The autumn chill began to take hold and the leaves on the few trees dotted about turned to gold and copper. The weak sunshine held no warmth and folk donned thicker clothing as they went about their business. Winds picked up debris lying on the streets and blew it into piles. More household fires were lit and the smoke plumed from chimneys all over the town. The rain was cold as it pattered down from the heavens, soaking everyone to the skin.
In the cellar of The Crown, Jack and Dolly were busy filling bottles with diluted gin when Jack suddenly asked, ‘Do you miss your mum?’
‘Yes. Every day,’ Dolly replied sadly.
Jack nodded.
‘What is it, Jack?’
‘I’m still confused about my parents,’ he admitted after a short silence.
‘I can understand that,’ Dolly whispered.
‘I keep wondering who they are. Why did they give me up like they did? Are they still alive? What sort of person dumps a baby on a doorstep and walks away?’ Jack shook his head in disbelief.
‘Lots of questions and no answers.’ Dolly gave him a sympathetic smile. ‘Have you thought about this in a more methodical way?’
‘How do you mean?’ Jack frowned as he passed her a half-full bottle.
‘Well, taking it from the beginning, your mum had you. Now, was she married or not? Was she too poor to be able to keep you? Also, and I’m sorry to say this, Jack, but were you what is considered an accident?’ Dolly paused, allowing the boy to digest her words. ‘Going a step further, why did she choose to leave you on Nellie’s doorstep? Did she know Nellie or Nancy?’
‘Blimey! I never thought of that!’ Jack said on a breath.
‘It doesn’t necessarily follow that Nellie or Nancy would know your mum though,’ Dolly added.
‘I s’pose.’ Jack’s sudden excitement at possibly having a lead to his parentage dissipated in a cloud of disappointment.
‘On the bright side though, your mum didn’t leave you at the workhouse or the orphanage.’ Dolly was trying to lift the boy’s spirits after she saw his body sag.
‘You’ve got a birth certificate, ain’t you?’ Jack asked and when Dolly nodded, he went on, ‘I wonder if I ever had one.’
‘Possibly not, but it would depend on your mum’s circumstances.’ Dolly bit her bottom lip, not at all sure she was helping.
‘I’ve tried not to think about it all, Dolly, but it won’t leave me alone!’
‘It’s the not knowing that’s the worst I’m sure, but it might be that one day you’ll find out.’
‘Until then I’m left wondering,’ Jack said sadly.
‘Jack, look at the other side of it more a moment. You were found and taken in by Nellie. For your whole life she brought you up as her own. She fed you, taught you and kept you safe. You have a home and family who love you.’
‘You make it sound like I landed on my feet,’ Jack said, passing over another bottle.
‘You did. Considering what could have happened, you are very lucky,’ Dolly replied with a warm smile.
‘Like you, Poppy and Fred,’ Jack said.
‘Yes, and Matthew and Noah Dempster – Nellie has brought us all into the fold rather than turning us away,’ Dolly added.
‘We’re all in the same boat then.’ Jack gave her a small grin.
‘Yes, maybe that’s why we are like a big family.’
‘Speaking of Poppy, what do you make of her stepping out with Ezra Morton?’ Jack asked.
‘I’m worried for her, I just hope—’
‘She’s got her head screwed on,’ Jack interrupted.
‘I know that, Jack, but love knows no bounds,’ Dolly said on a sigh.
The bottle filling continued in silence as both got lost in their thoughts.
It was then that Fred, who had heard their conversation as he smoked a cigarette by the outside door to the cellar, walked quietly into the kitchen.
‘Cup of tea, Fred?’ Nancy asked.
‘Hmm,’ came the reply.
‘Summat on yer mind?’ Nancy probed as she passed over the cup and saucer.
Fred related the exchange he’d overheard between Jack and Dolly.
‘The poor little bugger doesn’t know if he’s coming or going. I always said Nellie should have told him long before now. I wonder if he’ll ever come to terms with it.’ Nancy said as she settled herself on a kitchen chair. ‘It’s Poppy I’m worried about now though.’
Fred nodded. ‘I don’t like it, Nancy, she shouldn’t be seeing someone like Ezra.’
‘Are you sweet on her, Frederick Dell?’ Nancy asked with a teasing grin.
‘No! Don’t get me wrong, she’s a nice girl but not for me – or Ezra either. He’ll use her, Nancy, then toss her away.’
‘I said the same, but she’s a grown woman now and can make up her own mind, I suppose.’ Nancy sipped her tea silently, wishing Poppy would tell Ezra to clear off and leave her alone, but knowing in her heart it wouldn’t happen.
Fred watched her from the corner of his eye and he flushed as her eyes met his.
‘One of the Dempsters is going to follow her and make sure she gets home safely.’ Nancy said at last. She smiled as she saw Fred relax a little. He was clearly glad Nellie had agreed to Noah’s suggestion, now he wouldn’t have to worry.
