The Atlantic Sky [MB-225]

8/13/2019 The Atlantic Sky [MB-225]

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THE ATLANTIC SKY

Betty Beatty


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CHAPTER ONE

e long wire-mesh fence round the airport was like a thin silver barrier between the two elem

earth and air. Standing for a moment, poised betwixt and between, Patsy Aylmer watched the

uare rear of the London bus disappear with the stream of traffic along the Great West Road i

ctory-lined, house-enclosed horizon. And just at the same time, beyond that deceptively slerrier a four-engined aeroplane swept down the broad runway parallel to the road, tucked up

most extraneous wheels into its beautiful silver body, and rose higher and higher through seem

mpty strata of coloured, cloud-filled air into a wide and wonderful and altogether illimitable fu

ust like herself, Patsy thought, peering once more at the tips of her sensible court shoes to

ey still glowed like conkers, patting her inconspicuous hat to make sure that her usually neat au

ir had not disarranged its trim position, and last of all feeling in her pocket for that crisp

assuring letter that said You will report at11.45hours on June15th for an interview witorld-Span Stewardess Selection Board,just to make quite sure she wasnt dreaming.

Because it was all rather like a dream. Very slowly, as if to tell herself that this was a momen

w seconds in her life, she walked to the wooden building, with the portly airport policeman w

t in front, and pulled out the letter.

Not a flicker of interest crossed his face. World-Span Aviation, second building on the right

d, and then peering over her not very high shoulder, shouted, Take it right round to Number

ngar, at the driver of a lorry laden with mysterious metal bits and pieces, more wonderf

emed to Patsy, than golden ducats and pieces of eight.

A sleek polished car slid to one side of the lorry and the policeman saluted, a crew car bustle

n a humpbacked passenger bus.

Second on the right, the policeman repeated brusquely to the girl, and then, as though dimly w

efficient and travel-blas frame he had noticed a pair of very anxious blue eyes and a flu

ce, and a not too sure voice, he said gravely, All the best, and added a very large wink, a

ck thumbs up, just for good measure.

Thank you, Patsy said, her spirits suddenly rising to the sweetness of this early summer mor

e hopped on to the pavement as a red petrol bowser hooted her out of its path, and then she cro

arge stretch of macadam, very slowly, so that she could feel the monstrous size of the two ai

rked only a hundred or so yards away from her. Now she was standing outside the double ent

ors of the two-storey building, and the red and gold letters that spelled out World-Span Avi

clearly that they might almost hive been visible right round the globe told her that at last she


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ally arrived.

But once she was inside, the long rubber corridors seemed lined with discreetly quiet oak d

ey peered at her with blank anonymous faces. She walked a little way down. Now even

assuring sound of her own footfall had deserted her. Timidly she tapped on the third door. But

s no answer.

he could hear now a girls voice, then a mans. Very cautiously, she turned the handle and pus

The scene was one of quiet absorbed busyness. The room was much larger than she had expe

d seemed filled with people all working independently. A huge map, stuck all over with s

gs, covered one side of the wall. Opposite, there was a blackboard, chalked with names

ckett, Stainforth. Perriman letters and numbers like 521/07x and 655/126, and a selection of

e 23.30, 09.17 and 10.17 in two mystic columns headed E.T.A. and A.T.A. And under it w

w of telephones which, even as she stood there, rang and were answered, rang and were answ

a rockabye rhythm. There was a long counter down one side, and just beside Patsy a coup

ficers in dark blue uniforms leaned over it, talking with a kind of brusque authority (in a mminiscent of Grannys nostalgic accounts of how the customer usedto be treated in heryoung

a quiet man apparently on duty on the other side.

But the open door and Patsy might have been no more than an extra chart upon the wall. No

oked up. No one stopped either talking, altering a map, drawing a line, or poring over a folder

Then half-way across the room, a brown head popped up, a deep voice called, Come in if y

ming, and shut that... then it trailed away.

A pair of eyes became suddenly friendly. Hello, the voice went on a bit lamely. Hello.

Hello, Patsy repeated shyly.

Looking for someone? The young man with the brown hair and the nice face walked acros

om and smiled down at her.

Well, yes Patsy hesitated. I mean yes in a way. Not for someone ... but for some place.

I see, the young man pushed his hands in his pockets, and rocked himself gently back on his h

tching her with amusement from under his thick, rather sandy lashes. Some place such as?

Patsy was suddenly aware that he was in uniform. That he had two thin gold bands sandwich

hite one around the cuffs of his sleeves. He too, like the room, looked very official, very impo

uch, she said humbly, as the Stewardess Selection board. Try as she would, she couldnt


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me of the awe (and the pride) that she felt at even getting so far as the interview creeping int

ice.

As if he noticed it too, the young man smiled even more gently. He inclined his squarish, chu

oking head, and said, Then youre jumping your fences a little. This is Operations. He sprea

nds as though introducing her to all its vast complexity. But itll be some time before y

eding us.

If Im lucky, Patsy said wistfully.

No luck about it! Three months from now ... Ill be at your service. Come to think of it, Im

w. He looked at the big clock on the wall. Ten minutes overdue already. Conscientious t

off Pollard. Never one to rush off watch. But nowhe walked over to the row of pegs on w

ng half a dozen identical blue peaked caps, swept the second one from the left off its peg and o

head in one practised flick of his wristits time for a hardworking Operations Officer to h

of a rest. He put his hand under Patsys elbow and steered her back into the corridor. Ill

u there.

Patsy scurried along beside him, taking about three short running steps to every single one o

ey passed down the corridor, across the hall, and on to the tarmac.

The policeman said, Mr. Pollard...

Mr. Pollard? the young man said with some severity. Whos he?

Why, you, Mr. ... er

Geoff to my friends. Once Im out of the Ops room, I like to forget that man Pollard. He shudd

th distaste. The names Geoff. And then with a disarming smile, Whats yours?

Patsy Aylmer. And the policeman said, she added firmly, that it was the second on the right.

Know what that aircraft is, Patsy? Geoff pointed to a silver shape just beyond the corner o

ngar. Thats a Boeing. You ought to know... he looked down at her and grinned. And as fo

liceman, hes right in one way and wrong in another. Just the same, he added disarmingly, as

e.

He waved his arm. World-Spans little empire starts back there all right, he jerked his thumb

shoulder. But it continues in a series of huts and hangars and what have you just as far as

ue eyes can reach. And your place is in the admin part, about a hundred yards from our pr

sition. All right?


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All right. And thank you.

And now ask me whyyourea bit right and a bit wrong.

Why?

Wrong if you think Im prolonging your journey more than is strictly necessary. Righthe sm

if you think Id like to. And now herewith the gesture of a conjuror producing the rabbit oe hatis the place itself. He thrust out a thick wrist and stared at his watch. Check for

even hundred hours precisely. That all right?

Fine, Patsy said. The interview isnt until a quarter to twelve. So Ive lots of time.

The young man frowned portentously. You dont honestly mean, he said with pitying gravity,

u intend to sit in there, he gave the last word a nameless fearfulness, and contemplate you

forty-five minutes!

Patsy said that she did.

And whatll you do? Whatll you think about?

Patsy said that she would think about this and that.

Mainly this, Geoff Pollard said. Mainly whether you shouldnt have worn your second-bestd maybe flat shoes and your sensible velour. He shook his head. And youll try to think

yre going to ask you and how you should reply. Well, the best thing you can doonce mo

aced a firm and practical hand under her elbowis to take a step over to the restaurant just

ere ... all very bright and cosy... and let your Uncle Geoff give you a hint or two.

Patsy hesitated. Now that she thought of it, three-quarters of an hour did seem a long time to wa

interview. All right, she said, and smiled up at him. Coffee wouldbe nice. And I was up e

nd I daresay Ill...

Do a lot better for it, they both said at the same time. Geoff Pollard opened a large glass do

ir left. And in they went together.

Now, he said, after theyd sat down at a table by the window and a waitress had brought

ffee. What made you want to become a stewardess?

Patsy looked across at the man opposite her. His eyes, now she saw them close to, were a kin

eyish blue, his cheeks fresh and pink, and his even teeth looked as though they were scrubbed


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lished after every meal and any other moment that he had to spare. Weell, she said slo

s not ... I mean, its rather difficult to say ... anyway just like that... dont you think?

Geoff Pollard shook his head to show that he didnt.

Well, she tried again, I mean there are lots of reasons

Tell me just one. The Operations Officers voice was so peremptory that Patsy raisedebrows in mock protest.

I think Id like flying ... and travel ... and people...

Better, Geoff Pollard said. He paused for a moment to drink his coffee thirstily, before contin

ou see if you cant tell themwhy youd like the job, Ill guarantee they couldnt tell thems

hy you should have it. He grinned at her triumphantly. Get me?

Patsy smiled and nodded.

And if you cant say why youd like to fly, then, believe me, youd never be able to tell

ndred passengers why they cant cross the Atlantic on what looks like a clear fine night

ure not too sure yourself.

Patsy stirred her coffee thoughtfully. When you put it like that, she said at last, yes, I dosee.

