Ma was fast asleep in her chair after a lunch of stew and dumplings. Jenny put more coal on the fire, kissed Ma gently on the cheek, being careful not to wake her, and stepped outside into the cold biting wind. She hoped Edna was going to be able to come; if she didn’t, then she would see the film anyway.

But she need not have worried; her friend was already there. They bought their tickets and hurried into the warmth of the cinema.

‘I’ve got things to tell you,’ Edna whispered as they took their seats. ‘We’ll find a tea shop after the film’s over and talk then.’

There wasn’t time to say anything else, because the lights dimmed and the programme started. Jenny settled back with a smile on her face. She was going to enjoy this treat.

First there was a ‘B’ cowboy film and then the main Laurel and Hardy one. It was hilarious, and Jenny couldn’t remember when she had laughed so much.

Edna was grinning when they came out. ‘Blooming funny pair, ain’t they? Now let’s get that cuppa. I’m gasping.’

There was a café almost next to the cinema, and they went in there.

‘You said you had something to tell me,’ Jenny said, when they’d found an empty table and ordered.

‘It’s about your mum. The girl I know got talking to the housemaid in your aunt’s house. She said Mrs Winford was all right and walking out with a very wealthy man. He’s old, though.’

‘Who?’ Jenny asked eagerly.

‘She didn’t say, but there’s talk of a wedding in the offing. If it’s true, then it sounds as if your mum’s going to do all right for herself.’

Jenny sat back stunned but pleased with the news. ‘An elderly man with pots of money will make her very happy.’ She ordered another slice of fruit cake for each of them. After that startling news she was starving! ‘Will you let me know if you hear anything else?’

‘Of course.’ Edna poured them both a second cup of tea. ‘Oh, and another thing. Mrs Stannard said that I was to tell you that she would be happy to help you find a job somewhere as a personal maid. She probably knows lots of families who would take you on, Jen.’

‘No, I’ve told you I won’t leave Ma.’

‘They’re really sorry about what’s happened to you, and would be only too happy to help you, but I understand how you feel. You’ve grown right fond of this woman, haven’t you?’