Big Apple adventure

I WAS overwhelmed by a flood of memories as I read about the power cut in New York City.

I left school at 16 and, five years on, became a proficient secretary.

In 1964, aged 21, I emigrated to America determined to add some adventure to my life. I left Southampton on the Queen Mary, travelling in Economy Class, segregated from the better-class passengers!

For the first three days of the fiveday crossing I was violently ill owing to very rough seas. I survived and, upon arrival in New York, found a job with an insurance broker.

This was not difficult as English secretaries were, at that time, in great demand. One evening after work I was on my way home on the subway when the train drew to a halt, all the lights went out and we were left packed like sardines in darkness.

This situation lasted for a number of hours, with some people becoming hysterical or fainting from the unbearable heat. Eventually we were led out along the track, and emerged into the complete darkness of New York City through a manhole.

I’d no idea where I was, but my salvation was that I’d been travelling with an older gentleman from my office, who was also on his way home. His presence helped me overcome my fear while trapped underground, and he guided me through the blackedout streets back to my apartment.

I remember with great thankfulness his kindness to a young English girl looking for adventure.

CAROLE BRISTER, Kington, Herefordshire.