Geoff Pollard pushed his coffee cup to one side and leant confidentially across the table. W

other question?

Patsy nodded.

Strictly from the Selection Board to Miss Aylmer? Right?

Patsy nodded again.

How old are you?

Twenty-one. And two months.

And you live in the country? What job are you doing now?

Its on the application form, Patsy said sweetly, and they both laughed. I travel into Southam


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ery day, she ' went on. And I work for a shipping firm.

Are you engaged, Miss Aylmer?

Patsys blue eyes flew open.

Still the Selection Board, Geoff Pollard reminded her reprovingly.

Patsy said shyly, No.

A boy-friend perhaps, he went on.

Patsy shook her head and laughed.

No boy-friend, Geoff Pollard said cheerfully. Good. Very good. I mean, he explained

ouldnt be any good us choosing you, Miss Aylmer, and giving you an expensive training, if yleaving us to get married in no time at all. He looked at his watch. And now, Patsy, I hate t

but its time you were taking that little walk back across the tarmac.

Patsy stood up. It was awfully kind of you, she said. And I feel a lot better, and thank you...

Oh, Im coming too. He put his cap back on his head, and opened the restaurant door for her.

e of those people who like taking their friends to the dentist, or to Stewardess Selection Boar

t seriously, he smiled down at her?as they walked along the pavement together, youll bht.

But I really dont know much about airlines or flying

Or life for that matter, he said gently. And then much more briskly, he added, But thats ex

hat they have a course for. To teach you. Now if I were the Selection Board, I wouldnt w

out whether a girl knew foreign languages, or if shed ever heard about international curr

gulations, or ships papers, or stateless persons. She could learn that in ten easy lessons. Whauldnt teach her would be how to smile the way you do. He hesitated, as they stood tog

tside the main doorway of the Admin Block. Its room Twenty-Seven, and thats on the se

or, by the wayand still in the same breathorwell, how to make people feel good, a

.

As you do too, Patsy said gratefully.

Pity Im not on the Board, Geoff Pollard said.


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A great pity, Patsy murmured, her hand on the door. But I amon the phone ... and one of

ys, when youre on the course, Ill be giving you a ring ... and well make each other feel

ain, shall we?

Patsy nodded and smiled.

Then Geoff Pollard opened the glass door and stood aside. Good luck, he said. And if you

swer, dont pretend you know. Keep your head, speak slowly, and take your time. And if itsmfort to you, Assistant Operations Officer Pollard says youre just the type that World-

viation are looking for.

Patsy glanced over her shoulder for a moment, as he gave her a crisp salute, did a quick right-

n, and then walked smartly back towards Operations. Then she walked up the new white m

ps in front of her. At the top, she turned to the right. Here, the numbers on the doors start

enty-four.

About half-way down Room Twenty-Seven. A white notice said Stewardess Selection Board

d arrow pointed to the next door which was marked Waiting Room.

he knocked gently. A girls voice said, Come right inside, and Patsy opened the door.

There was only one occupant. Are you the eleven-forty-five appointment? she said, putting

r magazine, and eyeing Patsy with undisguised interest.

Patsy said that she was. And youre...?

I ... the girl said, and giggled rather nervously, I get led to the block ten minutes before that.

me now, in fact. Theyve just come back from their mid-morning break. She rolled her

amatically. Iveseen them. Then she waved Patsy towards one of the empty armchairs. M

urself comfortable while you can. Cigarette?

Patsy shook her head and sat down.

The other girl asked, Whats your name?

Aylmer. Patsy Aylmer.

Cynthia Warings my name. The other girl blinked her bright birds eyes. Londoner, born

ed. And Ive been sitting here, beautifully posed, and for the last twenty minutes, wishing I liv

mbuctoo. Ive looked at myself at least fifty times since I came in ... and now Im sure Ive wo

wrong clothes. What dyou think?


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Patsy looked at the tall, very thin figure in the elegant simple suit. I think you look very smart.

Like a stewardess?

Ive no idea what they should look like, Patsy said simply and earnestly. I only wish I did.

Well, I dont feel like me.And heaven knows,Ishould know how to dress. Im a model, she

ddenly walking gracefully up and down the room, finishing with a slow pirouette in front of Pnd I do know normally. But this! She struck a tragic pose with her arms flung wide. What i

pposed to be? A nurse? A travel guide? A philosopher and friend? A waitress? An explaine

es and regulations? A minder of babes? Tell me... dyou know anyone who is?

Patsy shook her head.

Not me neither. What I do know is that a girl whos just gone in was a nurse.

They both mournfully digested the fact.

Shell have a mu(ch-better chance than us then, Patsy said.

Cynthia nodded emphatically. And do you realize that even if they take you on ... there

urse.

Yes, Patsy said reverently, the course.

I hope you dont speak any languages, Cynthia went on accusingly.

I write French and German. But I dont speak them very well.

Cynthia shrugged her shoulders as though she might overlook it this time.

And then, Patsy pointed out consolingly, Im not nearly so... I dont know how to put it... isedas you are.

No, thats true, Cynthia agreed, rather too readily, and I know how to make an entrance

re. She matched her words by walking over to the corridor door, opening it, and then care

vancing towards Patsy. Good morning, she said, and inclined her head graciously, first to P

d then to three areas of thin air on either side of her. There are four of them on the Board,

hispered. Then resuming her pose, Take a seat? Ah, thank you. She sat down, and crossed

autiful legs carefully. Notice I cross my elegant ankles only, she whispered to Patsy. Then


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ew off her gloves. Glorious day, isnt it? she remarked to the left-hand blank space, and

iled expectantly at the whole side of the room. Now you see how its done, she said, not wi

e pride of a true artist.

Patsy sighed. I never could.

But of course you couldnt! You crept round the door like a little blue-eyed innocent. Even I

read her long fingers over the approximate area of her heartfeel like old mother wolf b

u. But that, as it were, balances the languages. Get me?

Patsy said rather sadly that she did.

But for all that, if I were a passenger, Cynthia said with disarming frankness, I know which

o Id rather fly with. You, she said, and smiled. And before Patsy had time to say shed real

good at all, she was sure, Cynthia went on, And just supposing you are accepted, you couldn

living where you are, could you?

Patsy shook her head.

Ill have to change tooI have a flat, Cynthia said, suddenly and strangely in rather a shy wa

e West End. And I just couldnt afford it on a stewardesss pay.

Patsy said that she supposed she couldnt.

Would you think of trying to get fixed in the same place as me? Cynthia asked. Oh, n

pensive place. Just the ordinary sort of bed-sitter that the girls usually live in, they tell me. B

ould be nice to have someone else in the same job there too.

Of course it would, Patsy said gratefully. Id like that very much.

They both lapsed into a companionable silence. Then, startling as a gunshot, though it was no l

an a soft discreet click, the communicating door opened.

Miss Waring, please, a womans voice said quietly.

Cynthia stood up with unruffled composure. One half of her face turned towards Patsy regis

bearable agony, while the other half registered calm and friendly interest. Very slowly, her

els clicked across the polished light oak floor. Patsy had a glimpse of a large room, a stre

nlight from the window. Good morning, she heard Cynthia Waring say in her sweetest voice

someone indicated a chair, Ah, thank you. Glorious


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Then, one more, the discreet oak door was closed.

ifteen minutes later Patsy was picking up her handbag, and trying to walk with the same amou

m across that same floor space which suddenly seemed to have become a vast uninhabited se

e stepped through the door, she smiled rather shyly at the quiet-looking secretary who held the

en for her, and then at the four people sitting behind a desk, with their backs to the huge sun-

ndow.

Good morning, she said, much too soon, because her soft voice hardly carried across the room

Good morning, the four members of the Selection Board called back at her, and the middle-

dy with her hair in a neat grey bun nodded her head at the empty chair facing them.

Thank you, Patsy said gratefully. She sat very still, clutching her handbag, her feet hugging

her. Then she remembered Cynthias posture and tried to cross her ankles.

So you want to be a stewardess, the grey-haired lady said kindly. Thats right, make you

mfortable, as Patsy shuffled her feet towards elegance. What makes you think you migh

table?

Nothing, right now. Nothing at all, Patsy would have said, if shed been able to find her v

d been able to be perfectly honest.

t was not the sort of way that Geoff Pollard had put it at all. Then she said quietly and frank

nt know. I mean I dont know that I would be. But if you like a thing, she added despera

nsing that the Board might well be sharing her doubts, you often are.

The grey-haired lady, when Patsy could blink her eyes against the sunlight and look at her prop

d a rather nice mouth. Quite right, she said with a smile. Thats quite a point. Anything else?

I like travelling. I like talking to people.

Sickpeople? A gruff, bouncy little man, sitting at the of the table, cut in suddenly.

Why, yes, Patsy said. They need someone most of all.

Frightenedpeople? the gruff voice came again.

Them, too, Patsy said truthfully.

And I see from your application form, the grey-haired lady seemed to be giving Patsy time t


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feel of things, that you play tennis and ride. And you love the country?

Very much.

And your fathers a land agent and estate manager. I remember visiting on the Hemswell esta

e mentioned a few names of people and places.

