In the first three chapters the main characters are introduced: Hilda, Ellen, and Gertie
After the destruction of her house under the circumstances of the war in London, Hilda -who went through a harsh period losing her parents -together with her daughter Ellen, turn to become homeless.
She decides to move to her old friend's place and stay with her for a while. Ellen and Gertie , her friend, knew each other ever since they were young . It is mentioned that Ellen's mom used to work for Gertie's father and so they were somehow forced to be friends at that time.
Obviously they later on had the chance to prove their friendship.
Hilda notices great differences in Gertie's life in comparison with the way she used to dress and live at the last time she saw her. Since they haven’t met each other for a long time, Gertie and Ellen had so much to tell each other about the way their lives have been going.
As for the new surrounding environment, now Ellen will have to adjust her life to the new place together with her daughter who seemed impressed with the new conditions and all the animals around.
Hope lies in their trial to put aside all what they have been through and simply enjoy their new peaceful life ..
