Chapter Four - The Proposal
“What the hell were you thinking?” Albert’s father shouted with an uncharacteristic curse.
“I’m sorry dad, I just couldn’t take it anymore,” Albert apologised.
“You are going to have to learn how to take it, lad. That’s life.”
Albert looked at his boots.
“You are lucky that Mr Dacue is aware of what a pain his son can be, but you can kiss your apprenticeship goodbye. He will take you back, as a hewer.”
“What?”
“You’re not in a position to be picky, son.”
Mr Wood was waiting for Albert at the colliery gate, together with a man whom Albert recognised as Joseph the weigh-man.
“You are lucky to be back here at all,” said Wood. “Joe here is going to take you down the shaft this week until you get used to what goes on.”
“Come on then, lad,” said Joe.
Albert
