The gentle sway of the train, and the rhythm of its wheels on the track, soon lulled Sibbie to sleep. A sleep in which she dreamed she was running across a field and Paulo was running towards her. Happiness filled her, until they reached each other and Paulo suddenly disappeared. Anguish got her waking for a moment, only to fall back to sleep almost immediately and for the dream to resume. Now they were together in a beautiful, peaceful light, holding hands, and Paulo was looking into her eyes. ‘We’ll never be apart again, my darling Sibbie.’

The next time she woke, Sibbie checked her watch and found it was five in the morning. She could see nothing through the windows, as it was still dark. Sitting up, she couldn’t understand the unsettled feeling that haunted her from her dream. Shaking it off, she decided to go to the bathroom a few carriages down and freshen up, before Marjie woke.

By the time this was done, Sibbie had rationalized her feelings and laughed at herself. If the dream could come true, she’d be the happiest person alive, though she hoped the part where Paulo disappeared never, ever happened.

‘Eeh, lass, it’s good to see you. Your ma’s going to be over the moon. And this here is Marjella. My, you’re a pretty lass, just like that photo Mags showed me of your ma. Now, let me give you a cuddle, Sibbie lass. Eeh, I’ve missed you.’

Aunt Betsy’s cuddles were always comforting. Her huge, soft bosom was like a cushion of love to Sibbie and had, on many an occasion, eased her distress if something had upset her. Just to be snuggled into Aunt Betsy was a good feeling.

‘Now, Sibbie lass, your ma’s in the shop. We have a different set-up in there. We’re using the storeroom at the back as a workroom where we make warm clothing to send to the Red Cross. By, it’s grand work. We make socks and woolly vests, and scarves and hats. Our outworkers help, and some of the youngsters of the village an’ all. They knit squares, which we sew together to make blankets.’

‘Well, you have been busy. Daisy told us you were both going to make an effort for the war. I think what you are doing is wonderful. And I’m glad you’re busy, and coping.’

‘It helps, let’s put it that way, but an aching heart for you all is my constant companion.’

Sibbie took Betsy into her arms this time and held her close. ‘We have it to do, Aunt Betsy. And remember, you prepared your children – and Mum prepared me – for whatever we came up against in life, so we’re all well equipped to cope.’

‘I hope so, lass, I hope so.’