Judy cleared her throat in order to gain their attention. ‘I think I have an idea.’

Chapter Fourteen

At that moment the door opened and Toby strolled into the parlour. Minnie leaped to her feet to embrace her husband.

‘You’re home early, darling. The girls have only just gone to bed if you want to go upstairs and give them a good night kiss.’

Toby smiled and gave her a gentle hug. ‘Yes, I will, in a minute, but it looks as though I’ve interrupted something. What’s going on?’

‘Ben and Judy have been to Sarah Holden’s establishment in Limehouse. Ben says he’s going to work there for nothing. What do you think of that?’ Minnie resumed her seat, gazing up at her husband as she waited for his response.

‘I think it’s a splendid idea, although it’s not going to solve your money problems, Ben.’ Toby walked to the side table where a decanter and glasses were laid out in readiness. He filled four glasses and handed them round before taking a seat. ‘It’s been a long day.’ He sipped his drink, eyeing Judy curiously. ‘I believe you were about to say something when I walked in and interrupted you.’

‘I was shocked when I saw the state of the people in Sarah’s care, and I think Ben is a hero if he’s willing to give his time to help them.’

‘But even a hero has to eat, and there will be creditors wanting their money back,’ Minnie said softly. ‘You said you had an idea.’

‘Ben is obviously very good at persuading people to invest their money, so why not continue with the quest to create a new hospital?’ Judy looked at each of them, gauging their reaction. ‘It seems to me that a charitable institution in the poorest part of London would be far more appropriate. I think Ben could use his persuasive powers to convince his investors that this is a far better plan, and that their money will be put to good use.’

Ben frowned. ‘But I couldn’t promise any profit on the scheme, excellent though it may be.’

‘They’re all wealthy people, aren’t they? They would benefit from knowing that they were doing something good for those who were less fortunate. I would gladly give up my time to work with Sarah had I not responsibilities at home.’

‘I’m flattered that you think so highly of my persuasive powers, Judy,’ Ben said seriously, ‘but I can’t share your optimism. I think the investors who believed in me will turn away, especially when I can’t repay them.’

‘I think you’re wrong. If you put it to them that you will give your time for nothing in order to help the poor and desperate, how could they argue with that?’

‘Judy has a point,’ Minnie said thoughtfully. ‘What do you think, Toby?’

‘It’s certainly worth a try, considering the mess that Ben has got himself into. Sorry, old chap, I don’t mean to sound harsh, but you must expect some people to be cynical.’