‘It doesn’t matter. We can carry on today and tomorrow. In the meantime I’ll have to think of a way to raise funds without asking Harry for more.’

Jenny tossed her head. ‘Be careful, miss. That’s all I can say.’ She held out her hand. ‘If you give me some money I’ll go out again and get what’s necessary.’

The last drop of soup had been served and there was not a crumb of bread left after the midday session. Jenny was in the kitchen washing up while Ivy helped Kate to tidy the dining area, and the twins and Nellie kept baby John amused, while Charlie gnawed on one of the bones that had flavoured the soup. There was no meat left on it, but that did not seem to bother him.

A sudden commotion outside made Kate run to the window.

‘It’s a fight,’ she said nervously. ‘Better take the little ones into the kitchen, Ivy.’

Ivy glanced over Kate’s shoulder. ‘I know one of those men. He used to work with my Ted on the docks, but he got the sack and joined Trader’s gang.’ She scooped the baby up in her arms. ‘Come with me, girls. And you, too, Charlie.’ She grabbed him by the hand and dragged him protesting into the kitchen.

Outside bricks and stones were being hurled and punches thrown. Kate was about to lock the door when two of the men fell against it and the catch gave way. They tumbled into the room pursued by several others, who smashed up tables and chairs, scattering cutlery and tin bowls onto the floor. Jenny emerged from the kitchen brandishing a rolling pin, but Kate snatched it from her.

‘Get help before they destroy everything.’ She gave Jenny a gentle shove towards the door, but as if on cue, a broad-shouldered man wearing a long black coat and a felt hat pulled down over his brow, strode into the premises, followed by two tough-looking individuals.

‘Enough!’ the man bellowed, and the fighting stopped abruptly.

‘This is an outrage,’ Kate said angrily. ‘Look at the damage your men have done. This is a soup kitchen, not a boxing ring.’

‘You’d better watch your tongue, young woman.’

‘I don’t know who you are, but this is private property.’ Kate faced him, clenching her hands behind her back. She was trembling from head to foot but she was not going to let this man see she was afraid.

‘Monks is the name. I dare say you’ve heard of me.’

‘I have heard of you, as it happens, but nothing good.’

He glared at her and then, to Kate’s surprise, he threw back his head and laughed. ‘They call me Mad Monks.’

‘Well, Mr Monks, please take your men and leave. I don’t suppose they have any intention of clearing up the mess.’