After a long and mostly silent journey, the taxi cab eventually rolled up outside Aunt Martha’s sizeable home and pulled to a halt. They both peered expectantly at the entrance to the house. Its front door opened and Martha, along with her housemaid appeared on the doorstep. David and his mother got out of the taxi cab. “Would you mind waiting a moment?” Valerie asked the driver.

“Good morning Valerie.” Martha smiled. “David.” she said, smiling down on the boy.

“Hello Auntie.” David cheerfully replied. His mother kept a tight hold of his hand.

“You will be gentle with him won’t you Martha.” she asked.

“That depends entirely on the boy.” Martha sternly replied. “David, say goodbye to your mother, then Nanny will take you to your room.”