Even now as the year headed into the vibrant colours of autumn Mary could still hardly believe how wonderfully her life had changed. In Ted she had found herself a kind, considerate and loving husband. Her one concern was that Ted was now impatient for them to leave Ivylea and get on with their own lives independent of Miss Patten, but so far he hadn’t made too much of a fuss about the matter. Miss Patten, however, soon sensed that there was some problem, that all was not well with the newlyweds. True to form, rather than beat about the bush she tackled the issue head on. “Mary, would you please bring a tray of tea things to the drawing room – and join me there for tea. There are some matters I wish to discuss with you while Ted is at work.” As soon as they were settled – Mary a little nervous at having her morning ‘cuppa’ in the drawing room rather than as usual by herself in the kitchen – Miss Patten said: “Now then, Mary, what is the problem?
