Читать книгу The Broken Man - Josephine Cox - Страница 10

IN THE VISITOR’S room, Phil anxiously paced the floor. Occasionally, he paused to look through the window into the corridor, but there was no one in sight.

He turned his gaze to Adam, who was curled up on the couch, quietly sobbing.

With every minute that passed, Phil began to lose faith, though he kept his disturbing thoughts to himself.

Presently, he glanced across at the boy, who was quieter now, deep in thought. Phil’s heart went out to him. Again, he made his way over to him. ‘I know you want news of your mum,’ he started, ‘but we must try and be patient, however hard it might be.’

After what seemed an age, there was a tap on the door, and the surgeon entered, his face sombre.

‘What happened? Is she all right?’ Phil asked.

Simultaneously, Adam ran over, asking anxiously, ‘Is my mum all right?’

The surgeon quietly suggested to Phil, ‘It might be best if I have a quiet word with you first.’

Sensing the tense atmosphere, and made increasingly nervous by the knowing glances that passed between the two men, Adam backed away. ‘What’s happened? Why won’t you let me go to my mum?’

Moved to tears, Phil took hold of him. ‘I’m sorry, son, but you can’t go to your mother,’ he said gently. Though well aware that it was Adam’s right to see her, Phil realized it would not be wise. After all, he was just a child and, at the moment, dangerously vulnerable.

‘Why can’t I see her?’ All of Adam’s instincts told him the awful truth. In his heart and soul, he knew she had left him. ‘Get off me!’ His screams reverberated through the room. He fought Phil off and would have run from the room, but Phil caught him and held him.

‘Listen to me, son.’ His kind voice was calming. ‘D’you recall what I told you … about my darling wife and how the only thing I wanted in the whole wide world was for her to be all right?’

Tearfully, Adam nodded.

‘And do you recall how, for reasons we may never understand, the Good Lord took her all the same?’

Another reluctant nod.

‘Well, then, I’ve been thinking. Maybe your mum, like my dear wife, could never be made better on this earth. But up there, in God’s Heaven, she doesn’t feel pain any more; she’s comfortable and at peace, and though you will always miss her, she’ll be watching over you. She will never leave you.’

Deeply moved by Phil’s gentle words, the surgeon cautiously approached Adam. ‘I’m so very sorry. I know how hard it must be. I can promise you, we did everything humanly possible for your mother, but her injuries were many and her heart was not strong enough to carry her through.’

Adam looked up, his eyes marbled with grief. He began to sob, and soon it was an avalanche of grief. The devastating loss of his mother and the all-consuming hatred for the man who hurt her could no longer be contained.

In a trembling voice, he murmured, ‘One day, when I’m bigger, he’ll pay for what he did.’

‘Who will, Adam?’ Mr Hendon probed for the truth. ‘Do you want to tell us about this person … the one who must “pay for what he did”? Adam, can you tell me who you mean?’

Adam looked away. The surgeon’s words were a timely caution to him, for he knew he must never tell. Not because he didn’t want to, but because his mother had made him promise not to.

Just then the door opened and a nurse entered. After she had imparted her message to the surgeon, he politely excused himself. ‘I’m afraid I’ll have to leave you for a while, but please wait here. Someone will be along in a moment to have a word with you.’

They watched him leave.

‘Phil?’ Adam’s voice trembled.

‘Yes, son?’

‘When the person comes, will they let me see my mum?’ He felt as though his world had fallen apart. It was a strange and frightening feeling. ‘I have to tell her something.’

Phil knew that feeling, and he saw it in the boy’s face now. ‘Adam, listen to me.’

‘No! I don’t want to.’ Tearful, Adam turned away.

Phil persevered. ‘Think about what you’re asking, son. I know how much you want to see her, but it isn’t right for you just now. Later, when everything is in order, I’m sure you can see your mother … if you are still of the same mind.’

‘Please, Phil, I need to see my mum!’

Phil tried gently to dissuade him. ‘I do understand, but do you really think your mother would want you to see her now? Or do you think she’d rather you remembered your last conversation with her, when she was still able to tell you how much she loved you? Don’t you think she would feel your sadness, if you were to see her now?’

Phil’s wise words reached home. After what seemed an age, the boy took a long, deep breath and tried to be the man his mum would want him to be. ‘Is my mum really safe now, Phil?’ He needed reassurance.

Phil promised him that she was safe.

Adam accepted what Phil had told him, though he found it incredibly difficult to believe that he would never again see his mother, never again hear her voice. Never again hear her laugh, nor run with her across the fields. In his heart he could see her beautiful smile, and that funny way she had of wrinkling her nose when she laughed out loud.

Suddenly the awful truth began to sink in, and the enormity of it all was too much for him to bear.

