Meanwhile, back in Lewisham, Kate had just arrived for lunch with Jan at Sarahs' house.

'Where's Mother?' Kate asked. 'I brought her these flowers, and some Belgian chocolates and a whole lot of soaps and shampoos.'

'She's out for the day. Cindy's taken her out. They've gone to Brighton. It'll do them both good,' said Jan.

'You mean she's not here? That's a bit much!' said Kate. She was obviously angry that her mother wasn't there to see her. 'After all,' she said, 'I am her daughter, and it's her eightieth birthday.'

'I know,' said Jan. 'It's a pity you didn't remember that before.'

'But you knew I was coming,' accused Kate.

'Yes, I did. But I didn't see why Mother shouldn't get a treat on her birthday. Anyway, you came to talk to me about your "idea", not to see her.'

The conversation throughout lunch was difficult. The sisters tried desperately to find something to say to each other that wouldn't start another argument. Over coffee, Jan finally asked the question they both knew had to be answered.

'So, what's this idea of yours about dealing with Mother and her condition?'

Kate sighed. 'I told you it's a bit complicated, but I'll try to make it as simple as I can.'

'OK. Go ahead.'

'Well... you don't have the money to pay for care for Mother.'

'No. You know perfectly well that I don't,' said Jan impatiently.

'Yes, but what about her?'

'What do you mean? She only has her pension and the money Dad invested for her. I checked up what it costs, and she certainly doesn't have enough to pay for the kind of special care she needs.'

'That's true,' said Kate. 'But she owns the house. It's a big house. This area isn't particularly fashionable, but the house is still pretty valuable. House prices are rising again, and anywhere in London is always good.'

'Surely you're not suggesting she should sell the house?' said Jan, starting to feel her anger rising inside her.