The Uncertain Years

by Beryl Matthews

  ‘The pubs should be open now, so would you all join me? I’d enjoy a pint before shipping out again.’

  ‘Good idea.’ Bob grinned at the officer. ‘I’m on my way again, too. I wonder if I’ll be your escort?’

  David turned to Mavis and Sally. ‘You’ll join us as well?’

  ‘Oh no,’ Mavis shook her head. ‘You men go.’

  After shaking hands with the two women, David left with the men and headed for the pub.

  Bob was bursting with curiosity as they walked the short distance to the local pub, and he kept giving the brigadier sideways glances. Will and Becky had both talked about him, but he could see how inadequate their descriptions had been. Even Will with his mastery of words had not quite got it right. The physical description fitted, but they had failed to mention the air of authority coming from him. This man was sure of his own abilities, and Bob could imagine how determined he must have been to get out of France after Dunkirk. Failure was not something he would accept easily.

  The pub was crowded, but when David made for the bar, people smiled and moved to give him room.

  ‘What did he want?’ Bob asked Bill quickly while he had the chance.

  ‘He wants Becky.’

  ‘And he came to ask your permission first?’

  ‘No.’ Bill gave a wry smile. ‘He told us. And we told him Becky would make up her own mind, and we trusted her to do the right thing. If she accepts him, then we will as well. He told us she has refused him, but he has no intention of giving up.’

  Bob studied the man standing at the bar with his father. ‘No, he won’t give up, and Becky could have a fight on her hands.’

  Bill gave a quiet laugh. ‘It seems strange to hear him call her Rebecca in such a well-educated accent. We’ve been invited to lunch with his parents next Sunday. I could almost hear Mavis trying to work out what she could wear. We gathered, from the way he spoke, that his family are very fond of Becky.’

  ‘I’m not surprised at that. She did give them her support while he was missing. But it’s not straightforward, is it? He’s got a daughter, is older than her, and is definitely upper class.’

  ‘The age difference is no more than between Mavis and me. And our Becky would cope in any situation,’ Bill said proudly, ‘as long as she’s got an engine to take to bits.’

  They were grinning at each other when David arrived with a tray of drinks.

  For the next hour or so they talked as they drank their beer. Bob was impressed with the ease with which the brigadier mixed with them and others in the pub.

  By the time they saw David Hammond to his car and watched him drive away, Bob understood why Will and Becky thought highly of the man. There were no airs and graces about him, and he had a dry sense of humour.

  Bob liked him.

  Chapter Thirty-Two

  The letter from her father had Becky gasping in surprise. Usually very forthcoming, this time her father had said little about David’s unexpected visit and their lunch with his family, except to say that they had all got on very well. He had added a couple of funny stories about the dog and Sara, but she had the feeling that there was something he wasn’t telling her.

  Sighing, she put the letter back in the envelope. She wasn’t due any leave at the moment, so a trip home to question her parents would have to wait.

  ‘Oh dear, who’s upset you?’ Alice asked, as she joined her for breakfast.

  ‘I’m not upset, I’m puzzled.’ Becky explained, and then said, ‘He was preparing to ship out, so why waste his time delivering the invitation personally? It could quite easily have been sent by post.’

  ‘I would say he is drawing your families closer together. You have refused to marry him, but he hasn’t given up, just changed his tactics. And whatever happens he’s trying to make sure you stay interested in Sara.’

  ‘I would never abandon her. He knows that.’

  ‘He just wants to make sure,’ Alice said gently. ‘Did your parents enjoy the lunch?’

  ‘Yes, they said they had a lovely time.’ Becky cast her friend a worried look. ‘This war makes relationships so difficult. I wish I could sit down with David and talk everything through, but we never seem to have enough time. I can’t rush into something I might regret later just because there’s a war on. I know it’s happening a lot now, but I’m not like that. It’s a big decision, and I’m not sure exactly what his feelings are for me. I couldn’t go into a marriage with doubts like that.’

