We finally reached Sealdah station at 9 o’clock. The huge clock on the station wall told the time. As soon as we got off the taxi, we were surrounded by many men in red, asking us if we wanted them to carry our suitcases. But Mama and I were only carrying one small bag each, so we didn’t need any help. All the other times I’d been to the station, Ma had hired a coolie. This one time, I could not believe how many items the man had strung up all over his body. Two large suitcases on his head, one bag on his shoulder, and another small bag on the other shoulder! Then he sped off so fast towards the platform that Ma sent me running after him, to keep an eye on our luggage. I thought being a porter was quite a neat job. Imagine being able to carry so many heavy bags at one time, like a superhero! But then later I saw Ma pay the man fifty rupees and he went and joined some of his friends who were drinking tea and eating small, sweet buns. They all looked very tired.

So I was happy that I...

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