A screech from the bar had them both look at each other.
‘Sounds like you’re needed,’ Nancy laughed.
Fred nodded and got to his feet. Giving her a wink, he marched towards the door.
Nancy blushed and laid a hand on her chest in an effort to slow her fast beating heart. It had been a while now since she realised she had feelings for this big man, and she had hoped they might be reciprocated. Was that wink a confirmation of her dream of a budding relationship? Her stomach gave a little flip as she returned to her work.
In the bar Fred looked to Nellie, then followed the tilt of her head. Two women were screaming obscenities and beating a man with their fists while he giggled as he relieved himself in the corner.
‘Hey, fella,’ Fred boomed, seeing the man now fastening his trouser buttons. In an instant Fred was at his side and tore the shirt from the man’s back, then used it to mop up the mess. Cheers sounded when he slammed the soggy shirt into the man’s chest and marched him from the premises. Then he fetched a bucket of water loaded with soda crystals and a mop. Satisfied the area was clean, Fred left the bar to deafening applause.
‘My God! If he can do that in here, what must his home be like?’ Poppy yelled over the noise.
‘I dread to think,’ Nellie shouted back. ‘What time you out tonight?’
‘Seven,’ Poppy answered with an excited look in her eye.
‘Best go and get ready then,’ Nellie said, ‘I’ll get Jack to lend a hand here.’
Poppy ran lightly from the bar to wash and change. She had replied to Ezra’s note accepting the invitation earlier in the day.
Nellie called for Jack and as he came through, she said, ‘Fetch the Dempsters down then tend the bar with Dolly while I have a word.’
Twenty minutes later, it was agreed Noah Dempster would track Poppy that evening and Matthew would stand the usual guard duty.
‘I’m sorry I have to ask you, Noah, because it all feels so – sneaky,’ Nellie said.
‘Better that than… She’ll be fine, Nellie, I’ll look out for her. Any sign of trouble and I’ll whisk her away and bring her home.’ Blue eyes twinkled in a reassuring smile.
‘Ta, lad, you’ll have a bonus apiece come the end of the week,’ Nellie said with a nod.
At seven on the dot, Ezra Morton entered The Crown Saloon dressed in his best suit; top hat and walking cane in hand. Threading his way through the throng, he tapped the silver knob on the counter.
Nellie glanced at him then continued with her work.
Ezra smiled. She’s trying to ignore me, he thought. Just then Poppy came through dressed in a bottle green velvet dress that fit where it touched. It was something she’d found on a market stall and had bought it with a few coppers borrowed from Nellie. The bodice was in a cross-over style which gave a deep neckline which was not too revealing, and it was nipped in at the waist. The skirt fell straight at the front to her black boots. At the back it was gathered into gentle ruffles which lay over a small bustle. Her blonde hair was piled high in curls and fastened with a feathered comb. Long black gloves covered her arms and over one of which she carried a black woollen cloak.
Oohs and ahhs sounded as Ezra took the wrap and draped it around her shoulders. Then hooking an arm, he led her out into the street where a cab waited.
Noah Dempster leaned against the wall of The Castle pub directly across the street having a smoke, his cap pulled down low over his brow. The couple didn’t see him as they climbed aboard the carriage.
Hearing the address called to the cabbie, Noah waited for them to leave then he whistled for a cab of his own. Directing the driver to follow, Noah waited to see where they would end up. Before long Ezra’s cab halted in Lower Priory and the couple alighted then stepped into a hotel across from the Grand Theatre. Noah, who had paid his cabbie handsomely, waited patiently inside the carriage now standing on the corner of the crossroads between Lower Priory and Dalton Street.
Poppy was breathlessly excited by being treated like a princess. ‘I’ve never been to a hotel before,’ she whispered as Ezra removed her cloak, passing it to an attendant.
‘You should eat in places like this every day of your life, Poppy,’ Ezra smiled.
‘Not much chance of that,’ she replied as he cupped her elbow and led her to the dining room.
‘Ah, Mr Morton, so nice to see you again. Good evening, Miss,’ the Maître d’ said with a slight bow to Poppy. ‘Your table is all ready for you, sir.’ Snapping his fingers, he beckoned to a waiter. ‘Show Mr Morton and his guest to their table.’
Poppy stared at all the cutlery and glassware as Ezra pulled out a chair for her.
Once they were both seated, the waiter poured them each a glass of water.
Poppy glanced up at him, a worried look in her eye. She had no idea about such hifalutin table etiquette, and a flick of the eyebrows told her he understood her concern.
‘Would sir care to see the wine list?’ the waiter asked as he tapped a white gloved finger against a wine glass. He smiled at Poppy, endeavouring to help her surreptitiously.
‘Yes please,’ Ezra said.