In a voice that was almost inaudible, he whispered to Phil, ‘I’m really sad.’ Winding his arms round Phil’s wide waist, he confessed brokenly, ‘I don’t know what to do.’

‘Aw, son, we can none of us do anything, because when the Good Lord calls us home, we have to go.’ Phil held the boy tight to him. ‘But you’re not on your own, son, because I’m here for you. If I’m able, I will always be here for you.’

Thankful that he had Phil, the boy confided in a whisper, ‘Phil, I don’t know if she heard me promise. I need her to know that I made the promise.’

Choking back his emotion, Phil told him, ‘Don’t you worry about that, because she heard it all right – I heard it too – but y’know, son, sometimes we make promises and then, later, we regret them. You might need to think about that particular promise, the one you made to your mother. Maybe you won’t want to think about it just yet. But maybe later, when you’re not so very sad.’

Adam was resolute. ‘If Mum had not made me promise, I would have told them everything … about how he hurt her, time after time, hitting her and making her cry. I hate him for what he did, but she didn’t want me to tell. Why did she not want me to tell?’

Phil measured his words carefully. ‘Because she loved you so much, she did not want you to do something that might hurt you in the long run. I believe that was why she asked you to make that promise.’ He lowered his voice. ‘I think she wanted you not to tell, because if you told, then you would have so many awkward questions to answer. It would be a nasty business, with you caught up in it.’

Leaning forward, Phil placed his hands either side of Adam’s face. ‘All you need to know is that your mother loved you, and that no one will ever be able to hurt her again.’

Looking into Phil’s kind, weathered face, Adam saw such honesty.

‘Phil?’

‘Yes, son?’

‘She’s died, hasn’t she?’

‘Yes, son.’

‘Has she gone to the same place as your wife?’

‘Yes, I’m sure she has.’

‘Will they be friends?’

‘I would like to think so.’

‘But I’d rather my mum could be here with me, because then, when I get older, I could keep her safe always.’

‘Ah, but that’s not your job, son, because now she’s in the safest place of all. Your mum was an angel on earth, but angels belong in Heaven. She’ll be well looked after there.’

‘I want her back, Phil. I miss her … I really miss her.’ Suddenly the full truth had hit home. He could no longer be brave; and his grief was overwhelming. Hiding himself in Phil’s musty old coat, he sobbed as though his heart would break.

Holding him close, Phil took him to the couch, where he sat beside him, holding him until he sobbed himself to sleep.

A short time later, Matron arrived. On seeing the boy asleep on the couch, she went out and returned with a fleecy blanket, which she handed to Phil.

She watched him wrap it around Adam before quietly informing him, ‘I’m afraid we have to discuss official matters.’ She beckoned Phil to the other side of the room, lowering her voice as she told him, ‘I am led to understand that you are not the grandfather after all. Is that true?’

Knowing he must, Phil told her his name and the whole story: how he had dropped Adam from the school bus and walked home with him down the lane; how he was on his way back to his bus when he heard the boy shouting. ‘In a shocking state, he was, finding his mother like that, and his father running off like a spineless coward. I don’t know if it was the father who hurt her, but Adam seems convinced of it.’

‘So, why did you not inform us of these circumstances right away?’

‘I gave as much information as I could, but it was your staff who chose to believe I was his grandfather, and besides, there were more urgent matters to deal with at the time, as you well know.’

‘Well, I’m sorry, but since we have become aware of the truth, I’m afraid it was our duty to call in the authorities.’

‘What authorities?’ Phil recalled the officials in the office, and all his fears returned. ‘Look, Matron, I make no apologies for letting you believe that I was his grandfather, because as far as I’m aware, he’s got no one else.’

‘I see.’ As a woman, Matron was deeply sympathetic, but duty was her priority, along with the boy’s welfare.

She explained, ‘In the light of what we now know, this is a very serious situation. The boy’s mother has died under suspicious circumstances, and the father has run away. Moreover, we are led to understand there are no close relatives at hand to take care of the boy.’

‘I’ll take care of him then. At least until the in-laws can be found.’

‘I’m sorry, but I don’t think that will be an option.’

‘So, what will happen to him?’

‘That’s for the authorities to decide.’

Before he could answer, she left with the parting words, ‘You do seem to have his interests at heart, and he obviously trusts you. If you could please continue to keep an eye on him, I’ll be back presently.’

When she had gone, Phil paced the floor. This is a sorry state of affairs and no mistake, he thought, walking over to where Adam was sleeping. I can’t imagine what might happen to you now, son. He gazed down on the boy and he shook his head in despair. No family to speak of, and no one but me to stand by you.

He understood the gravity of the situation. Unless Adam’s father was found there was little hope of getting the child home. Possibly not even then.

Physically and emotionally exhausted, he sat down in a chair, laid himself back and closed his weary eyes.

