She laughed. It was so lovely to hear him talk just like her father. ‘Perhaps I’ll come next year.’ She turned her attention back to business and said to John, ‘When will I be able to use some of the money?’

‘It will take a few days, but you can have anything you want straight away. How much would you like?’

‘Erm …’ Jenny did a calculation in her head. New shoes and a coat were a necessity. Then there was a chicken for all her friends in Forest Road, so they could have a decent Christmas dinner, and she was sure Glad would help her make loads of puddings to share out. Some decorations … ‘Could I have five pounds, please?’

‘That isn’t much.’ John smiled kindly. ‘Let’s make it ten guineas, shall we?’

‘Yes, please, if that’s all right.’ It sounded an awful lot to her, but she would be able to buy the children presents as well, and perhaps herself a new frock. She picked at the threadbare skirt over her knees. Yes, definitely a new frock!

John called in a cashier and she soon had ten one pound notes and ten shillings, which she put carefully in her purse. She’d be able to do such a lot with this.

‘Any time you need more, just come in and see a cashier or ask for me.’ John stood up.

She did the same and shook his hand enthusiastically. She had always believed John was lacking in humour and kindness, but this wasn’t true. In their own ways, all the brothers were kind.

They said goodbye to John and returned to the car. On their way to the market, Jenny twisted round to look at Dwight. ‘When are you returning to New York?’

‘I have a passage booked for tomorrow. I sail at three o’clock from Southampton. I shall only just make it back in time for Christmas with my family.’

‘Oh, I’m sorry you can’t stay longer. Would you take a present back for the boys Hal and Rob – my half-brothers?’ she added proudly. ‘There’s a man in the market who sells wonderful hand-made toys. I’m sure we could find something there they’d like.’

‘Sure thing. I’d love to have a walk round to see if I can find something cute for my wife.’

Jenny turned back, felt the money in her purse and grinned at Matthew, who winked at her.

‘What else are you going to buy?’ he asked.

‘Shoes, coat, perhaps a frock. I can get them at the market quite cheap.’

Dwight chuckled. ‘I thought you’d be dashing off to the fashionable stores.’

She gave him a horrified look. ‘Certainly not! Where would I wear such creations?’

‘One smart dress might be a good idea, Jen.’ Matthew concentrated on the road ahead as he spoke. ‘Someone might ask you out to dinner and a show.’