‘I want to propose a toast to Jen,’ Ma said, claiming everyone’s attention. ‘This young girl has made my life worth living again. She takes my sharp tongue in her stride, never taking umbrage, and I know she finds the work and poverty hard, but she just gets on with it.’ Ma cackled. ‘The only time I’ve ever heard her complain is when she tells me I cheat at cards.’

That made everyone laugh.

‘Didn’t take her long to suss you out, then, Ma,’ Fred remarked.

Ma’s face broke into a grin. ‘Ah, she’s right bright. Anyway, she’s real good to me and I wants to thank her properly. Here’s to you, ducky, and I hopes and prays that your future will be bright, with lots of love and good friends.’

Jenny gazed at each in turn as they drank her health, and smiled. ‘I’ve already got those things.’

Ma unpinned a small brooch from her dress and handed it to Jenny. It was a circle of tiny pearls, inexpensive but pretty.

‘Oh, Ma,’ she gasped, ‘I can’t take this. You ought to give it to one of your own family.’ She knew this was much valued by Ma, because she wore it every day.

‘Ain’t got none, Jen. My hubby and me only had one daughter, and she died of diphtheria when she was three. That was a present from my Tommy when we wed, and now I’m getting near the end of my time I wants you to have it. I got enough insurance to give me a simple funeral so that won’t be needed.’ Ma gave her a stern look. ‘And I don’t want no arguing about it. I’ve given it to you in front of my friends ’cause I want them to know it’s yours now.’

Her eyes misted over as she hugged Ma. ‘It’s the most precious gift I’ve ever received, but are you sure there isn’t anyone else you’d rather give it to?’

Ma shook her head. ‘Since my Bessie died you’re the nearest to a daughter I’ve ever had. You’ve brought a ray of sunshine into my life and it’s right you should have it.’

‘I’m honoured,’ Jenny said huskily, quite overcome by this very special gift. But even more special were the sentiments expressed in the giving. She pinned it to her frock.

‘That looks right nice on you.’ Ma nodded in approval. ‘I’ve kept it out of the pawnbroker’s hands all these years, so I’m going to ask you not to pop it, Jen.’

‘I wouldn’t dream of parting with it.’ She pulled the pendant from under her blouse and held it out for Ma to see. ‘My father gave me this and it’s my insurance. If I desperately need money any time, this will go to the pawnbroker’s.’