It is a relief when he comes back to her for those few seconds, their touch brief but reassuring. It gives her the strength she needs to stay focussed and not panic - not that Sybil was a woman prone to panic.

She bounces the baby on her shoulder in an attempt to soothe the child's tears and cries. Being a mother is something Sybil wants very much, but she has never imagined having it thrust upon her like this.