‘There, there, ducky, don’t take on so.’ Ma struggled to her feet, putting an arm around Jenny’s shoulders. ‘You ain’t a burden to me or anyone else. I couldn’t manage without you. You’re doing just fine and I’m right proud of you.’ Ma kissed the top of her head. ‘Dry your tears, have a slice of my bread, and go and have a nice kip. You’ll feel better then.’

‘You’re right.’ Jenny took a slice of bread from Ma’s plate and munched in silence. As she swallowed the last mouthful, she gave a watery smile.

‘That’s better. Now off you go. I’ll clear the table.’

Without another word, Jenny dragged herself upstairs, feeling totally exhausted, mentally and physically.

20

Three hours of sound sleep had helped to ease the tension of Ted Roper’s death. But Jenny still hurt inside. It felt as if she were bruised right through. Up until the last two years she had led a sheltered and privileged life; now she was among the harsh realities of the working classes. This was a tough way to learn about real life, though it was a lesson worth learning. She had changed so much, and quite honestly she liked Jenny Baker much more than Eugenie Winford. Eugenie had been a frightened child; Jenny was a mature, strong woman, and gaining in wisdom all the time. She could now see life from both sides of the coin, and her love and respect for all those who lived from day to day in the poorest conditions was enormous.

When she walked into the kitchen, Ma had a pot of tea already made.

‘I heard you moving around and thought you’d like a cuppa.’ Ma eyed her perceptively. ‘Good, you’re feeling better.’

‘Much, thank you, Ma.’ Jenny smiled as Ma poured tea for them both. She was touched by this gesture, for she knew how difficult it was for Ma to do anything now. ‘I’ll just drink this and then do some shopping.’

‘How much money we got left, ducky?’

Jenny took the old Oxo tin from the shelf and opened it. ‘Three shillings and tuppence. We’ll manage fine on that.’

Ma nodded in approval. ‘You’ve become a real good shopper, Jen.’

‘I give the shopkeepers a bright smile and sometimes they slip in something extra.’ Jenny laughed at how crafty she was becoming.

‘I’m not surprised,’ Ma cackled. ‘You’re turning into a real beauty. A bit skinny, but a lovely girl none the less.’

‘My goodness, Ma, first I have tea made for me and now compliments.’ Jenny mopped her brow in mock amazement.

They were both laughing when there was a knock on the front door.

‘Come in!’ Ma called. Nothing happened.

‘Give me a hand to the front room.’ Ma got unsteadily to her feet.