He’d worked out from the other girls’ tittle tattle that she lived with her dad, just the two of them. So, even though she’d assured Ray she’d be coming with the bank to the country, her old man had most likely put his foot down. And, of course, a girl like that wouldn’t have the gumption to stand up to him.

The sound of someone rapping on a window pulled Ray out of his daydream. It was Pam and Nancy – the terrible twosome – laughing and pointing at him from inside a nearby carriage.

Pam stood up and slid back the top window. ‘Hurry up,’ she said. ‘She’s not coming and if you stand out there much longer, you’ll miss the train. And all the fun!’

He rolled his eyes. He’d like to sit with Pam and Nancy. At least they’d have a giggle. That awkwardness with Pam seemed to be forgotten now, thank God, and this might be the last time their little gang could be together for a while.

Once they got to Snowden Hall, he’d be – Ray’s stomach plunged at the thought – well, he’d be management and probably ought to keep his distance. It would be a sort of ‘last hurrah’ to spend the train journey with Pam and Nancy.

But oughtn’t he really to sit with the other men? Without being too friendly? Ray bit his lip. He could see problems ahead if he was too pally. They mightn’t take too kindly to him ordering them about, once they arrived at Snowden Hall.

It was all very well for Uncle Bob to have recommended him for this promotion before he retired, but no one seemed to have given it any consideration. No consideration at all.

According to Bob, this was Ray’s big chance.

‘This war’s changed everything, lad,’ he’d said. ‘A smart fella like you can get on, if you play your cards right!’ He’d jabbed his finger at Ray. ‘So, act the part from now on, eh? No more larkin’ about!’

It was good advice; Ray didn’t want to waste the opportunity. But it might help if he was a little clearer on what he was actually supposed to be doing.

The chaps were sitting in the next carriage along. Big Bill was next to the window. Ray caught a glimpse of the swell of his stomach, his red hair and moustache. He – and Geoff and Norm – would most likely want to discuss how things would be arranged at Snowden Hall and Ray hadn’t even thought that far ahead. It was all quite daunting, this sudden responsibility.

Funny how all the men were sticking together and the girls were doing the same. Would they be segregated like that at Snowden?