‘Oh Molly, at long last Alfie’s doing what he really wants. And not on the streets neither, but in the ring, inside, where he should have been all along. Isn’t it wonderful news, lass – our Alfie up against the big American fighter, proper money and no running when the police come round the corner. And all under the eye of a professional trainer, too.’

Molly agreed, though she was pleased and sorry at the same time. She thought of all Alfie’s sacrifices, and hers, too. At least they hadn’t all been for nothing.

Handing Molly her tea, Rosie was surprised when it was refused. ‘Oh, come on, lass, ye must be froze. The tea will warm ye up, so it will.’

Apologising, Molly took the tea. ‘Sorry, Rosie, and you’re right – I am froze.’ Sitting down at the table with her friend, she asked quietly, ‘What else does he say?’

Now, seeing the look on the girl’s face, Rosie was mortified. ‘Oh, may God forgive me!’ she cried. ‘I clean forgot, so I did!’ Clasping the small hand in both of hers, she shook it gently. ‘Here’s me, blabbing on about how he’s up for a fight, and there’s you, wondering how he is, and missing him like nothing on earth.’ Fishing the letter out of her pinafore pocket, she gave it over to Molly. ‘It’s a bit long, but then he always has a lot to say.’

With trembling fingers, Molly unfolded the letter, her eyes misting over as she read:

Hello Mam,

How are things at home?

I’m sorry it’s been an age since I’ve written, but I’ve not had a minute to call my own. I’ve been working hard at the gym. I’ve got a new trainer, Gus Baines, and by God, he’s a real slave-driver! I’m up at four and in bed by nine, with nothing but training in between. But I’ve never been so fit in all my life.

I’ve had a couple of low-key fights, and won them both, but they were nothing to get excited about. They were just practice for the big one, and now the date’s set I can’t wait. The big day is 2nd January.

It’s so different from the street-fighting. It’s real big business, Mam. Everything is so professional. It’s all worked out right down to the last detail; the venue, the timing, who’ll be there and who won’t. I’m not kidding you, Mam, thousands of pounds change hands every minute. If I win this fight, it’ll be money in the bank, enough for you and Grandaddy to come out for a long holiday, and plenty more left to buy me a place of my own.

The trainer says, with this one under my belt, I can name my own price. They’ll be lining up to meet me, and, if all goes well, I’ll be in the big-time before you know it.

Here, the mood of his letter seemed to change:

I’ve been missing you and Grandaddy. I never thought I’d get used to being so far away from home, but I’m settling down now.

I hope you’re both well. Have you seen Molly lately?

I hope she is happy with her new bloke. She’s a lovely person, and deserves a good man to take care of her; someone with a regular job, who can give her the things she should have.

I imagine her mam is out of hospital and doing well?

Give them both my regards when you next see them, and give the kids a hug for me.

Lots of love. Take care of yourself,

Alfie.