Many years ago I found myself on a railway station

In a small West Country town

It was as I was making my exit that I spotted an elderly nun

Standing by the station footbridge with a large suitcase

Excuse me Sister may I be of assistance 

The nun was very small and was beginning to stoop into old age

That would be very kind of you as I am afraid that Mr Gardiner is somewhat late

Then it would be my honour to carry your suitcase to the front of the station

I watched as the frail nun begun to ascend the stairs and for a fleeting moment thought of Heaven

The actual case was heavier than I thought it would be and I struggled a little

Although I tried not to reveal my fatigue that had been caused by my excessive travel

Mr Gardiner was waiting for us when we reached the station forecourt

He was a man of my height but with broader shoulders and together

We placed the nuns suitcase into the boot of the car

Now that’s done I am glad that your man was here 

You are a very kind young man so very kind

The nun then wrapped her sparrow like hands around mine

Bless you my child and may God protect you 

I watched the nun leave and looked at my watch

My friend was as late as Mr Gardiner had been so I decided to walk into the town

I must confess that as I descended the slight slope towards the main street

That my head was swimming a little as the nuns blessing had moved me

The main street was busy even for a market day and I became impatient

So against my better judgement I crossed blindly and immediately heard the the shrill sounds of brakes

A bread van had nearly run me over and the driver was staring at me with a certain contempt

I raised my hand and apologised and stepped back on to the pavement

Where I stood for a while before my thoughts were interrupted by my friend

I say old man that was a close shave damned dangerous corner though

A few minutes later we were in Blue Boar chatting about my arduous journey

The only difference was that I was not drinking beer a I normally did

But had chosen a glass of red wine as I had not yet come to terms with what had happened to me