“They have sworn loyalty, yes. But at the end of the day, everyone is only loyal to his own interests, would you not say?”

IT is almost noon, and Leonora is expected at the wool factory. She should have been there directly after the morning meal, but was delayed by petitioners. She must get Amram to see them next time, but they all want her, even if it is just to complain about their neighbor’s fruit tree that brings bees into the courtyard and does she not know that a bee sting could kill her child?

She tries her best to listen, even as she sifts through the people who would be able to help them, trying to find the right person. Mostly, she tells people to go to their rav.

“Tzfat is filled with chachamim,” she tells them. “Go and ask their advice. I am just a woman.”

Now, she strides down the hallway. The foreman will be there already, and some of the workers must have already assembled.

“Honorable mother?”

Leonora turns. It is Bellida. No doubt she wants to talk to her about Yishai and his overextended workload. Leonora has still not decided what to tell her.

“Bellida.” She forces her voice to be gentle, although she hates it when her daughter-in-law interrupts her at work.

“Do you remember our conversation?”

Bellida’s face is hesitant, has she got thinner? The large cheeks suited her, made her more gentle towards the children. Is this move to Tzfat not good for her?

Leonora brushes Bellida’s arm. “Of course. And please know that I am investigating the matter.”

Bellida looks up at her with her big dark eyes. She is wearing a burgundy dress today, which seems out of place in the summer heat. Clothing. It is a good way to placate Bellida.