‘Don’t be vulgar, Kate. In high society we don’t mention bodily functions. It’s simply not done.’ Arabella marched into the tea shop. ‘Those cream cakes look so delicious. I might put in an order for several dozen for supper at the ball.’

‘Yes, Mama,’ Kate said dutifully as they were shown to a table, but her thoughts were elsewhere. Perry had promised to contact Harry, and although she was longing to see him again and to give him the news in person, she knew it would be a mistake to return to the pub in Wapping. No doubt Monks had spies everywhere. Kate ordered an ice cream and cakes for her mother, but all the while she was thinking of her next step.

Kate had not planned to visit Whitechapel again, but if anyone could get a message to Harry it would be Spears. He would be able to call in at the Town of Ramsgate pub and not draw attention to himself, and so she set off next morning for Cable Street, but this time she took a cab.

Spears peered at her from an upstairs window. Moments later he opened the door and dragged her unceremoniously over the threshold.

‘Why have you come here again, miss? You know it ain’t safe. Monks is back in town. Maybe it got too hot for him south of the river.’ Spears slammed the door and bolted it.

‘Have you seen Harry recently?’ Kate asked anxiously. ‘I really need to speak to him.’

‘I ain’t seen him for days. I dunno what’s going on and that’s the truth.’ Spears put his head on one side, eyeing her expectantly. ‘I don’t suppose you brought me any vittles, did you, miss?’

Kate had come prepared and she placed a wicker basket on the table. Spears snatched a pie wrapped in a piece of butter muslin, barely unwrapping it before he took a huge bite.

‘This is good,’ he said, spitting crumbs of pastry onto the floor. ‘I dunno how I’m going to keep going. Monks has got his men watching every move I make. They think Harry will come here and if he does they’ll get him. Word got round that he’s working with the coppers. Monks won’t stand for that.’

‘Last time I was here I took your advice and went to the pub in Wapping. I spoke to him and he said that it wouldn’t be long before Monks was caught, but I have a better plan.’

Spears munched the pie, barely paying attention to what Kate was saying. He nodded, smiling blissfully.

‘Are you listening to me, Spears?’

He swallowed convulsively. ‘Yes, miss. This is the best pie I ever tasted.’

‘I’m sure Mrs Pugh will be delighted to hear that,’ Kate said drily. ‘But I need your help, Spears. I want you to find Harry and tell him that I need to speak to him urgently.’