Poppy nodded and smiled at the young man for being so helpful.
In a matter of moments wine was ordered and the menus presented.
‘Goodness, such a lot to choose from,’ Poppy said, ‘how much does it cost?’
The young wine waiter was at that moment uncorking the wine at their table when Ezra replied from behind his menu.
‘My dear girl, top class hotels do not display their charges. It’s tantamount to discussing money – it’s vulgar.’
Poppy flushed scarlet with embarrassment but couldn’t help but give a small smile when she caught the waiter pulling a face behind Ezra’s back. Quickly she covered her mouth with her hand.
Pouring a small amount, he said, ‘Your wine, sir.’
Ezra tasted it and then nodded.
The waiter skirted the table to serve Poppy first, then topped up Ezra’s glass. Standing the wine in its cooler on the table, he grinned at the pretty girl before walking away.
Poppy squirmed in her seat as she stared at the French words she could not read. Her eyes roamed over the list as she tried desperately to pick out words she might know, but failing in the attempt made her heart sink.
Glancing around the room she began to wish she hadn’t come. She felt so out of her depth she wanted to cry.
‘Have you decided, m’dear?’ Ezra asked, lowering his menu to peep over the top.
‘Erm, no not yet,’ Poppy said with a croak.
‘What do you like – meat, fish?’ Ezra pursued.
‘Either,’ Poppy answered in a whisper.
Poppy glanced around the room again before her eyes alighted on the wine waiter chatting to a colleague who looked her way. They were discussing her! Were they laughing at her? The food waiter nodded and gave her a beaming smile. What was going on between those two?
She quickly found out as the waiter stepped smartly to the table.
‘She hasn’t made up her mind yet,’ Ezra said curtly.
‘If I may be so bold – could I help the lady to decide?’ the waiter asked.
‘Please do, I’m famished!’ Ezra’s attention returned to his own menu.
‘The Dover sole with its lemon sauce is particularly good here, madam.’ The waiter pointed to the entries on her menu card as he spoke. ‘Or perhaps you might prefer venison in red wine gravy, with potatoes and vegetables.’
Poppy said quickly, ‘I like the sound of the sole.’
‘Very good, and would madam like a starter?’
Closing her eyes tight she sucked in a breath.
‘I could recommend the pâté, it comes from Brussels,’ the waiter said quietly.
‘That sounds lovely, thank you,’ Poppy smiled her thanks with pure relief.
Turning to Ezra the waiter asked, ‘And for sir?’
‘Prawns then venison,’ Ezra snapped, handing the menu into the waiter’s outstretched hand.
‘It’s posh here,’ Poppy said as the waiter left their table.
‘It’s not bad,’ Ezra replied.
They didn’t have to wait long for their starter to arrive and the waiter picked up Poppy’s cutlery and gave it a quick wipe on a spotlessly clean cloth, indicating which she should use, before replacing it on the table.
Poppy nodded her thanks and cast a smile to the wine waiter standing by the doorway. They had not been laughing at her at all. They had guessed she was struggling with the menu and cutlery order and were in cahoots in trying to give her little clues which only she would see. Poppy was immensely grateful.
‘Nellie was gracious enough to let you out then,’ Ezra said sarcastically.
‘She was kind enough to give me the night off, yes.’ Poppy’s words were sharp as she eyed the man sat opposite her.
‘I’m so sorry, m’dear, that was rude of me,’ Ezra said as he picked up on her pique.
‘Nellie is a lovely lady – she took me in when I had nowhere else to go,’ Poppy said quietly.
‘I understand, please forgive me.’ Ezra said insincerely between bites.
Having finished their starters, the waiter appeared and lifted her plate from the table before rearranging the knife and fork to be used with the main course. Another subtle sign.
‘Thank you,’ Poppy told him with a smile.
‘You don’t have to thank him, that’s what he’s paid for,’ Ezra said, then drawing her attention back to himself, went on, ‘tell me, Poppy, why do you work at that saloon?’
Poppy felt the waiter glance at her before removing Ezra’s plate, and again her face burned with humiliation.
‘It’s a perfectly decent place, Ezra, and it’s a good job albeit being hard on the feet.’
Ezra detected the note of protective loyalty in her voice. ‘What I meant was, you shouldn’t be working at all. You should be a lady of leisure, taken care of and spoiled.’
Sipping his wine, he realised he had been yelling orders at his men for so long, he had quite forgotten how to speak to a woman.
‘I would be bored to tears without my work,’ Poppy said with a little laugh.
‘I see Nellie has found a new supplier,’ Ezra said pointedly.
‘Yes.’
Ezra watched as a warm plate filled with hot food was placed in front of her and then himself. ‘Care to tell me who it is?’
‘Care to mind your own business?’ Poppy flashed back. She saw the waiter grin and flick his eyebrows.
