‘We’re going on the trail of Mary Magdalene. A pilgrimage, if you like,’ Brigid interjected swiftly, seeing Marie-Claire’s truculent expression. ‘We’re going to visit Rosslyn chapel in Edinburgh, take the ferry from Oban to Mull, stay at a B&B in Fionnphort and take a ferry to Iona and spend a day there. I’ve read some fascinating books about it. We’re also planning to visit a little church that has a famous stained-glass window of a pregnant Magdalene and Jesus.’

‘You believe this – and you a nun?’ Imelda was incredulous.

‘Let me tell you, Imelda, my eyes have been opened, and there are many things that have been kept from us. I’ll send you a couple of books to read before we leave so you can see for yourself.’ Brigid couldn’t hide her enthusiasm for their forthcoming trip.

‘I must say it all sounds very interesting.’ Imelda wondered was she in a dream. This day was turning into a very surreal experience.

‘So are you coming?’ Brigid demanded.

‘When do I have to let you know?’ she said warily. Brigid was like a different woman, she thought. Not wearing the habit and veil made her look years younger, and her clothes and hair were most stylish, in a restrained sort of way.

‘Sooner rather than later, Granny,’ Marie-Claire said firmly. ‘We’ll get cheaper fares if we book soon and we want to make sure we can get accommodation.’

‘It’s all a bit sudden, and unexpected,’ she said, rattled.

‘How about you have a think about it, Imelda? Marie-Claire and I will head down to the Four Winds, and I’ll ring you early next week,’ Brigid suggested.

‘You’re getting very adventurous in your old age,’ Imelda sniffed.

‘Carpe diem, Imelda, carpe diem. Being eighty concentrates the mind wonderfully, and I intend to seize the day for as long as I can. I’d advise you to do the same,’ Brigid said crisply, standing up. ‘Thanks very much for the tea. I’m glad to see you looking so well,’ she added with a smile. ‘Come along, dear,’ she said to Marie-Claire, ‘Miss Daisy needs to be driven.’

‘Do you not drive anymore?’ Imelda asked, dismayed.

‘Oh, indeed I do, but it’s a luxury being driven and I love spending time with this one,’ she said affectionately, smiling over at Marie-Claire.

‘I know you do. I do too,’ Imelda surprised herself by saying. ‘If you’d like to stay for dinner, you’re welcome to.’

‘Thank you, Granny, but we won’t put you to the trouble, and Una’s expecting us anyway so she’ll have a meal prepared.’ Marie-Claire looked at her grandmother, noting the brief expression of disappointment that crossed her face. Her heart softened and impulsively she stood up, put her arms around her and hugged her.

‘Thanks for the tea. I hope you’ll come with us to Scotland. I’ll ring you next week.’