Nobody knew why the couple took the tablets, but we inherited both children and the two dogs. We would go out for a walk to take our minds off the double suicide. Unused to herding kids and pets, within minutes TPR had to return to the house to search for the forgotten dogs’ leads. In the meantime both dogs escaped and only the black retriever returned when called. I was just about to confess that I had lost the collie when he reappeared, smiled and apologised for indulging in his favourite game of hide and seek. He also told me that his name was Bertie. I knew that this was a lie because he was black and white. It is a well-known fact that Berties only come in brown. I also noted that the collie’s teeth could do with a good clean.

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The seminar discussion was completely dominated by two people. I had loads to contribute, but the chair avoided my eye. Perhaps it was due to my dull outfit? The girl sitting next to me was attracting much attention in her outfit of red lacy bra revealed as a bikini top from an open white shirt. I also counted at least three other red-heads dressed up in elaborate scarlet ball gowns. They looked fantastic, even though their colour choice disobeyed all the rules of dress. In my drab work clothes I must have been invisible to the others at the table.

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My former office-mate SM, his wife KA and their two children emigrated to Australia. Although we were able to visit them (and it was great to be in the warmth again) I was still heart-broken.