My favourite occupation (1861 Census)

[andrewalston]

I've just found a marriage in 1909 for a distant cousin to a chap who described himself as a "Detective".

In 1911 he was a "Railway detective, L & N W Railway", which seems more like a ticket inspector to me.

But then in 1939 he is "Ships' Detective", which sounds more like a certain character in "Death on the Nile" !

[Maiden Stone]

Andrew, he may have belonged to the transport police. Plenty of opportunity for crime at railway stations and  on trains.
He obviously combined detection with travel.

[Neale1961]

I always think concubines sound like something that one might grow in the garden.

I suggest a small patch of concubines along with some pansies in the garden each spring.

[Pennines]

Oh Neale - well done. That's hilarious.

Do let us know how you go on with yours!