Some few minutes later the nurse arrived with two other people.

Phil clambered out of the chair, one eye shut and the other on the boy. He still clung to the hope that, one way or another, he might yet be able to take the boy home.

‘These people need to speak with you,’ the nurse advised him. Having waved the visitors forward, she went to sit by Adam. When in his sleep he occasionally whimpered in distress, she tenderly lulled him quiet again.

Phil had been greatly unnerved at the sight of the two very officious-looking people standing before him. The woman was middle-aged, dressed in a dark two-piece. The man was older, serious-looking, smart in light grey jacket and black trousers. He also carried a document case. They were the people Phil had seen in the office earlier.

The woman introduced herself and her colleague: ‘My name is Miss Benson, and this is Mr Norman. We’re here on behalf of Child Welfare and Social Services.’ Her gaze shifted to Adam.

Phil had already guessed at their reason for being there, and he expected the worst. ‘Child Welfare, eh? And may I ask, what it is you want from us?’

‘I understand you are Phil Wallis?’

‘That’s right.’

‘You accompanied Adam and his mother, yes?’

‘I did.’

‘Well, Mr Wallis, first, I apologise for all the questions.’ She paused to glance at the sleeping boy. ‘Please be assured, we’re not here to cause distress at this unhappy time, but having been made aware of some rather unsettling issues, we’re duty-bound to examine the facts.’

Phil was already on the defensive. ‘Well then, I’ll explain the “facts” to you, shall I?’ He pointed to Adam. ‘That poor child there has just lost his mother in the cruellest way imaginable. His father’s run off and the boy thinks the world has come to an end. I would not describe that as being an “unhappy time”. I would call that catastrophic, wouldn’t you?’

‘Well, yes, of course. As you say … but as I’ve explained, we have a job to do, and in view of the notification we received, we will first need to clarify the details of your relationship with the boy.’ Without waiting for Phil to respond, Miss Benson plucked a black notepad from her document case.

After quickly scanning her own notes, she had a number of questions, which she put to Phil in a quiet manner, being acutely aware that Adam could wake at any moment. ‘If you could again confirm that you are Phil Wallis, and that you are no relation to Adam Carter.’

‘That’s right.’

‘I’m sorry,’ she seemed genuinely so, ‘but I need you, please, to go through what happened.’

Phil was irritated. ‘Why can’t you let me get him home and we can answer your questions there?’ He lowered his voice to an angry whisper. ‘What good will it do Adam, sitting here just yards from where his mother lies dead? For pity’s sake, let me get him home. I can assure you, neither me nor the boy is about to leave the country!’

‘I understand your anxiety, Mr Wallis. Believe me, we also have Adam’s best interests at heart. So, if you could, please, quickly run through the events that brought you and Adam here …? Once we know exactly what the situation is, we can then decide which course of action to take.’

Phil had no doubt about what she meant. These were official people, and he appreciated that their specific task was to protect children from harm. If they decided Adam needed taking into care, temporarily or otherwise, there would be nothing that he or anyone else could do to stop them. Especially considering not only the seriousness of events, but the fact that he himself was neither a relative nor even a long-term friend. He was merely the driver of the school bus; in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Miss Benson now casually informed him, ‘Oh, and incidentally, because of the information we received, the police have been notified. I understand, they are on their way as we speak.’

Her serious-faced companion, Mr Norman, now took a step forward. ‘Of course, the father will obviously need to answer to the police. Adam, however, will initially come under our jurisdiction.’ Gesturing to a nearby chair, he suggested, ‘Maybe you would care to sit down, while we take you through the procedure?’

Phil flatly refused to sit down. ‘Ask your questions.’

‘Firstly, as we’ve already established that you are not Adam Carter’s grandfather, can you please explain how you came to be here, with the boy?’

Phil explained, ‘I drive the school bus and have done these many years. I had already dropped all the other children off, and as Adam was the last, I decided to walk him up the lane to his house. When we got to the gate, I saw the man I assumed to be his father; he came rushing out of the house, and stood on the porch. I greeted him cordially, but he made no reply.’

He paused before confiding, ‘It didn’t bother me that the boy’s father chose to ignore me; he’s got a reputation of being a miserable sod, to say the least. Anyway, thinking the boy would be safe enough with his father, I took my leave of them.’ He relived the scene in his mind.

‘Please, go on.’

‘Well, I was on my way back down the lane, when I heard Mr Carter yelling at Adam. Then all of a sudden this car sped past me. Seeing as it was the very same car that was parked in the drive, I thought it must be Adam’s father. Whoever it was, they must have taken leave of their senses, tearing down that narrow lane like a bat out of hell! Splashed mud all over my trousers, so he did, damned lunatic!’

‘What did you do then?’

