He had not had the cheque from the solicitors, but his mother had lent him the money. ‘Of course, darling,’ she had said. ‘It’ll be an investment, really. You’ll be able to keep me soon. Won’t that be lovely? And I shan’t have to look to Aunt Ethel for a new dress. I do think you’re clever, darling.’ ‘It was Joy really, Mother.’ ‘But I’m sure the solicitors wouldn’t have sent it to you if they hadn’t heard of your reputation. I shall tell everyone about you. Fancy making a name for yourself in a week. But then I knew you would. It’s your father in you. Not me, I’m afraid. Now that it’s all right, I don’t mind telling you, I’ve always been a little frightened that you might be a fool like me. I’m so glad you’re not, darling. Shall we get a bottle of champagne and celebrate. We can pay for it next month.’ ‘That’d be lovely, darling, but I must go out with Joy tonight.’ ‘Oh, of course.’ ‘And you mustn’t start talking about my having made a name for myself.