Patsy knew them well. Their familiarity put her at her ease. For about two minutes, she hmpletely relaxed conversation with the grey-haired lady.

And now, Mr. Simmons Regretfully, it seemed, the grey-haired lady handed her over to

uff little man.

So far, Miss Aylmer, he said, stroking his scrubbing-brush moustache, youve told us w

uregoing to get out of all this. If we appoint you. You like people, sick orfrightened, an

oustache bristled with disbelief, you like flying, youd like to travel. But just what does W

an Aviation get out of it?

Patsy thought for a moment. Then she said stoutly, If you appoint me, and when youve traine

an efficient stewardess.

Mr. Simmons looked so astonished with such an answer that he appeared for a moment to los

ice completely. When he did speak, all he could manage was a hoarse, You next, Miss Mayh

d Patsy was handed on to the only other woman on the Board.

Miss Mayhew was a different kettle of fish all round. Elegant in blue uniform, about twenty-

e was blonde, soigne, with great, grey, rather sleepy eyes in which Patsy seemed to drow

ignificance.

What, she asked in a dreamy voice, is the Capital of Romania?

Patsy said, Isnt it Bucharest?

Miss Mayhew gave not the slightest indication of having heard her. She said, You have long h

this jobtwenty-four hours at a stretch sometimes, and most of it on your feet. Its hard w

th more time spent over the galley sink than in entertaining the passengers with p

nversation. All the sleepiness had gone out of her eyes as she added, Think you can manage i

Yes ... I think so, Patsy said.

Miss Mayhews eyelids appeared to collapse, perhaps from the effort of the past few min


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ow many litres in a gallon?

Four and a half, Patsy said promptly. And a bit.

But Miss Mayhew neither confirmed nor denied it. Instead, she turned to give the man on her

zzling red-lipped smile. And now you,, Captain Prentice.

Patsy swallowed hard and drew a deep breath, rather like a swimmer before the next difunge. So far, she told herself, she wasnt doing too badly. With the kind of sixth sense tha

ways helped her to make friends, she could get the feel of a group of people. And so far, and

rprisingly, she knew they were for her.

Then the fourth set of seemingly unimportant questions started. They came from the quiet

iformed figure at the extreme right of the table. Patsy screwed up her eyes against the light from

ndow that fell straight on her face. She glimpsed the lean impassive face, the quiet mouth

aight dark brows. His arms, folded on the table, seemed to carry too much gold braid for so y

man, and as though he was conscious of it, his voice was slow and measured as though every

s worth ten pounds an ounce.

or some reason, all the discomfort she had felt on entering the room returned in double mea

r the first time, she was panicky.

You enjoy flying, Miss Aylmer? the deep voice said slowly, but quite pleasantly.

Now that she really heard it, the question was simple enough. Positively harmless. She

owing her always quite active imagination to run away with her.

Oh,yes, she said with relief. Very much. Even to herself, Patsy felt that she had

aggerated the enthusiasm in her voice. And the sunlight was not too strong for her to see tha

ry dark eyebrows were momentarily raised.

Then, Captain Prentice said, with what seemed cruelly deceptive kindliness, youve done qu

to enjoy it so much?

Oh yes, Patsy started. The man had a way of making you unconsciously agree with him. I

e...

One trip to Paris and another to Spain did not sound very much.

Yes? the voice was still pleasant, as detached and noncommittal as a judges.


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Patsy suddenly regretted the clear unpowdered clarity of her cheeks. She could feel her c

ing for all the world, or at least, for all the Selection Board, to see. She screwed up

ndkerchief in her clammy hands, and said with a kind of quiet desperate dignity, I have f

wo trips. One to Paris and one to Spain. I didenjoy them.

Splendid! A ghost of a smile, more hateful than the faintly lifted eyebrows, moved his lips

e faintest breath of a chuckle escaped from the rest of the Selection Board, until now forgotten.

And you werent sick?

Patsy said she wasnt.

Nor nervous?

No. Not at all.

Dyou feel that you could cope with an emergency? the young man asked. Quite obviously,

e tone of his voice he was certain that she couldnt.

I would try, Patsy said humbly.

And that wouldnt be enough, the conversational voice reminded her. The air is no plac

ople that would try. There arent any second chances. You must do!

Patsy could feel her chances of success draining out of her like an egg-timer with every m

der this young mans questioning.

You know that a stewardess is a member of a crew, under the command of a captain, and tha

mes under the same discipline as the men?

Patsy nodded.

And you know that it will mean being away most of the time abroad ... in any country in the w

at the Company care to send you?

Patsy nodded again.

And what do your parents think about it? He looked through the papers in front of him w

ntained a copy of the detailed application form that shed had to complete. Youre their

ughter, arent you?


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The only one at home, Patsy said. I have a sister whos married. And a younger brother at sc

t they dont mind. My father has travelled, andwell, he understands, and Mother does, too

Good, he cut her short. But dyou know anything about an airline? Any friends in the bus

hove talked to you about the job?

No, Patsy said. You see I work with a shipping firm. And I live at home. So there isnt m

ance to get to know anyone in aviation.

Buthis eyes were suddenly narrowedI may be quite wrong, and you must tell me if I am

tsy waited breathlessly, her hands clasped in front of herbut didnt I see you in the restaura

tsy started guiltilythe staff restaurant. There was a slight emphasis on the wordstaff w

outed Trespasser. Patsy flushedhaving coffee half an hour or so agoPatsy felt the very

ain of sand disappear for everwith one of our Operations Officers?

There was a silence in the room. Outside under the pale sunlight, an aircraft started its engines

mmons doodled on his blotting paper. The grey-haired lady rustled her papers.

No reason why you shouldnt, of course. Very glad you did. The conversational voice was fa

mused at its devastation. But if you doknow anyone

Yes, Patsy said, her voice trembling, not with fear now, but with a healthy glowing anger.

re having coffee. Not with anybody I knew. Not properly, I mean. With Mr. Pollard. He helpe

d the way here. I didnt know it was the staff restaurant. But it might well have been. And

llard bought me a cup of coffeeand now she didnt careto cheer me up before I came in

she heard a muffled noise that must have been a tut-tut of disapproval from the rest of the B

e was, she said warmly, most awfully kind.

Thats all, thank you. Quite unruffled, Captain Prentice nodded to the grey-haired lady,

peared to be Chairman of the court.

Then I think thats everything we need to ask you, Miss Aylmer. Youll hear from us in due cou

e this door to go out, would you? And she pointed to a door just beside the Boards table.

They all watched as Patsy got out of her chair. Their eyes followed her as she walked with di

wards the allotted exit.

Thank you, and good morning, she said, with her hand on to the door-knob.

Good morning, they said, and as the door closed behind her, she could see their four fearful h

rt to move a little closer together.


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Well, she said to the empty corridor, thats that.

he wondered what she would say to her mother and father when she got home. Oh, I wasn

atkeen on it. No, of course Im not disappointed. Oh, yes, I wanted to get into flying. But ther

her jobs too...

And of course there were. She couldnt raise much enthusiasm for any of them right now. Bu

s because she could see those silver shapes glistening in the sunlight, see the long magic pae runway, and hear the sonorous thrilling roar of distant engines.

There was no need this time to ask where to go. She crossed the road, and stood alone below

arly marked sign with its distinctive painted circle.

An aircrafts motors roared out from the far end of the runway. A jet made a whistling streak ac

sky. Very faintly, from the passenger reception block, a Tannoy was talking of Paris and Zu

me and Cairo.

And then suddenly, the noise of aircraft engines and the sound of the Tannoy were drowned

uttering grunt close by. The silver flash of an airliner just taking off was completely blocked

ew. Patsy Aylmer looked up into a familiar square red face that seemed to be smiling down a

sardonic recognition.

Out of that selfsame factory-lined, house-enclosed horizon into which it had disappeared, B

d come back to claim her.


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Patsy blinked at it for a few minutes, telling herself that the longer she waited before opening i

nger she could still hug around herself a few shreds of hope.

Patsy swallowed hard and tore open the envelope.

The first glance told her that there was a date in large type, so it wasnt, after all, just a

ection. Then she read it through from beginning to end. After that, she read it through three

mes. Then, in a dream, she smiled at her parents.

Well, Im blessed, her father said, and pushed his paper down with a great flourish and c

und the table to kiss her.

Oh, darling,her mother said tremulously. Im so glad for you!

I cant believe it, Patsy said. Look, read it, Dad ... and you, Mum. It does really say it, doesn

ppointed as from August 1st. Stewardess Under Training. And subject to a satisfactory medical

he gave a little sigh of mingled delight and disbelief, sat down in her chair, poured herself a c

and drank it.

Yes, its there all right, her father said. And its addressed to you ... so there doesnt seem t

e slightest possibility of a mistake. He handed the precious letter over to Mrs. Aylmer, who ga

ecial extra polish to her glasses before allowing them to be focused on it.

In fact, her father went on, the only possibility of a mistake appears to have been yours.

Patsy raised her eyebrows good-humouredly. Now that the excitement was all over, she ha

axed and pleasantly triumphant feeling of a difficult assignment safely accomplished.

