The train, oh the train

1. Hum, hum they said they wanted to try the train and try the train they did. Nine hours later they arrived at their destination. Nine hours, they were told it was four. Nine hours of constant hooting and long, long tunnels, through the mountains, through the valleys. The first class, of course. First class not as we know it, but hard bench seats with hard backs and two bunks above.

2. The officials were assigned one to each carriage and officious officials they were. No suitcases on the bunks. Their duties comprised bringing hot water to those who wished to replenish their teas or start on their pot noodles; sweeping the floor every 30 minutes and mopping every hour. As we passed through stations, officials on the platforms saluted as the train went by. Chinese music was being played and much chatting went on. We, of course, could not understand a word of it.

3. Eventually the destination was reached and to our amusement all the officials had to line up outstide the station and have their standard bags and themselves checked by no. 1 official.

4. I spoke to our minder on the way who told me that 40 million people died of starvation during the great leap forward. His own father decided to join the army as he was assured of food and a place to live.

5. Grayling wrote about travel and his first quote was from Daniel. 'People rushing to and fro, knowledge is acquired' There were other parts which entertained and enlightened but the book is upstairs.

6. With a bit of luck, we may be able to bike tomorrow, round a huge lake.

Got to go they are shutting up the shop. No baby yet.