‘Hold on, before you get on to that,’ Aunt Hatt said. ‘There’s a letter with it.’

She opened a sheet of thick, butter-coloured paper and read it standing up, as if declaring an edict.

‘Dear Mr Ebenezer Watts,’ she read, tilting the paper towards the light.

A thousand thanks for the exquisite portraits of my beloved daughters, which your manufactory has created for me with such artistry. My wife and I are full of delight at the sight of them, and such fine examples of your English craftsmanship add much beauty and joy to our home.

‘Ah,’ Eb said, looping his fingers in his braces and sitting back in satisfaction. “English craftsmanship”. That’s it.’

Aunt Hatt frowned slightly and said, ‘Shoosh, Eb.’

As a token of my appreciation, I am sending a musical toy from Germany – also, I think you will agree, most excellent in execution.

My cousin, Friedrich Schmale, asked me to convey to you his fond regards. He is now established in a new home with his wife Hilde from where he runs his business but also delights in walking in the mountains.

It is my hope that one day our paths will cross and that I shall be able to visit in person.

I remain your grateful servant,

Herr Klaus von Titz

‘Shame,’ Eb said woozily, ‘going about with a name like that. Sounds a nice enough bloke, though.’

Aunt Hatt sank into her chair. ‘Well, that’s nice. And it sounds as if poor old Freddie Small has settled down, anyway.’

They all looked at Annie, who shrugged, blushing.

‘Going about breaking hearts,’ Uncle Eb teased her.

‘Well, let’s hope he has,’ Margaret said, feeling rather sorry for him all the same.

Later, she went next door with a little parcel for Daisy, containing drawing materials and a bar of sweet-smelling soap. Knocking at the door of number twenty-four, she felt her spirits soar. Here she stood, light and joyful, released from all the burdens she had carried for so long. Looking up at the chipped black door, she thought, this is to be my new home – and any moment now, he will come, my Philip, and we shall be together!

The door swung open and Philip, dressed in his best Sunday suit, beamed at her, reaching for her hand. As soon as he had closed the door behind them, he drew her into his arms in the hall.

‘A good moment to come,’ he whispered. ‘Little’un’s out the back – she’ll come charging in in a moment. Gives me a second to say happy Christmas properly.’

They kissed, briefly, then held each other tight.

‘I’m so happy, she said, looking up at him. ‘My dear, dear Philip. Happy Christmas!’

‘And New Year and new life,’ he said joyously. ‘As long as you are here, Margaret. That’s all I ask.’