Free When Wishes Come True by Joan Jonker Page B

Miss Saunders is leaving the same time as my uncle, and haven’t had time as yet to ask if they have found a replacement for her?’
    ‘I really don’t know.’ Evelyn didn’t want to pass on any information in case he repeated it to Miss Saunders. If she lost the trust of the older woman, she may also lose the chance of filling the vacancy. ‘I only found out an hour ago that Mr Astbury was retiring, and it came as a great surprise. It was an even greater surprise to hear Miss Saunders was retiring too, but having been secretary to your uncle for so long, and being so used to his ways, I imagine it would be difficult at her age to adjust to starting afresh with a new partner.’
    ‘So with whom am I going to have the pleasure of working? I hope it is someone pretty, and not an ogre with two heads.’
    Evelyn thought it would be to her advantage to leave the room before this conversation became too personal, and questions were asked that she would have difficulty in answering. ‘It’s time for our morning break so if you’re going to see Mr Woodward, I will bring in an extra cup of tea for you. And would you prefer a digestive biscuit or a cream?’
    ‘That rather sounds as if I’m getting my marching orders.’
    ‘Not at all!’ Evelyn was beginning to think that here was a man who was so sure of himself he expected every woman to fall at his feet. But she felt sure this wasn’t the way to attract his attention. ‘I am not in a position to give anyone their marching orders. This is Miss Saunders’ office, lent to me only until she has finished taking dictation.’ She took the paper out of the typewriter, folded it in two then pushed her chair nearer to the desk. ‘I really must make the morning tea, I’m sure the partners and their secretaries are feeling thirsty.’ She squared her shoulders and held her head high as she passed an astonished Philip, who wasn’t used to being dismissed in such a manner. ‘I will see you in Mr Woodward’s office. It has been most pleasant talking to you.’
    ‘Yes’ he agreed, ‘a pleasure indeed.’
    Philip and his uncle were having their lunch in the State Hotel when the younger man asked, ‘Uncle Simon, have you anyone in mind for my secretary?’
    Simon Astbury raised his thick white eyebrows. ‘I presumed you would be bringing your present secretary with you. I’m used to hearing you singing her praises.’
    ‘She is very efficient, I must admit.’ Philip decided a little white lie was called for. ‘However, the other two partners feel she will be needed for the new man they are bringing in to fill my position as she is familiar with our clients. And as I have given so little notice of my departure, I felt it would be unfair of me to deprive them of such an efficient worker. You must admit, Uncle, a good secretary is jolly hard to find.’
    ‘Then we must be quick about finding a replacement for Miss Saunders as we are both leaving in just two weeks. I’ll have a word with her when we get back, perhaps she knows someone who would fit the bill.’ Simon picked up the heavy linen napkin and patted his lips. ‘Miss Coombes is very punctual and efficient, but she is settled in with James and I’m sure he wouldn’t want to share her.’
    ‘What about Mrs Sinclair? I was talking to her while you were busy and she seems to have had a decent education. She is certainly articulate.’
    His uncle showed surprise. ‘Mrs Sinclair is an office clerk, she does not have the qualifications to be a secretary.’
    ‘You do surprise me,’ Philip said. ‘I walked into Miss Saunders’ office after leaving yours because I heard the click of a typewriter and wondered who could be in there. I found Mrs Sinclair sitting at the desk, typing. She stopped immediately so I couldn’t say for sure how fast she was. But I’m surprised you didn’t know this, Uncle Simon? She’s obviously far too intelligent to be a mere clerk.’
    Simon looked at his nephew under his thick