Today I had cause to drive along a route I hadn’t taken for forty years. Back then, wet behind the ears, at the wheel of a Morris 1100 with the cassette blaring Black Is Black, I felt like a king. Until the engine spluttered to a halt. I’d run out of petrol. Fortunately, I’d passed a petrol station twenty minutes walk back. Unfortunately, I had no money.
There were three houses nearby. The first was empty. The second drew a response from a middle aged lady, eyes narrowed with suspicion. I explained to her the situation. There was no point in me phoning home as I knew my parents were out. I really needed some money. Only a little. Just enough for a half a gallon of petrol to get me home. I promised I’d repay her the next time I was passing. Please.
She listened patiently. She asked no questions and sought no clarifications. When I finished, she looked me up and down and closed the door. I sighed and trudged off to try the final house but, before I reached the gate, she returned and called, “Here you go.” I ran back, elated, thanking her profusely. She » Continue Reading.