Ruth watched him. He was so kind. And yet had such a poor opinion of himself. What a contrast with his colleague. She considered for a moment to tell Crane that it had been the other constable who had hurt her. But surely he would soon find out it was a lie and then kick her out after all. "Thank you, Mr. Crane," she said instead. "I don't think I broke owt. It's just a bruise. You needn't concern yerself with it." Rather, he needn't concern himself with how she had gotten it. "And I'm always nice to ye."

She got up, picking up Lucy with one arm while holding the cloth to her face with the other hand. She nodded at Sam. "Would ye...?"