‘We must thank James for sending her to us when we see him.’
‘He loves flying, but I wish he hadn’t enlisted as a pilot. I hope he’s going to be all right.’
‘I hope we are all going to survive this war,’ the colonel added.
‘Amen, to that!’ Dan stood up. ‘Want another pint?’
‘Might as well.’
By the time Grace and Helen got together that evening, it was too late to go anywhere. It was a pleasant evening, though, so they decided to head for a nearby park. There were quite a few people around, but they managed to find a seat to themselves.
‘You were late arriving home, Grace. I’m itching to know what you’ve been doing.’
‘I’ve had a very odd day,’ she said, shaking her head.
Helen laughed. ‘So have I. Tell me about yours first.’
‘Well, I kept the appointment James Meredith made for me with a Colonel Askew. It turned out that James is his godson, and the major I met is the colonel’s nephew. I can tell you that at one point I was wishing I hadn’t gone to the meeting.’
‘You obviously changed your mind. Go on. I’m intrigued.’
Grace then gave her friend a detailed account of her day.
‘My word!’ Helen exclaimed. ‘What have you let yourself in for?’
‘I haven’t the faintest idea, but I couldn’t turn Major Chester down. The man is not fit and needs help.’
‘And they were both at Dunkirk.’
‘That too.’ Grace sighed sadly. ‘Anyway, I’m committed now. I just hope I’ve done the right thing. Now, how did you get on?’
‘I went to a recruitment place in the morning to see what my options were if I joined one of the services. The officer I saw seemed to want my life history, and I couldn’t see what most of the things he asked me had to do with joining the forces. Then, he suddenly switched to French. I was surprised, but it didn’t faze me. You know I’m used to speaking both languages.’
‘I thought they’d pick up on that,’ Grace said. ‘What happened then?’
‘We chatted for a while, and then he stood up and marched out of the room. I was perplexed, and was wondering if I should leave when he returned with a corporal. He said this was his driver, and he would take me to see someone else. When I asked where we were going, he merely said it was only a short distance.’
‘How odd!’
‘It certainly was. And it got even more peculiar. The driver never said a word to me, and when we stopped he held open the car door, and told me to follow him. We went inside and he said something to the receptionist, who told me to take a seat, and someone would come for me in a moment.’
‘Where were you?’
‘Same as you. The War Office. Anyway, a soldier soon came for me, and I was taken to a room and left there.’ Helen laughed. ‘I was beginning to feel like a criminal under arrest. I was considering making a run for it, when a major came in. The questions started again, but in French all the time. We had tea and biscuits, and it was all very friendly. He asked me if I spoke any other languages, and when I said no, he smiled and told me I would soon learn, if necessary. I was there for about two hours, and he finally told me not to join any of the services or take on any other kind of work. I would hear from them soon with instructions of where to go. When I asked what the job would be, he just smiled again and said it would all be explained later. My fluency with French was greatly needed.’
‘What are you going to do?’
Helen shrugged. ‘Wait and see what happens. I had the feeling I was being given orders which had to be obeyed.’
‘Well!’ Grace said, shaking her head. ‘We have both taken on jobs without knowing what on earth they entail.’
‘Looks that way.’
Sleep was illusive, and after tossing and turning for ages, Grace got up, walked over to the window and gazed out. How strange it was without street lighting. The blackout was strictly enforced with wardens checking constantly. The events of the day were churning through her mind, making rest impossible. She had agreed to work for Major Chester without knowing what her duties would be. That had been silly and impulsive, going completely against her normal character. She never made hasty decisions! Brian had had to wait some time before she finally agreed to marry him.
Her sigh was ragged as the pain of loss lanced through her again. Everyone told her it would get easier with time. At the moment, that was hard to believe. She constantly told herself there were so many feeling like this, but that only made the sadness more intense. One of those suffering was clearly Daniel Chester. He had been injured in France, but something else had happened, and it was tormenting him. She had watched him sleeping, peacefully at first, and then the dreams came. It had appeared to be a mixture of anger, regret and deep sorrow but, she suspected, mostly anger. That was probably why he resented being taken off active duty. If her instincts were correct, he wanted revenge.
What a mess everything was. He’d said he needed looking after, and seeing his troubles, she knew that was true. Well, that was what she had been trained for.
Grace got back into bed. Her day had been peculiar enough, but what about Helen? After two long interviews, they had told her to wait, saying only that they would be in touch. There hadn’t been the slightest indication what they wanted her for. It was all very worrying.
Stop this, she told herself sternly. The only thing either of them could do was take each day as it came, and see what happened. Sleep was needed if she was going to cope with tomorrow.
Chapter Four
‘Can I help you, sir?’
Dan tore his gaze away from the assault course, and turned his head. ‘You’re about early, Sergeant …?’
‘Dickins. I saw you arrive and head this way, sir. I hadn’t seen you before, so I followed to see if you needed any help. I’m the drill sergeant.’
‘I was stationed here and did my training on this course.’
‘I see, sir.’ The sergeant studied the tall man beside him. ‘I see you’re wearing fatigues. Were you thinking of having a go at it again?’
