There is a tradition in Poland that we don't call an elder person by his first name.We use a phrase Pani (Mrs) Ward or Pani Stella. I wouldn't dare to call Jean's Mum Stella. I always have a respect towards elderly people - but Mrs Ward for me and my family was exceptionally greatly respected. She was really a special person - she spent so many years teaching, but she was always eager to learn and get to know new things. I always admired her incredible appetite for life and adventure. When we met she was always interested in Polish history and politics, and we talked about British books and libraries. (She used to repeat: So many public libraries in Britain have been closed.) I am really grateful that I had the chance to meet such an exceptional and kind person.