Unpacking takes about five minutes, and then I wander from room to room. I haven’t brought any books with me, but in the area Thea called the snug there is a bookcase full of all kinds of paperbacks, and I select one at random. The sitting room has a TV, but it doesn’t seem to be working and I can’t possibly ask them to get it fixed. I managed without TV on a cruise up the Irrawaddy for a couple of weeks, so I’m sure I can cope here.

There is something soporific about this place, with its silence and isolation, and when I have run out of places to explore and things to do I decide to curl up on a sofa, not expecting to fall asleep – I have too much on my mind – but I feel an overpowering need to close my eyes.

I am woken by the sound of footsteps in the corridor. Thea has come back to take me downstairs for that promised glass of something. I do hope it’s not sweet sherry, which seemed to be her drink of choice on the boat, but to be honest I would drink neat rum if they asked me to, given all they’re doing for me.

‘Are you settling in?’ Thea asks, her head on one side as if there might be some doubt.

‘I don’t know what to say. I’m blown away by the whole place and your kindness and generosity. I promise to sort myself in a couple of days and be out of your hair. I don’t want to take advantage.’

‘Oh nonsense. I like having you here. As I said, we’ve helped other people before. The doctor says I’m always on the lookout for waifs and strays, and it will be good to have you around. Come on. Let’s get you downstairs.’

I know my way back to the staircase by now, but I take a step back to allow Thea to take the lead. We go down to the first floor, where the door is still closed.

‘These rooms are our private sleeping quarters. So I would be grateful if you would respect our privacy. I’m not going to give you a tour of that area.’

‘Of course! I wouldn’t dream of invading your space.’

Thea smiles. ‘Well, it’s a big enough house for us all to have plenty of room to ourselves, and we have no expectations of you. We’re very happy for you to stay in your rooms or join us for the occasional meal.’

That has clarified things for me. They are being more than generous, but I’m not a house guest in the normal way. I won’t be eating every meal with them, which I suspect means I will have to work out where to shop for my food.

Once more, it is as if Thea has read my mind.