‘Our parents died some time ago. Aunt Margaret, Lady Lyndon, is very good to me, but I try to be independent.’ Annie spooned the soup into her mouth. ‘Joe sends money, but sometimes it takes a long time to reach me, so I go out on the streets with my concertina. Anyway, what else would someone like me do to pass the time?’

‘You’re a talented musician, Annie. Surely you could get well-paid work in the theatre or a music hall?’

‘No one wants a blind girl. It’s a hard truth, but one I learned a long time ago.’

‘But isn’t it dangerous for a pretty young girl like you to be out on the streets?’

A smile flitted across Annie’s delicate features. ‘Not when you’re under the protection of Harry Trader. I’d rather have Harry as a friend than an enemy, if you get my meaning.’

‘I’m beginning to understand,’ Kate said slowly.

‘He’s the best. He’s like an older brother, so Joe doesn’t have to worry about me. I’m the one who does the worrying.’

‘Yes,’ Kate said with feeling. ‘I understand.’

‘You left someone special in Delhi?’

Annie’s perceptiveness was startling and it took Kate a moment to gather her thoughts. ‘I had many friends in Delhi,’ she said cautiously.

‘And now you’re here in Whitechapel.’ Annie mopped up the remainder of the soup with a hunk of bread. ‘You might do well to visit the local churches and get the ministers to mention the work you’re doing here after their sermons on Sunday.’

‘I hadn’t thought of that, but it’s a good idea.’

‘I’ll spread the word, but it will take time for people to know you’re here.’ Annie stood up and reached for her cane. ‘There’s just one thing you need to be aware of.’

‘What’s that, Annie?’

‘The Trader gang are not the only people who matter round here. You need to keep away from anyone who works for a man named Monks.’

‘I’ve been warned about Mad Monks, but what possible interest could his gang have in my soup kitchen?’

‘You’ve got a lot to learn, Kate. By setting up here, in one of Harry’s premises, you’ve allied yourself to him, whether you like it or not.’

‘All I wanted to do was to help people like Ivy. I wanted to make sure that their children didn’t go hungry. I don’t see why that would upset anyone.’

‘I’m sure Harry must have told you this, but by setting up a charity here you’ve provided cover for his goings-on without attracting the attention of the police.’ Annie picked up her concertina. ‘But good luck, Kate. I think you’re very brave.’