‘He’ll think he’s got a wife who can think for herself,’ Lizzie advised her. ‘And how thrilled he’ll be to get out of hospital and go home to a whole house and not just one room. I hope you like it, Ellen, cos if you don’t I’ll have to find a room of my own when Harry comes home – that’s if Mr Tannerson offers me this position.’ She thought for a moment. ‘Has Edyta gone in to work this morning?’

‘I think so. I heard her coming downstairs first thing, so Filip must have managed to mend the looms. She hasn’t come back, anyway. Why?’

‘I wondered if I could share her room, mebbe, until she marries; just thinking ahead, you know.’ She fiddled with her hair. ‘Will you put my hair into a bun in ’morning when I go to Mr Tannerson’s? And can I borrow your best brown dress? It’ll look smarter than this navy skirt and blouse for an interview.’

‘Course you can,’ Ellen told her, ‘but I’d planned to wear it today when I go with him.’

‘He’ll not notice,’ Lizzie said nonchalantly. ‘Men don’t.’

Ellen gave a wry smile. Harry would, she thought.

Tannerson arrived at one o’clock; he helped Ellen into the trap and handed her a blanket to wrap over her knees before he clicked his tongue to the pony and they set off. How considerate, she thought; there was a cold and gusty east wind.

‘I thought you might like to visit your husband after we’ve looked at the house,’ Tannerson called over his shoulder. They were travelling in the direction of Sculcoates. ‘It’s in Queen’s Road; Mrs Lucan’s brother will be there with the key so you can go inside. He looks after the management of the properties.’

‘Thank you very much,’ Ellen called back. ‘I’m so grateful. Will I … erm, will I have to make ’decision today?’

‘Mm, don’t know. Is there a reason why you shouldn’t?’

‘I – I wondered if Harry would have to sign ’agreement?’

He half turned to catch a glimpse of her. ‘Can you not do that?’

‘Oh, yes,’ she said quickly. ‘I have a good hand. I just wondered if it would be permissible.’

‘Don’t see why not,’ he said cheerfully. ‘Mrs Lucan manages the property. If she has any objection I’m sure she’ll let you know.’