Peggy felt guilty that she hadn’t been over there to meet the Smethursts and keep an eye on the place, but what with one thing and another, there just hadn’t been time. ‘Where do they come from originally?’

‘Sheffield,’ said Anne. ‘Their son wrote and told them he was home from the army and that the house was still standing – but empty – so they decided they needed to get back there before someone took advantage of it and moved in. Evidently the housing shortage is as bad up there as everywhere else, and people are camping out wherever they can.’

‘So I suppose that means you’ll be moving out at the weekend, then,’ Peggy said sadly.

‘We’ve decided to do it bit by bit, if that’s all right with you, Mum,’ said Anne. ‘I’d like to freshen the place up a bit with new curtains and carpet and so on, and the kitchen and bathroom could certainly do with being modernised. But it shouldn’t take long, and I’m hoping we’ll be out of your hair by the weekend.’

Peggy felt a twist to her heart but plastered on a smile. ‘You know I’ve loved having you here,’ she said, ‘and you’re welcome to stay as long as you wish. But it’s right that you and Martin have your own home again.’

Anne smiled. ‘We know you’ve enjoyed having us, Mum, and we’ve loved being here. But it’s time we went home, and we’re both looking forward to it tremendously. Grandad promised to help with Frank and one of his plumber pals to update the kitchen and bathroom, and once they’re done, we’ll be all set to move in.’

‘If your grandfather’s in charge then be prepared for delays,’ warned Peggy. ‘He’s very good at promising things, but he takes his time about actually doing anything.’

‘I’ve promised to lend a hand,’ said Charlie. ‘We’re going over there after breakfast to make a start on ripping out the kitchen.’

‘Goodness me,’ breathed Peggy. ‘But what about the Smethursts?’

‘They left yesterday afternoon,’ said Anne. ‘So the house is empty.’

‘Oh, I see,’ said Peggy and quickly left the table to see to Daisy’s boiled egg. ‘I’m sorry I can’t do much to help, Anne, but what with work and everything …’

Anne rose from the table and put her arm about her mother’s slim waist. ‘It’s not as if we’ll be far away,’ she said quietly. ‘And with the school just down in Camden Road, I shall probably see you every day.’

‘I know,’ she managed, scooping the egg from the boiling water. ‘It’s just that I’ve only got used to you being home and now you’re leaving again.’ She blinked back her tears. ‘Ignore me, Anne, I’m being soppy.’

‘I know you’re finding it difficult, what with all the comings and goings,’ murmured Anne. ‘But if you get your car back from Chalky’s barn and have Jack look over it, you’ll be able to drive over and see us whenever you want.’