Then Harriet glanced at the clock. ‘Got to go. I’ll come round to see you in a day or two. Let Mum and me know when you move back home.’

Her great-niece’s visit had left Elise feeling much more cheerful. How a sourpuss like Mary and a dull man like Ian could produce such a lively, cheerful young daughter surprised her every time she saw the family together.

By the time Gordon arrived, Elise had packed her things, cleared up the kitchen and was ready to leave. He looked brisk and successful, was wearing a black tie and was accompanied by his chief clerk Peter.

Elise took the initiative the minute they came through the door. ‘I’m ready to leave. I’ve only to call a taxi.’

‘There’s no need for you to rush away, Mrs Carlton. You could stay for a day or two longer if you wished, though my uncle did arrange to have the funeral from here, so if you can be out by Thursday …’

‘I might as well go now. I’ve got a lot to do at home.’

‘Could we sit down a few moments? I’ve something to tell you.’

She led the way into the sitting room. They waited for her to sit down. Gordon not only looked like his uncle had as a younger man, he had the same good manners.

‘I have to be blunt, I’m afraid. How are you going to manage? Victor said you were short of money.’

‘Short, yes, but not completely without.’ She’d decided to pawn some of her jewellery but they didn’t need to know that.

‘You won’t be able to drive yet, either.’

‘No. But I will in a couple of weeks.’

‘My uncle knew he was failing fast, so he changed his will and left you a little money.’ He held up one hand to stop her protesting. ‘Not a lot, just enough to tide you over till you can sell your house and find somewhere more suitable to live.’

She had to dab away the tears before she could reply. ‘Oh, how kind of him! But I can’t take Victor’s money.’

‘It’s in the will; you can’t avoid taking it. And I approve.’

‘Oh.’

‘He suggested I give you an advance on it if the worst happened, though he was hoping he’d live for another few months.’

‘He never said how ill he was. He was as cheerful as usual, just a little slower. I enjoyed his company greatly.’

‘And he enjoyed yours. I want to thank you for making his last few weeks so happy. He was extremely fond of you.’

She had to blow her nose at that or she’d have wept, which wouldn’t do. She had to be strong from now on. ‘He saved me from being forced into a care home and gave me a respite here till this got better.’ She indicated her hip. ‘I’ll be able to drive soon and then things will be a lot easier. In the meantime, thank goodness for online shopping. At least I’m online at home. Victor never really took to the Internet.’