‘That would be wonderful. I would feel so much better knowing that he is safe.’

‘Yes, and he could be very useful to us: his knowledge of the area will be used; he will be brought into the office, given the status of an officer and will work with us on what we are trying to achieve in the area. Not only that, but M has promised to do all he can to locate Randolph.’

‘Really! And does Mama know this?’

‘Yes, M told her everything. She was very professional and thanked him, even though it was clear that all she’d been told was tearing at her emotions. She really would make an excellent agent. You share her qualities. How you handled knowing that your mother was here, and that you were refused permission to contact her, has greatly impressed M. It demonstrates that you are the right calibre of person for the job.’

Marjie and Sibbie felt elated and began to really enjoy the rest of their day, even more so than they had until now. By suppertime they were a little merry, laughing at the silliest things as if they were children, as they ate delicious canapés from the silver platters on which they were presented.

When Wills wound up the gramophone, once the remains of the food had been cleared away, Sibbie decided it was time for her to retire. To her amusement, neither Marjie nor Wills protested. ‘Would you like a hot drink bringing up to you, Sibbie?’

‘No, just a jug of water, thanks, Wills.’

‘You’ll find that by your bedside already, and your bed will be turned down for you. Have a good night’s sleep, Sibbie, and thank you for a lovely day.’

Marjie stood up then and gave Sibbie a hug. As she did so, Sibbie felt a deep longing in her heart, for she so wished she could be with her Paulo. To know him as Marjie knew Wills. To be shown his love for her, in the way that Wills had shown his love for Marjie. The feeling was almost too painful to bear.

Always in tune to Sibbie’s feelings, Marjie walked with her to the stairs. There she took her hands. ‘It won’t be long now, darling Sibbie. I feel certain, from what Wills said about my father and other things, that we are going to Hérault. It makes sense anyway, as the Resistance is active in that area, and we both know the area so well. Then you will be reunited with your Paulo and can express the love you feel for one another, but have only been able to speak of till now.’