Chapter 127 – The Factory Act

Thompson & French’s grand hall clock chimes twelve times, echoing through the whole office, where Anne fulfils her last secretarial duty of the week.

“Its time for Saturday afternoon recreation.”, said Anne, gazing over her spectacles.

“Thank you, Anne. Yes indeed, we are playing Granville at 3 o’clock and is likely to entice a great local crowd.”, I replied.

“Football this, football that, I have no idea what the fuss is about.”, said Anne, cackling with laughter and pulling my leg.

Once the humdrum of excited footsteps leaves the building, I survey every easel and desk, tracing my finger for any dust or disorganisation. The Factory Act 1850, obliges all employers to finish at 2 o’clock on a Saturday, with further workers’ rights embodied in this ground-breaking law. However, I provide two extra hours for staff to explore the recreational pursuits of Glasgow, with the principle they do not spend this precious time, lacing Glasgow publican’s palms, with their hard-earned silver.

I know of many scoundrels, who utilise the maximum allowed working week of sixty hours, including employing women and children, working them from 6am to 6pm each day. These barons are a scourge on the progress of modern workplaces.

I leave for Queens Park Recreation ground, where William Ker, Captain of Granville Football Club, will be eagerly awaiting our arrival.