Sunday shuddered involuntarily at the mention of the place. She herself had spent her early years in the Union Workhouse and none of the memories she held of it were good. ‘Well, I would have to have a word with Tom as we are full at the minute but, saying that, I suppose we could always squeeze another little one in at a push. Leave it with me.’

Holly was delighted. If only Robbie could go to Treetops she was sure it would be the making of the child. He had never had any love or stability in his life but she was sure he would blossom if Sunday took him under her wing. Holly had always greatly admired her and thought her life story was like something one might read about in a book. The poor soul had been abandoned on the steps of the workhouse as a newborn and it was many years later before she discovered that she was actually the daughter of Lady Huntley of Treetops Manor who had been led to believe by her late husband that her daughter had died at birth. A joyful reunion had followed and since then both Sunday and her mother had worked tirelessly to improve the conditions in the workhouse for those unfortunate enough to be incarcerated there. They were both on the board of guardians now and were well known for their charity work. Holly was sure that Robbie would be much happier living at Treetops and she prayed that Tom would agree to it.

‘Well, I’m going to pop in and see Robbie in a minute,’ Holly informed the ladies and Emma frowned.

‘But, darling, it’s your day off,’ she pointed out.

‘I know, but I just want to check he’s all right.’

‘This little chap has really got under your skin, hasn’t he?’ Sunday smiled. ‘I’ll tell you what. This was only a flying visit so why don’t I come to the hospital with you? I could have a chat to Matron and meet the boy.’

Holly was all for the idea, so they set off in Sunday’s smart new Morris automobile.

The matron was delighted to see them both and while Holly headed for the ward, Sunday went into the office with Matron to have a chat.

Fifteen minutes later they walked down the ward and Holly told Robbie casually, ‘Ah, this is Mrs Branning, Robbie. She’s a friend of my family and she’s come especially to meet you.’ She didn’t want to raise his hopes until Sunday had had a chance to speak to Tom so she wisely didn’t mention the possibility of him going to live with her.

‘You must be Robbie,’ Sunday said when she reached the bed. ‘Holly has told me all about you, my dear. How are you feeling?’

He glared at her suspiciously. She looked very posh and he wondered why someone like her would take the time to come and see him.

‘I’s all right,’ he answered guardedly. ‘Are you one o’ them from the work’ouse? I know yer plannin’ to put me in there but I’ll tell yer now I ain’t goin’ an’ that’s flat!’