‘“We are now prepared to obliterate more rapidly and completely every productive enterprise the Japanese have above ground in any city. We shall destroy their docks, their factories, and their communications. Let there be no mistake; we shall completely destroy Japan’s power to make war.

‘“It was to spare the Japanese people from utter destruction that the ultimatum of July 26 was issued at Potsdam. Their leaders promptly rejected that ultimatum. If they do not now accept our terms they may expect a rain of ruin from the air, the like of which has never been seen on this earth. Behind this air attack will follow sea and land forces in such numbers and power as they have not yet seen and with the fighting skill of which they are already well aware.

‘“The Secretary of War, who has kept in personal touch with all phases of the project, will immediately make public a statement giving further details.”’

Peggy switched the wireless off and turned to look at the others through her tears. ‘I’m sorry, but I can’t bear to hear any more.’

‘Let’s hope that really is the end of it,’ said Anne, taking her mother’s hand. ‘And please don’t worry about Dad. He’ll stay in Burma, I’m sure, and not get involved in any of this new bomb or fighting.’

But their hopes were dashed when the news came three days later that the Japanese had still refused to surrender, and President Truman had ordered a second atomic bomb to be dropped, on the city of Nagasaki.

Peggy managed to get through six endless days of fear and rising hope, before the glorious news came that Japan had finally surrendered, and would sign the agreement on 2nd September.

Having never known such joy, Peggy decorated the house with flags and bunting and threw a party which lasted until the early hours of the following day. She was so excited and happy that her Jim would soon be coming home that she’d gone out and spent a fortune on a new outfit, which had taken most of her clothing coupons, and then gone to have her hair cut and styled in the local salon. But she didn’t care that she’d spent money on herself for a change. Jim was coming home at last, and soon, very soon, they would be a family again.

It was now the eve before Rita’s wedding, and the house was alive with chatter and running feet as Rita and Ivy dashed about with Sarah, Danuta and Jane to prepare for their evening party at the Anchor. Anne, Cordelia and Peggy would follow later, as Ron and Martin had promised to babysit the children.