to London.’
‘Steve’s got to look up a family friend,’ Ricky told them, glancing round and beckoning to Steve, who was standing at the back of the group. ‘Come and tell the girls where you want to go.’
He walked forward, moving with his usual fluid grace. He was tall, strongly built and there was already a look of maturity and latent power about him that made all eyes turn in his direction.
Luke pushed him towards the girls. ‘Tell them where this person you want to see lives.’
‘Where do you need to go, sir?’ Nancy asked politely.
‘Woolwich.’ He pulled a small notebook out of his pocket and opened it at the first page. ‘This is his address.’
‘I can certainly tell you how to get there, but can’t help you with the road. When you get there, it would be best to ask a policeman. He will be able to direct you to the house.’
‘Why a policeman?’
‘Well, sir, most of the road signs were removed at the beginning of the war in order to confuse the enemy if they invaded.’
‘I see, but there isn’t any danger of that now, is there?’
‘No, sir, thanks to our air force,’ she stated proudly.
‘You’re going to London today, why don’t you take the gentlemen to the station and see they catch the right train?’ Jean suggested.
Nancy gave her a withering look but nodded, turning her attention back to the pilot standing in front of her. ‘Have you got all your travel documents in order?’
‘We’ve got to collect them before we leave the base,’ Luke told her.
‘Do that now, because I will be leaving in the next half-hour. Oh, and you’ll need English money. Have you got any?’
‘Yes, we have.’ Ricky glanced at the clock and frowned. ‘Will the trains be running this early in the morning?’
‘They will, and I want to get to London as early as possible.’
‘We’ll see you by the gate, shall we? Do we need transport to get to the station?’ Sandy asked.
‘If we don’t see a bus then we can walk.’
‘Right, get a move on,’ Steve told the men. ‘We mustn’t keep Nancy waiting.’
There was a stampede to get their documents, eager to be on their way.
‘Thanks,’ Nancy said to her friend. ‘You have just lumbered me with four Canadians.’
Jean laughed. ‘It should be fun. They seem a lively crowd, and that Steve is gorgeous. Did you see those eyes? They look like the ocean on a sunny day.’
‘Now, Jean, don’t go all poetic about a pilot, or any of them. They will be going out on raids soon, and you know how painful it can be if you get too fond of them,’ she warned.
‘I know, and I do try, but I must admit I am not very good at that.’
‘It’s a bugger, isn’t it, but the war won’t last forever, and then we won’t have to keep our feelings in check. Now, I had better get going and shepherd that lot to the station. With a bit of luck, I might be able to lose them on the journey.’
‘Good luck with that. Try to relax a bit during your leave, and I’ll see you when you get back.’
After collecting her kit, Nancy walked towards the gate and groaned inwardly when she saw her travelling companions waiting. They were lounging against anything available, smoking and laughing, but the moment they saw her they all straightened up with huge grins on their faces, except for the tall one. He crushed his cigarette end with the toe of his shoe, and just nodded when she reached them. Nancy had been intrigued by this one from the moment they met, but that was dangerous territory, and she was determined to keep a detached military attitude. She saluted smartly. ‘Let’s start walking and catch a bus if we see one, but it might be a little early yet.’
Sandy stepped forward. ‘Allow me to carry your kit, Nancy.’
‘That is kind of you, sir, but I can’t let an officer do that for me.’
He smiled and bowed his head. ‘I understand, but we are all on leave now, so there is no need to be so formal and salute when you see us.’
‘When I am in uniform, I must treat you in the proper manner, sir. I can be reprimanded if I don’t.’
‘Even if we are not on the base?’ Luke asked.
‘It doesn’t make any difference. If I see an officer in the RAF anywhere then I must salute him.’
‘There will be many things we find unusual,’ Steve pointed out when he noticed that Ricky was not going to let the subject drop. ‘We might not adhere to their strict military rules, but we must respect them. Discipline and obeying orders without question are just two of the qualities that have been essential for this country to survive.’
They were all nodding, serious now.
‘We apologise if we seem too forward, but it is just our way, and we mean no harm,’ Luke told her.
‘There is no need to apologise. You have only just arrived in this country and it must all seem strange to you.’ She smiled at each one, her gaze resting on Steve. Jean was right. This one was different. He was a natural leader, although she doubted he was aware of it, but it was clear the others looked up to him.
