As if by Magic by Dolores Gordon-Smith

full production when the war ended and the contracts were cancelled. It was a bad time for us. We weathered it, but it was touch and go at one time. Fortunately Nigel managed to win a seaplane contract with the Sprite but it was a close-run thing.’
    â€˜You’re developing another flying-boat aren’t you, sir?’ asked Jack, his memory stirred by the mention of the Sprite. ‘I saw a picture of it in
Modern Flight.
It said it was going to be one of the largest aircraft in the world.’
    â€˜The Pegasus,’ said Mr Lassiter with a wry note in his voice. ‘It’s supposed to be the biggest aircraft ever made. It’s Nigel’s design. I sometimes wonder if he’s bitten off more than he can chew.’
    â€˜He lives and breathes for his flying-boat,’ put in Anne.
    Mr Lassiter leaned back in his chair. ‘I can’t get over you being a pilot, George. We’ll have to get you involved in the firm. Obviously you’re going to see the solicitors again but it’ll take some time to get the matter cleared up. I think the best thing would be to find you a temporary position until we see where your talents lie. Perhaps the best introduction to the firm would be some sort of secretarial role.’
    Anne looked startled. ‘You wouldn’t replace Michael Walsh, would you, Grandfather?’
    â€˜Good Lord, no.’ Mr Lassiter looked at George. ‘Michael Walsh is my secretary,’ he said in explanation. ‘He’s a very competent man.’ He sucked his cheeks in. ‘Nigel’s the one who really needs help. He works far too hard and the only assistance he’s got is that precious clerk of his, Miss Aldryn.’
    â€˜She suits Nigel, though,’ said Anne. ‘What about David? I’m sure he could find work for George without any trouble.’ She looked reassuringly at George. ‘Being a pilot gives you a huge advantage. You’ll be able to pick up everything else you need to know easily enough.’
    Mr Lassiter looked at George. ‘Are you interested?’
    â€˜Well, of course I am,’ began George awkwardly. ‘The only thing is, I’ve never done an office job before. I don’t know what David – my Uncle David, I suppose I should call him – will think about it.’
    â€˜Naturally we’ll have to ask him, but he’ll be glad of your help. You’ll see.’
    George thought for a moment. ‘I’ll do it,’ he said. He smiled rather shyly. ‘Besides, I want to get to know the family. When can I start?’
    â€˜At once, if you like. The works are on the river near Tilbury.’
    â€˜I don’t think that’s a good idea, George,’ said Jack quickly. ‘You’re still convalescing. After all, it’s not so long ago the doctor was convinced you were on the way out. It’ll be a while before you’re fit to do any sort of work.’
    George looked disappointed. ‘I suppose you’re right. It’s a shame, though. I was looking forward to meeting the family.’
    â€˜That can easily be arranged,’ said his grandfather. ‘I’m sorry, George. I should have remembered how ill you’d been. I shouldn’t have mentioned work at this stage. You get better, my boy. We’ll talk about work afterwards. However, when you’re feeling up to it you must come down to the factory, and both you and Major Haldean must stay for dinner this evening.’
    â€˜That’s very kind of you, sir,’ said Jack, answering for both of them. ‘Are you feeling up to it, George? You’re looking a bit washed out.’
    â€˜I’ll be fine,’ said George stubbornly.
    â€˜Perhaps you can have a rest beforehand,’ suggested his grandfather. He looked at the clock. ‘Let me see. It’s nearly five o’clock now. David will be in about six, I imagine. Heaven knows when Nigel will arrive.’ He