‘That was my idea. It’s changed since I was last here. Can you take me over it?’
‘How bad is the injury to your leg, sir? You were limping as you walked here.’
‘Very observant of you. It isn’t much, and is healed now.’
‘I’m sure it is, but this is a tough course now, sir, and I wouldn’t advise you dashing over it before you have the medical officer take a look at you.’
Dan turned back to the course and swore fluently under his breath. The man was talking sense, of course, but he wanted to return to active duty so bad it hurt.
‘Can I have your name, sir?’
‘Major Chester.’
Sergeant Dickins came to attention and saluted smartly. ‘I’ve heard of you, Major. A corporal, Bob Higgins, came through here and said your quick thinking had saved his life in France.’
‘Is he still here?’
‘He was moved to another regiment last week. How can I help you, sir?’
‘I need to get fit for active duty again.’
‘Understood. You are going to do more harm than good if you don’t go about it in the right way. Come with me and see the MO. If your leg is strong enough, I will personally see you get fit again. I’ll arrange your training sessions to suit you.’
‘It will have to be about this time in the mornings.’
‘I’m an early riser. I can take you to the MO immediately, sir.’
‘I appreciate your help, sergeant.’
Dan smiled when he saw the medical officer. ‘Hello, Steve, you still here?’
The officer spun round. ‘Dan! It’s good to see you. Are you stationed here again?’
‘I’m afraid not. Sergeant Dickins caught me about to have a go at the assault course, and insisted I come and see you first.’
The MO raised his hands in exasperation. ‘I heard about your exploits in France. You were badly injured, Dan. Good
Lord, you haven’t changed, have you?’ He turned to the sergeant, who was watching with interest. ‘He would never expect his men to do anything he couldn’t do himself.’
‘So I’ve heard, sir. I’ve promised to help the major get fit again, but I need you to have a look at him. Once I have your assessment of his condition, I will be able to work out a programme of exercises.’
‘You’ve taken on quite a task, sergeant. I know Major Chester, and he’s as stubborn as a mule.’
‘Don’t exaggerate, Steve. Are you going to examine me, or shall I just take my chance and have a go at the course?’
‘You do that and you’ll put yourself back in the hospital.’
Dan began to unbutton his shirt. ‘Get on with it, Doc. They’ve given me a bloody desk job, and I’m not going to put up with that!’
‘They’ve stuck you behind a desk?’ Steve burst out laughing. ‘Good grief, man, don’t they know your reputation? Where is this desk?’
‘The War Office.’
‘Oh, my!’ Steve was doubled over with laughter. ‘That’s priceless! Have you been to any meetings yet?’
Dan smirked. ‘I’ve got my first one today. They are under the impression that I will be useful.’
‘Well, I’m sure you will be … after you’ve banged a few heads together.’ Steve managed to control his amusement. ‘Get stripped off. Let’s hope you’re strong enough for Sergeant Dickins to work you to exhaustion. The people at the War Office don’t know what’s about to hit them.’
‘The colonel will be there as well.’
Both men looked at each and burst out laughing.
‘Oh, oh! I would love to be a fly on the wall.’ The MO shook his head, instantly serious as he began his examination.
It was nearly ten o’clock when Dan walked into the office. ‘Good morning, Grace.’
‘Good morning, sir.’ He looked different today, more relaxed, and almost buoyant, she thought as soon as she saw him. The irritation of the day before had disappeared. Perhaps he had slept well for a change.
She handed him the morning post. ‘I didn’t open anything in case it was something I shouldn’t see.’
He nodded and eased himself into the chair. Ignoring the letters, he picked up a folder from his desk, read the contents, and then passed them over to her. ‘Sign those.’
Grace controlled a smile. That was an order, not a request, but she would have to get used to that. She was working for an army officer now, not James Meredith. Sadness for all she had lost over the last few weeks tried to engulf her, but she pushed it away ruthlessly. This was no time for self-pity.
She sat down and began to read through the forms.
‘Sign them. You don’t have to read every word.’
The irritation was back. ‘Yes, I do, sir. Mr Meredith taught me not to sign anything without reading every word – including the small print.’
‘James was always meticulous. That’s what made him a good lawyer, and a safe pilot.’
‘I pray he stays safe.’ She looked down so he couldn’t see the distress in her eyes, but he was very observant.
‘You don’t want to be here, do you?’ he said gently.
She looked up then. ‘Do any of us, sir?’
Without answering, he stood up and flexed his leg, before walking over to the window. ‘I haven’t any choice. Orders have to be obeyed, but you were under no such constraints. Why did you take this job? I want an honest reply, Grace.’
‘I came only because James had arranged the interview for me – and I stayed because you needed help.’
Dan studied her intently. ‘As simple as that?’
She nodded. ‘I made my decision, and it might not have been the right one, but I’ll work hard and faithfully for you.’
‘I don’t doubt that, and just so we understand each other, I’ll be straight with you. The job might not last long because I intend to return to my regiment at the earliest opportunity.’
