33
her shoes. "That's better."
Mrs Jackson eyed her suspiciously. Mrs M She had either come to
gossip, or to borrow. A quarter pound of tea here, and a couple of
eggs there. She lived off the street, Mrs Jackson had often remarked
to her husband; it was no wonder she could forever be affording to
buy herself new clothes for herself and Linda. She came often
these days to talk about Tommy and Linda. She liked Tommy, thought
he was a nice steady lad, and was hoping for a match. Mrs Jackson
was hoping that Tommy would have more sense.
"Tommy’s out with Linda tonight then," said Mrs Mullet. Mrs
Jackson was not looking at her: she was watching the moving figures
on the screen. ’"They seem right fond of hereach other.”
"They're very young."
"Kids are getting married younger all the time."
Mrs Jackson looked at her now. "More fool theythem!"
"Oh,come now, Mrs Jackson, what a thing to say.’ Why shouldn’t
they if that's what they want.”
"They want to see a bit of life first instead of getting tied down to
a wife and a couple of kids.”
Mrs Mullet pursed her lips. "I married at seventeen and I can't
say I've ever regretted it.”
"Are you wanting a cup of tea?” asked Mrs Jackson, determined
not to have no more of the subject.
"Wouldn't say no.”
Mrs Jackson put on the kettle and laid out a few biscuits on
