‘Goodbye Rug’ (1980) consists of mementos from the First World War. It was inspired by Richardson’s uncle, who returned from the war while many of his friends didn’t, and incorporates handkerchiefs sent from the frontline back home to sweethearts. The gloved hands wave men off to war, like many wives, fiancees and mothers did at the time. It also references a song ‘Goodbyeee Goodbyeee’ that was popular during the war.

'The crowd on the dock gave voice in unison, keeping their spirits up- all the while trying to keep their loved ones in sight as the ship began to move towards France'....
Goodbye-ee, goodbye - ee, wipe the tear, baby dear from your eye - ee, tho its hard to part I know, I'll be tickled to death to go, don't cry- ee, don't sigh-ee, theres a silver lining in the sky-ee, Bonsoir, old thing, cheerio, cin chin, nah-poo, toodle oo, goodbye- ee.