  ‘This has got to be settled between you, Becky. Neither of you are going to be happy until you do, and it isn’t wise to leave things unresolved in these uncertain times. You could regret it for the rest of your life. I was glad I’d promised to marry Anthony because that brought him a little happiness in his short life. But the difference between you and us is that we both loved each other. While you have doubts about David’s feelings, you are wise to wait. You’ve got to get the man to talk.’

  ‘I know, but I’ve no idea how long he’ll be away this time, or how long he’ll stay when he does come home.’

  ‘Why are you girls looking so serious?’

  They both spun round at the sound of the familiar voice, and were immediately on their feet to welcome Pete.

  ‘When did you get back?’ Becky asked, smiling with pleasure.

  ‘Just now. Did you miss me?’ He sat down and took the mug of tea Alice had rushed to get him.

  ‘Of course. Nice tan you’ve got there.’

  He pulled a face and sipped the tea. ‘What have you girls been up to while I’ve been chasing the enemy around Sicily?’

  ‘Just the usual,’ Becky told him. ‘Are you back for a while?’

  ‘Hope so.’ He smiled at Becky. ‘I saw your brigadier out there. Is he back yet?’

  ‘No, he’s still out there.’

  ‘Ah,’ Pete said as he gulped down the rest of his tea. ‘Poor bugger’s in Italy now, I expect.’

  ‘My brother’s out there as well.’

  Pete nodded. ‘I read one of his reports in the newspaper today. I’ve met a couple of war correspondents, and like the padres they are always in the thick of the fighting. They’re damned brave men. You can be proud of your brother, Becky.’

  ‘I’m proud of you all. In my eyes you’re all heroes.’

  Pete snorted in amusement and changed the subject. ‘You girls want to go to the pictures tonight? I’m paying.’

  ‘My goodness, you are pleased to be back. Of course we’ll come,’ Alice laughed.

  ‘Good, that’s a date then.’ He stood up. ‘See you both later.’

  Becky and Alice followed the Italian campaign closely and were delighted when Italy surrendered. By the beginning of October the Allies had liberated Naples, and Italy declared war on Germany. With the Germans in retreat in Russia and heavy raids being carried out on Berlin, Hitler was facing defeat on many fronts. It was encouraging, but no one was under any illusion that the war would soon be over. There was still much bitter fighting ahead.

  This fact was apparent to everyone in Italy, including Will, as he jumped on a tank to get closer to the battle.

  ‘Hey, Press!’ one man shouted. ‘You’ll get shot up there. Walk with us, it’s safer.’

  At that moment all hell broke loose and the men dived for cover as heavy artillery opened up on their position. Will ducked as low as he could and stayed where he was. It was deafening as the tanks returned fire, concentrating on the wooded area ahead of them.

  Will looked down and saw the man who had shouted at him running behind the tank. ‘What was that you were saying?’ he called.

  The answer he received certainly wouldn’t be appearing in any of his reports.

  The battle to clear the woods was long and hard. Will focused on recording it, steeling himself against the death and suffering all around him. If he allowed himself to become overwhelmed he wouldn’t be able to do his job, but when things became too bad he jumped down to help get the wounded to the medics. He made no distinct
ion between Allies and Germans; all were young men fighting for their lives. It was madness.

  By late afternoon the position was secure and Will went to the command tent to send his report.

  ‘Message for you, Press.’ The major in charge of communications handed him a note. ‘They want you back in London.’

  ‘Damn!’ Will swore. ‘I wanted to be with you when you reach Rome.’

  ‘I’ll send you a postcard,’ the officer joked. ‘If we can get you transport quickly enough you’ll be home in time for Christmas.’

  ‘So I will.’ He brightened at that thought. ‘Any chance of that?’

  ‘Leave it with me. I expect they’re recalling you to cover preparations for the invasion of France.’

  ‘When do you think it will be?’

  ‘Next year for sure. Spring, I should think.’

  Will nodded in agreement. ‘Do you think 1944 will see the end of the war?’

