The Custodian

Mulberry House, built in the early fifteenth century and like so many old buildings, hides and protects a wealth of secrets and treasures left by its former residents.

It’s long-term resident, Nell Jenkins befriends many of her fellow occupants, particularly one small boy, Robbie Lee who first arrived at Mulberry House as an evacuee following the loss of his parents in the London Blitz of World War II. He and Nell become firm friends and, when he returns to the house an adult and an historian to boot, Nell senses that her days in the house are numbered and it is to Rob that she must hand over Custodianship of the secrets and treasures she has accumulated and helped guard through the years.

Rob later finds a letter addressed to him in which Nell expresses her trust that he will take over as custodian of the items enclosed with the letter. Each item is accompanied by a note that explains their presence in the house and the importance and context of each.

The historian in him recognizes the enormous value of each but when or how should they be made public. What is he to do?