‘Well, what else could I do but go back and find out why the boy was now calling. I found him in the lane – crying and shaking he was – and then I went back to the house with him and saw his mother, all broken and twisted at the bottom of the stairs. By, she was in a terrible way; she needed help, and quick. So, I did what needed doing: I sent Adam to call for an ambulance, while I sat and talked to his mother. I didn’t even know if she could hear me, but I was hoping she could. That’s what they say, isn’t it – talk to them, just in case they can hear you?’

‘So then what? Did the father come back?’

‘No! We saw neither hide nor hair of him. It wasn’t long before the ambulance arrived. They tended the mother and put her in the ambulance. Me and the boy jumped in alongside. And now we’re here, and that poor boy has lost his mother. And there you have it.’

‘Thank you. So now we’ll need to discuss the implications of what you’ve told us.’

‘What will happen to Adam?’ Phil asked anxiously.

Miss Benson’s reply was curt: ‘We’ll be back shortly, and inform you of any decisions made with regard to Adam.’

No sooner were they gone than the door opened to admit two police officers – a woman and her male colleague – who were interested to learn what exactly Phil might know about Adam’s father. Concerned that they were not of the same quiet disposition as the Child Welfare officials, Phil inched them over to the furthest side of the room. ‘I don’t want Adam to hear us talking,’ he explained, and they fully appreciated his concern.

Over the next ten minutes or so, Phil impatiently answered all their questions; most of which he had already gone through with Miss Benson and Mr Norman.

The officers were sympathetic, but they questioned Phil about various aspects of his account. ‘First, the medical staff were led to believe that you were the boy’s grandfather. How did that come about?’

As before, Phil answered truthfully. ‘First of all, I can assure you that at no time did I give the impression that I was his grandfather. They just assumed that I was, and because of what was going on I didn’t bother to put them right. Mind you, I wish to God I was his grandfather, because then I might have some say in what happens to him.’ He told them that he was the driver of the school bus, and had fallen into a situation that no one with any compassion could have run away from.

The questions were thick and fast: ‘How did you come to be here now, with Adam Carter? How much do you know about the manner in which Mrs Carter’s injuries were caused?’

‘I don’t know any more than I’ve already explained,’ Phil told them. ‘I was on my way back to my bus, when the boy called for me to help him. I neither heard nor saw anything of what took place up to that point.’

‘All right, so could you just go through it again, say what you do know, and explain how you got involved? Don’t leave any detail out, however small and insignificant it might seem to you.’

Quickly, Phil went through it all again: about how he had dropped the boy off and walked him down the lane to his house. ‘Like I told the others, his father was with him when I left, so I told the boy cheerio and went on my way.’

‘And then what?’

‘Well, I heard this man’s voice. He sounded angry … screeching and yelling, he was. I assumed it must be the father as I’d seen no one else about, and the Carters’ house was the only one down that lane. Then the same car I’d seen in the drive went skidding past me and onto the main road like a damned lunatic!’

Uneasy that the woman police constable was making entries in her notebook, he reluctantly continued, ‘No sooner was the car out of sight than I heard Adam yelling my name, pleading for me to help him … in a right state he was, poor little devil. I ran back to him and when we got into the house I was shocked at what I saw there.’

He described finding Peggy Carter, as before. ‘I’ve no idea what went on in that house, but if you ask me, nobody falls down the stairs and ends up as damaged as that poor woman.’

He was not surprised to see the two officers exchange glances, because he suspected they must be thinking the very same as himself.

Having explained the run of events, he glanced over at the boy. ‘No child should ever see his mother like that, and now she’s gone, and he’s like a lost soul. I gave him my word that I would not let him down.’

‘When you “gave him your word”, what do you mean exactly?’ the male police officer asked.

Phil hesitated. What use was his word anyway, now that Child Welfare had got involved? But then, he must have been crazy if he had ever believed it could be any other way.

‘I meant that he was not to worry about anything, because I would look after him. So now I’d like to get the boy home as quickly as possible. It’s not right for him to be here just now, especially after what’s happened. He needs looking after. As far as I can tell, I’m the only one he’s got.’

The male officer was sympathetic, but having dealt with deserted children for many years, he was also realistic. ‘I’m afraid it isn’t as simple as that.’

‘What’s that supposed to mean?’ Phil’s concern was heightened by his remark, even though he was sensible enough to know that what he proposed would never be allowed.

The officer spelled it out. ‘As you’re well aware, the boy’s mother has just died, and as far as we can tell, his father has abandoned him. Then there’s the question of how Mrs Carter actually received her injuries. There are still far too many questions left unanswered. As for the boy, he is not altogether your concern. You must understand, it’s our duty to see that he is kept safe until every effort is made to locate any relatives there might be.’

