Ivy was at the Crown serving breakfast to Gloria’s first set of holidaymakers before tackling the bedrooms, and would, no doubt, be on tenterhooks all day until Andy returned from his job interview at Walthamstow fire station which John Hicks had arranged. He’d left on the train last night to be sure he was on time for the early interview, and had taken the opportunity to stay with his mother – Gloria’s sister – whom he hadn’t seen for almost three years. No one knew when to expect him back.

Sarah was already at the bus station awaiting her younger sister Jane’s arrival now Jane’s mysterious job with the MOD had come to an end and she was free to visit. Rita was dashing about like a headless chicken as she prepared to meet her father’s train, and left in a whirlwind of excitement, banging the back door behind her; fortunately not disturbing Danuta who was having a well-earned lie-in after a long night helping to deliver a baby.

‘It’s certainly going to be a busy day with all the comings and goings,’ said Peggy, pouring out a second cup of tea and keeping an eye on Daisy who was playing with her dolls at the other end of the table. ‘Jane will, of course, be able to move in with Sarah, but Cissy’s being very awkward about moving out of the basement and refuses point blank to go upstairs, so I have no idea where I can put Jack Smith.’

‘Cissy seems determined to be awkward about everything,’ sniffed Cordelia. ‘If she was younger, and my daughter, she’d get a good smacked bottom. Put Jack upstairs on the top floor if he hasn’t made other arrangements. He’s earned a comfortable billet after what he’s been through.’

Cordelia regarded Peggy evenly. ‘But I get the feeling it’s not where to accommodate everyone that’s really troubling you.’

‘I’m worried about Ivy,’ Peggy admitted. ‘It’s been over a week since she wrote to her parents, and yet there hasn’t been a peep out of them. I’m beginning to wonder if something has happened and they’re reluctant to pass on bad news by phone or letter.’ She gave a sigh. ‘I do wish I knew what was going on up there. It’s all very frustrating.’