MORNING SERIAL

HE tapped Ieuan again on the shoulder.

“Iron — you heard me. I got something to say to you.’’ Ieuan ignored the remark, and continued with his work.

“O.K., if that’s how you feel. But I got something to say about a certain chap — I could spit on him, he’s not so far away — and a certain jane…mooning in Lovers’ Lane last night…” A trowel clattered to the floor. Ieuan’s lips quivered. He spun round to face Bull.

“What’s on your mind?” he shouted.

“O.K., O.K., Iron — take it easy.” Bull smirked. He turned to Thomas. “I said I saw a certain chap and a jane mooning in Lovers’ Lane last night. Want to know all about it?”

CHAPTER TEN THERE was an awkward silence. Then Thomas spoke.

“Aw, get out an’ chase yourself. I’ve got no time to listen — I’m busy.” “That’s right.” Abraham scowled at the cocksure Bull. “Go out the yard or somewhere, not come in here disturbing everyone. Far better if you was to get up earlier in the mornings and try to help me out when there’s extra work to do. Go on, clear off. I’ll see you at nine, and give you plenty to occupy your time for the rest of the day. And you’ll be here till seven tonight, let me tell you.” “If you don’t want to listen,” Bull continued, addressing Thomas, “maybe the chaps in the foundry would like to have a earful?” “Oh, no you don’t.” Ieuan caught him by the wrist. “What have you got to say about—” “Sally.” Bull grinned. “That’s her name. I heard the chappie call her … and, by Christ, was she hot! You ought t’have been there, Tommy. Why, she—” “You — you bloody swine!” Ieuan aimed wildly at Bull’s face, but his blow fell harmlessly as the apprentice side-stepped.

Abraham rushed between them, waving his arms. “Now then, what’s the idea,” he shouted.

“Stop it — stop it! Where d’you think you are — in a fairground? Ieuan, back to your work. You, Jackson,” he jerked a thumb towards the door, “get out while you’re still in one piece. Clear off, before I do something I’ll be sorry for.” Ieuan stood by, his face a deathly white.