As the Japanese moved inexorably towards us down the long thin peninsula, morale in the colony began to dip. At last, people began to acknowledge that we British were not invincible after all.
On 11th February 1942, at the hospital, the Principal Matron addressed all the nursing staff and the volunteers. Reputed to be a stern but kind woman, I had never had any involvement with her. She stood on a stool and spoke in a firm and businesslike manner.
‘I have received orders from the highest authority that all nursing staff must leave the colony immediately.’
There was a collective gasp.
‘A small skeleton staff will be remaining. I am not asking for volunteers, as I know you would all step forward. Those of you who will be remaining already know who you are. The rest of you should proceed
