I did not purchase my Derringer. During WW2 it was passed on to me and I carried it whenever I felt the need. This short story was one instance.

 

When my ship returned to the UK I would visit my mother in Witherley. My father at that time was serving in Afghanistan with the artillery.

 

With the war still in existence the Hall in the village had been converted to house captured Italian prisoners. and during the day they worked on the local farms. From my recollection there were never any problems/ conflicts with the village people.

 

On this particular occasion however when I was on leave visiting my mother. I had been to see a film at the Regal cinema in Atherstone and returning to the village after dark.

 

Suddenly 3/4 prisoners surrounded me in Post office lane pinning me with my back to the post office door.

 

The one who appeared to be the leader was pushing me against the door his face only a few inches away from mine. I quickly pulled out the derringer pointing it  into his face with a loud clicking noise as I pulled back the hammer. Within seconds they were all gone.

 

Yes, from that time on the gun became my friend the Derringer

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