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This occurred on a weekend morning, and I felt sufficiently irritable, filling up the family car. The location was one of those petrol stations that operates as a supermarket, so you run the risk of joining a queue people bearing baskets of slightly overpriced groceries. This is a dreadful thing to unfold when the sole aim is to pay for some fuel. Terrible.

Fourth in line I stood among those waiting. There was only person serving, a youthful clerk. Something stood out to her presence. After the ditherer at the head of the line had completed payment for his purchases, his sausage roll, and some breakfast items, I was certain that I heard the cashier tell him to have a great day. Strange. Could be I misunderstood, or possibly she uttered it and was being sarcastic. I wondered if perhaps she was a comrade in the war on delays, echoing my disdain for individuals slowing down people just getting gas like me.

Taking a step forward, becoming the third customer. The new leader of our line finished pumping gas with commendable speed. Again, the phrase came: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” In fact, it was “have a wonderful day”. An American? Here in Stourbridge? The pronunciation indicated it, and no British person tells people such a cheerful phrase, or merely a pleasant day. Very rare. Rarely does one encounter many Americans frequenting this area, least of all employed at gas stations or other places.

Now I stood second. Following a senior shopper dealing with a protracted effort with her carryall, her groceries, her handbag and her rewards card. It went on for ever. When she was done, the woman also was wished an excellent day. Yes, American for sure. Confirming it was possible by making a witty remark in her direction, to check for that thing when they look at you, without a smile, and state very earnestly: “That is quite humorous.” Yet no idea came of a jest to say.

In the end, I embraced for the absolute sincerity – or a performance of it, that equates to identical in effect – while she stared directly into my eyes, to my very core, and bid me an awesome day. It improved my mood. It was a good thing.