Dot's alone with a tape recorder

The Square is dark as Dot puts her empty milk bottles out on doorstep. The hustle and bustle of London life can be heard in the distance as Dot bolts the door of her empty house.

The time has come for Dot to record her message for Jim. She prepares two drinks as she explains to Jim that she's been dreading recording this message for him. Dot speaks aloud, telling Jim that everyone's missing him.

Dot reminisces, among other things, about how he used to moan at her for praying all the time, before going on to justify why it's so difficult for her to express her feelings. She talks of the time, all those years ago, when she was evacuated to Wales and how she didn't cry when she left her mother.

In fact, she was happy moving away to live with her auntie and uncle. They made her feel so special. But they then were taken away from her – life has taken everyone and everything that she's ever cared about and she can't bear it.

Dot explains what she's been most worried about – she fears if he returns home, she won't be able to cope…