“Now don’t get too far ahead of yourselves, you two,” Monica said. “We’ve only got one order.”

“But it’s a big one,” Rod said. “The school where our girls board in Adelaide has placed an order for one hundred jumpers.”

“That’s great news.” Paula had been at Monica’s the day Rod had returned from Adelaide with his sample jumpers. He had done the rounds of several schools and clubs who had good quality jumpers as part of their uniform. He hadn’t known then whether he would get any orders but he had been enthusiastic and his product was good.

“It’s certainly something to think about,” Dan said.

“How did you go with my mother’s singing group?” Paula said.

“I’ve sent them some sample scarves.” Monica put a hand to the scarf at her neck. “At least I make them and know the finished product is what I want. It’s the jumpers I’m worried about.”

“Why?”

“I’m worried about the quality control. We’re outsourcing the knitting of the jumpers.”

“They’ll be fine, Monica,” Rod said. “You said yourself that the chap we’ve found is ideal for what we want.”

“It’s all a bit nerve-racking. It’s one thing for me to produce items on a small scale at home but it’s totally different when you spend money you don’t have, to use your own wool to produce your own product.” She smiled at Dan and handed back the wool. “You must be pleased with this.”

“We’ve still a way to go but I think we’re on the right track.” Dan stood up. “Speaking of which, I have to bring in the next lot of sheep.”

Paula watched him say his goodbyes and push his hat firmly on his head as he strode away. Was he really interested in the Brown’s business or was he just being polite?

“I didn’t mention the pup,” Rod said, once Dan was out of sight. “I’m assuming it’s still a secret.”

“Yes.” Paula nodded. “I’ll come for it next week if that’s okay?”

“Good.” Rod stood as well. “We’d best be off.”

“Before you go.” Paula looked from one to the other. “I know you’ve got a plan for your business but does it include a website and an online shop? Since I’ve moved to the farm I’ve started doing even more shopping online. It’s a great way to give people access to your product.”

“I don’t think we’re quite up to that yet. We’ve got two jumper designs and some of my individual pieces.”

“And a scarf range,” Rod added.

“You could open an Etsy shop,” Paula said.

“You two.” Monica gave a wry smile. “Let’s not run before we can walk. Come on, Rod, I thought you were in a hurry.”