They had been working hard all morning, interviewing prospects, matching others, and sending out letters. When lunchtime arrived, Iris swiveled to face Gwen.
“Did you bring it?” she asked.
Gwen reached into her handbag and pulled out a small book of coupons. Iris produced an identical one from her desk.
“Right, here we go,” said Iris, reading from hers. “‘This Clothing Book must be detached immediately from the Food Ration Book; and the holder’s name, full postal address and National Registration number written in the spaces provided on page 1 in INK.’”
“Detaching now,” said Gwen as she pulled it out.
“They capitalized ‘INK,’” said Iris. “They’re very serious about it.”
“Name, address, ident,” said Gwen as she filled it out.
“‘All the coupons in this book do not become valid at once. IT IS ILLEGAL TO USE ANY COUPON UNTIL IT HAS BEEN DECLARED VALID,’” continued Iris. “That last was completely capitalized. They’re very serious.”
“I solemnly swear not to use any coupon prematurely,” declared Gwen, her hand on her heart.
“‘This book is the property of H. M. Government and may only be used by or on behalf of the person for whom it is issued. TAKE GREAT CARE NOT TO LOSE IT.’”
“Capitalized again?”
“You better believe it, sister.”
“One date with a spiv, and you think you’re a gangster,” sighed Gwen. “Well, we have successfully waded through the bureaucracy. Are you ready?”
“I’m ready,” said Iris, rising to her feet. “Let’s go shopping.”