Will did not have the heart to go over the whole story again, so he merely said, ‘She has gone away for a few days, Mrs S. It’s like Victoria Station here at the moment, all too much for her.’

‘I am sure. Her nerves are not good, are they, Mr Stonebridge?’

‘No, they are not good at all.’ He paused for a moment, his mind returning to the tiny piece of linen. He said tentatively, ‘Have you ever seen my wife carrying an old Victorian doll?’

‘No, I can’t say that I have. She used to visit quite frequently but sadly, since my troubles began, I haven’t seen much of her at all. Well, not to talk to, that is. I have certainly seen her on the marsh. She spends a lot of time out there, and on the fen paths. Maybe a bit too much? It’s a lonely place, and if you have problems, I don’t think you’ll find healthy answers in all that solitude. Anyway, listen to me going on like a demented old fishwife! Forget the letter, Mr Stonebridge, just send it on when it’s convenient to you. It will only be confirmation of a letter that I sent to my solicitor about putting my cottage on the market. I had asked them to deal with the sale if I do.’

‘You’re selling up?’ Will said.

‘I’m not sure yet, but I think I probably will. I should get a good price for it. It’s in excellent condition for such an old cottage and as Liz said, if you like remote, it’s in a lovely spot. I think it has retained its old-world charm, even with all the improvements my husband and I made to it.’ She laughed sadly. ‘Despite my objections, my dear husband always insisted on having the best of everything. Apart from the expensive heating system, even his garage has an inspection pit and a workroom. Well, at least it will help me get a fair price for it.’

Will felt the hairs rise at the back of his neck. Why was that? ‘Have you told anyone else about this, Mrs S?’

‘Only my friend here. Why?’

‘I’m not sure,’ he mused. ‘Have you had anyone ask about the cottage? Anyone make you an offer for it recently?’

‘No. I’ve not even contacted an estate agent yet. I am still not entirely sure if I will sell it in the end.’

‘Then could you do me a favour and not mention your idea of moving to anyone just yet?’

‘Of course,’ she said, sounding puzzled, ‘but I hadn’t planned on telling anyone until I was sure in my own mind.’

Will ended the call and stood for a moment, staring at the floor.

‘You look rather thoughtful,’ Matt said.

Will looked up. ‘Matt, the police haven’t checked Emilia’s place, have they?’