As they walked along the road the laughter and chatter continued, all obviously excited about their trip to London. They had to move to the side to allow a lorry full of British soldiers to pass.
As it came up beside them, Ricky called out, ‘Hey, pals, what about a lift to the station?’
The men leant out and called to Nancy. ‘What you got there, darling? They sound like Yanks. Do you want any help with them?’
‘No thanks, I can manage,’ she replied. ‘Are you going by the station?’
The lorry came to a halt. ‘Hop on, we’ll take you there.’
‘Hey, we’re not Americans, we are Canadians!’ Ricky told them as they helped Nancy climb on.
It was a bit of a squeeze, but they all managed to fit in the back of the lorry.
‘Where are you off to?’ one of the soldiers asked.
‘London,’ they all said together.
‘You will have your hands full if you are going to show this bunch around London, sweetheart.’
‘I’m on my way home, and I am just seeing them safely on the right train.’
Ricky nudged her. ‘Hey, are they allowed to be so familiar with you?’
‘That was just harmless teasing. When you get to London you will find it full of military personnel from many countries, including Americans, so be prepared for remarks like that.’ She gave him an amused look. ‘We may appear reserved and not to show our feelings, but you will get used to that and our sense of humour after a while.’
‘I suspect that keeping your emotions in check has been necessary after all this country has been through.’ There was a lot of noisy chatter going on, so Steve was able to talk to Nancy, but he kept his voice low.
‘It has been a necessary requirement, sir.’ She looked him straight in the eyes. ‘And still is, as you will have witnessed early this morning.’
He nodded. ‘I understand the hesitation of getting too close to anyone who might be in danger.’
‘Exactly, sir, it is hard enough dealing with our own family losses. It isn’t easy, though. That’s the station ahead, would you ask your men to stay behind me while I see about the train?’
He raised his eyebrows. ‘They are not my men. We only met when we were sent to the same training camp. I am not in charge, but I’ll try and keep them in order for you.’
‘That would be helpful, sir. Thank you.’
The lorry came to a stop and they all jumped off, called out their thanks, and followed Nancy into the station. Fortunately, there was a train due almost immediately and she ushered them on with a sigh of relief. It was crowded and they had to spread along the corridor. She found herself a space away from the boisterous group and closed her eyes, trying to relax. All her strength was needed if she was to be any help to her parents in their grief.
Chapter Three
The train was hot and stuffy with so many people crowded into it, so Steve pulled a window down and watched the scenery pass by. After the sea crossing, one thing had struck him as they had been driven to Lincolnshire, and that was the colour green. He liked what he’d seen so far, and couldn’t wait to explore further when he had time. This small country was lovely, and he could understand why they had fought so hard to keep the powerful enemy from invading. He had watched the news as Germany walked into France and felt dismayed, then awed by the rescue of the army from Dunkirk. A victory had been snatched from defeat, but after that the general opinion was that Britain was finished. How wrong that had been. Against all the odds they had defeated the might of the enemy air force and endured the bombing of cities. And they still hadn’t given up. He had trained and watched, longing for the day he could come here, anxious in case he was too late to get involved. He couldn’t be happier to have arrived in time. His parents had tried hard to talk him out of flying bombers, but he wouldn’t be swayed by their arguments against it. This was where he was needed, this was where he wanted to be, even if it cost him his life. Like everyone else, though, he was sure that wouldn’t happen to him. It was far better to think that way than to keep worrying about being killed.
He glanced along the corridor and saw Nancy. Her brow was creased as if struggling with some strong emotion. She had lost someone close to her, he was sure of that. He had sensed it the first time they met.
‘Hey, Steve,’ Luke and Ricky wormed their way to him through the press of bodies. ‘Can we come with you when you go to see your parents’ friend?’
‘Sure, if you want to.’
‘Thanks.’ Luke leant on the window and studied the countryside. ‘What do you think London is like after all the raids?’
‘I’ve no idea. All we know is what the news has reported, so we will have to wait and see.’
Rick nodded and glanced along the corridor at Nancy, who was sitting on her kitbag, head resting back and eyes closed. ‘I don’t think that girl likes us.’
‘I think she just wants to be alone.’
