‘Sounds perfect, thanks, George. How much does it all come to?’

‘No, this one’s on me,’ George offered.

‘Thanks, but I’d rather pay,’ Sarah said.

George could tell from the tone of her voice that she was going to be stubborn, so instead offered the clothing for a few pence. He knew she was struggling for money, and she had little Tommy to care for. Then he had an idea that might help her out. He bagged her newly purchased items and said, ‘I hope you don’t mind me asking, but is Tommy going to school soon?’

‘Yes, as soon as my mother’s funeral is over, I’ll sort it out.’

‘Well, once you do, I know of a little job going, and the hours would work perfectly with Tommy at school,’ George said, remembering a conversation he’d had with his mother the night before.

‘Oh … what sort of job? I don’t have much experience in things, and I didn’t do no exams at school.’

‘That won’t matter. It’s my mum, Lena. She works in a grocery shop and she happened to mention that Cissy, her part-time girl, is leaving soon ’cos she’s up the duff. That means there’ll be an opening ’cos my mum ain’t going to want to work extra hours. I could put the word in for you if you like?’

‘Sounds great, George, but I’ve never worked in a shop before.’

‘Don’t worry about that. My mum would show you the ropes.’

Sarah looked apprehensive for a moment, then answered, ‘If you’re sure, I’d really appreciate you asking for me.’

‘Tell you what, you get Tommy into school for the start of the new term, and then you can come round mine for your tea one night. You can meet my mum, as she pretty much runs the shop, doing all the hiring and firing. The owner shows his face now and again, but it’ll be up to my mum, and I know she’s going to love you,’ George said enthusiastically.

Sarah nodded, and though George could tell she was happy with the offer, considering the circumstances he didn’t expect her to show too much eagerness.

‘Thanks, George. I need something as I’ve not had much luck with finding any stock. I might have another go down at the Thames. If I can find just one more thing of value, that should tide me over ’til I can start work.’

‘Are you off down there now then?’ George asked. He wished he could do more to help her, but had already come to realise that she was fiercely independent and would only refuse any handouts.

‘It’s a bit late now, the tide will be in, but I’ll have a look tomorrow morning. Let’s face it, I’m unlikely to find my riches down there, but you know the saying, third time lucky.’