How? she smiled.

A mistake in summing up of character, her father replied. The character of the captain onlection Board.

But even at such a moment, Patsy was not to be melted. She shook her head vehemently. No,

ou werent there. I knowI wasnt wrong. He was ...

All right, all right, her father held up his hand soothingly. Youve told us, he added drily. M

mes.

And the more I think of him, the worse he becomes, Patsy said, just to emphasize that her op


20/155

mained unchanged.

All the same, her father said mildly, you passed, didnt you?

Patsy agreed that she had. She digested the fact for a few seconds, then she said sturdily,

hers must have overruled him. Thats all I can say.

Mr. Aylmer shrugged his shoulders. Well, he said pacifically, Ive never had the pleasureeting this Captain Prentice, and I dont suppose I ever shall. But from what youve told me

od up and folded his paperone thing I can be sure of.

And whats that, Dad?

Mr. Aylmer patted his daughters shoulder gently. The Captain Prentices of this world just d

t themselves overruled. Not by two ladies and a man. Not by twice that number. Nothe

sing his wife and walking over towards the door to the hallby anyone.

And maybe, Patsy discovered a fortnight later, her father was right. For the very first mornin

s with World-Span, as she was herded with a crowd of similarly shy and eager-looking girls,

e Admin Building to the Training School, from Catering Block to Passport Section, she hear

me of Prentice many times. And in contexts suggesting that he ruled over rather than was overr

Captain Prentice, it appeared, was in charge of all air-crew training. Captain Prentice had a

nd in who flew where, who with, and when. Captain Prentice liked a hundred per cent effici

o, Patsy was wrong, not just liked it, insisted on it. Captain Prentice wouldnt like this or he w

e that.

One thing he liked was that all aircrew should live within a few miles of the airport. Easier in

sudden calls, cheaper on the Companys transport. So some time in the early afternoon Patsy f

rself back in the freshly built waiting-room at the Admin Building, which still smelled of pain

temper and new rubber flooring, waiting to be given a list of places where the girls mig

commodated cheaply and cleanly and with the Companys approval.

Lets see if we can get a place together, Cynthia Waring said for the third time.

Patsy smiled back at the girl beside her. It would be nice. Im glad we both got through all r

ough I must say I never expected to.

They both sighed together with huge relief.

But now, dont you think, it feels as though were a bit out on a limb, as you might say? We d


21/155

long here yetand yet we dont belong in our old jobs either.

Rather like a chrysalis ... Patsy said.

Cynthia shuddered. I must say I dont feel quite so unfetching as one of those.But the genera

right. The oak door at the opposite end of the room opened, and one of the typists came in. Six

irs of eyes watched her expectantly.

They had all, for the past fifteen minutes and in snatches for most of the morning, been sizing

her up, making half-friendly smiles, or critical unspoken comments, according to their diff

tures. They wondered who would pass the difficult course, who would be friends with whom

hat, in a year or so, their ultimate careers would be. Now they held out their hands for the

ts, and studied them carefully.

Weve got the U, V, Ws, Cynthia said. She ran a beautiful lacquered nail down the name

nt like the sound of Uttley ... No, nor Verity ... reminds me of severity. Vining now ... th

tter.

Waterhouse, Patsy said, putting her finger firmly on the very last name on the list. Two

ters. Meals if and when required. Sounds all right.

We-ell, not much choice, I suppose...

Come on, then. Patsy pulled on her gloves and picked up her handbag. She peered over Cynt

oulder. Bus 81, does it say, as far as Hounslow Central? Then turn right at the next cross-road

ide by side, they hurried along the concrete roadways, feeling unprotected and noticeable wi

iform. Just as they passed the Operations Block, a window opened and a voice said, What

l you? Trust Pollard!

Hello, Geoff, Patsy called gaily, feeling that she was meeting an age-old friend that she h

en for years. Weve just started today. Oh, and this is Cynthia Waring. Cynthia, this is G

llard.

They grinned vaguely at each other and said hello in an uninterested kind of way. Then Geoff

nd where are you off to now ... playing hookey already? He shook his head severely. Just lik

u stewardesses.

The two girls smiled at already being included in such a select sorority, and then said they

ing off to inspect what a Mrs. Waterhouse had in the way of bed-sitters and that far from pla

okey theyd been hard at it filling in forms, listening to pep talks, and generally getting acqua


22/155

day.

And does Mrs. Waterhouse have a telephone? Must do if youre going to live there.

Patsy dived into the pocket of her coat and fished out the paper with all the particulars typed

he does.

Well, number, please. Geoff Pollard straightened his tie. Strictly for operational purposeephone numbers must be left here.

1921289.

That number has a familiar ring. I believe theres a World-Span girl living there already.

But he noted it down and winked at them both with friendly impartiality. One of these days, I

ving you a ring.

We havent taken the place yet, Cynthia said tartly, stamping her patent leather shoes to show

r dainty feet were simply frozen. And at this rate it doesnt look as though well ever even see

Geoff Pollard grinned and gave her a mock salute and murmured See you some time, to Pat

closed the window.

I must say, Cynthia squinted down her nose with some severity as they walked briskly on, fole girl up from the country, youre a remarkably fast worker. Now when did you get to know h

e grabbed her friends arm. Oh, never mind. Dont bother to tell me now. Here comes a bus.

my superb eyesight is still the 6/5 they swore it was at the medical, its an 81, bless its little he

They ran out through the open airport gates, across the Great West Road, and clambered on t

s. They both felt as light-hearted as slightly older and wiser schoolgirls. The effect,

pposed, of the classroom atmosphere of teachers and pupils, of discipline and uniform an

mfort of authority.

Even at Mrs. Waterhouses, the illusion was preserved in that it was obvious that they wou

oked after and mothered. She was a dear, rather older than middle-aged lady with bright blue

d a face that was interested and alive and kind. She had had, she told them with some pri

mber of stewardesses in the three bed-sitting rooms that she rented. A large number, she a

th emphasis. A very large number indeed.

Cynthia darted an exaggeratedly apprehensive look at Patsy. What happened to them all?

ked.


23/155

But now the good lady was bustling around, turning back the dainty cretonne-covered beds to r

e box spring mattresses, and opening the cupboard doors to show that there was ample room

iforms. And I still have Miss Morley ... shes on leave now ... whos been flying for a long,

methe blue eyes looked regretfulandsheseems happy enough here.

And Im sure we shall be too, Patsy said, after raising her eyebrows at Cynthia and getting a

arted nod in return.

And now thats that, Cynthia said ten minutes later, surveying their new home from the ou

Weve at least got a roof over our heads, and if my well-trained nose doesnt receive me, ham

up for supper tonight. So today wasnt so bad, was it?

No, it wasnt.

And its always supposed to get easier as you go along, now isnt it?

Yes, it is.

So tomorrow, Cynthia declared with conviction, will be that much better.

But later that night, after theyd collected their bags, had the forecasted hambone soup for su

d were sitting in Patsys room, boiling up a strong brew 6f cocoa on her gas ring, the ex-m

ned to the ex-shipping clerk and asked, Did the Catering Officers stooge actually reques

esence at the Section at eight a.m.! Didnt my sharp ears deceive me?

Patsys blue eyes twinkled. Your sharp ears did not. And you havent forgotten the rider to

vitation?

I remember, said Cynthia slowly and mournfully. It was bring your aprons and overalls.

It was.

Hinting delicately, would you say, at pots and pans and dirty dishes?

Patsy laughed. I wouldsay.

Cynthia examined the ten glittering, almond-shaped rubies of her nails. Its been nice kno

u, she said to them huskily. Adieu. Farewell. Goodbye.

Though the washing up and the scrubbing in the kitchens made a hectic bustle of the mornring that first week Patsy found that the day had other, more peaceful hours in it.


24/155

Question time at the end of each lecture, though, was a little uncomfortable. Then a move

ould rustle through the room. Everyone would hope that someone else, much brighter, much

ed than she, would ask an intelligent question which would show that the whole class had

oroughly digesting the subject.

But despite question time, Patsy liked and looked forward and always listened attentively t

ernoon lectures, which were mostly given by Mr. Crosbie, the Catering Officer, or some eq

nd instructor, until the lecture on Flight Planning turned up on the syllabus, two weeks afte

urse commenced. This was the only time Captain Prentice deigned to give them the benefit o

st experience and wisdom. And he appeared in person to do it.

He wasted no time in getting to the point. The weather in the North Atlantic, he said, finger

ece of chalk and doing his best to avoid looking at the froth of feminine faces in front of him

rsh, unpredictable, and at times of immeasurable force.

And the description, Patsy thought, watching the large hand sketching the map with a kin

reless exactitude, might well apply to you yourself ... harsh, unpredictable, forceful.urmured the words over and over to herself, as Captain Prentice talked crisply of fuel consump

nd components, head winds, tail winds, air speed, ground speed, cloud ceilings, weather li

ernates ... all sorts of things that she had never heard applied in this sort of context before.

The Critical Point, he told them, is the point in any flight when it is just as long to go on t

stination as it would be to return to the place of departure.Notto be confused with the Point o

turn, beyond which, as the name implies, there is no option but to proceed to the destination.

