Random reminder

Press, 20 September 1978, Page 21

Random reminder

“ALLO, ALLO, ALLO” A young man of 25 pulls himself up to his full height. Working on the old fashioned measurements, he would be a hefty six-footer. He is a policeman. He looks down on his elder brother, who is well under the six foot mark. There is something akin to arrogance about the younger man, a sort of “Hi squirt, remember me? Well, just show a little respect — or else.” His older brother laughs good humouredly. He remembers the day he was made’a temporary lieutenant in the Boys’ Brigade — he was only 10 years "old. Ideas for improving the brigade whirled around in his important little head. After all, he had only a month to prove himself, before his superior took over again. His young brother could become a new member for starters. Swell the roll was the impressive thing to do. He worked on his cobbers, too, and along they all went to the next meeting. So it was that these two brothers arrived home from this very important boys’ club. The youngest was asked how he had enjoyed his evening and be appeared to be doubtful. "Orders, orders, orders; he just wanted me to join so that he could boss me around —treats me like his servant." Having made his point, things •immered down. The big brother was a

shrewdy, though, he set about boostingi junior's ego with the promise of a brand spanking new uniform at the end of the month. So the younger boy continued to go along in an obliging fashion. Came the night for the next meeting and the two were sitting at table. The; 10-year-old looked across and said. “Have you cleaned my shoes and| blanco’d my lanyard, sprog?” Sprog’s: eyes blazed, but he took a deep breath,: counted up to 10, and followed the! dream of the forthcoming uniform, fulfilled his brother’s command. Half an hour later they were about Ito leave. “I’ve got your bike out ready! ■ — sir.” said Sprog, as they went; through the door. “That's right, but [remember to salute when you speak to i me.” replied the temporary lieutenant. Just then the bike was heard to be falling, making a scratching noise against, the brick wall of the house. "Well?” said sir, “go on, pick it up.” . It was picked up and hurled several [yards away. “Pick it up yourself,’’ said [ the younger boy, “and thanks for : giving me an insight into regimental life. At least 1 know what I don’t want to do when I grow up — sir.” Twenty years later he joined the police force, and now the big brother i wouldn't even risk a parking ticket.