‘That is not important. It is not I who has to live with him. Is there no improvement in his attitude?’

‘No, none, I…’ Kerensa’s eyes sprinkled with tears and she wiped them away with the side of her hand. ‘I just cannot get through to him.’

‘We will have to hope and pray that time will do what is necessary for Oliver’s sense of fairness to return. What I do not understand is why he has not been to see the Drannocks. I thought he would have rushed there straightaway.’

‘I was afraid he would,’ Kerensa admitted. ‘I believe he is hurt deep down inside by Samuel’s dislike of him. Probably thinks that Jenifer shares the same feelings and Bartholomew might too if he was told. No matter what the other children may want, Bartholomew’s too strong-willed for them to go against him. I think Oliver may be afraid to face their possible rejection. His hurt goes so deep. He’s biding his time, I think, waiting for what he hopes will be the right moment. I only pray to God that when the time comes it doesn’t make matters worse.’

‘I’m not saying this as empty words of comfort, Kerensa, but I rather think Bartholomew would not share his father’s views. I have a strong feeling he had only a little love for Samuel.’

Kerensa looked thoughtful. ‘Yes, I have spoken to him once or twice this year and he told me as much. He definitely wants more out of life for his family. I sometimes think it would be the best thing if Oliver was to go and see the Drannocks and bring it all out in the open and see what happens. If their reaction was favourable it might be the very thing to bring Oliver back to normal.’

‘To heal his wounds and fill the vacuum in his mind,’ added the Reverend.

‘Yes, and then we might be able to do something for Jenifer.’

‘I called on that poor woman yesterday. I fear her condition is worsening,’ the Reverend said, rubbing the back of his fingers down his withered throat. ‘We may be able to do something for her, as you say, if Oliver was to approach her and if Bartholomew talked her round. Do you think we could suggest to Oliver that he sees them?’

‘We must never do that,’ Kerensa uttered fearfully. ‘Better to let Oliver do what he wants when he wants at the moment.’

‘Of course, of course,’ nodded the parson, acknowledging Kerensa’s hopelessness.