‘How about a bit of spinach?’ Stan grinned. ‘That’ll build up Ma’s strength.’

The look Jenny gave him was one of mock horror. ‘Do you think that’s a good idea? Her language is getting terrible again. And she’s told Glad to warn everyone not to mess up her step at the meeting tonight.’

The men roared. ‘That sounds more like the Ma Adams we all know,’ Fred said, winking at Jenny with affection. ‘I don’t think she’d have lasted this winter without you.’

‘I wasn’t going to let her die, because for all her cussed ways I do love her.’ Jenny opened her purse. ‘How much do I owe you?’

‘Nothing.’

As Fred turned away, Jenny caught hold of his arm. ‘I won’t take the veg unless you let me pay. I’ve got enough money.’

‘All right, Jen, just give us a tanner.’

She gave him a shilling, disappearing into the crowd before he could protest. Her next stop was the butcher, Mr Walters. He also sold fish, and Jenny went to see what he had in today.

‘Hello, Jen,’ Mr Walters greeted her. ‘How’s Ma now?’

‘Getting stronger every day. I thought I’d buy her a piece of smoked haddock.’ She smiled at the shopkeeper, suddenly realizing that the whole community had really accepted her. And it wasn’t because of wealth or social position. They had taken Jenny Baker to their hearts because they liked her. It was a wonderful feeling.

He cut off a slice of fish and held it up. ‘How’s that, or do you want a bit more?’

‘No, that’s lovely, thanks.’

‘I hear you and Ivy have lost your jobs,’ he said, as he wrapped the haddock.

‘I’m afraid so.’ After a quick check of the money she had left in her purse, Jenny said, ‘I’ll take four of your pork sausages as well, please.’

‘I’ve got a nice ham bone if you’d like it to make a stew with. It’s still got a bit of meat on it.’

‘Oh, I’d like that. How much?’

‘Tuppence to you, Jen.’ Mr Walters smiled gently. ‘Can’t have Ma going downhill again, can we?’

‘Dear me, no,’ Jenny replied drily as she put the purchases in the basket. After paying Mr Walters, she left with a wave of her hand and headed for the grocer’s and baker’s. She really was doing very well with the shopping today, and the ham bone was a real treat. She might even be able to make the stew do for three days! They would have some nourishing food for a few days, and that was as far ahead as she was prepared to look at the moment. It would be interesting to see what happened at the meeting tonight.