Ezra laughed but it sounded hollow even to his ears. ‘Can I ask where Nellie’s husband is?’
‘I’m afraid you will have to ask her about that,’ Poppy answered firmly.
‘I hear Fred is working for Nellie now,’ Ezra said.
Poppy ignored the statement and continued to eat.
Ezra looked up from his plate saying, ‘Well, is he?’
Clamping her teeth together, Poppy nodded. She had expected Ezra to try to seduce her on their evening out together and she had been prepared to repel boarders. If this was his idea of wooing then he was failing miserably. Where was the discreet touching of fingers? There were no long lingering looks or words of endearment. She felt like she was being pumped for information about Nellie and the dinner was her reward. She could feel the waiters’ eyes on her, knowing they were aware she was not enjoying herself one bit. They consulted each other quietly each time Ezra spoke and Poppy concluded that they could hear every word.
‘Nellie’s lad should be in school, not working in that fleapit!’ Ezra snapped, annoyed that he was getting nowhere. He had been sure Poppy was so enamoured of him she would tell him all he wanted to know, but she appeared to have other ideas. He pursued his line of questioning with mounting frustration.
‘It’s not a fleapit! It’s my place of work and my home!’ Poppy fired back. In her peripheral vision she saw the waiters nod their agreement with a grin.
‘Yes, well, you couldn’t do much worse,’ Ezra said unthinkingly as he slurped his wine. ‘It seems to me that Nellie takes in waifs and strays off the street.’
The waiter had stepped up to refill his glass just then and his mouth formed a small ‘O’ in disgust. Walking around the table with the wine bottle, he waited for Poppy to accept or refuse another drink.
‘You’re right. She took me in off the street and I’m very grateful to her!’ Poppy’s wrath flushed her cheeks.
‘I didn’t mean—’ Ezra began.
‘Yes, you did. I was in the workhouse, Ezra, and when I signed myself out at fifteen years old I lived on the streets until Nellie found me!’ Poppy’s voice was even as she spoke but her eyes glared a black anger.
Ezra glanced at the waiter who coughed politely.
Dragging her smouldering eyes away from Ezra, Poppy looked up and smiled at the young man proffering the wine bottle.
‘Thank you, no more for me,’ she said, calmly covering her glass with a gloved hand.
Inclining his head, the waiter moved away, a smirk etching his face.
With each passing moment, Poppy was feeling more disillusioned. All day she had looked forward to her evening with Ezra and now she was beginning to see why he’d asked her out. He was quizzing her about Nellie and her business. He wasn’t interested in her at all, just the information she could give him.
Suddenly her appetite deserted her and she pushed the food around on the plate before laying her cutlery down.
‘Not hungry?’ Ezra asked.
‘I’ve had enough,’ she answered.
Ezra continued to eat and Poppy glanced around the room at all the people talking and laughing. She was hurt and angry and she wanted to go home.
She watched Ezra finish his food, dab his mouth with a napkin, then sip his wine. Flipping a fob watch from his waistcoat pocket he checked the time.
‘We should be going soon otherwise we’ll miss the first performances at the theatre,’ he said. Raising a hand, he snapped his fingers.
The waiter moved forward in response.
‘The bill,’ Ezra ordered.
‘Certainly, sir,’ the waiter said and hurried away.
The Maître d’ attended to the matter while the waiter helped Poppy from her chair. She jerked her head round as she felt something pushed into her hand. It was a small piece of paper.
Glancing at the paper she glimpsed the words Bellyache for him tomorrow! and hurriedly pushed it into her glove as she pulled it higher up her arm, desperately trying to hold back her mirth. Clearly disgruntled by the way Ezra was treating her, they had somehow arranged to have his food tainted with something to give him an upset tummy.
Adjusting her other glove, she looked up at the waiter standing by the door. Grabbing the seat of his trousers he pretended to run. Covering her mouth daintily with her hand, Poppy stifled a laugh.
Walking towards the pair who had given her a smile or two she stopped. ‘Thank you, gentlemen,’ she said with a huge grin. Then she turned to Ezra and waited.
‘What? Oh yes, of course,’ he mumbled as he drew some coins from his pocket to tip the waiting staff.
‘I think I’d like to return home now, Ezra, I have a blinding headache,’ she said.
‘As you wish, my dear,’ he answered. The evening had not gone as planned, but it would be better next time, he thought. It might be that on the next occasion, Poppy would answer his questions, in which case he would take her to see his home and show her how and where she could be living, albeit temporarily, if she played her cards right.
Outside, Noah saw them leave the hotel. They climbed into a cab and set off. Noah banged his feet twice and felt the carriage lurch into motion.
When they stopped again he was surprised to find they were back at The Crown. Seeing Poppy go inside, Noah watched to ensure Ezra left, then thanking his cabbie, he too went indoors.