‘Matt, it’s good to see you about again.’ Stan smiled broadly. ‘How are you feeling now?’

‘Stronger, thanks. I didn’t have time at Ma’s funeral, but I’d like to thank you both for getting me to the hospital so quickly.’

‘Think nothing of it.’ Fred gave a dismissive wave of his hand. ‘We’ve already had a note from you and a letter from your pa. Anyway, it’s us who should be thanking you for saving our Jen from hurt.’

Matt was struck by the way everyone from Forest Road referred to her as ‘our Jen’. She had adapted to their life so well that you would almost believe she had been born there – until you heard her speak, of course. ‘I’ve just been round to your place and Glad told me Jen was working here.’

‘That’s right.’ Fred came from behind the stall, put his hand on Matt’s shoulder and pointed further down. ‘See that crowd?’

He nodded.

‘You’ll find her there with old Bet.’

He could hear the laughter as he got near. When he reached the stall, he stood at the back of the group of people, watching with amusement. Like everyone else in the market, Jenny was swathed in just about every bit of clothing she possessed. Her nose was nearly as red as the scarf she was wearing, but she was laughing as she joked and cajoled people into buying from them. There wasn’t any attempt to hide her cultured accent, and Matt’s breath caught in his throat as he realized exactly how much she had changed. She was who she was, no pretence, no hiding her identity. This was Eugenie, who preferred to be called Jenny. She was secure in her new life, confident and loved. He didn’t know much about her father, but the rest of her family seemed to care little for her, except as an object to be manipulated. Though why that should be was still a mystery.

‘Come on, one and six for ten tea cloths. It’s a bargain! You won’t get an offer like that again – they’re going up to one and nine tomorrow.’

Jenny’s voice brought Matt out of his musing.

‘A tanner for six,’ someone shouted.

‘Now, now, sir.’ Jenny placed her hands on her hips. ‘That’s rather mean, isn’t it?’

‘It’s worse than that!’ Bet joined in and glared at the man in question. ‘You’re a tight old git, Jack. Surely you can spend a bit more than that on your lovely wife?’

The crowd roared in glee. ‘You tell ’im Bet.’

Matt couldn’t resist joining in. ‘I’ll give you two shillings for six!’ A hush fell on the crowd as they turned to stare at him. ‘And a kiss.’

‘Who from?’ Bet chortled. ‘My lovely young helper or me?’

‘Both of you, of course. I want value for my money.’