‘Why? Do you think we embarrass her?’ Luke frowned.
‘I’m sure it isn’t that. Take a good look at her and tell me what you see,’ Steve suggested.
‘Well, she’s a pretty girl, but sitting there as if she’s unhappy.’
‘Unhappy is not quite the right word. She appears to be stand-offish because she’s hurting and doesn’t want anyone to see her pain. I would hazard a guess that someone she loves has just been killed.’
‘I’ve noticed you have the ability to sum people up quickly, so I believe you.’ Luke sighed. ‘Do you think it was one of the aircrew?’
‘Maybe, but it’s only speculation. However, watch what you say and do around her.’
‘You could be wrong and she just doesn’t want anything to do with boisterous Canadians.’
Ricky pulled a face at Luke. ‘That’s more than likely. Pity, though, because she seems a nice girl.’
‘Where is Sandy?’ Steve asked, changing the subject.
‘Talking to some soldiers further along the corridor. I don’t know if he wants to come with us or go straight to the West End.’
‘Why don’t you two go and ask him?’
Luke nodded agreement. ‘I expect he’ll want to stick with us, and we could all visit there tomorrow.’
Before they had time to move Sandy appeared next to them.
‘Ah, just the person we want. We’re going with Steve to Woolwich first. Do you want to come with us?’
‘Sure. We’ve got time.’
‘We’re stopping!’ Ricky had his head out of the window to see what was going on. ‘There are women handing out refreshments. Hey, ma’am, what does WVS stand for?’
A woman came up to the window. ‘Women’s Voluntary Service, young man. You’re going to be stuck here for a while, so would you like tea?’
‘Yes, please, ma’am. There are four of us here. We’ve got some English money, so how much?’
‘Nothing for those in the services, son. I’ll be back in a minute.’
Ricky popped his head back and grinned. ‘What do you think of that? They are giving all military personnel free refreshments if they want it.’
When the woman returned, they opened the door and took the tea from her.
‘Do you want something to eat, as well?’ she asked. ‘We do have some spam sandwiches.’
‘No thank you, ma’am,’ Steve replied. ‘We have food with us. Do you know why we have stopped?’
‘They are doing repairs further down the line. We’ve been told the delay should be about an hour.’
He thanked the woman and closed the door, and when his friends started talking to a couple of sailors, Steve edged his way to where Nancy was sitting. She hadn’t moved. He stooped down and touched her arm gently, and when her eyes opened he handed her the tea. ‘I thought you might like this.’
‘Oh, thanks.’ She took it from him and sipped the hot brew appreciatively. ‘That’s good.’
‘We are going to be stuck here for about an hour for repairs on the line ahead.’
She just nodded and finished the drink.
‘Would you like another one?’
‘No thanks, that was just what I needed.’ She dredged up a smile. ‘We’ll need to change trains at King’s Cross. I’ll let you know when we get there, and then I’ll show you where to get the train to Woolwich.’
‘That would be helpful.’ He removed the empty mug from her hands and asked, ‘Is there anything else I can do for you?’
She shook her head. ‘That is thoughtful of you, but there isn’t anything you can do to help me through a painful homecoming.’
‘Do you want to talk about it?’ When she didn’t answer he began to rise. ‘I know it’s none of my business.’
‘It was my brother,’ she blurted out when he was almost standing. Steve sat back down. ‘He was a Lancaster pilot, like you, and three days ago he didn’t return. He was seen to go down with no chance of anyone getting out. One of the Lancasters circled looking for parachutes, but there weren’t any.’
‘Where was he based?’
‘Same as we are.’
His heart ached for her, and he could imagine the anguish she had suffered waiting for a plane that never arrived. ‘What was his name?’
‘Dan. He was so young.’ She glanced up at him, her eyes brimming with tears. ‘You all are.’
‘Will you be asking for a transfer after your leave?’
‘No, I won’t run away. We won’t survive by running at the first sign of loss and tragedy. We must win this war or all the sacrifices will have been for nothing.’ She sat up straight, determination written on her face. ‘I’ll do what I have to do.’
‘Yes, we all will.’ He gave a slight smile, which she answered in the same way. ‘The enemy has already lost the battle, although they won’t admit it. This war is coming to an end, Nancy.’
