Ursula began to remove the lids from the boxes, one at a time. The bags were not the usual smooth leather, as she had expected, but pliable suede, and although this would make them less hardwearing, she realised immediately that the softer material was much more suitable for Ann. There were practical everyday bags in natural taupe and brown and black, which were useful enough but rather sombre. The colours of the evening bags were brighter. Strawberry pink and peacock blue and even a particularly bright yellow. She examined them inside and out. It was important to inspect the workmanship, to make sure this was a proper business and not just some young woman playing while she waited for a husband. Ursula stopped herself. It was an uncharitable attitude to have. She blushed and bent her head.

Elizabeth moved a fearsome pair of cutting shears aside and leaned forward on the table, resting on her elbows. ‘Should I assume this is an item that will be used a lot, rather than just being brought out for special occasions?’

Ursula nodded. ‘Sometimes things which are beautiful are saved for best, and I’m guilty of that myself, but I want this to be a bag which is robust enough that it can be used without any worry, while at the same time it needs to be pretty.’

‘What about something like this?’ Elizabeth went up on her toes and reached to the back of the cupboard for another box. She took off the lid and pushed it across the table to Ursula. ‘It’s a new design. Some of my customers request these colours in particular.’

The bag was a vibrant violet, with two tassels, one on each side, and a braided silk strap. It was secured with a gold-coloured clip fastening. The soft suede pouch was lined with pale green silk, and there was a further pocket inside, in cream.

‘This is perfect. Just the right size, and not too heavy.’

‘I’m afraid it’s the only one I have. The customer is coming to collect it tomorrow, but I could make you another one just like it. It would take me about two weeks. Would that give us enough time before this momentous birthday?’

‘It would.’ Ursula stroked the suede and turned around to look at the multicoloured grid behind her. ‘I wonder if you might make it in a different colour?’

‘As long as I have it in stock.’

‘Ann has the most beautiful green eyes. Could you suggest something which would complement them?’

Elizabeth walked over to the grid and selected three rolls of supple suede. She set them out on the bench, unrolling each one in turn. ‘Like this? I’m expecting a new delivery of the braided silk for the straps next week.’

‘In that case I’ll trust your judgement. Any one of these would be delightful.’

‘And for the lining?’

‘I’m happy to have whatever you think is most appropriate.’