Chapter 1

The audience sat in silence, waiting for the gentleman on stage to speak. Martin Spencer was deep in thought, and it was him that held their attention. He slowly massaged his temples with his fingertips. A cough from an onlooker caused his eyelids to flutter. Martin took a deep breath. He held it and then returned to his trance-like state. Once again, the audience fell silent.

                Martin nodded. 'Okay, I'll try for you, my love.' He opened his eyes and removed the microphone from its stand. A smile crossed his lips as he stepped forward.

'Is it someone's special day?' said Martin. He held his hand to his brow, searching for the person in question. He then cupped his hand behind his ear, as if listening. 'Yes, it is. And it's someone in this area.'

                The small group of people in front of him began muttering among themselves. Their chairs squeaked on the floor as they faced the direction Martin was looking in.

                Martin stepped off the low-level stage and made his way over to an elderly lady. He stopped in front of her. His smile broadened. Once again, he closed his eyes. He stroked his beard and nodded. 'I think this relates to you, my love.'

                The woman placed her trembling hand against her chest.

                'Yes, that's right. What's your name, my love?'

                'It's Agnes.'

                'Well, Agnes, it's an important day for you, isn't it?'