大象传媒

My Father was serving in an army camp just outside Reading in Berkshire.One hot Friday afternoon, the whole camp was detailed to parade, the C.O and the Adjutant passed down the ranks, picking out a man here and there, until 50 men were told "one pace forward".

"Be back here again at 1700 hours with full kit, arms and blankets", they were told.

They piled into a couple of buses, but it wasn't until they were clear out of Reading that they were told that they were on their way to guard the Prime Minister at Chequers.

They pitched their tents under the trees about a quarter of a mile from the house, the Prime Minister had already arrived, so they posted sentries, and established Bren gun positions without delay.

A password was issued "Tofrek" - one of the Regiment's battle honours.

Dad drew the 23.59-02.00 hours shift. By 1.30 hours, he was thinking of having a quick smoke, when framed in the light beyond, stood a stout figure in a dinner suit.

Winston in person, it was, and with him was General De Gaulle, They walked across the lawn, engaged in conversation.

They were approaching my Dad now, and although he knew who they were, Army regulations made no provision for profoundly intelligent deductions like that.

"Halt who goes there", he said in a high pitched voice.

The two stopped in their tracks
"Prime Minister here", Winston said.
"Will you give me the password Sir" said Dad
There was an ominous silence, he had asked for the password and neither of them knew it!

In accordance with his orders, they must therefore be shot, Well here was a decision.
"Prime Minister here" said Winston again, a bargainer to the last.

Here was a great man, orator, statesman, author and pride of a nation, but nothing could save him, Dad fingered the well-oiled bolt of his rifle.

"Tofrek" called a pleasant feminine voice.
"Pass friend" Dad gulped weakly.

The Prime Minister and the General moved towards Dad with the Premier's young daughter Mary, the unseen owner of the voice which had given Dad the password, when the two great men had been struck dumb.

Winston in affable mood, patted Dad on the shoulder, and bade him, "look after me well", and the trio turned and went back to the house.

My Dad told me this story and it was published many years ago in the book "70 true stories of the second world war".

It was later confirmed to me by Winston's son who sent me the menu for that night,a night when all the world leaders had gathered at Chequers.

My Father has always been my greatest hero, but I may never have existed if Mary had not known the password that night !

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