‘Yes, of course I understand that, but he’s a very frightened child, without anyone close to turn to. The thing is, he knows and trusts me. I’m offering to keep him safe, at my home, or if it helps matters I’ll stay with him at his house. Either way, he’ll be taken care of, and, more importantly, by someone who’s known him these past many years; since he was old enough to attend school.’

‘I’m afraid this is not an option, Mr Wallis. When a child appears to be in danger, for whatever reason, we have a legal responsibility to examine those circumstances and take whatever steps we have to take in the best interests of that child. From information received, we consider Adam’s situation to be highly sensitive; therefore needing an immediate response. As you have already explained, you are not a relative. That being the case, Adam’s welfare is a matter for the Child Welfare Department.’

He concluded, ‘Under the circumstances, there is no question of allowing the boy to return home. As I understand it, the case has now moved into the realms of a possible murder inquiry. So, until the investigation is concluded with regard to Mrs Carter’s fatal injuries, the family home will be cordoned off and kept secure. As for relatives, you can be assured that the search is already underway. Meantime, as I’ve already explained, the boy’s safekeeping remains the responsibility of the courts, and the Child Welfare Department.’

‘Yes, and that’s what I’m worried about.’ Phil spoke his mind. ‘I’m worried that they’ll put him in the children’s home, and if his father doesn’t come back, what’ll happen to him then, eh? Like as not he’ll be fostered out, and how many foster parents would choose a deeply troubled seven-year-old in preference to a younger child? Not many, in my opinion!’

‘Have you any idea where the father might have gone?’ the woman police officer asked.

‘I’ve no idea at all. How could I?’

‘So, you wouldn’t know if Mr Carter ever intended coming back?’

‘I haven’t a clue.’

When the official questions were over, Phil had a few questions of his own, such as what would happen with Mrs Carter now, and when might they be able to make plans to move her. ‘When can we begin making arrangements for her to be laid to her rest?’

Again, the answers to all of his questions were negative and unsettling. And he was grateful that Adam had remained asleep; unaware of what was being said.

Following an agonising wait, Phil was informed by the Child Welfare officers that, after discussing the case, they had reached the only decision available to them in the circumstances.

Peggy Carter’s son would be taken into care until it was established whether or not he had relatives who might want to apply for custody.

Heartbroken, Phil asked if he might be the one to relay the news to Adam. Being sympathetic to the boy’s plight, and having already realised the bond between these two, the officials agreed. So, while the officers remained by the door, Phil woke Adam up.

Seated beside Adam, Phil choked back his own emotion as he explained how everyone was concerned that they should do the right thing by him, and therefore every effort was being taken to locate his father, and track down any other of his relatives.

‘Meantime, son, you must go with the people whose responsibility it is to keep you safe and well.’

Nervously, Adam looked across at the two Child Welfare people. For what seemed an age he did not speak. Then he looked back at Phil and, in a small, quivering voice he asked, ‘Are they waiting to take me away now?’

Trying hard not to show his sorrow, Phil took a moment to reply, and even then was able only to nod, for fear of letting his emotions run away with him.

Then they looked at each other a long while, and the boy fell into Phil’s chubby arms. Holding onto him as though his own life depended on it, he confided tearfully, ‘I don’t want to go with them, Phil. I want to go with you.’

‘I know, son, and I would take you home in a minute, but it isn’t possible. But you’re not to worry. You’ll be safe enough with these people. They’ll look after you, and who knows, they might even find your real granddad, and possibly a cousin or two. You’d like that, wouldn’t you?’

Adam gave no answer. Instead, he asked, ‘When can I see my mum?’

‘Not yet, son, but when the time is right, I’ll be sure to let you know.’

‘Will you, Phil? Honestly?’

‘Oh, yes! You can depend on it!’ It was getting harder for him to hold back his emotions, but somehow he continued to remain calm and reassuring, for the boy’s sake.

‘And you’ll come and see me, won’t you, Phil?’

‘You bet I will!’

‘Are you coming with me now?’

‘No, I’m afraid not, but you’ve got Miss Benson and Mr Norman with you.’

‘But I want you there! Oh, please, Phil, don’t leave me!’ He started to cry again. ‘Don’t go, please.’

Phil addressed the Welfare officers. ‘It wouldn’t hurt if I went along too, would it?’ he asked softly. ‘It’s been such a bad day for the little chap.’

Of course, they could not deny the sobbing child this request.

‘Where are we going?’ asked Adam.

‘To the place where you’ll be living, while they look for one of your relatives,’ Phil explained. ‘Oh, Adam, wouldn’t that be wonderful … if they found someone who wanted to love and take care of you … someone of your very own?’

Adam looked away. ‘I want my mum.’

