‘That is, after all, why you came to see me.’ Again, a small silence. ‘Isn’t it?’

‘Yes. Yes, of course.’ Carole moved into realist mode. ‘Well, there’s no cure for arthritis, is there?’

‘There are many treatments that can alleviate the symptoms.’

‘Yes, I’m sure. But there’s no cure.’

‘Never say never.’ Dr Rawley grinned thinly. ‘There’s a lot of research going on at the moment, so a cure might be possible at some point.’

‘When you say “research”, do you mean research into new drugs? Or alternative therapies?’

‘I was referring to alternative therapies. Drugs have their place in medicine, but doctors rely too much on them. I only prescribe drugs when I have exhausted all other possibilities.’

‘Oh,’ said Carole. ‘And in my case, for arthritis, what other possibilities are there?’

‘Acupuncture can be very effective.’

‘I’m sure,’ said Carole, unconvinced. ‘For pain relief?’

‘And general well-being.’

That got one of Carole’s ‘Huh’s. ‘Any other suggestions?’

‘Your manner suggests to me that you don’t believe in “healing”.’

‘That’s very observant of you.’

‘You mean I’m right?’

‘You are.’

‘It’s not my place to comment on your opinions. I will simply say that I have seen spectacular results achieved by the work of healers.’

Carole was about to say that she lived next to one but curbed the instinct. This was her bit of the investigation. Leave Jude out of it for the time being. Instead, she observed, ‘It seems to me that healing is an area that attracts a lot of charlatans.’

‘That is sadly true,’ said Dr Rawley.

‘So, how do you know how to get a good healer? One who’s interested in your welfare rather than your cash?’

‘It’s a difficult area, as you say. You can go online and find websites for thousands of them. All with glowing testimonials. But it’s very easy to forge testimonials online. About the only way you can guarantee to find a good healer is by word of mouth. Recommendation from someone who’s benefited from their treatment.’

‘Hm.’ Carole took a risk. ‘I’ve heard, through a friend, of one practising round Fethering … called Jeremiah. Do you know him?’

‘We have met. I hear very good reports of his work. I’m sure, if you don’t warm to the idea of acupuncture …’

‘Which I don’t. The idea that you can cure one part of the body by sticking needles into another part of it is—’

‘Yes, thank you, I’ve heard all of the popular arguments against acupuncture. Many times. All I’m saying is that someone like Jeremiah could give you effective treatment for your knee. Certainly relieve the pain. Would you like me to give you his contact details?’

‘No, thanks. I can get them through my friend … if I were to decide to go down the route of consulting a healer …’