‘Don’t worry, Jen.’ Matthew smiled as he got back in the car and started the engine. ‘I’ll drive you straight back to the market when your business is finished.’

‘Thank you.’ She turned to Dwight and was surprised to see Luke there as well.

‘Hello, Jen, hope you don’t mind my coming along. Dwight has asked me to represent him here in London and briefed me on the legal position of your inheritance. If you need any professional advice, I can help. I’ll be keeping in close contact with him.’

She smiled her approval of this arrangement. ‘I will appreciate your help, because there is something I want to do, but don’t know how to go about it.’

‘What’s that?’ Dwight asked.

‘I want to buy the house I’m living in.’

‘Good idea. That’s a nice solid little place, from what I saw of it.’ Dwight glanced at Luke. ‘Your first job will be to look into that for Jenny.’

‘I’ll get on to it today. Who do you pay your rent to, Jen?’

She told him the name of the collection agency – Greenways – and watched him make notes in a small book.

A deep rumble of laughter came from Matt, and when Jenny glanced at him he winked at her. ‘Only recently passed his exams, and already he’s the efficient lawyer.’

They were soon at the imposing Stannard Bank in the City. Even the soot-stained façade couldn’t diminish the effect of the elegant pillared entrance and marble steps. Luke didn’t stay with them but dashed off, saying he had people to see.

‘I’ll wait in the car for you.’ Matthew helped her out.

‘Aren’t you coming in with us?’ She was rather nervous and wanted him with her. She had never had anything to do with banks before, and he was such a sensible man. It would be a comfort to have him to turn to if she was confused. ‘Please stay with me.’

He nodded and looked pleased that she had asked.

They were shown into a spacious office dominated by the largest oak desk she had ever seen. John stood up as soon as they entered and pulled forward another chair when he saw that his brother was with them.

They were soon settled, and she watched in fascination as John and Dwight dealt with the business side of the transfer of funds. It was difficult to believe this was happening to her, and she sat with her hands tightly clasped in her lap, leaning forward, drinking in every word. Matthew didn’t speak, and each time she glanced at him he smiled; she knew he was supporting her in his quiet way.