‘It’s a most worthy cause.’ Toby nodded emphatically. ‘I will divide my time between Creek Manor and Harley Street. I’ve talked it over with Minnie and she’s thrilled at the prospect. I know that both she and the girls will benefit from living in the countryside.’

‘Will you move here permanently?’ Judy asked eagerly. ‘I’d love to see Minnie and the girls more often, and Daisy will be delighted.’

‘City living isn’t for my wife, and I’d like to see more of my sister and her family.’ Toby turned to Ben Godfrey. ‘You’re quite keen to leave London as well, aren’t you?’

‘The hospital was my dream in the first place.’ Ben gave Judy an apologetic smile. ‘But I went about it the wrong way, and for that I’m truly sorry. I’ve been working at night covering several of the east London hospitals, and I’ve paid back most of the money I misused, so you see I’m not such a bad fellow, Judy.’

‘I never thought you were,’ Judy said hastily. ‘But how will you fund this project? And will it be for private patients only?’

‘I’ve been working with several charitable institutions.’ Rob produced a leather document case and took out a sheaf of papers. ‘They are prepared to donate funds for the erection and running of the hospital, and I’ve applied for charitable status, so we can raise money in our own right. Those who can pay will have a private wing and that will help to support the wards for those who cannot.’

‘There’s only one flaw in that proposal,’ Toby said, frowning. ‘None of us will have the time to chase donors for money. The four of us will be fully occupied with running the hospital.’

Judy glanced at Rob and, as if reading her thoughts, he gave her an encouraging smile. ‘I haven’t any experience of that sort of thing, but I’d be more than willing to try.’ She leaped to her feet. ‘I would love to have the opportunity to do something really worthwhile, and I believe in the project heart and soul. I’m sure I could persuade wealthy people to part with their money for such a good cause.’

There was a moment of silence and she could see that all, with the exception of Rob, had been taken by surprise.

‘I could do it,’ she reiterated boldly. ‘I was lucky enough to have a good education. Jack was lazy and didn’t want to learn and so I was allowed to share lessons with him, and it brought out his competitive spirit. He didn’t want to be beaten by a girl, let alone a servant. Besides which, I’m not really needed at the inn now that Molly and Jack have virtually taken over. I want to be part of your plans because I believe in what you’re doing.’ She sank down on her chair, waiting for someone to speak.

‘If you’re serious, Judy, I can give you a list of people who might be interested in donating,’ Toby said slowly. ‘I’m on several committees in London, and Minnie is a keen fund-raiser. I’m sure she would be only too pleased to help you. She’s always complaining that she has too little to occupy her mind.’