‘He’s nice and so brave.’ Ivy gave her a studied look. ‘You could marry him – you come from the same background.’

‘Eugenie Winford did, but I’m no longer that person. I’m Jenny Baker who comes from Lambeth and scrubs floors or works at the market to make a living.’ She smiled wryly. ‘I’m happier at the moment than I can ever remember being. I’m sad about my father and I miss Ma dreadfully, but I’ve got lovely memories of them. I don’t look ahead too far or yearn for things I can’t have.’

Ivy nodded. ‘We takes each day as it comes as well. Mum always says that it’s the best way. Her favourite saying is that it’s no use trying to cross your bridges before you get to them.’

‘Very wise. That’s something I’ve learnt over the last couple of years.’

‘Yes, Mum’s got good sense.’ ‘Ivy finished her tea. We wondered if you’d like to come in tonight for a chat instead of sitting by yourself.’

‘I’d love to, thanks.’

31

The car sped towards Southampton, his father driving, Luke in the front seat and himself in the back. Matt had insisted on going, as he was eager to see the American lawyer and find out what he wanted with Jenny.

They got lost trying to find the right dock, but, much to Matt’s delight, they arrived just as the Mauretania was approaching her berth. Although launched in 1906, she was still a magnificent sight. She had been painted white for her part-time cruises to exotic places like Bermuda, and, with the pale winter sun glinting on the four funnels, she was breathtaking.

There was a great deal of activity and shouting as the liner was eased into the berth, and the excitement was catching. Even Luke, who was laconic at the best of times, was chatting and pointing out what was happening as the huge ropes secured the liner in place.

John had sent a telegraph to the ship yesterday to let Mr Roberts know they would be meeting him. However, once the passengers began to disembark, Matt realized just how easy it would be to miss him, as they didn’t have any idea what he looked like. He turned to his father. ‘How are we going to find him in this crush?’

‘Leave it to me.’ Their father strode towards the liner and up the steps, pushing his way through the passengers coming down.

Luke grinned and shrugged his shoulders as their father disappeared from sight.

After no more than fifteen minutes he reappeared, talking to a spare-looking man of around fifty with a shock of white hair.

‘These are two of my sons, Luke and Matthew.’

‘I’m sure glad to meet you.’ His smile was warm and his handshake firm.

‘Shall we collect your luggage for you, sir?’ Luke asked.