大象传媒

During the war, much to my dismay sweets were rationed. I had a terrible sweet tooth and using my rations wisely was a great trial to me. Often, I found them gone by the beginning of the week. When I did have some, my favourite place to use them was in Peter Shearer's Sweet Shop, Bank Street, Alexandria. He was a pleasant man and on first name terms with my mother and me, because he had worked with her before she was married.I was probably his best customer and he always greeted me with a smile and, "Hello Jenny," which was how I was called although my given name was Janet.

One day I went into the shop to buy sugar for my mother. My mouth watered as I looked at the jars of sweets that lined the shelves, but of course my rations were well gone. As Peter handed me the sugar, I plucked up my courage and asked him hesitantly if he would consider letting me use some of next week's rations to buy a few sweets. He shook his head and smiled ruefully,"What good would that be to you if it leaves you short next week and then you'd only be hankering after the following week's rations?" Disappointed, I took the sugar and headed for the door. Something in my manner must have softened Peter because just as I was about to leave the shop he called me back. "Okay Jenny," he said as he reached for a jar of lozenges,"I'll make you a deal." He sat the sweets on the counter, they were pink, white and brown alphabet shapes."I'll not give you your ration but, I will give you your name in lozenges.Okay?"
"Yes," I faltered, I couldn't believe my luck.
He took out a small bag and screwed the lid off the jar,"Well then, tell me your name and I'll give you the letters."
I drew myself up to my full height, took a breath and told Peter my name;my full name,"Janet MacFarlane Watson McBride." I was never so proud of my name as then, it gave me a full quarter of sweets and I hadn't used any of next week's allowance.

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