‘I know that, son. But like I said before – and I want you always to think of what I’m telling you now – your mother has gone to a better place. She’s not suffering any more, and no one can hurt her ever again.’

‘Is she still watching over us, Phil?’

‘Oh, yes. More than ever, and she always will be.’

A small, sympathetic gesture from one of the watching pair told Phil it was time to go.

Phil gave a nod, then, as he held Adam by the hand, they were led down the corridor, outside and across the car park, and into a waiting vehicle.

At first Adam resisted, but Phil stayed beside him, coaxing him into the back of the car, before climbing in alongside.

Throughout the short journey, Adam was unusually quiet, head down, his thoughts back there in the hospital with his beloved mum. Occasionally he would choke back a sob, and lean into Phil for comfort.

Phil talked calmly to him. He reminded him that he would come and see him as often as he was allowed, and that he would never let him down.

‘I mean to keep track of you,’ he said. ‘Tomorrow I’ll bring you pen and paper, and my home address, so if you feel the need to write to me, you’ll have the means. Oh, and I’ll fetch you a notebook.’

‘What for?’

‘Well, if ever there’s a time when I’m not able to visit and you might be worried, or sad, or maybe you’ve done something you feel proud of, you can put it all in your little book. Make sure to keep it safe, and we’ll talk it through when next I see you. Mind you, it’ll take a herd of horses or the end of the world to keep me from visiting. So, Adam, my boy, is that a deal?’

‘Yes, please, Phil.’

Seated upfront, the Welfare officers were touched by the very special relationship between the man and the boy.

‘The old fella was right,’ Miss Benson confided to Mr Norman. ‘If there was any justice in the world, he should have been the boy’s real grandfather.’

Mr Norman glanced in his driving mirror to see the boy smiling up at Phil, and he had to agree.

Within the hour, they arrived at the children’s home. An impressive, proud old building with long windows and a great oak door, it gave an impression of great strength.

‘Here we are then, Adam.’ Mr Norman climbed out of the car, and opened the door on Adam’s side. ‘We have many other children here, children much as yourself, who, through no fault of their own, have found themselves in unfortunate circumstances. I do hope you’ll be content here, while the search is on to find a relative who might offer you a loving home. In the meantime, I’m sure you’ll find a friend or two here. Oh, and I’m sure your good friend, Phil, will be calling in from time to time.’

‘Come rain or shine, you can count on it!’ Phil assured them all.

Walking across to the front door, Phil felt Adam’s hand tremble in his, and his heart was like a lead weight inside him. As was his way, he gave up a silent prayer: Don’t desert him, Lord, for this boy will never need You more than he does right now.

He glanced at Adam’s forlorn face, then he looked up at the impressive building with its long, arched windows and grand oak door, and he hoped it would not be too long before Adam could be reunited with his own long-lost relatives. Or, if that was not to be, then maybe he would be offered a special place in the heart of a loving family.

At that moment, the door opened to reveal a portly woman of middle age. Her pink face, with merry blue eyes, was wreathed in a broad smile, and her mass of brown hair was haphazardly piled on top of her head. She introduced herself as Miss Martin, and brightly invited them to, ‘Come in … please, do come in.’ She had a singsong voice that made Phil and Adam share the tiniest of smiles.

As they were ushered inside, Adam clung to Phil; and Phil felt that Adam was resisting every step. ‘It’ll be all right, son,’ he confided. ‘She looks like a nice, jolly sort. Oh, and look!’ He pointed to one of the long casement windows. ‘The children are waving at you. Oh, Adam! I really think you’ll make friends here, but I’ve a feeling it won’t be too long before you’re settled into a fine, loving family.’

Adam was not listening; nor was he looking at the children. Instead, he was thinking of his mother, of her smile and her laughter, and the way she always cuddled him, too tight, and too often; almost as though she could not let him go.

Now, she would never cuddle him again, or laugh out loud, or wave him off when he climbed onto the school bus.

When the inevitable tears came, he quietly wiped them away with the cuff of his sleeve.

Phil had seen the tears, though, and wrapping his arm round the boy’s shoulders, he drew him close.

Minutes later, as they walked through the door and into the huge, wood-panelled hallway, Phil had a feeling of dread.

He feared for the future, and with the boy still reeling from the loss of his mother, and his heart heavy with hatred for the man who he believed had caused her death, he was at his most vulnerable.

Phil could not help but wonder how this sad and lonely child would ever again find a sense of peace.

He felt as though somehow he had been appointed guardian. And so, come what may, and for as long as it took, he promised himself that he would watch over Adam as though he were his own flesh and blood.

Miss Martin seemed friendly enough, and as she waddled ahead, they were informed of occasional events that took place in the home.

‘We keep an orderly house, but that is not to say we don’t ever have fun. We also like to reward hard work and good behaviour. We’re privileged to have at least one summer trip to the seaside, and we always celebrate Christmas.’

