Page 50 of Sisters Under The Rising Sun

Four nurses look at one another, wiping away their tears, as their colleagues move in to hug them and offer words of comfort.

‘We – and I don’t mean just those of us here, but every woman and child in this camp – owe you a debt we can never repay. Whatever any of us can do for you, you just have to ask,’ Jean says.

‘Thank you. We don’t know how we’re going to feel in the weeks and months ahead, but to know that we can talk to any of you, should we feel the need, is the best thing you can offer us.’

‘And take our names to the grave,’ another of the four adds.

Each of the nurses calls out, ‘To the grave.’

They are interrupted by a knock on the door. Mrs Hinch steps into the room.

‘Well, wasn’t that the best news?’ she beams.

‘The very best,’ Nesta agrees.

‘I’ve come for you, Nesta. Dr McDowell and I met with the captain and she has some news for you.’

‘Thank you, Mrs Hinch. I’ll go right away.’

‘I’m sorry it’s taken so long for your nurses to be freed, Nesta,’ Dr McDowell says as soon as Nesta enters her small windowless ‘office’ in the makeshift hospital. ‘I should have spoken to you sooner, but I wanted you to know that yesterday I heard back from the doctor at the men’s camp. He spoke to a Commodore Modin, who was absolutely furious at what has been asked of your nurses. The commodore apparently stormed off to see the Japanese general and remonstrate with him. Apparently, he told the general,It’s just not cricket. Can you imagine him saying that? I’m not sure the Japanese general knew what he was referring to, and now it doesn’t matter since they’ve gone, but your nurses are safe. Even if they come back.’

‘You can’t begin to imagine how relieved we all are,’ says Nesta.

‘I’m so sorry it happened, and that it took so long to be resolved. You all have my greatest admiration.’

Nesta runs back to report the conversation. No one can suppress a laugh at the commodore’s,It’s just not cricket.

‘I’d have used different words if it was me,’ Betty says.

‘And what would you have said?’ Vivian asks.

‘I’d have threatened to do them some grievous bodily harm and spelt out exactly where that harm would be inflicted.’

Walking home one evening from rehearsal, Norah loops her arm in Ena’s.

‘What’s going on?’ Ena asks her.

‘I just want to feel close to you.’

‘OK, but something’s on your mind.’

‘You know me so well. I’m sure what I’m thinking about is also what you’re thinking about.’

‘Ken and John?’

‘Yes. Do you think John’s OK? I think I would feel it if he wasn’t. At least, I want to think I would.’

‘You would. Just like I’d know if anything happened to Ken.’

‘But he was so sick when we left him. So ill he needed a hospital.’

‘You know how strong John is and he has everything to live for, you and …’

‘Sally. I’m convinced she’s safe with Barbara. But I miss her so much. It should be Sally who’s here with us, not June.’

Ena stops walking and turns to Norah.

‘Oh, I’m sorry, Ena. I didn’t mean it like that, I didn’t mean we shouldn’t be looking after June; heaven knows she gives us someone to love and care for.’