Olivia laughed, incredulous. ‘Josephine, a compliant nature is desirable, but allow the girl her dignity.’

‘You misunderstand, Olivia. A certain indignity is good for her. Humility is a vital part of what is imparted here, and thus soothes the more savage instincts that only cause conflict within the self. Knowing one’s role and accepting one’s place is the only path to peace for all of us.’

It was to prove an appropriate introduction, for Olivia overcame her reservations, and was to have her foot upon my back for several years thereafter.

THIRTY-FIVE

aven found himself standing in another alley, but on this occasion felt no threat bar that posed by the rubbish heap emitting an unmerciful variety of noxious odours. His companion was being discreetly sick, if such a thing were possible, but it was daylight and no strong drink had been taken.

He handed Sarah his handkerchief and she wiped her mouth. Raven wondered how she planned to explain this sudden illness: would she attempt a lie, or would she come clean, confirming what he already suspected?

‘Are you all right?’ he asked.

‘I am fine.’ Her reply was emphatic, defensive.

‘Emesis is not usually a sign of good health,’ he said gently, offering her the chance to explain.

She ignored this, refusing to be drawn. He decided not to push her; it would be better that she tell him in her own time. But why was she keeping it from him? He was a doctor after all, a man-midwife no less, and so unlikely to miss the signs. Was it the pregnancy itself or the fact that she was refusing to confide in him that bothered him more? In truth he could not say. He missed how they used to be, how open they were with each other. He could not expect otherwise now that she was married and carrying another man’s child. A child she would probably have to raise alone. Another thing she would not talk about.

They emerged from the alleyway onto Broughton Street. At the end of the morning clinic, Sarah had seemed unusually quiet and Raven suggested that she accompany him. He had a visit to make and thought some air might do her good. He realised it would also provide a chance for them to talk, there being little opportunity for uninterrupted conversation during working hours at Queen Street. She readily agreed, which had surprised him.

As they walked, they resumed the discussion which had been abruptly curtailed by Sarah’s sudden need to void the contents of her stomach.

‘Have you heard anything more about the missing money?’ he asked.

‘No. Have you?’

She sounded eager, clearly hoping his question had been a mere overture to revealing a significant discovery.

Raven shook his head.