There were many rooms in the house, and it took the best part of an hour to visit each one. The great hall was very much designed in the manner of the hallway itself, with wall panels above the skirting, and tall, arched windows. At one end there was a raised pulpit.

‘This is where we gather for morning prayers and address the various matters of the week,’ Miss Martin said.

As they toured the downstairs, Adam remained silent, as did Phil, though the officials did ask questions now and then, in order to gain more information for the benefit of Phil and Adam.

At the front of the building there were classrooms and other, brighter, rooms for play. Adam and Phil had the opportunity to watch the younger children playing happily, with the staff being very caring and supportive.

Of the other rooms, some were dedicated to early learning, while another, with rows of seats and a huge screen, was set aside for additional education and the occasional film treat.

From one small room came the sound of music, and when they peeped inside, Phil and Adam were surprised to see a boy of about Adam’s age playing the piano.

Miss Martin was very proud. ‘I had to fight the authorities tooth and nail in order for piano lessons to be agreed,’ she told them, ‘but the piano is mine, so there was no cost to be made.’

She gestured to the old man overseeing the playing. White-haired, and with a slightly bent back, he had his eyes closed, and was obviously intent on the boy’s playing.

‘That’s my uncle,’ she explained. ‘He’s a retired music teacher, and lives quite close. He kindly gives his time freely in order to encourage the talented amongst us.’ Softly, she closed the door. ‘There is more for you to see,’ and with a wide and pleasant smile, she urged them onward.

The back of the house was given over to the kitchens, toilet facilities, and accommodation for junior staff.

Upstairs was divided into two. The lesser area was dedicated to the senior staff. ‘We have no need to tour this side,’ Miss Martin informed them. ‘It’s merely private offices and accommodation.’

The larger and better secured half of the upper floors was the children’s dormitories, with a small office close by for the duty night officer.

All too soon it was time for Phil to say goodbye to Adam. ‘Remember what I said,’ Phil reminded him. ‘Anything that worries you … anything at all, we’ll discuss it tomorrow, when I come and see you.’ He turned to Miss Martin. ‘Do you have specific visiting times?’

‘Of course. We can’t have people popping in and out at will. It’s necessary for both staff and children to work with an orderly timetable, although, of course, in cases of emergency, we can be flexible.’

Bypassing Phil, she enquired of the officials, ‘So, does Adam have any belongings with him?’

‘I’m afraid not.’ Miss Benson walked her away from the group. ‘I assume you’ve been informed of the circumstances?’

‘Of course, yes, I do understand. But Adam will feel more comfortable if he could possibly have a few of his own things with him … his regular clothes and personal things.’

‘Yes, I understand. I can’t promise anything, but I will try.’

‘Oh, please do. It really will make all the difference to him settling in.’

There followed the inevitable tears, with Adam clinging to Phil.

‘I don’t want to stay here, Phil.’

Phil’s heart ached as he confided, ‘For the moment there’s nothing we can do about it, son. Just remember. I won’t be far away, and I’ll be back every day. So you’re not alone. Always remember that.’

‘Phil?’

‘Yes, son?’

‘What about my mum?’

Phil took him by the shoulders. ‘Listen to what I say now. Your mum is in a safer and happier place, and she’s watching over you. If you ever need to confide in her, then do so any time, any place, and she will hear you clear as a bell. As for everything else, just you leave it to me. I’ll talk to whoever’s in charge, and I’ll get all the answers you need, I promise …’ he laid his hand across his chest, ‘… hand on heart, I truly will.’

‘You mustn’t worry too much about Adam,’ Miss Martin informed Phil. ‘We’ll soon have him settled in, and he’ll be fine. You wait and see.’ She smiled at Adam. ‘I’ll do my best to get some of your personal possessions brought in. It would certainly help if you could make me a list of the things you cherish most.’ When Adam gave no answer, she added, ‘Just have a little think about it.’ She then plucked a leaflet from the hallway table, and handed it to Phil. ‘You’ll need this, Mr …?’ She recalled that Phil had been introduced already, and she was irritated that her memory was not what it used to be, although she never lost sight of what was most important: the children and their welfare.

‘Wallis … the name is Phil Wallis, and you can be sure I’ll be back here tomorrow, and every day I’m allowed.’

‘I see.’ She made a smile, but behind the smile she was wondering if this determined man was a pain in the making. She could see, however, that Phil Wallis was sincere in his concern for the boy.

A few minutes later they were outside in the porch. ‘I’ll be thinking of you, son,’ Phil promised. ‘Happen when I come back tomorrow, you’ll have made a friend or two.’

Adam began to panic. Throwing his arms round Phil’s ample belly, he pleaded tearfully, ‘I’m frightened. Please, Phil, let me come home with you.’

