‘So it does,’ said Dora, feigning surprise. Of course, she had already thought this. ‘Mebbe it’s just summat that runs in families, like,’ she said, then realised this was leading her husband to entirely the wrong conclusions.

‘Well, I’ve got no birthmarks and I’m the child’s father,’ he growled. He looked pointedly at Dora. ‘Aren’t I?’

Dora caught Betty’s eye with a desperately tired look.

‘And Baby has your dark hair,’ the midwife joined in. ‘There’s a strong resemblance between your beautiful new daughter and yourself, I’d say, Philip.’ Betty and Dora had been good friends for years, but even Dora thought Betty was laying it on a bit thick with that.

‘But what about this mark?’ Philip persisted. ‘I’ve not got one, but Tom has.’

‘It really is of no account, Philip,’ Betty said. ‘Some babies have birthmarks and most don’t, and that’s all there is to it. Now, why don’t you go and make Dora a cup of tea? I’d say she was ready for one and I think I could manage one, too. We’ve been hard at work up here.’

‘Aye, I heard the fuss,’ Philip grumbled.

‘Well, you can be thankful you were out of it then,’ Betty replied shortly.

When Philip had retreated to the kitchen, Dora sighed deeply.

‘She’s a bonny little thing but my Phil does get some daft ideas,’ she muttered. Tears were now springing to her weary eyes. ‘After all that birthing, you’d think he’d be pleased to have his child delivered safe and sound. I wanted another little girl, though I didn’t say owt and I didn’t really mind. Little Nellie’s been such a good baby that I feel I know how to cope with girls. But as Phil wanted a boy, I reckon he’s disappointed.’

‘Fellas get some queer ideas sometimes, love,’ said Betty. ‘All these years I’ve been a midwife, and I’m still surprised why anyone wouldn’t just be glad to have a healthy child, regardless of whether it’s a girl or a boy.’

‘And bringing Tom into it,’ said Dora, determined to make sure Betty knew the truth. ‘He’s always been envious of Tom. For goodness’ sake, Tom’s my brother-in-law, but I can’t exchange a few pleasant words with him without Phil flying into a jealous sulk.’

‘Aye, Tom Arnold’s got a lot going for him and, with him being the elder, and so agreeable, like, I can see that Philip might reckon he was playing catch-up when they were boys,’ Betty chatted on. ‘But they’re both grown up now, and Philip is the father of two beautiful children, whereas poor Tom has never married, nor found anyone else, so far as I know, after that girl from Great Grindle he was engaged to was killed – what was her name?’