I wonder, Patsy thought, looking at the straight back, the firm profile, if he was always like th

Nothing can be taken for granted, the calm, unhurried voice went on. Though on most occa

ere are indications of disturbances, the sky might sometimes look quite clear. The weather m

pear both calm and benign. But you cant see very far, even from 19,000 feet, and you mustnt

t what you can see

Mightnt he, Patsy wondered, have been young and carefree before the variable, untrustwlantic sky got into his bones or whatever else it got into to make you like itself? He must once

ought, have had quite a pleasant sort of face. Nice eyes, well-shaped jaw, straight chin. There

l a hint of humour in the mocking lift of his eyebrows. Might he not (many years ago, of co

ve had a home and a family rather like her own, perhaps when he was about twenty-one?

Fuel is carried for the flight itself, Captain Prentice was saying, plus extra for unforecasted

nds and other emergencies. In addition, a North Atlantic pilot should arrive on the western

th enough fuel to fly round his destination for half an hour, proceed to his alternative aerodhich may be more than five hundred miles away), and then hold over the field before doing


25/155

trument landing. And a large reserve of fuel is carried because the North Atlantic weather

t was as though he had suddenly become conscious of the concentrated gaze of sixteen pa

ls eyes, and of one blue pair in particular, which were twice as busy as the others, comp

hat he had said with what he was.

Captain Prentice repeated, The North Atlantic weather And again he paused. His m

htened a little. He seemed at a loss for the right word, like a leading man who has forgotte

es.

Patsy became aware of the brooding severity of his glance. The whole class seemed to be wa

th bated breath.

Is, she said, without thinking, harsh, unpredictable, and at times of immeasurable force.

A delighted titter from the class made Patsy immediately and uncomfortably aware of the app

pertinence of her remark.

But it was all right after all. Everyone seemed to think it was a huge joke. Not least, Ca

entice.

Thank you, Miss He paused, and Patsy thought to herself, this is where he consults the

ece of cardboard pinned to the instructors table, where the girls could be identified from the d

here they sat. But his eyes never left her faceAylmer, he said. But I hadnt forgotten wha

orth Atlantic weather is like. I was trying to produce a few wordsand again he paused, just

ough for Patsy to realize that when he added suitable enough it was a kindly way of s

mple enoughfor you to understand the origin of the Low Pressure Systems which make al

reful flight planning on the North Atlantic so necessary. All the same, its good to know

member my lecture so well.

He stopped to smile at Patsy. And Patsy, reassured, gave him a warm smile back.

Even if its only, Captain Prentice added contemptuously, parrot-fashion.

n that first week or so, Patsy seemed to belong to World-Span twenty-four hours a day. Bu

arest she and Cynthia got to an actual trip in an aircraft was the late afternoon when Janet M

lked into Mrs. Waterhouses front parlour, wearing her uniform as unconsciously as if it had

t an ordinary tweed suit, and without seeming to notice their looks of humble envy said, H

oure the two new ones, arent you?

There had been some speculation about Janet Morley while she had been on leave. For while


26/155

aterhouse had nothing but praise for her, the landladys voice was also tinged with regret tha

y had been such a long one. Over three years shes been with me ... flying all the time.

ouldnt credit it, would you?

Now, looking at her for the first time, Patsy saw a quiet girl of medium height, with light brown

ry neatly arranged. Out loud, she said, Yes, were the new ones. Cynthia Waring and P

ylmer ... thats me. And you must be Miss Morley.

Well, Janet, she corrected her gently, giving them the first of her rare and very sweet sm

ow,she drew off one of her leather gloves and pulled out the fingers carefullyis that tea

t? She glanced at Mrs. Waterhouses best flowered teapot, and then pulled out a chair as P

ached for the kettle in the hearth and topped it up. Tell me all about yourselves.

Werenot very interesting, Cynthia said, briefly repeating their ages and where they came

utshe turned her bright eyes theatrically to the ceilingwere simply dying to hear abou

and flying.

Mainly the flying, Janet said drily. Now, she said, you know my name, and Im twenty-five

ome from Yorkshire and Ive been flying for three and a half years.

Tell us about it, Cynthia persisted. There must be all sorts of tips you could give us ... wrin

d all that.

anet eyed her coolly over the rim of her teacup. Thats easily done, she said drily. Its w

ork and then more work. She gave a quick smile. As for wrinkles, she added, theyll come ough.

Cynthia raised her eyebrows in extreme pain. But when you get there, she persisted hopef

ew York now ... thats exciting, isnt it?

anet nodded. And the first thing youll want to see ...

Yes, yes, Cynthia said, settling herself down in her chair for a travel talk, do go on!

.. will be your own little bed.

Cynthia pulled a long face. Oh, but seriously... she said, aggrieved.

I was never more so. Janet looked at her wrist watch, and then got up and walked to

aterhouses bay window to see if there was any sign of the crew transport.


27/155

Then she glanced into the large mirror that hung above the Victorian fireplace, as if, quite unju

e was suspicious that her cap was not in dead centre.

I suppose, Cynthia said, glancing at the smart uniform, immaculately pressed, at Janets sen

oes and starched white blouse, and then nodding her head towards the coveted cap, I suppos

ouldnt let us try it on?

You suppose right, Janet agreed briskly, and picked up her shoulder bag. Ah, here it comen she added. Hint number one ... never keep the crew car waiting.

Give our love to New York, Cynthia said pertly. To the little bed, and suddenly and surprisi

y all laughed companionably.

Dyou know something ... Patsy began, as the two girls pressed their noses against the win

hind the shelter of the long lace curtain.

That uniform is really quite fetching, Cynthia said, standing on the tips of her size four sho

at her 6/5 eyes would be enabled to scrutinize each square inch of the blunt-nosed crew car an

w of faces.

No, I wasnt talking about the uniform, Patsy said, Oh, there she goes, lets wave to her

out

Properly worn, that is, Cynthia added with some severity.

about Janet, Patsy said warmly. I think despite what shed like us to think, shes really r

eet.

You always were charitable, I imagine, Cynthia murmured. Of course, youd need high hee

off that slim skirt.

And I really think... Patsy went on. The crew car still hadnt moved off, and they kept their

ued to it all the time, that were all going to fit in very well.

Of course, Cynthia said, walking to the mirror and examining her face, first this way and then

e need slightly different hair-dos to set off that cap. But Patsy, my child,she swirled r

amaticallyyou took the very words out of my mouth.

True to his word, Geoff Pollard had phoned, and then, the day after Janet left on service

lowed it up with a call.


28/155

ust, as he told Patsy when she opened the door to him, so that the Company could be satisfie

ey were both nicely settled.

And we are, she said. We couldnt be more comfortable. Come in and see!

Geoff took off his blue uniform cap and hung it on the large antlered hat-stand in the hall. Qu

g-game hunter, your landlady, he said, exchanging stares with a fish in a glass case, and a

oment, from her back snuggery, came Mrs. Waterhouse in person. I thought I heard the door .ure there, dear! she said to Patsy, but her eyes were on Geoff.

Mrs. Waterhouse, Patsy said politely, this is Mr. Pollard.

n that easy way of his, Geoff put out his hand and said, How dyou do? while Mrs. Waterh

urmured that she was delighted.

From World-Span Operations, Geoff explained. I phone the flying staff for duty and...

But Mrs. Waterhouse shook her neat grey head to stop him. Mr. Pollard, she said with a sm

ou have no need to tell me. She squared her diminutive shoulders with maternal pride. Th

ss Morley, whos still with me, was my first World-Span girl, Ive had many ... a great

girls staying here.

So, Geoff Pollard said, theres not much you dont know about running an airline?

Not much? There was gentle reproach in Mrs. Waterhouses motherly eyes. Not much,

peated, and shook her head. Why, nothing, Mr. Pollard!

As Patsy told Cynthia later, when the three of them sat over a pot of tea, Geoff and

aterhouse got on like a house on fire.

She a dear, isnt she, Geoff? Patsy said. Weve been awfully lucky to get someone like

aterhouse.

I think we have been, too, Cynthia agreed. But what keeps revolving in my brilliant brain

hat happened to all the other stewardesses who stayed here?

Perhaps they were posted, Patsy said. Or got other jobs.

Geoff gave them both an enigmatic smile. Ive a pretty good idea, he said. And you two

tter be careful! What happened to them might happen to you!


29/155

Well, if Janet survived, I reckoned I can too, Cynthia declared.

Mm ... mm, Geoff pursed his lips. Janet Morley looks to me like a very smart girl.

Patsy asked, Dyou know her, Geoff?

Only to phone her for service. And Ive seen her around.

Wait till you meet her, Patsy prophesied. Youll really like her.

But when they did meet, some two weeks later, for cold Sunday supper in Mrs. Waterhou

ning-room, Patsy was disappointed. It was one of those times when Geoff had taken

aterhouse up on her vague invitation to drop in any time, we always have cold buffet on Su

enings. And Janet was just helping Mrs. Waterhouse to arrange the slices of beef and tomatoe

nstituted it.