‘Let us pray it is. Thank you for talking to me like this. It has helped. Now, why don’t you go and get yourself some tea. I’ll find you when we are nearly there.’
He unwound himself from the floor, smiled at her, and went back to where his friends were standing.
‘You had quite a chat,’ Luke remarked the moment he reached them. ‘What did she say?’
‘She’ll come and let us know when we reach our destination,’ was all he said, leaning out of the window to catch the attention of a WVS woman. ‘Any chance of another tea, ma’am?’
‘I’ll get you one, young man. You Americans ask so nicely by calling us ma’am.’
Ricky squeezed his head out of the same window. ‘We’re Canadian, ma’am.’
‘Oh, I do beg your pardon. I can only see your head and your accent fooled me. Step out for a moment so I can see you properly. I don’t want to make the same mistake again.’
Luke opened the carriage door and stepped onto the platform, followed by his friends, and then pointed to the name on his shoulder.
She studied all of them with care and when her eyes rested on the badges on their jackets she nodded. ‘Now I can see the difference. I hope you will forgive me.’
‘Of course, it is just this is the second time today we have been mistaken for Americans and I couldn’t help mentioning it.’
‘I understand.’ She smiled at Steve and Ricky. ‘I’ll get tea for all of you, shall I?’
They didn’t get the tea because at that moment a guard blew a whistle and waved a flag, urging them all back to the train. As it began to move again, they waved to the women and called their thanks, then settled down for the rest of the journey.
Steve found enough space to sit on the floor, leant his head back and closed his eyes.
Steve woke to someone tugging at his arm, and opened his eyes to see Nancy and his friends trying to pull him up. ‘What?’
‘For goodness’ sake wake up, Steve. Nancy said we’ve got to get off here and catch another train.’
‘Oh, right.’ He stood up and slung his bag over his shoulder.
‘You were sound asleep,’ Nancy remarked. ‘How can you do that on a crowded, moving train?’
‘He could sleep on a clothes line,’ Ricky told her, shaking his head and laughing. ‘On the way over we hit a nasty storm. The ship was rolling all over the place and Steve was fast asleep. Nothing seems to bother him.’
‘And that’s the reason we want to fly with him,’ Luke pointed out. ‘Even if half the plane was missing, he’d still calmly find a way to fly it.’
‘So, are you getting the same train as us?’ Steve asked, quickly changing the subject when he saw Nancy wince at the mention of damaged planes.
‘No, I catch a different one. Come with me and I’ll show you the platform you need.’
They followed her, and after she had found out when the next train to Woolwich was due, she forced a smile. ‘Enjoy your leave. When you get there a policeman should be able to direct you to the address you want.’ She hesitated. ‘Have your parents heard from their friend recently?’
‘Not for some time. That’s why they’ve asked me to come and see him.’
‘You do realise this part of London has been badly hit, don’t you? He might not be there now. What line of work is he in?’
‘He works at the docks. I know,’ he said when he saw her expression change. ‘But we are hoping it might just be the unpredictable mail service. We want to know if he is all right.’
She smiled up at him. ‘Good luck. I hope you find him.’
He nodded, returning the smile. ‘We’ll see you back at base?’
‘Yes. Enjoy yourselves.’
‘Oh, we will.’ Ricky told her, a huge grin on his face.
They waved to Nancy as she walked away.
The train arrived on time and at Woolwich they hurried out of the station, eager to see some of London. ‘Come on, let’s find this place.’
Ricky glanced around. ‘I can’t see a policeman, but we should be able to find someone who lives around here. What about those people waiting at the bus stop?’
‘Worth a try.’ Steve strode across the road. ‘Can you help us? We are looking for Fenton Street.’
The Canadians were studied with interest, and one man asked, ‘What number do you want?’
‘Fifty-four.’
‘Hmm.’ He turned to the man beside him. ‘What do you think, Fred?’
‘Dunno. Why are you looking for that house, son?’
‘I’ve been asked to visit someone who lives there.’
‘Ah, well, we can tell you where it is, and you might be lucky.’
‘Sorry?’ Steve was puzzled.
‘Some of that street ain’t there any more. The house you want might still be there, though, if it’s far enough down.’ The man turned to his friend again. ‘Have you been down there, Fred?’
