They made their way to a neighbouring platform where a queue of people was waiting for refreshments. The buffet was large and airy, with an intricately patterned tiled floor, and in peacetime had probably been a pleasant place in which to unwind between journeys, but today it was bursting at the seams.

‘Do you mind if we don’t?’ asked Laura, peering dubiously into the big room. ‘I’d like a smidgeon of privacy if at all possible. There’s a hotel next to the station – maybe we could go there.’

‘Of course,’ said Kitty, happy to go along with Laura’s suggestion.

She followed her friend as she swiftly wove her way through the exit and round to the hotel, which was indeed directly next to the station, and watched as Laura with her trademark combination of charm and determination secured them a quiet table in the bar area, next to a window. ‘There, you see,’ she said. ‘Peace and quiet and a bit of a breeze. Just what we need.’

Kitty nodded. ‘Let’s get a lemonade,’ she suggested. Keeping up with Laura was hot work. They ordered their drinks and she settled down to find out what all this was about.

‘So …’ she said.

Laura pushed a stray lock of blonde hair behind her ear, then opened her weekend bag and drew out a book. ‘I’m not quite sure how to begin,’ she admitted. ‘I’m so glad you agreed to meet me, Kitty. You might think I’m going crazy, but at least you’ll understand.’

‘Whatever is it?’ asked Kitty, slightly worried now. ‘Are you in trouble of some kind?’

‘No, nothing like that. Well, no more than usual. My fellow drivers hate me now they’ve found out about Peter, but it’s just silly jealousy,’ Laura sighed. ‘Makes me realise how lucky you and I were to find each other and Marjorie. Kindred spirits, that’s what we were. There’s rather a lack of harmony in the current crew. Anyway, that’s by the bye.’ She opened the book and a scrappy piece of paper fell out. ‘Take a look at that.’

Kitty leant forward and picked it up, reading the brief message and turning it over. ‘Back soon. Safe and well. Don’t worry.’ She looked up at Laura with a puzzled frown. ‘Is that it? That’s all there is? Who’s it from?’