Despite the cramped conditions on a sailing ship, built mainly to carry cargo but fitted out to take a few passengers, Kate was happy in the small world she inhabited with those closest to her. She had always been fond of Annie, and as she grew to know Joe better Kate realised that he was very much like his sister. Her relationship with Harry deepened with every passing day. What she had felt for Ashok seemed like a youthful dalliance when compared to the feelings she had for Harry. But although they had grown so close that they seemed to think alike, there was a hint of reserve in Harry’s manner that baffled her.

On their final night at sea, in the cold waters of the Thames Estuary, Kate had seen Annie tucked up safely in her bunk, and she had returned to the small saloon where they ate their meals and spent much of their spare time. The other passengers had retired to bed, wanting an early night before disembarking at the East India Docks next morning, and Harry was there on his own.

‘I thought you’d turned in, Kate,’ he said, smiling.

‘I’m so excited that I doubt if I’ll sleep a wink. I can’t believe that we’ll be home in time for Christmas.’ Kate sat down at the table where they had eaten their supper. ‘It will feel strange to be back on land after so many months at sea. I know we had brief trips ashore when we took on fresh supplies, but that hardly counts.’

Harry cleared his throat, eyeing her warily. ‘I won’t be coming to Walthamstow with you tomorrow, Kate.’

She stared at him in astonishment. ‘You’re staying in London? Why?’

‘I have some business to attend to, but I will be with you on Christmas Day.’

‘But surely you could leave whatever it is until after Christmas? Everyone will be so looking forward to our return. You did send a telegram from our last port of call, didn’t you?’

‘Of course I did. Don’t upset yourself, my love. I need to find out what’s been happening with Monks – you know that as well as anyone – but I promise I’ll come to Warren House on Christmas Day.’

‘But that’s the day after tomorrow, Harry. Can’t you come with us and leave Monks until later?’

Harry reached across the table to grasp her hand. ‘If word gets round that I’ve come home and Monks hears of it, I’ll be a marked man, and so will all of the people I love. The whole reason for my mother, you and the others hiding away in Walthamstow is because of Mad Monks. That man is a vicious criminal and he knows that I was working with the police to bring him in.’