Monthly Archives: April 2012

It was the first spring after the war and wherever they flew it was to find people living their lives as though the past great global upheaval would not be followed by a new world order. Whether the changes to come … Continue reading →

Benedito the cartman was a lonely sad-faced bachelor with watery eyes and a liking for drink who could be seen all around the settlement with his mule and cart, clearing away rubbish or transporting goods. The British ex-patriate wives utilised … Continue reading →

There will never be another job like this, mused B., as he sat at his desk and watched Jose leave through the door to the verandah, putting back on his head the battered, greasy hat he had politely removed before … Continue reading →

‘Well, now you’ve passed all your exams, you’ll be thinking you’re due for a bit of relaxation, like,’ said Chiefie Barnes in his mellifluous Welch drawl. ‘I wouldn’t count on it though.’ (BLOG – Joining up).He was adept at giving … Continue reading →

Groups of people were standing in front of the church in the mild sunshine. At the end of the Sunday morning service it was customary for the expatriates to exchange news and gossip before dispersing to get home for the … Continue reading →

My first visit to Germany was in 1952 and the devastation of the Allied bombing raids was still to be seen all around; but reconstruction had started, and noticeable was the orderly and methodical manner in which the work was … Continue reading →