Espionage discussion

The Riddle of the Sands: Erskine Childers.

The author paints a rosy picture of travelling in pre-war Europe. I do remember a programme narrated by Michael Portillo of train journeys, I believe, across Europe, in those days, and how splendid all was. The politeness and promptitude, described in this, along with the quaintness of coastal life did grab my imagination.

Reading of how they survived aboard with their cooking and messing was fun and did conjure great pictures for me.

I do reckon a girl, in those times, could hitch her skirt, jump aboard and ask for help without too much of a worry.

You'd have to wear a full cosy, back then, a bikini would give the wrong impression, but a girl with an ounce of pluck might just win a heart with a bit of floundering around in the briny when the right sort are taking their constitutional along the water's edge. I'll bet it happened.

I took a squint on the web and the tides in and around those sands are not to be trifled with and have put an end to a number of boater's days.

Don't be fooled, behind it all is a dastardly plot.

I'm not giving it away; but in considering the times and the war that did come only a few years after, I'd say this portrays the efforts of two, rather spiffing, young chaps who saved Britain's bacon.

I like your review.

Nice to see (for a change): no spoilers or black marks, just a few thoughts.