The Departure

Before the morning twilight comes over the mountains, most of the people at Robgill are awake, packing the few things left to pack. And the sun has not had time enough to heat up the damp and chilly soil before the farewells are taken from those who are either going to work or are too old to join the people leaving for India. Mr K. Sithuravelu, his wife Sellama and their three children start their laborious descent to the Hatton railway station. Five more families are leaving Robgill today, among those Sithuravelu's two brothers and their dependents.

Sithuravelu and the others do not arrive at Hatton till noon. Although it is four hours before the train comes, the station is packed with people. Most of them estate workers bound for India, standing in groups, surrounded by bulky parcels and trunks and speaking with subdued voices. Friends and relatives have come to say a last goodbye to those they probably won't see again.

As soon as the diesel engine of the train is heard approaching the station, there is a great clamor. The women crouch with their arms on each others' shoulders crying helplessly while the men push their way toward the train to get their seats.