Open Writing

“I didn’t fight in two world wars just to listen to this rubbish,” said Arthur.

“You didn’t have to come here, you know.” said Bill. “After all, you knew it was a political rally.”

“What did you fight in two world wars for ?” asked Charlie.

”You didn’t fight in two world wars. You didn’t fight in one,” said Dave.

The four men glared at each other while the rest of the hall clapped and cheered.

They left quickly and walked across the road to The Railway Tavern.

“Pathetic,” said Arthur.

“A bloody disgrace,” said Bill.

“There ought to be a law,” said Charlie.

“Is that about us?” asked Dave. “Or about the meeting?”

They supped in silence.

A couple of young girls in low-cut, amply filled blouses came in, saw them and started giggling and pointing.

“Yours?” asked Arthur, nodding in their direction.

“Could be,” said Bill. “Can’t see without my glasses.”

“Young people nowadays,” said Charlie.

“Lack of discipline, morals, parental control. No respect for their elders,” said Dave.

Almost simultaneously they looked at their watches and then began moving towards the door.

“Same time next Thursday?” asked Arthur.

“Suppose so,” said Bill. “What about outside Sainsbury’s?”

“Fine by me,” said Charlie. “Make a change. Doesn’t do to get stuck in a rut.”

“We’re agreed then,” said Dave. “Cheers.”

They split up and went off in different directions.