An Inescapable Match. Sylvia Andrew

you. I’m in such a pickle! That animal has chased away all the chickens. What am I to do, Miss Deborah? They’ll never come back—and I can’t go chasing about after ’m the way I used to. I’ve lost ’m! And my best flannel petticoat, too.’

      Deborah went up to the old lady and led her gently back towards the cottage. ‘Mrs Bember, I’m so sorry! But you really needn’t be so worried. We’ll sort it out. Look, why don’t I make you something to drink, while Mr Hugo sees what he can do.’ As she said this, she threw an appealing glance at Hugo.

      Hugo smiled at Mrs Bember. ‘Leave things to me. I’ll get some of the men to put things right for you, Mrs B. Your chickens will be in a new home by nightfall, I promise. I can’t answer for your…er…petticoat, though.’