‘Now, while this may not to be to everyone’s liking,’ he continued, ‘I can assure you it is perfect for a hot summer’s evening. Lavender is of course my dear sister’s favourite flower, so I do hope you will enjoy its distinctive zesty flavour. I’ve no doubt you will agree it certainly has the edge on my potato wine and I’m sure you will appreciate its fine bouquet. So, ladies and gentlemen, friends one and all, and with thanks for your support during another successful school year, the toast is – Ragley School.’

‘Ragley School,’ echoed the throng.

Sadly, Joseph was still a novice winemaker, unaware of the wild yeasts that can abound on fruit and taint the air with an unpleasant aroma. Consequently, a bouquet similar to rotting mushrooms and damp dishcloths swiftly met the nostrils of those assembled, and not surprisingly the generous quantities in the tall glasses found their way in rapid and surreptitious succession into a variety of flower beds and plant tubs.

Throughout the evening conversations ebbed and flowed until a relaxed and happy occasion came to its close. It was almost time to leave when Tom approached Lily.

‘I wondered if you had heard the news about Stan Coe? We’ve got him at last for dangerous driving and he will certainly lose his licence.’

‘Yes, I’ve just heard. Thank goodness. He deserves whatever is coming to him.’

Tom studied her face and took the plunge. ‘Lily … I was hoping you might be free for a drive.’

‘A drive?’

‘In my new car.’

Lily could sense the eagerness in his voice. ‘So you finally bought your car?’

‘Yes, and it’s still a beautiful evening.’

‘I’m not sure …’

He leaned forward and whispered, ‘It’s important.’

Then he went off to offer his thanks to Vera.

The observant Millicent Merryweather had spotted the close attentions of Tom Feather towards Lily and came over and spoke softly to her.

‘Lily, do you want a lift – or have you other plans?’

Lily looked thoughtful. ‘Thank you, Milly, but Tom has just asked me to take a drive with him.’

Millicent smiled. ‘That’s fine. See you soon.’

When Tom returned he saw Millicent walking towards her car and glancing back at him expectantly. He looked at Lily and smiled. ‘So you’re coming with me? Thank you.’

They walked across the courtyard towards the vicarage gate. ‘It’s here,’ he said.

Lily saw his new car and felt a great sadness. She knew he was so proud and wished to impress her, but it was wrong to encourage this fine man.

‘Do you mind if we walk instead – just for a little while?’

There was a moment of disappointment, but Tom seemed undeterred. ‘Very well.’