‘I do apologise for calling in unannounced,’ he said, taking his hat off. ‘But I was here on business and just wished to tell you that the solicitor who is handling the sale of the house thinks all the paperwork should be completed within the next couple of weeks. Of course, if you haven’t got the lodge quite ready to move in to by then there is no rush whatsoever. I also wanted to say please take whatever furniture you wish. I shall be bringing certain pieces of my own anyway so I’m sure I shall have far too much.’

‘That’s very generous of you, thank you.’ It had been agreed that he would buy the house and all its contents but seeing as the furniture that had been left in the lodge was not salvageable it would take a great weight off her mind knowing that she would not have to rush out to scout around for second-hand pieces. Not that I will take advantage of his good nature, she told herself. Much of the furniture in the house would be far too big and grand to fit into the lodge anyway but she would be grateful for the beds and some smaller pieces.

‘Please also take all of your pots and pans,’ he went on. ‘My cook and maid will be coming with me so they will be bringing anything they need from the other house. I would also be very grateful if you would tell Mr and Mrs Jenkins that should they wish to continue their posts here, be it full-time or part-time, I would be most grateful. This house is rather too large for one maid to manage on her own so I’m sure she would welcome the help.’

William Dixon had told him of Sunday’s plight, and he felt heartsore for her.

Sunday’s pride was at the fore now and she felt utterly humiliated, but she forced a smile before saying, ‘I shall be sure to pass on your message. Would you like a drink, Mr Willerby? Perhaps a brandy or a cup of tea or coffee?’

‘Thank you, but no. I have no wish to take up any more of your time. I just thought that as I was in the vicinity I would pop in and bring you up to date. And please … call me John.’

Sunday flushed. She could never picture herself addressing him as such so she merely inclined her head, her back straight.

‘Thank you and please let me know the date you wish to move in.’

‘I shall. Goodbye for now, Mrs Branning.’ And with that he turned and left, leaving Sunday all of a dither. Suddenly it all seemed heartbreakingly real. Very soon now she would be forced to leave the home where she and Tom had known such happiness and the pain she felt as she contemplated it was almost physical.