Free Katy's Men by Irene Carr Page A

appreciatively, and cautious. Ivor was still a lurking presence but he was now involved with the latest maid, Betsy, a buxom, giggling girl — as he had been with the succession of maids who preceded her. There was no young man in Katy’s life, nor had there been since Charles Ashleigh. There had been offers but she had declined them all. Quite apart from Vera’s ruling against ‘followers’, none had attracted her. But now she thought this tall, blond stranger was good-looking . . . And he had said he would see her again . . . She was smiling as she turned back to her work.
    Howard Ross, as he skirted the house, thought dispassionately that it was a pity there was no young girl of Spargo’s with money to add to her attractions. He combined his work with profitable philandering, seeking work in houses where the plain but wealthy daughters — or wives — could be persuaded to buy him handsome presents. But business wasn’t everything, and one day when he was in the mood he would come back here for the girl in the office. Besides, in the past year he had built up a sideline which paid much better than an occasional silver watch or cigarette case.
    *
    Matthew Ballard, now a sergeant, stood in his colonel’s office in the barracks at Aldershot and refused to be persuaded or tempted. ‘No, thank you, sir.’
    The colonel urged, ‘You have an excellent record and have done sterling work in this unit evaluating vehicles for the Army’s use. I can assure you that you would soon be promoted to warrant officer if you signed on for a further engagement. You would have an excellent future in the Corps.’
    ‘ I understand that, sir, and I’m grateful. But I have already committed myself.’
    His commanding officer sighed, ‘Very well. I respect your loyalty to an old friend and wish the pair of you all good fortune.’
    ‘ Thank you, sir.’ And Matt saluted and marched out.
    Joe Docherty had written, ‘I know your time finishes about now. My offer of a job is still open but now I need you. Betty passed away a month ago and I’m left with little Beatrice. On top of that I haven’t been too well lately and can’t cope with the work on my own. So if you want to do yourself and me a good turn, now’s your chance.’ Matt had seen a lot of service with Joe Docherty and could not resist this appeal.
    He got down from the train in Sunderland on a wet evening and found Joe renting a comfortable house in Monkwearmouth. It was one of a terrace but each had its own front garden and all were well cared for, with clean lace curtains at the windows and smart paintwork. Matt rapped with the shining brass knocker and the door was opened by Joe. He had a wide grin for Matt, shook his hand and pulled him inside then took his suitcase from him. ‘Matt! It’s great to see you! Come on in.’ He led the way into a sitting-room filled with furniture and edged through it to the armchairs set either side of the fireplace. ‘Make yourself comfortable. I’ll just tell Alice that you’re here —’
    He broke off there because a young woman in a worn, dark brown dress and white apron appeared in the doorway. Her hair was drawn back tightly into a bun and she snapped impatiently, ‘I heard the knock and came as quick as I could! I haven’t got two pairs of hands and I was in the kitchen getting the supper.’
    Matt saw a flicker of exasperation cross Joe’s face but then it was gone. He said, ‘I was in the hall when he knocked. This is Mr Ballard. Matt, this is Alice. She’s mainly here to look after Bea but she cooks as well and she’s got a meal ready for you.’ He smiled stiffly at Alice, ‘That’s right?’
    Her lips twitched in reply, ‘I’ll be ready to serve in ten minutes.’ Her thin smile moved to Matt, assessing, taking in the tall strength of him, the dark good looks. Her eyes widened.
    Joe laughed, ‘So we’ll have a quick one while we’re waiting. How about a scotch and ginger ale, Matt?’
    ‘ Fine.’ Matt