‘Then we have double the hope, as she is much more likely to be a match, or to have compatible blood.’

‘I’ll make a telephone call and check if Paulo’s sister, Lonia, is on her way; if not, I’ll make sure she is brought down very soon.’

‘Lonia’s an unusual name.’

‘It’s of Polish origin. Paulo and Lonia’s mother is Polish.’

‘Hmm, it might be worth me talking to the doctors about the possibility of testing Polish airmen based at Northolt, and any French officers. I say “officers” because they are usually in one place that has been designated especially to take officers – a stately home or something like that – though I would need to find out where, whereas the lower ranks of French soldiers are taken wherever they can be found a bed. It’s a long shot, as we know so little about blood groups and hereditary traits, but we’re learning all the time. And desperate situations call for desperate measures, as you well know.’

Flors nodded. Hope had risen in her, with the spirit of determination that she saw in Sister Baker. ‘May I use your telephone, Sister?’

When given permission, Flors asked the operator to put her through to Mags’s number in Scotland, in the hope that her friend, Betsy, would answer.

‘Hello, Stranraer three-o-three.’

‘Is that you, Betsy? This is Flors, Mags’s friend.’

‘Aye, Betsy here. Is owt wrong? Is Mags all right?’

‘I’m sure she’s fine; she hasn’t arrived yet, though. When did they leave, and have they brought Lonia with them?’

‘They’ve been gone a good few hours. They should be on the train to London by now. And aye, they have the lass with them. Poor Ella thought it best, as it would do Paulo good to see Lonia – she’s a tonic that one. How is he, have you seen him?’

‘Yes, he’s very ill and needs all our prayers. But thank God Lonia is coming. There’s a problem with his blood type; it’s hard to explain, but between them, Ella and Lonia may be the answer to saving Paulo.’

‘Eeh, that sounds complicated to me. But whatever you’re talking about, I’ll pray it is so, and I’ll pray for the lad. And I’m sorry – very sorry – about the circumstances. Me heart’s with you all.’

‘Thank you, Betsy. It’s nice to talk to you. I’ve heard so much about you.’

‘By, I hope it’s all been good. Not that it could be.’ Betsy laughed, but then became serious again. ‘How’s me Sibbie? Is she going to be all right?’

‘Physically, yes, but emotionally we’ve yet to see. She’s being very brave, but . . . well, she and Paulo are in love.’