I simply need to talk to Mr Belfroy in regards to the future of this lodging house.”
“But why? Do you have concerns?”
“No, not at all, but I must know how it all works. Taking in those three ladies yesterday put us at a stretch. I must know that Mr Belfroy is in agreement with it.”
“Oh, my dear, I can take that worry from you immediately. Mr Belfroy will never turn anyone away. His instructions to you will be the same as he gave me. Take care of the women and he’ll take care of the rest. All bills are simply forwarded to him, once they’ve been checked.”
“I see.”
“Never think you are doing the kind man a disservice, for he supports this cause completely.”
“But the money…The food bill alone is substantial and then there is the fuel-”
“Dear Nicola, do not fret a moment longer. Mr Belfroy has the finance. Forget the bills and help these women find some respectability and security. That is your main and only concern here.” She smiled warmly, showing a glimpse of a forgotten beauty. “This occupation needs someone young and industrious to make it a success. I was too old, too concerned with my Jim to fully participate, you understand?”
“Yes.” She nodded, feeling lighter of heart. “I am going to be selfish and say that I wish you were staying with us. I need your guidance and counsel.”
“Nonsense, Nicola. You need neither from me. I’ve never known such a determined woman as yourself. I have no doubt you will excel in this work, and that you were sent here for this very reason.”
“I will never excel at anything if I don’t find suitable servants to engage.”
“You let go the Irish one?”
“Yes, an hour ago.” Nicola sighed.
“Go to the docks when you know an immigrant ship has arrived. Secure them fresh off the boat before they have a chance to be corrupted by the ways of others. That’s what I had to do when in need of maids for Mr Belfroy’s house. It’s undignified, I grant you, but it’s always best to trust your own instincts on such things.”
Nicola left Mrs Eldersley’s bedroom and headed downstairs to the sitting room. Thankfully, she found it empty and contemplated a few minutes sitting down reading the newspaper, but then remembered it was Wednesday and the soup kitchen needed her.
Kneading the knot of strain from her neck, she went out into the hall and took her cloak and hat from the hook on the wall. After an hour helping Frances, she’d visit the butchers and place an order before stopping at the haberdashery to buy some buttons and thread. Perhaps after that she could take a walk along the harbour. She quickly scrawled a note telling of her intentions. Smiling, she let herself out of the house. How funny it was when, not so long ago, she’d been terribly alone and now, she was surrounded by people, all she wanted was a peaceful hour’s walk.
At the end of the street she caught a hansom to take her to Lower George Street, and within a short time she was striding down the lane to the old warehouse. As usual, the human lines crept slowly forward and she smiled to some children she’d come to know and gave a penny she kept in her pocket to an old man, crippled with arthritis.
Finally she made it inside and started to unbutton her cloak when she spotted Frances on the far side of the room and next to her was her brother, Nathaniel West.
Nicola’s chest tightened as he saw her and gave her a wry smile. What was it about him that made her heart thump erratically whenever he was near? Why did she react to him? He was nothing to her, less than nothing, for she didn’t like his arrogance, rudeness, or his superior manner. He was so much the opposite to Frances that she wondered how they could be related.
Still, their very connection meant, at times, she would have to be in his presence, and so she had to hide her confused thoughts about him. Nicola would act as he did, as though he was beneath her notice. She only hoped she could pull it off as well as he did.
Chapter Seven
Nicola, you came.” Frances beckoned her over.
With a sinking heart, Nicola weaved between the trestle tables and benches and joined them behind the cauldrons of soup. She gave Frances a kiss on the cheek, the whole time conscious of Mr West’s