Cut From The Same Cloth

by Wenlock

"Polly knew that Rose would do more than survive; she would thrive. She was indeed cut from the same cloth as Tommy – and that would be both her blessing and her curse." What began as a brief imagining of a younger Shelby sister, Rose, and an encounter with Alfie Solomons, has grown into a story of life growing up in the most notorious family in Birmingham.

31. 2nd August, 1924

2nd August, 1924

My Dearest Rose Petal,

Please find enclosed in the accompanying package your lovely necklace which I fixed myself. There wasn't a lot of damage, just a couple of links which needed repairing. I used the same gold that the necklace was originally made of and I also gave it a good clean and polish. It's sparkling like your eyes now, my Petal. I hope you like it.

You probably noticed that I have also enclosed a basket of your favourite apples. Would you believe that I went and picked them myself from that orchard in Barnet? I chose the nicest, roundest, ripest ones just for you. I trust you'll enjoy them. I hope that idiot of a driver I sent to deliver them hasn't bruised them. Let me know if he has and I'll bruise him.

I've been thinking about you, my dear Rose, and hoping you're feeling better. The last time I saw you, you didn't look at all well. And I heard about the troubles your family had with the police. I also heard that Tommy pulled off the feat of the century by getting them released and himself an OBE in the process. Don't tell him, but I was impressed.

It must be nice to have the family back together and for all the difficulties to be over. I'm sure you're enjoying being back in the bosom of your family. It must be helping you to recover.

I'm sure all of this has been difficult for you. I hope that brother of yours is taking care of you. But I know that Fred will have stayed by your side since I left. He'll never let you down. And know that I'm here for you too.

I'd be honoured if you'd write to me. I'd very much like to know how you are. Of course, you may not want to write to this old Jew far away in London - you probably have lots of friends and family to whom you can talk – but if you think of me, send me a brief note to let me know how you are.

I hope the necklace meets with your approval. It pleases me to think of it back where it belongs - round your neck, a little piece of your mother with you always.

I am, with much affection, your

Alfie