  ‘Impossible to say, but let’s hope so, eh? Now,’ the major said as he studied a map. ‘I can get you to the airfield at Foggia and see if the USAF can give you a ride back home. Go and get your gear together, have something to eat, and by then I should have something arranged.’

  ‘Thanks, sir.’

  At first Will had been disappointed to be ordered to leave Italy, but now he was pleased. It would be wonderful to see his family again, and he might also get a chance to meet up with Alice. They had been writing to each other regularly, and it was clear they had a lot in common. He had liked her from the moment he’d seen her, and his feelings for her had grown into something more than friendship, but he’d been careful to keep his affection for her hidden. She had lost the man she’d loved and was about to marry, but that was some three years ago now, and he hoped she was ready to put that behind her and move on. He snorted in disgust at that thought. How did you put the loss of someone you loved behind you? Life would go on, of course, but that person would always be a part of you, just as Jim’s parents were to his family. And why the hell was he daring to think that a lovely girl like Alice would fall for him? She was surrounded by men, and would have her pick when she was ready for another relationship.

  By dawn the next day Will was at the airfield, and an hour later flying home in an American Transport plane. The weather was rough and it was a bumpy ride, but he didn’t mind. And it was only as he settled down that he realised just how weary he was. No indication had been given for his return, but he hoped he would be able to have some time at home before being sent somewhere else. If Becky couldn’t get home then he’d go to the camp and see her.

  Resting his head back, he closed his eyes and drifted off, oblivious to the discomfort of hard seats and a pitching plane.

  ‘Wake up, chum. We’re here.’

  Will shot awake to find the plane was on the ground and making for a parking spot.

  ‘You sure are worn out,’ the American said. ‘That was a rough flight, but you slept all the way.’

  ‘Can’t remember when I last had such a good sleep.’ Will stretched and grinned. ‘Every time I dozed off in Italy, some daft fool would start shooting at us.’

  ‘Yeah, there’s some bitter fighting going on there.’ The plane came to a stop and the airman began helping Will to gather up his gear. ‘Off for some leave, are you?’

  ‘I hope so.’ Will hoisted his kitbag on to his shoulder and carried the camera equipment in his right hand. ‘I’ll know more when I’ve reported in and found out why they’ve brought me back in such a hurry.’

  ‘Hey, let me carry some of that for you.’ The airman was studying Will, frowning when he saw he was taking most of the baggage on his right side. ‘You been injured?’

  ‘No, my left arm is weaker than the right. I was born like that.’

  ‘That right?’ He helped Will out of the plane. ‘Well, it sure don’t stop you doing anything.’

  ‘I’ve never allowed it to. Fortunately I was also born with a determined nature.’

  They walked across the airfield together in friendly conversation, and the airman said, ‘This country of yours is beginning to burst at the seams with men and equipment, and that can only mean one thing. We’re building up to the big push.’

  Will nodded in agreement as they entered the building to check in. ‘It looks like it. Thanks for the lift.’

  ‘Our pleasure.’ The airman shook hands with Will. ‘Good luck, and I hope you get that leave you obviously need.’

  ‘Thanks.’ Reporting in didn’t take long and the airbase even provided Will with a lift to London, so he was soon on his way.

  On arrival, it was as he had expected. He was to cover the preparations for the invasion of Europe, travelling to various camps the length and breadth of England. None of it would be used at the moment, because secrecy was of the utmost importance. The Germans mustn’t even get a hint of where the landings were to take place. Surprise would be vital. Once the operation was under way, then news would be released to the general public. The briefing was long, and Will was glad he’d been able to sleep on the plane. By seven that evening he was on his way home.

  Lights were on downstairs as he quietly opened the front door, and he could hear the murmur of voices and laughter coming from the kitchen. He smiled, wondering why they had so many rooms in this house and only seemed to use the kitchen and bedrooms.

  Keeping as quiet as he could he stood just inside the room, and his heart leapt with pleasure. Crammed into the kitchen were Bob, Jim, Becky, the parents, and the two Americans he had met on the Queen Mary.

  Becky was the first one to see him and jumped to her feet.

