‘Bert always did know everything. That’s why your mother thought a lot of him. He always looked out for my Lottie. He’s a good man, but getting a bit long in the tooth, like us all.’ Archie stared out of the kitchen window and looked wistfully across the valley below to his first home of Eldroth.

‘Are you off to the funeral? And what are you going to do at Atkinson’s? James won’t be able to open the studio up for a while, and you’ll need a new seamstress.’ Danny sat back in his chair and looked at his sister. He was certain she hadn’t come to Crummock on a social visit. She was here for a reason, and it would probably involve Atkinson’s.

‘I’m closing the studio for a few months, until James gets back on his feet. As for a new seamstress, I don’t know what to do. I’m at a loss and my order books are full.’ Isabelle paused and then looked up at Harriet. ‘I don’t suppose I could ask for your help, Harriet? Just for a few weeks, until I find a replacement? I’d arrange transport there and back for you, and pay you a wage. I’d even employ a first-class nanny to look after Georgina. It would be such a help and I’d be so grateful.’

Harriet looked across at Isabelle. She knew that what Isabelle was saying was genuine, but she hesitated in answering.

‘I really am in a mess and I need those that I trust and love around me. Just as you helped once before, when you gave me the strength to pick myself up and move on when I was hurt by that awful man, John Sidgwick. Help me again, Harriet, please.’

‘I don’t know. Georgina is still young and there’s the house and the farm. We’ve only just finished hay-time, and it will be winter before we know it. I’d like to, but I already have enough on my plate.’ Harriet saw all eyes watching her make her decision.

‘Rosie will look after the house; it’s time she was more of a lady than a tomboy,’ said Danny. ‘And if you get a nanny, Georgina and Ben will be fine. Just start with two days a week and take it from there. See how it pans out. You’ve talked of nothing else since your visit to Skipton.’ He looked across at Harriet. He knew that she secretly yearned to be back working again, despite her life as a mother and housewife at Crummock. She could also give Isabelle a run for her money – something he knew Harriet had been wanting to do since their disagreement all those years ago.