It took every ounce of strength for Phil to speak calmly and reassure the boy. Holding him at arm’s length, he stooped to his level, and, looking into his eyes, he asked, ‘Do you think I would ever lie to you?’

Adam shook his head.

‘So, you must know that what I’ve told you is the truth, that your mother is watching over you, and that she won’t let any harm come to you. And don’t forget, you’ll always have me looking out for you.’

Fishing into his pocket, he took out a pen and a tatty old envelope. ‘Look, I’m writing my address down for you, and if ever you need to tell me things that you can’t tell anybody else, just write me a letter.’ He glanced at Miss Martin. ‘He is allowed to do that, isn’t he?’

‘Of course, but there are certain regulations, so we will need to see the letter before it goes out.’

‘Huh! Well, I’m sure he won’t be planning a bank robbery with me …’ He gave an aside wink at Adam.

When Adam chuckled, Phil grabbed him in a hug. ‘Aw, son, you’ll be fine. Just be yourself. Try not to fret too much, and don’t let yourself dwell on the bad things that have happened.’

Fishing into his pocket for a second time, he drew out a handful of coins, which he gave to Miss Martin. ‘This is Adam’s money … for stamps, or whatever other small thing he’s able to buy.’

‘Thank you, though we do have a small budget for certain incidentals.’ All the same, she slipped the coins into her pocket. ‘But I’ll keep them safe for him.’

‘’Bye for now, son.’ Phil kissed the top of Adam’s head. ‘Remember … the sun nearly always shines after the rain. I’ll keep my fingers crossed that the authorities will find your relatives.’ He made a point of not mentioning Adam’s father.

When Phil climbed into the car alongside the Welfare officers, Miss Martin held onto Adam, who waved until his arms ached. Then, as the car went out of sight, his sobbing was pitiful to hear.

Her heart being slightly softer than her authoritative exterior, Miss Martin slid her arm round his shoulders. ‘Your friend Phil has promised he’ll be back tomorrow, and I’m sure he will.’

‘He will! I know he will!’

‘Well, there you are then.’

Adam confided brokenly, ‘My mum … she …’ he took a deep breath, ‘… she died. Did you know that?’

‘Yes, they told me, and I’m so sorry, but we will care for you here, Adam. We will look after you. For as long as it takes.’

‘I don’t want to be here.’

‘I know, and I do understand.’

‘NO! You don’t, because you didn’t know my mum. You didn’t know how kind she was, and how funny, and sometimes she would race me across the fields, and now … and …’ he could no longer hold back the heartbreak, ‘I want her back … I miss her.’ Knowing he would never again see his beloved mother, never again hear her voice or feel her small, strong arms around him, he wept bitterly and his cries were terrible to hear.

Miss Martin understood. ‘Listen to me, Adam. I do know what it’s like to lose your mother, because I lost mine when I was not much older than you.’ She had an idea. ‘Do y’know what? I would love to know what your mum was like. She sounds wonderful. So, how about you and I go and have a chat? Then we can talk together, and ask each other all the questions that are in our minds. Afterwards, we can meet up with some of the staff and children. Would you like that, Adam?’

‘I don’t know.’

‘Well, shall we just go and have a little chat on our own? Afterwards, you can decide whether you want to meet some of the children, and maybe one or two members of staff? Is that all right with you?’

Again, Adam nodded, but really he just wanted to run after that car, and his only friend, Phil.

‘Right then! So that’s what we’ll do.’ Taking hold of his hand, Miss Martin quickened her steps.

Adam was reluctant. Pulling back against her iron grip and dragging his feet, he glanced towards the windows, his forlorn gaze constantly drawn to where the car had taken Phil out of sight.

He could not understand why or how everything had happened so very quickly, and he was so afraid. This morning he had gone to school as usual, and afterwards, Phil had walked him home. And now Phil was gone, his mother was gone, and his father had run away.

‘Come along, Adam,’ Miss Martin interrupted his thoughts. ‘There’s no time for wasting. Lots to do … lots to talk about.’

She led him smartly along the corridor and through the house to the parlour, which doubled as her office. ‘Here we are, Adam. Now then, how about a glass of fresh orange juice?’

Unceremoniously plonking him onto the sofa, she firmly closed the door and cut across the room to the sideboard. ‘I think we deserve a little treat, don’t you?’ Without waiting for an answer, she took out a small tumbler and a fluted glass.

Humming a merry tune under her breath, she first poured the orange juice into the tumbler, and then she poured a sizeable helping of sherry into the glass. ‘One for each of us,’ she chirped.

While she bustled about, Adam felt more lost and frightened than at any other time in his life.

Everyone he knew had gone away. Everything familiar had changed, and now he was alone among strangers.