‘No, it’s not, I agree.’ Leaning forward he kissed her cheek lightly. ‘I shall behave meself, Laura, me sweet mavourneen.’

She smiled. This dear, kind man was hers for keeps, she was now sure of that.

Suddenly, Blackie spotted David Kallinski walking towards them, and he sat up straighter and said to Laura, ‘David has arrived. Not a word today then, me darling.’

Emma was filled with excitement. Once Blackie and Laura had gone to listen to the band in Armley Park, Emma changed into a crisp silk dress and put on her Leghorn bonnet. In her reticule were sixty pounds she had taken out of the black tin box that contained her savings.

Quite by chance, yesterday, she had seen the words TO LET on a shop window on Town Street. It was part of a row of three, and a small notice gave the name of the landlord. A Mr Joe Lowther, who lived in another area of Armley.

She set out, filled with confidence and determination. She would get that shop, no matter what. Success was in the air, so she believed.

Emma soon found the street where he lived, went up the stone steps resolutely. She knocked hard, and waited.

A few minutes later the door was opened by a tall young man, with a pleasant open face and fair hair. He stared at Emma. ‘What can I do for you, miss?’

‘I’m here to see Mr Joe Lowther.’

‘I’m Joe Lowther. What can I do for you?’ he asked again.

‘I want to rent the shop on Town Street. Perhaps I should speak to your father?’

Joe Lowther looked at her, his eyes narrowing. ‘That would be difficult. He’s been dead six years.’

Suddenly realizing her mistake, Emma gave him her most radiant smile. ‘Oh, well, then, obviously it is you I must talk to, Mr Lowther.’

‘It is. Are you here on behalf of your mother?’

‘No, myself, I—’

‘You look a bit young to rent my shop,’ Joe Lowther muttered, sounding suddenly annoyed.

‘Could I come inside, please, Mr Lowther? I don’t think we should be doing business on your front steps. The neighbours might be watching, don’t you think?’

‘Perhaps you’re right. So come in then.’ He opened the door wider, and Emma went inside.

After closing the door, Joe Lowther said, ‘I don’t do business on a Sunday.’

‘Well, there’s always a first time for everything. Mr Lowther,’ Emma answered in a gracious voice.

‘Please sit down,’ he said, staring at her, now suddenly aware that she was a beautiful young woman. His chest tightened and he stepped back.

‘I prefer to stand. Thank you, though. I want to rent your shop, and you should know I have a growing business I run from my home. I will make a go of your shop; I can reassure you of that.’

‘You look a bit young—’