When David rang her the next evening, he sounded much more hopeful. ‘Dr Jenkins is considering your case. He was appalled to hear of the behaviour of his staff, and I felt guilty at only telling him now, but I have been so relieved that you were free that I let it go out of my mind, not thinking of those still confined there. However, their lot should improve now, as I threatened him with exposure to the General Medical Council. As a result, he said that he would willingly examine you again and, if he felt you are of sound mind, he will certify you as such.’

Mags felt elated, but her spirits were shot down by David’s next words.

‘He stipulated, though, that you must return to Brockhall. There he will examine your mental health before discharging you. It seems that in this he wants to follow the correct procedure.’

‘No! David, I can’t. Once in there, I will be in the clutches of Harold again and at the mercy of Michael, especially if he has since received threats from Harold.’

‘I will speak with Matron. I am sure that once she knows what transpired under her very nose, she will protect you. You will only have to stay in there for a couple of days while the assessment takes place.’

‘You don’t know what you are asking of me, David. I am shaking at the very thought of that place. I cannot return there. Please, please find another way. Surely there will be reprisals on John and Michael – and maybe even Iris, though in the end she wasn’t involved in my escape. If John and Michael are not sacked, they will be out for revenge, as I have betrayed them.’

‘There is no alternative, Margaret. Your solicitor told me he will be legally bound to disclose your assets to your husband, now that Harold has power of attorney over you; and you can only have that power removed from him, and returned to you, if you are judged to be sound of mind. Not even divorcing him would give you your rights back. Though it is a different matter if you gained those rights back and did divorce him, as then they could take up your case for a settlement. And that would be very much in your favour, as your father did provide for you and you can prove your contribution to the making of the family fortune. We spoke as friends, not with the solicitor speaking in his official capacity. I have known Derek for many years. And as far as him being your solicitor, he will act as though he knows nothing, as yet, of your power of attorney being in Harold’s hands, and will continue to do whatever he can for you. And thereby lies some good news, because there are around four hundred pounds of ready cash in the solicitor’s holding account in your name, and he is transferring that immediately. It will be in your account in about five days. It can’t be touched by Harold while in transit, so it is safe.’