Prior to decimalisation in 1971 in UK we were used to paper notes but that all changed with the decimalisation of our currency and now we have (if we're lucky!) a heavy purseful of coins, which, on the plus side, do not wear away or become torn.
While rummaging in a drawer this morning I came across a wallet with four 10 shilling notes and for the benefit of younger viewers, as they say on the telly, it was written "10/-". I used to think 10/- was a lot of money. 50p is the equivalent nowadays and what will it buy?..................not much!
I remember being given a ten shilling note to take to school with me to buy a loaf of bread, as we'd, unusually, run out at home and the baker's van was not due for a few days. Mother didn't drive and she'd never ask father to do any shopping for household stuff. That's just how it was then.
Anyway, I had this note with me on my way to school in Perth and I intended buying the bread on the way back before I boarded the train for home. When I got into the shop I discovered I'd lost the money. I came out in a sweat! What would my mother say when I told her there was no change and no bread as I'd lost the cash? Could I run away to London or catch a plane to the Arctic or, may be better as it's warmer, Australia, she'd never find me there! I retraced my steps back up the pavement as I remembered going into another shop with my friend in the morning and buying a comic. To my great relief someone had handed the newsagent the ten shilling note I'd dropped on the floor. My faith in human nature was restored and I would never worry about anything ever again! Nothing could be any worse than losing 10/-!
2 comments:
What a wonderful story about honesty...that is as rare as paper money.
Believe me, not having your rear freehub for your mountain bike with an event approaching is much, much worse!!!!!
Post a Comment