The small pebble in the base of the kettle rattled against the sides to let her know that the water was boiling. She filled the teapot, and turned it three times to the right, three times to the left and then three times again to the right, before pouring the tea into her cup. Finally, before sitting down at the table, she put a couple of lumps of coal on top of the kindling with the tongs and struck a match. At last, she picked up the envelope.

Part of the fun of getting a letter was the investigation before it was opened. The stamp, the postmark, the bent corners and, on high-quality paper, the water marks. Sometimes the ink on the address had run from where the envelope had fallen on a wet pavement, making new colours where the pigments had separated and then dried. ‘Finlay could explain that to me,’ she said out loud into the space in the air that had been largely empty for the two years since Ursula had died. Seven years since Father had passed away. Fifteen since she had heard Finlay’s voice.

She lifted the breadknife and sliced open the flap.

Dear Miss Ann,

I hope this letter finds you well.

She lifted her cup and took a sip of tea before continuing.

I am afraid I have bad news.

Ann felt her heart begin to race.

The family I am employed by have decided they can manage without me. It is completely outwith my control, unfortunately.

This happened at the start of January, just after the turn of the year. I am sorry for not writing before now, but there has been so much to do, and I was unsure about my situation here. They have been kind, and have given me time, but I need to look for another place and there is not much in this area.

Ann knew what was coming and was already nodding her head before the question on the page was posed.

I know it is a terrible imposition, but I wondered if you might have need of a maid for a while, just until I manage to find a new position. I would not be any trouble and I have a little money saved. Perhaps there are jobs in the house you need help with? I will manage, because we have to, don’t we?

I am sorry to ask, but I cannot think of another way. It is not a good time to be searching for work. It seems a lot of families have stopped having live-in domestic help, and that only leaves shops and factories.

There are so many men who are looking for employment now, and each and every one of them will be taken on before me.

I do understand if it is not possible, so please don’t say yes out of pity.

I am sending my very best wishes for your health and well-being,

Yours,

Isobel