  ‘Will! Oh, this is wonderful!’

  The room erupted as everyone gave him a boisterous welcome. It had been a long time since all of them had been at home at the same time. His mother was nearly in tears, Becky had gathered their foursome together in a huddle, trying to wrap her arms around all of them, and the Americans were slapping everyone on the back in delight.

  ‘Gee, this is great!’ Greg gave Hal a shove. ‘Go and get that bottle of whisky. We’ve got to celebrate Will coming home. Boy, what a time we’re going to have this Christmas. We want to know everything you’ve been doing, Will.’

  ‘All in good time,’ he laughed. ‘This morning I was in Italy, then on an American plane, and after that I spent hours in London. No one thought to offer me any food. I’m starving.’

  A space was hastily cleared at the table for him as the women set about making a pile of sandwiches, and the kettle was soon boiling.

  ‘Hope sandwiches will do?’ his mother said. ‘Greg and Hal have given us some real ham.’

  ‘That would be perfect, Mum.’

  ‘What’s it like out there?’ his father asked.

  ‘Tough, Dad.’

  Becky’s smile faded. ‘I think David might be out there, too. Did you see him, Will?’

  ‘Sorry, Becky. If he’s there then I didn’t meet him.’

  Her disappointment showed for a moment, then the smile was back.

  ‘How’s Alice?’ he asked, changing the subject. ‘Is she on leave as well?’

  ‘She’s fine, but still at camp.’

  ‘In that case I’ll pop along to Aldershot and see her while I’m at home.’

  ‘She’ll like that,’ his sister told him. ‘She always looks forward to receiving your letters.’

  ‘How long have you got?’ his mother asked, putting a plate piled high with sandwiches on the table, and setting out the cups for tea.

  ‘I’ve been given fourteen days, so I won’t be going back until the New Year. And I’ll be in this country for a while now.’

  Relief flooded across his mother’s face. ‘That’s lovely. Perhaps we’ll be able to see more of you.’

  Will nodded, bit into a sandwich and sighed with pleasure. ‘I’d forgotten what real ham tasted like. Tell me how you’re getting on,’ he asked Greg and Hal.

  They talked well into the night, and when the parents went to bed they finish
ed off the bottle of whisky Hal had brought with him. Will’s tiredness had vanished as he enjoyed being with his sister and friends again – and he counted these two Americans as friends. Becky was the only girl amongst them, but she was used to that and fitted in easily, as she had always done. Bob was relaxed, and Jim was more like his old self. It did Will good to see all was well with them.

  He settled back and enjoyed the fun as each related amusing tales of the things that had happened to them. Greg and Hal made them roar with laughter as they told of some of the scrapes they had got into while adjusting to life in Britain.

  At one time he glanced across at his sister and read the expression in her eyes. She was thinking the same as him – this might be the last time they were all able to meet up like this. He gave a slight nod of his head, and her smile was tinged with sadness for a brief moment. They had always had a close rapport, and that hadn’t changed.

  The house was full and Becky had her own room, and the Americans another. That left the boys to share one room. There was only a single bed so they tossed a coin for it and Bob won. Jim made do with two chairs pushed together and Will slept on the floor. He didn’t mind; he’d slept in far worse places.

  Tomorrow he’d slip away and see Alice.

  Chapter Thirty-Three

  With his war correspondent’s papers, Will had access to almost any camp, and through his film reports he had become quite well known. The guard on the gate even called him ‘sir’ when he asked him who he’d come to see.

  ‘Could you direct me to Colonel Brent’s office?’

  ‘I’ll escort you there myself. Is he expecting you?’

  ‘No, I only arrived back in this country yesterday.’

  ‘Ah.’ The guard nodded as he walked beside Will. ‘I saw one of your news reports from Italy, and it looked a bit rough where you were.’

  ‘It was, but that’s where the stories are.’

  ‘Of course.’ The soldier opened a door and gave Will an admiring glance. ‘You blokes are doing a good job. Up the stairs and it’s the second door on the left.’