The smile fell from her apple cheeks and her jowls quivered. ‘War, sir? I heard some such gossip over the bank holiday. Demonstrations in Trafalgar Square and the like reported in the newspaper. But I ask you, Dr Smith, will it stop the hens laying? I think not.’ She smoothed her spotless apron and folded her hands over her round belly. ‘Mr Cooper can’t see as it will make any difference to ’is pigs but, to be honest, I’d be worried if I had a son of soldiering age.’ She glanced at Arthur.

Father patted his cravat then slipped out of his smoking jacket. ‘We’re an island, therefore in danger of siege in the event of war reaching our shores. I’m going to take you all into town to buy as much sugar, tea, bully beef and flour as you can carry before it’s in short supply. Starving people out has won many a battle and we must make sure it never happens here. Gertie, go and get dressed right away.’

Though reluctant to miss the conversation, I did. Breakfast was rushed, then Father took us into town in the automobile. Dover thronged with like-minded people. Both lower and upper decks of the trams were overflowing, and one would wonder how the conductor got around. Queues of shoppers snaked out of doorways and onto the streets. Posters, pasted onto walls and windows, called for able-bodied men to sign up and defend the Empire. Everywhere buzzed with excitement, fervour, urgency.

*

Arthur came home that evening and at dinner announced that he had joined the army. ‘I’ll work two weeks’ notice at Frister & Sons, then I’m off to training camp. Honestly, I won’t miss being an accountant one little bit.’

Mother, who was serving squab pie, clattered the dish to the table. ‘No! You could get shot by one of those nasty Huns. Father, tell him he can’t go, you won’t allow it.’

*

Sissy went into town with Arthur the next morning, the first day of his official notice at Frister & Sons. According to Arthur’s account over dinner that evening, she marched into the office after him and spoke boldly to Mr Frister Snr.

‘I’ve come to offer my services, sir,’ she said, looking the old man in the eye. ‘I’m prepared to work with my brother, without pay, until he leaves, then step into his place until his return at the end of the war.’

‘Have you lost your senses? This is no place for a girl. Go home to your mother!’ demanded Mr Frister.

‘With respect, sir, whoever replaces Arthur is also likely to sign up before long and, as a consequence, you will be obliged to start training someone new again. The sensible thing would be for you to employ me, I’m a quick learner and will be a loyal and trustworthy employee.’