Hello, Patsy, she smiled as Patsy came into the diningroom. And then added a much c

ello, to Geoff behind her.

Of course, you two know each other... Patsy said by way of introduction.

Of course, they both echoed simultaneously.

Then Janet went into the kitchen to get the kettle, Mrs. Waterhouse murmured happily that shere they could manage all right now, and how nice it was to see Mr. Pollard, but he would ex

r wouldnt he, and she knew hed be well looked after. Cynthia breezed in and said, Not

ain? and Hello, Geoff, in the same breath, and began to hand round the plates.

A sudden silence seemed to fall on the table. And it was left to Patsy to try to keep

nversational ball rolling. They talked for a few minutes about a concert that theyd all been to

en there followed an intermittent, rather edgy conversation. Geoff was not at all like his usual

arted self.

My goodness, she said, after theyd cleared the dishes away in the kitchen (because Sunday w

me they tried to let Mrs. Waterhouse take it a bit easy) and had come back to find Geoff s

ring moodily into the fire, it isgetting late.

Now, she thought, he can sayyes, time I was on my way.

But it didnt seem to penetrate. He agreed that it was, and when she added, Think of getting

-thirty tomorrow again! he only said, And Ill be getting up at six.


30/155

To give him his due, in between these brief remarks, he did try others. But whatever he said,

emed to pounce on and tear it to pieces. When he said there was a lot of work in World-Spa

wardesses to do, and added sympathetically that other lines employed stewards as well so

ere were two of them for every thirty passengers, Janet commented acidly, Heaven forbid!

a of a man pussyfooting round my galley!

When he finally did leave, Janet said, Be seeing you, in a rather bored tone, as though she h

e wouldnt.

But her lack of interest was amply made up for by Mrs. Waterhouse. She came into the din

om, the moment the front door clicked, and said to Patsy, Was that Mr. Pollard just going, dea

Thats right, Mrs. Waterhouse, and he asked me to say thank you. He didnt want to disturb you

ew your sister had probably popped over.

Such a nice young man! Mrs. Waterhouse clasped her hands together. She nodded her

provingly at Patsy. Very good-looking, she said. Really handsome, I should say. She m

arer to the window, and spied the headlights outside her own front gate. Andhes got a car.

So I hear, Janet said, as a raucous popping and backfiring began.

But Mrs. Waterhouse took no notice. Dont worry, hell be back, Iknow, she said encourag

Patsy as the noise reached a crescendo and then began to die away.

Not before he gets that silencer fixed, I hope, said Janet sincerely.

Mrs. Waterhouse looked at the expression on the girls face with motherly understanding. N

nd, Miss Morley, she said consolingly, hes just the sort of nice young man whos got a l

e young friends.


31/155

CHAPTER THREE

r the next few weeks, the thin pointed baton with which Mr. Crosbie used to lend emphasis t

ore abstruse points of his lectures and the delicate niceties of what he euphemistically calle

tchen practicals seemed to Patsy to have a certain magical property. It took the idea, which

e of them secretly nursed through these fledgling days, of flying over wide blue oceans to cleaajestic cities, of freedom and adventure and travel, and set it before them in, a vastly diff

ality.

The oceans were therebut they were the grey greasy oceans of huge vat like sinks. And the

re never-ending, nightmare phantasy piles of plastic cups. And freedom was five-thirty w

orning chores and afternoon lectures over, the whole flock of girls could hurry out of the a

tes and catch the buses to Mrs. Waterhouses or Mrs. Taylors or Mrs. Jenkins, and eat their

s, and kick off their shoes, and sigh a little wistfully for the office or the hospital or the shop we now seemed so much more rewarding than it had done at the time.

The first day that Patsy did any waitressing was mercifully in the staff canteen, and her shift w

elve, when the less influential members seemed to eat. She served a reasonable quick meal to

pists, three traffic girls, a man who worked in the pay section and an elderly radar operator.

And all her customers were quite extraordinarily helpful. No, one of the traffic girls sa

tsys red and flurried face as she tried to pop the roast pork in front of her for the second time

r me, Im at the sweetbut Ted ... she craned her pretty head down the table towards the m

e pay section. You said pork, didnt you? Im sure I heard you ... well, with gentle chidin

ough he was keeping it waiting, here it is.

The staff canteen appeared by now to have got used to these untrained waitresses, and

ankful to escape with only lesser misfortunes. Even as Patsy hurried from table to serving hatch

uld see other more unlucky colleagues furtively mopping up soup and gravy with the folded n

theyd got one, but usually rather pitifully with a handkerchief, or even the edge of an ov

evitably they looked around to see if Mr. Crosbie or his particular S.S. man of the dayatching. Inevitably he was.

Even the afternoon lectures began to be less of a respite than they had been, for instead of sitti

eir safe little desks and drowsily listening to the various instructors, the embryo steward

gan to have to do the things they were taught.

t was no use, in answer to the long-suffering doctors question, to say that youd bandag

ssengers knee in a criss-cross circular manner, you had to come to the front of the class and


32/155

en, too, there were those catering forms the bar accounts that were designed, it seemed, n

lance. The changing of escudos into pounds and pounds into dollars.

But the days went by. They began to understand more. Soon the subjects caught their attention.

tened with genuine interest to the physical laws whereby fifty-ton monsters could be support

n air: the network of customs barriers and international regulations which still covered

rinking world: first aid ... how to bandage ... how to recognize the signs of serious illness ...

do if the aircraft was forced down in the desert or in the sea ... what to do if it crashed ... even

deliver a passengers baby: and the more everyday and therefore perhaps more impo

currences ... food and how to prepare it in the mock-up galley next to the main kitchens ... and

st as essential, how to serve it. They looked at diagrams of the covers to lay for five-, six

ven-course meals. They were given pro-formas of the bar accounts, and had to fill in imag

ms. They were told of the weather and what caused its violence and fluctuations ... and then, a

urse sped by, the conditions they would find on the routes they would be flying.

That routine went on day after day, week after weekwork in the kitchen or the galley mock-

e morning, waiting at table during lunch, lectures in the afternoon, sometimes further waitressa or in the evenings. All day, they heard aeroplanestaxiing, running up, taking off, or f

erhead. But the only view they had of them was through the windows of the classroom, or w

eir days work beginning or ending, the girls passed the apron on their way in and out of the air

nd when the kitchen practicals started to get more frequent, exasperated frustration amon

mbryo stewardesses increased in exactly the same proportion, until Cynthia observed cyni

s a hoax ... thats what it is! They cant get domestic help, so they invent a gigantic blind c

o. 8 Air Stewardess Course.

And then unexpectedly, one Monday in mid-September, Mr. Crosbie started off the afterno

tures with the magic words: The aeroplane you will soon be flying on When, Mr. Cros

ed half a dozen eager female voices. Today?

The Catering Officer looked up from his notes on the layout of the Mark IV Astroliner. No, la

t today. We have yet, he pointed o ut to them, to do your practical cabin instruction

troliner on the ground.Captain Prentice has kindly promised us an aeroplane and an engine

ficer to instruct you in the very near future.

But, Mr. Crosbie, they wailed at him, when are we going to fly?

Ladies, it is more difficult to arrange than you think. All the aeroplanes normally are either o

ute or in the hangar under maintenance. Since the running cost of an Astroliner is one thou

unds, and he paused dramatically, an hour,to have one for ourselves alone is out of the que

we must wait until Captain Prentice has some pilot training to do at the same time. Then he m

od enough to allow us to use the vacant cabin to begin our airborne syllabus.


33/155

So it all boiled down to Prentice again, Patsy thought bitterly. He would say when they wou

owed even to become familiarized with the cabin interior and layout. And hewould say when

ould fly.

They did, however, see the inside of an Astroliner two days later. At Mr. Crosbies bidding,

lowed him out of the classroom and on to the hangar tarmac, looking like a brood of mixed-b

ns amongst the smart dark uniformed and white-shirted magpies of the permanent staff.

Thankfully, Mr. Crosbie handed the sixteen girls over to Mr. McWhirter, one of the assi

gineering officers. Doubtfully, Mr. McWhirter accepted them in his charge and led them (at las

e steps and into an Astroliner.

He was a taciturn man, Mr. McWhirter. He never spoke unless he had to, and when he di

plained things in the simplest, slowest manner, as one talking to foreigners. He showed them w

e escape hatches were and how to work them, the location of the life-jackets and how to put

. He watched speechlessly while Cynthia pirouetted round like a model at a fashion show in o

em inflated. He pulled out one of the twenty-seater dinghies in their neat packs, arid indicatever that would inflate them from the compressed air bottles. He undid a dinghy pack so they

e the rations of Horlicks tablets and boiled sweets, the chemical sets that made salt water

sh. He made them crank the handle of the dinghy radio, tactlessly mentioning that it was know

e Gibson Girl because of its beautiful shape. He let them practise adjusting the passenger seat

lling out the beds that folded into the roof of the cabin. He swept them swiftly through the

ck, where he plainly thought it was hopeless trying to explain things to them, for he m

dicated the two pilots seats, the navigators desk, the engineers panel, the radio officers pos

d, just beyond, the pilots rest-compartment with its two bunks, before taking them back to whviously considered the proper place of the humblest crew member, the galley.