‘No, but my missus said it had taken a right bashing.’ He shrugged and turned to Steve. ‘All you can do is take a look. Go down this road until you come to the second street on the right, then take the first right and that’ll bring you to what’s left of Fenton Street.’
‘Thank you, sir.’
‘Hope you find it still standing,’ the man said.
They began walking and Luke was concerned. ‘That didn’t sound too good.’
‘No, it didn’t, but it seems all right here, so perhaps they are wrong.’ Steve said nothing, continuing to follow the directions they had been given.
When they turned into the street they all stopped suddenly. ‘They weren’t wrong,’ Luke said softly. ‘Dear Lord, just look at that.’
Steve’s expression was unreadable, but his friends were horrified as they took in the scene of destruction. Some houses had been completely destroyed, others were half-standing and roped off with danger signs on them, and some were still intact, but with windows boarded up and clearly uninhabited.
They continued walking until they reached some undamaged houses towards the end of the street.
‘There’s number 48,’ Ricky declared, running ahead and looking at the houses. He stopped then, turned and grinned at his friend. ‘Here it is, and undamaged by the look of it.’
Relief washed over Steve. For a while there he had been thinking he might have to send his parents bad news. He knocked on the door and waited. No one answered.
‘Who are you looking for, lads?’
They turned to see a woman who had come out of the house next door.
‘Harry Green. My parents have asked me to visit him,’ Steve explained.
She came closer so she could see the name on their uniform, and then smiled. ‘Ah, yes, Harry told me he has relatives in Canada. He’s on the early shift, so should be home in about an hour. You’d better come in and wait.’
‘Thank you, ma’am. That is kind of you.’
‘Come along then, and I’ll make you a nice cup of tea while you wait.’
Ricky chuckled softly as they followed her. ‘More tea. I think this country runs on the stuff. And you never told us you were related to this chap, Steve.’
‘My dad married his cousin.’
‘Your mum’s English!’ Luke gasped. ‘You never said – now I see why you were so set on coming here.’
Ricky punched him in the arm. ‘So that’s why you like tea.’
Steve chuckled as they followed the woman into the house.
‘Sit yourselves down. Seeing how Harry’s wife died several years ago and now his daughter is away, he comes here for his meals.’
‘She’s joined one of the services, hasn’t she?’ Steve asked.
‘That’s right, she’s in the ATS. That’s the women’s army, in case you don’t know. My name’s Gladys, by the way.’
The boys introduced themselves and chatted while Gladys made the tea.
She brought out her best china for them, and as he sipped from the delicate cup, Steve’s thoughts turned to Nancy, wondering how she was coping. He had been lucky. Harry and his daughter were alive. He sent out a silent thought to her, somehow knowing she would be strong and a comfort to her family.
Chapter Four
Nancy turned the key in the door, and the moment she stepped inside her mother, Sally, was hugging her tightly.
‘I’m so glad you are home,’ she said, her voice husky with emotion. She held Nancy at arm’s length. ‘Are you all right?’
Nancy nodded. ‘Where’s Dad?’
‘At work, but he’ll be home in a couple of hours.’ Her eyes filled with tears. ‘He’ll want to know exactly what happened. Will you be able to tell us? All we had was a telegram saying Dan was missing, presumed dead. Is there a chance he survived?’
‘No, Mum,’ she told her firmly. ‘I’ll tell you what I know when Dad is here, but I’m gasping for a cup of tea,’ she said, hastily changing the subject. It was going to be painful enough giving them the details and she didn’t want to have to go through it twice.
‘Of course you are. Leave your bag here and you can take it to your room later.’
She was helping her mother prepare the meal, talking about anything but the war. Her mother was obviously holding on to the hope that somehow Dan had survived, and Nancy trembled at the task ahead of her.
The door swung open and her father, Tom, strode in, embracing her in a fierce hug. ‘I saw your bag in the hall. Ah, it’s so good to see you, sweetheart.’
She looked up at him with affection, seeing a strong man, but one struggling with grief.
‘How long have you got?’ he asked.
‘Fourteen days.’
‘It will be wonderful to have you home for two weeks, darling.’ He kissed the top of her head, and then asked softly, ‘Do you know what happened? They didn’t give us any details.’
