[BITList] Man and machine

[HUGH]

John,

I've still to read the biography in full - keeping an eye on the VCR for
Janet's programmes while she's at a ladies' night. Until now, the only
Mumford I've never known or read about was Andrew Mumford, the Chief
Draughtsman in Kincaid's DO - he was in that post when I joined the MN.  He
and I had a strange relationship.  The DO was accessed via a ship-type metal
stairway going up 3 or 4 storeys, or a small lift, capacity at most two
people.  The smallness of the lift caused most people to take the stairs
when there was a crowd.  One morning there wasn't a crowd, for I was late,
and so was Mr Mumford.  We both got into the lift and stood facing each
other.  The lift set off and slowly ascended.  He cleared his throat - "I'm
the Chief Draughtsman.  I can be late if I want to."  I couldn't think on a
suitable response, so I stayed schtum.  We got out, he turned left into his
office, and I turned right and walked up the DO to my board.  The matter was
never referred to again.

Hugh.