‘I am aware of that, but all any of us can do is to take each day as it comes. We don’t know what is going to happen. Hitler is only the other side of the Channel, so that is all we can do. My mother always tells us not to try and cross our bridges before we get to them.’ Grace smiled. ‘She has a saying for everything.’
‘Sound advice, and something I should try to keep in mind.’ He smiled wryly. ‘All right, Grace. Let’s deal with this day, and let tomorrow take care of itself, shall we?’
‘An excellent idea, sir.’ She handed him the signed documents.
He checked they were correct, and then said, ‘Put the kettle on while I take these to the appropriate department. I won’t be long.’
It only took him five minutes. ‘Do you have any biscuits?’ he asked, the moment he walked back in the room. ‘I’m ravenous.’
‘Yes, I got some from the catering manager this morning.’
She poured the tea and piled a plate with biscuits. ‘Didn’t you have any breakfast?’
He nodded, munching away. ‘That was a long time ago.’
The door opened and the colonel swept in. ‘Ah, good. I’m just in time.’
Grace poured another cup of tea for the officer.
He smiled at her, sat down and took a biscuit from the plate. ‘Thanks. Dan, I popped in to see if you’re ready for that meeting this afternoon? We’d better decide on our strategy.’
‘I know mine already. I’m going to speak my mind.’
‘So am I. But let’s try not to lose our tempers, eh?’
‘Don’t worry, Uncle. I won’t say a word out of place.’
The colonel studied his nephew with suspicion. ‘What have you been up to?’
Dan laughed softly, winked at Grace, and held out his cup for a refill.
She refilled all their cups, and put the kettle on to make a fresh pot. This job had been taken in haste, without proper thought, and she had been very doubtful about it, but she was beginning to like these two men. They were both strong, determined and fighters. Just the kind this country would need in the months or years to come.
‘Grace has signed all the necessary papers now, so I’m bringing her to the meeting.’
‘They’ll have their own recorder and might not allow her to stay,’ the colonel pointed out.
Dan raised his eyebrows. ‘Then I don’t stay.’
‘I thought you weren’t going to make trouble.’
‘George, I didn’t ask to come here. If I’m to be of any help—’
‘I know.’ George held up his hand to stop Dan. ‘They’ll take you as you are – a man who knows what he’s talking about, and a bloody fine soldier. But you’re a maverick. How on earth did you manage to get a promotion?’
Dan shrugged. ‘Don’t ask me. I didn’t ask for that either.’
‘No, you didn’t have to. You’re a natural leader of men, and I expect that’s what they recognised.’
‘Well, I haven’t got any bloody men to lead now, have I?’
‘You will have again before this damned war is over.’ The colonel turned to Grace. ‘Excuse the language. Will you be embarrassed if there is an argument about you being at the meeting?’
‘Not at all, sir. I am Major Chester’s personal secretary. If he wants me to take notes at this meeting, then that is what I will do.’
‘Right. I’ll want a copy as well, Dan. They’ll probably want an account of what happened in France, and how a disaster like that can be avoided in the future.’
Grace listened to the two officers, making a mental note of what they were saying. Her Brian had been out there and, in a way, it was comforting to know what he’d had to go through. She had no doubt that he had been as courageous as the two men with her. One thing was certain, though, this job wasn’t going to be dull.
Time for the meeting arrived, and Grace walked into the conference room. It was dominated by a huge table, and seated around it were some twenty men, she quickly assessed. Some were in civilian suits, but the majority were high-ranking offic
ers, representing all the services.
The colonel and the major appeared to know quite a few of them, and Grace stood slightly behind them while they were introduced to everyone else.
‘Please take your seats, gentlemen,’ the man at the head of the table said. ‘We are pleased you have been able to join us. Your experiences in the field will be a great help.’
The colonel sat down while Dan found Grace a chair in the corner of the room.
‘Major Chester, the young lady will not be allowed to stay.’
‘Mrs Lincoln is my personal aide who has full clearance to handle secret information. She will be making notes for my future reference.’ He then walked calmly to his place at the table.
Grace stayed where she was, aware that every eye in the room was focused on her. She flipped open her notebook, and waited, pen poised. No more was said and, as the meeting began, she was impressed. He had won that round without even raising his voice.
From then on the meeting took her whole concentration. Her instructions were to make a note of only the relevant points, and to cut out all the unnecessary chatter and arguments. Some of the things she heard shocked her, as the full import of the perilous situation the country was in became clear. Not only had precious men been lost at Dunkirk, but a huge amount of military equipment had been left behind. There was now a desperate need to rebuild and re-equip the army, as well as building up defences against anticipated attack.
After two hours, the chairman said, ‘That will be all for this meeting. Thank you all for your contributions. There is no doubt that we need time, but will we be given the necessary breathing space? That is something we don’t know, so we must act quickly.’
Grace remained where she was while the men began to file out of the room.
‘Major Chester.’ The chairman stopped him. ‘You were an asset today. Your suggestions were sound, based on first-hand experience. I would like to have a copy of the notes when your … aide, has them ready.’
Day Will Come Page 3
