Our office staff wrap up and stride into the wintry night. Glasgow streets have improved greatly. The Police Board was enacted 4 years ago to acquire and install street lighting. Their speed is awe-inspiring with 10,000 street lights illuminating whichever path you chose across the city.
Robert and James, my deputies, come with me to the Scotia Bar. Robert is a brave, forward thinking and creative force. James is careful, procedural and well grounded. We head into the oldest public bar in the city for an impromptu meeting.
I explain “Resilience and fortitude is essential. Carey & Fortis now have a foothold in our city and we need to act. Options?” Robert excitedly explains his vision of putting a foothold in Edinburgh. James explains that expansion is still possible in Glasgow. After hours of debate we agree to sleep on it.
In the morning I walk out into the office and call everyone round. I explain “bravery is needed in the face of adversity and we are going to explore the merits of expanding to Edinburgh”. Our souls are picked up, smiles back in place and moods shifted. I am thoroughly exhausted but there is a great evening ahead of me. I need to pick myself up once again.
Queens Park FC’s Conversazione has arrived. It’s Friday 9 December 1870.
—————————————— © Graeme Brown 2018 ——————————————-
The Hampden Collection 