‘I can tell you what another crew reported when they arrived back.’
He nodded and turned to his wife. ‘Can the meal wait for a while?’
‘It will keep.’ Her mother pulled out chairs for them to sit at the table. ‘I’ve made a fresh pot of tea.’
Nancy noticed her mother’s hands were shaking as she poured the tea.
‘Is there any chance Dan has survived?’ her father asked hopefully.
‘From what I’ve been told everyone on his plane died. The crew who witnessed it are certain no one got out.’
‘How could this other crew know it was Dan’s plane?’
She was hoping her father wouldn’t ask that question. ‘His was the only plane from our base that didn’t return that night. They still had bombs on board and the plane blew up in the air. I’m sorry,’ she said quickly, when she heard her mother’s gasp of anguish.
Tom put his arm around his wife. ‘It’s best we know for sure, my dear. I want Nancy to tell us everything she knows about the raid. Are you up to hearing that, or would you rather I talk to her in the other room?’
‘No.’ She straightened up, wiped the tears from her face and looked at her daughter with compassion. ‘Were you waiting for him to return?’
Nancy nodded and told them everything she knew. They listened in silence, and when she had finished her father asked questions until he was satisfied he had every detail.
Sally wiped the tears flowing down her face and took a deep breath before speaking. ‘Thank you, darling. We know that wasn’t easy for you, but we needed to know. I’ll see the vicar tomorrow and arrange a memorial service for Dan. Now, we must have something to eat.’
Nancy watched her mother serve the meal, and saw in her the pain they were all feeling. It was a loss they were going to have to live with for the rest of their lives.
Her father squeezed her shoulder and said quietly, ‘Thank you. I know that was hard for you, but it will help your mother to come to terms with the loss.’
‘I hope it has helped you as well.’
‘It has.’ He gave a tired smile. ‘Dan told us you were always there on the airfield waiting for them to return and I can only imagine what you went through as you watched in vain for his plane. Thank you for keeping that vigil. Will you be transferred now?’
She shook her head. ‘I want to stay there, Dad. It’s hard to explain, but somehow I feel that’s where I need to be.’
‘I know. You’ve got to be in the thick of things, just as Dan had to be. You are so like him, do you realise that?’
‘We always got on well and thought alike.’
‘Tell us one more thing …’ He paused while Sally put the plates in front of them. ‘Was Dan happy flying those monsters?’
‘He loved it, and like all the crews he knew his chance of surviving was not good, but that never dimmed his enthusiasm for what he had to do. He always had a smile on his face, and I don’t believe he would have changed a thing.’
‘That’s good to know,’ he said. ‘Now, we had better eat before it gets cold or we will be in trouble with your mother.’
‘Ah, he knows me so well,’ Sally remarked, forcing a faint smile.
Nancy relaxed and even managed a little laugh, knowing her mother’s insistence they eat on time. She gave a silent sigh of relief as a weight lifted from her shoulders. It had been silly to dread telling them because they were strong people and would deal with the loss of their son with courage and dignity. She must do the same, and support them in any way she could.
When Harry saw the boys, his gaze rested immediately on Steve, and a huge smile lit up his face. ‘Ah, lad, there’s no mistaking you are Rose and Bill’s son. My word, but it’s good to see you.’
‘And you, sir.’ Steve stepped forward and shook the hand of the man he had heard so much about but never met. ‘My folks asked me to look you up. They are worried because they haven’t heard from you for a while.’
‘I have written, and I sent one only last week, but you know how unpredictable the post can be, so I expect they’ll get them all at once.’ Harry looked at the other boys, who were standing by respectfully. ‘Introduce me to your friends, lad.’
Steve did so, and they were then bombarded with questions about how everyone was in Canada, and they in turn wanted to know everything about the air raids.
During a lull in the conversation Gladys stood up. ‘I can offer you boys a sandwich, but I haven’t enough to cook you all a meal, as much as I would like to.’
Luke was immediately on his feet. ‘We don’t expect you to feed us, ma’am. Is there somewhere we could get something to eat?’
‘Will the British Restaurant still be open, Harry? They know you and I’m sure they would be happy to serve these boys.’
‘I’ll take them down there and have something to eat with them, if you don’t mind, Glad?’
‘Not at all.’
