As the tears prickled her eyes once more, Flors sat up and prepared to get out of the bath. There was too much sadness to deal with today, without visiting that of the past. Oh, Cyrus, my beloved, if only you were by my side, at least some of this would be bearable then. Her thoughts turned to Ella, and she prayed that Cyrus, Paulo and Arnie would find Ella and Lonia and make them safe. Prayers tumbled from her – for her sons, especially Randie. Where is he, dear Lord? Please let us find out soon. And look after Freddy. Keep him safe. And Marjella, and Monty. Oh God, how am I to bear it all?

CHAPTER ELEVEN

The New Forest and London

Sibbie and Marjie

‘Wow, this is lovely.’ Sibbie gazed out of the window of the military bus that had picked them up at the station and brought them to the New Forest. Trees, tall and majestic, allowed the low winter sun to filter through the branches in rays that caused hazy shadows and lacy patterns to splash across the green banks lining the road.

They were on the way to a part of Lord Montagu’s estate that housed five different security departments. Their briefing had told them that each department would cover topics such as agent technique, clandestine life, personal security, communication in the field, how to maintain a cover story and how to act under police surveillance. All of which would have terrified Sibbie a few weeks back, but for which she now felt equipped.

‘It reminds me so much of the forests at home.’

There was a wistful note in Marjie’s voice. Many times, over the last few weeks, she had broken down, her worries for the safety of her parents and brothers almost consuming her, but Sibbie had learned that Marjie had an inner strength that she could call upon to get her through these times, and she knew that their tutors had all recognized this quality in her.

‘Marjie, I’ve been thinking: why don’t we ask permission to make a telephone call? Given the circumstances, I think it would be granted.’

‘No! Sibbie, haven’t you realized how fatal it would be to admit any form of weakness or need? We have to cope with whatever is thrown at us. It is only to you that I can unravel now and again. But you must never think to seek help for me.’