Ursula wasn’t sure why Café Vegetaria exerted such a pull on her. Since the start of the month she had found herself there several times a week. There were rarely any male customers and the ladies who were gathered at the tables in pairs and threes and fours seemed to be regulars who nodded and smiled at her when she went in. Occasionally someone would play a tune on the piano in the corner. On this particular Wednesday, there were no free tables and she stood a little hesitantly near the door.

‘If you wouldn’t mind sharing?’ said the server.

She shrugged. ‘That would be fine.’

‘If I can find you a seat, what would you like today?’

‘A pot of tea, please, and perhaps some of the date and walnut loaf I enjoyed so much last time, if you have any?’

He walked across the café to a table where a woman sat alone. Ursula saw them exchange a few words and the woman laughed. He pulled out the rush-seated chair opposite her, waved Ursula over and then left, without providing any introductions.

Once Ursula was seated, the stranger offered her hand. ‘Mary Young.’

The woman’s grip was unexpectedly firm. She looked a little older than Ursula, with smooth skin and absolutely white hair.

‘Ursula Black. Thank you for agreeing to share your table. I hope I won’t disturb you.’

‘Not at all. It is always pleasant to have some company.’ She looked directly at Ursula, in a slightly disconcerting manner. ‘I think I’ve seen you before?’

‘I’ve eaten here a few times.’

The woman nodded encouragingly and Ursula found herself adding to the conversation without realising she was being drawn in. ‘It’s an interesting place.’

‘It is indeed,’ replied her new companion, stirring what appeared to be a large cup of cocoa. ‘Are you a vegetarian?’

Ursula wished she had ordered cocoa too and was momentarily flustered by such a direct inquisition. ‘No. Well, not really. Not yet. I am making a few changes, but I have the views of my family to consider.’

‘It’s so much less costly than buying meat. And it’s a lot quicker to prepare meals compared with the time some tougher joints and cuts require.’

Ursula nodded. ‘I’ve discussed it with our maid. We plan to try some new ideas, but it’s not easy. Do you know something about it? Could you suggest a book, perhaps? Or a pamphlet?’

Mary Young stuck her hand up in the air where it could be spotted by the server. He hurried over. ‘This lady is interested in your recipes.’

Ursula shook her head. ‘Oh no, I wouldn’t presume to ask for any professional secrets.’