There he explained the gleaming ovens and hot-plates, the water and heating systems. The

ses, where they were located and how to change them. Finally he led them to the heavy rear

d explained how it had to be lifted upwards on its rollers before it could be opened. S

asure, he said.

All this information he gave them in a competent, unsmiling manner. But at least he askeestions to see if they knew anything, until suddenly he shot at Patsy the query, How would

acuate the cabin away from the apron?

Taken aback, she said, You mean ... without passenger steps?

Mr. McWhirter nodded.

I suppose if they jumped Patsy suggested.


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Older people. Children. The sick. With a quick movement, Mr. McWhirter flung open the c

or. Grouped round it, they all gazed down at the ground, eighteen feet below.

You mean they might Patsy said.

Might? Mr. McWhirter grunted. Would! He leaned out of the door, and gave a great be

ross-bee!

Mr. Crosbie emerged from the hangar office, and Mr. McWhirter added, Chute! Then he d

hind the back seat and produced a cloth-covered pack, which he unzipped to reveal a flut

ng white envelope. Escape chute, he ' said. Nylon. Shoes must be removed when used, lest

mage the fabric. Then unexpectedly, he turned to them and grinned. Well ... whos number on

t was obviously Mr. McWhirters treat for a good class. While he fixed the chute to the door

ls chatted and jostled, holding their shoes obediently in their hands. Down they went, one by

tsy heard a soft whooshing noise as she slid, and then Mr. Crosbie above her saying. Eight.

t girl was Myra Yorke. All yours, Mr. McWhirter called out, not without relief.

Sixteen, Mr. Crosbie said to himself, and then to the girls, who were giggling and laughing as

t on their shoes, Now ladies, weve had our bit of fun. Back to work! No more skylarking, i

ease, and away he led them to the stuffy classroom for the rest of the afternoon.

The very next day, to everyones surprise, Mr. Crosbie announced, Ladies, airborne training

mmence ... today.

However, he was wrong. The aeroplane was unserviceable, and didnt fly.

Ladies, he said three days later, airborne training will commence ... today.

But once more he was wrong. Fog came down suddenly, and flying was suspended.

So it wasnt surprising, when after the weekend again he began by telling them that today wa

y, that a murmur of doubt and faint derision ran through the class.

Whentoday, Mr. Crosbie? Cynthia asked cynically.

Mr. Crosbie smiled triumphantly. This minute, Miss Waring, he said, and led the way to

mac, just beside Operations.

t was a boisterous autumn day. Alternate clear skies and windblown swift-moving c

equered the airport with sunshine and shade. They stood in the doorway of World-


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perations, excitedly watching the mechanics moving over the silver wings of an Astroliner.

Dont look now, Cynthia said suddenly, gripping Patsys arm, but dont my sharp eyes perce

her fearsome sight? And then as Patsy looked around her uncomprehendingly, Under the w

e left-hand one ... beg pardon, under the port wing.

Patsy looked. There, standing with his hands thrust into the pockets of his raincoat, was Ca

entice.

Seeing him, too, Mr. Crosbie became more and more mother-hen-like. Hurry up at the back th

said, flapping to the rear of the brood. Straight up and into the aircraft ... not so slow at the fr

nd he hurried again to lend the weight of his presence to the vanguard. Havent kept you, I

ptain? Weve been awaiting our call to come aboard over there in the doorway.

Captain Prentice, who up till now had said nothing, indicated that they had not, in fact, kep

aiting. He continued, however, to stare so disapprovingly at his eager passengers that everyon

at they must be in the wrong about something, and Air Crosbie tactfully herded them up the

d into the aircraft, and out of his sight.

Well, Cynthia said, looking around her approvingly. One of the newones today! She tried o

e fresh upholstered seats and stroked the arm-rests affectionately.

Sit down, sit down! Mr. Crosbie said irritably. Dont just hang around the entrance! Now th

e in ... yes, thats right,you,Miss Aylmer, shut the door. Come, come now. Youve been ta

w to do it. Better... better. Ah, quite good! Now while youre at it, what would you do next?

Erstrap the passengers in, Mr. Crosbie ... sir?

Quite right! Mr. Crosbie rubbed his thin hands together, while the girls settled themselves in

ats, and rather clumsily fastened their lap straps. There was a faint shudder through the airfram

ew and swelled and burst into a steady roar. Then another shudder that burst into a roar in ex

e same way. Then another. Then a fourth. The floor now rocked and pulled and the power o

brations sent exciting tremors up through the soles of their feet.

Engines being started, Mr. Crosbie said, unnecessarily and portentously. Miss Aylmer, up yo

d report at the front. Now just before you go ... whats the drill? Report to the captain and

assengers strapped in and rear door shut, sir, ... sir.

Patsy walked up the carpeted aisle. Gingerly, she pushed open the door to the flight deck, and

a mouse crept past the navigators chair. Hello, the engineer said vaguely, and then turned

his panel.


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oughed field. She watched the silky twist of the Thames in the sunlight, and the tiny cars craw

ong the roads.

Next ladies, please! Mr. Crosbie called.

Cynthia nudged Patsy. Us, she said.

They stood up, and walked together to the galley, where they loaded the tray with, cutlery, aate on which perched a paper napkin, a tiny salt-and-pepper set, a glass of waterand, for

alistic practice, a plate of cold meat and potato salad which they would eventually be allow

t for their own airborne lunch.

Now, Miss Aylmer, Mr. Crosbie said, before you serve the passengers I want you to

freshments to the flight deck, and he helped her to prepare another tray with two plat

ndwiches and five cups of coffee.

Very carefully, Patsy walked down the aisle. Very carefully, she pushed open the door. V

refully, she served the navigator, the engineer officer, and the radio officer, in that order, and

ry thankfully laid the tray on the table-like throttle pedestal between the pilots.

Then she had time to notice that all the windows were shielded with green shades, and that Ca

aynard was wearing a pair of dark glasses.

All right, Captain Prentice said. Well have a break. And Captain Maynard pulled off the

asses, and wiped the sweat off his forehead.

Tell Mr. Crosbie, Captain Prentice went on, that we shall be doing some asymmetrical

In other words, the other pilot put in with a grin, two engines stopped on one side.

instrument approaches, Captain Prentice continued as though he hadnt spoken, to fifty

ove the runway ... and then climbing up again.

Yes, sir.

I dont want to make it any more difficult for Captain Maynard by having the trim of the ai

set by more people than are absolutely necessary clumping around in the tail.

No, sir.

That was all. No smile. No thanks for bringing up the coffee and sandwiches. No interest at


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hat was going on at the back.

When she returned to the cabin, Cynthia was half-way through serving out her trays.

Ah well, Miss Aylmer, Mr. Crosbie said when she gave him the message. You sit down for

esent. And after Miss Waring finishes with the port side passengers, you shall have your turn

d it as though it was a privilege she wasnt going to miss, with the starboard.

Ten minutes later, when Cynthia, too, had collected her verbal pat on the back from Mr. Cro

d was eating her own lunch in her seat, Patsy found herself alone in the galley, putting the cup

r share of the trays.

And it was then that she realized that the galley was moving from side to side. She looked out o

ndow, and the wings seemed to be see-sawing up and down.

She poured out the coffee, and then suddenly a frightening feeling of nausea came over her. It

o hot in here, thats what it was. Firmly she took the tray and walked out into the cabin.

But somehow, the aisle had become a cake-walk. The coffee slopped into the saucer. She clut

the back of a seat with her free hand, but it seemed to twist away from her. Then there w

ghtening dip down that appeared to take her with it. These awful deep plunges Were like no

e had ever experienced before. She saw grey and white cloud scud past the portholes.

At last things were steadier, and she managed to provide Myra Yorke with the tray.

The other girl gave her a sympathetic sideways glance, and asked her if she felt all right.

Im fine, Patsy said. Really I am.

The second tray was easier. Im getting the hang of it, Patsy tried to tell herself, but half

ough the third tray, the wobbling started up, and again the aisle started tipping. This time

ffee slopped all over the tray. Patsy felt herself go dizzy, and Just at that same moment an enorm

ch seemed to tip the whole of the cabin sideways. The plastic cup keeled over and plumm

wn to the carpet. The plate slipped off and scattered meat and potatoes all over the aisle.

Patsy started at an enormous dark brown stain that looked as though it was growing bigge

gger. She bit her lip hard as she bent down over the debris. Im sorry, she mumbled. I

ow what happened

Mr. Crosbie came over immediately. Instead of the look-what-youve-done-you-silly-girl att

e expected, he said kindly, It was difficult for you, Miss Aylmer. Very difficult indeed.


39/155

They were together on their knees in the aisle, mopping up as best they could, when the door o

ght deck opened, and Captain Prentice came in.

He did not offer to help. He looked down at the coffee stain, the bits of broken potato and me

e immaculate upholstery. All he said to Patsy was, It would have to be the newest Astroliner i

et, and then curtly to Mr. Crosbie, Well be landing in five minutes.

No inquiry about whether theyd completed their programme for the flight. The only other thid was, Get everybody strapped in ... after youve cleaned up the mess.

Yes, sir, Mr. Crosbie said apologetically. Sorry about the accident, sir. It was a bit bumpy,

or Miss Aylmer

But Captain Prentice was already on his way back to the flight deck.

Slowly they descended lower and lower over London and landed.

t was with a feeling of relief that she put on her coat at five-thirty and hurried out to the a

tes, and stood alone, waiting for the 81 bus. She was even glad that Cynthia was spendin

ening with some Maidenhead friends who had picked her up at the Admin Building and drive

f in the opposite direction from Mrs. Waterhouses. Just now, Patsy wanted to be alone,

ynthias cheerful nonchalance over everything would have only underlined how much she he

red.

t was chilly. Patsy shivered a little as she pulled up the collar of her camel-hair coat.

ddenly a small black sports car stopped at the bus stop, and a voice asked, Going Houn

ay?

Yes, I am, Patsy said.

Then hop in. The voice paused. Its Miss Aylmer, isnt it? And Patsy recognized Cap

aynard.

Patsy nodded, and then as she got into the car, said Thank you, and awkwardly, not knowing

call him, Captain Maynard.

Out of the flight deck ... Bill, he said, as he let in the clutch and drove off. And yours out o

lley?

Patsy.


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Patsy was murmuring something about not bothering, but he cut her short with, Up here? and

hen Patsy nodded, he added with a smile, So you see, whoever else is worried,youmustnt b

As the sports car turned into Mrs. Waterhouses road, Patsy was thinking how unexpected this

asso concerned about other peoples feelings, so considerate and understanding, not glued t

gnity like Captain Prentice, but frank and easy and unaffected. And yet he must be three or

ars older than the Training Captain.

Perhaps, Patsy said to herself, as the car glided to a smooth stop outside her landladys front ga

as in those three or four years that airline pilots got around to learning such excellent h

alities.

But there wasnt much time for Patsy to ponder the vagaries of pilots personalities, with r

ecial emphasis on those of Captains Maynard and Prentice. For the very next day they had to r

a shop in Regent Street to be measured for their uniforms, and then only a paltry week sepa

em from the dreaded wordExaminations.

Just look at it! Cynthia said, after the last lecture ever, standing in front of the notice-boar

hich was Mr. Crosbies neat training programme. She pointed with her thin finger at the co

rting October 3rd which was entirely taken up with the word in thin red spidery letters. Ther

... Oral. Examining Officers, Mr. Crosbie and Mr. Simmons, that was the one with the scrub

ush moustache at the Selection Board ... remember? And the place of execution is the

tering Office itself. Doesnt it soundgrim?

They may have got other jobs, dont you think? Patsy suggested cheerfully.

Like all examination periods, the precious time sped by. It was the shortest week Patsy c

member. And after a micro-second of a weekend sigh of relief that it was all over, came the lo

onday morning on record.

During the usual kitchen practical, hardly anyone spoke, except to compare answers, argue a

d then gloomily go on with washing the floor, or peeling the potatoes, or cutting the sandwi

ready Patsys fingers were too few for the mistakes she knew shed made. She confided sadynthia the short, stark news: Ive failed. But all the comfort she got was, Well, that makes tw

At lectures, Mr. Crosbie was late. Normally, this would have meant that the whole room wou

bbling over with laughter and chattering. But not this afternoon. Instead, there was a str

ietness. People fidgeted with pencils. When Myra Yorke knocked over her books, there

sses of explosive irritation.

The atmosphere was further heightened when Mr. Crosbie eventually arrived, carrying a she


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43/155

nt door, that man Pollard cant forget his job ...

They both eyed him warily.

Out with it! Cynthia said. Unless my sharp ears deceive me, he wants to tell us something.

Ladies, Geoff said, Im merely saving the company its telephone calls.

There, said Cynthia, I knew it. This, she struck a dramatic attitude on top of Mrs. Waterhou

ell-scrubbed steps, is an historic occasion. Patsy, my girl, the man is notifying us for service!

Youve both got to pick up your uniforms first. Then get your American visas. You do all

morrow. And afterwards ... off you go!

When?

Youre on Thursday... to Montreal, he said to Cynthia, and then more gently, turning to P

aturday for you ... to New York. But, he added as encouragement, youve' got a good skipp

u know, Maynard. And a fairly easy stewardess. Youll do. He gave them both a fatherly sm

ow in you go, and get some rest. And dont worry!


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CHAPTER FOUR

n Saturday afternoon, as the crew car turned in through the airport gates, Patsy was consciou

e was seeing everything with an excited clarity that would never be quite the same again

iform had the crisp stiffness of first-class barathea, her blouse (despite its laundering) still had

btle scent of newness, and her shoes, with their soles clean as they came out of the box, hadeck of dust on them. Only her cap was slightly disappointing.

t sat rather stiffly and primly like a stranger, as though it hadnt quite got to know her head.

rom her seat at the rear, she looked with satisfaction at the two people who would be

ponsible for saying whether or not she passed this final hurdle. Captain Maynard, and Miss Jo

ent. She could only see the back of the Captains head, as he sat in his place beside the driver

e same hed given her a nice smile when shed climbed on the crew car, and hed remembereme was Aylmer.

oanna Trent, too, was nice. All the way to the airport she had chatted away to Patsy as though

d known each other for years. It had been reassuring to hear her voice going on and on abou

s or Captain that or about what Mr. what-was-his-name had said in Ops about the flight somet

other.

Here we are! As the bus stopped outside Operations, Miss Trent stretched her arms abovead and stifled a yawn. Too many late nights, she winked at Patsy. And then added with a thr

uckle, Lucky me!

Patsy followed the other girl out of the bus, and fell into step beside her as they walked dow

ncrete pathway to the Catering Section. Miss Trent was tall and well-proportioned, with dark

ir, large features and lazy grey-green eyes. She had the look somehow, Patsy decided as

eped up into her face, of an amiable lioness.

All the time, Miss Trent kept telling her the way things should be done on the Line. Now, she

dont want to seem unduly depressing ...

Patsy looked up at her anxiously.

.. but the supervision tripsome people say, including, she chuckled softly, Miss Bar

ayhew, Flight Stewardess, that its just as important as the course. I mean, she said happily,

ure just as likely to fail on it. Get me?


45/155

Patsy said that indeed she did.

But dont worry! Miss Trent became the third person to utter such consolation, as they reache

or of the Section. Ill look after you. Just tag on behind me. You cant come to any harm

yshe smiled widely and yet warninglyand you wont get in mine. I cant stand p

tting in my way! You know, the helpful variety that youre tripping over all the time.

And with that good advice, Miss Trent swept into the Catering Section, checked off her storesatted with the girl on the other side of the counter, while Patsy stood decorously a few p

hind her.

They walked to the doorway. The menll put the heavy stuff on. The loaders, Miss Trent expl

hen they were outside again, indicating two men not half her size, waiting on the tarmac. W

ddle out to the aircraft through the Reception Hall, its shorter. She set off towards a huge

or which she pushed briskly open. Now I wonder, Miss Trent said, narrowing her eyes

oking round the huge, crowded hall, which our little brood is ... oh, there they are! Well, I ne

e chuckled. Her whole face was alight with interest. Theres someone getting a move on ver in Bay Three. Now what, she said, looking at Patsy indulgently, would you give for big b

es and black-as-night hair? She implied that Patsy would obviously be willing to change her

lour scheme regardless of cost.

Patsy made a murmur that indicated she didnt quite know what she would give. She had been

t in the midst of the melee round the traffic at Bay Three that screened everything but a girls

ue hat, she had caught a glimpse of Captain Prentice, and the sight had not been reassuring.

Miss Trent said, Of course, lots of people have been in love with her. But Captain Prentice i

est victim.. And, she said, nodding her head sagely, the biggest.Catch, I mean.

Who for?

Miss Trent shook her gleaming gold head. Monica Fairways, she said slowly. You know,

ustnt get so earnest about the job that you forget personalities. Theyre most important,

uckled. What would the grapevine do then, oh, then? She glanced down at Patsy. Ah well,d tolerantly, its your first day. Cant expect you to do much except admire the aircraft. Chee

ough, she added as though shed suddenly thought of something. Even the Captain himself is i

me boat as you. Hes under supervision. And not to harmless little me, either! To Captain Pre

did you see him in the hall? Looking all businesslike, as though he was just solving tr

oblems. But really and truly ... oh well, come on!

Having reached the end of the Passenger Reception Hall, it was as though Miss Trent, with her

st step on to the apron on which stood six patient silver aircraft, was brought back with a jolt nsidering the interesting and unpredictable behaviour of human beings to the more mecha


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pects of her job. Into the cabin they went, arranging magazines and folders, and still the torre

ords continued.

And that being thatMiss Trent refolded a blanket with an air of finality and eyed the passe

bin criticallyIll just spruce myself up before the customers appear. She walked toward

dies Powder Room, which was at the tail of the

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The Atlantic Sky [MB-225]