In the box, also, there were small cassette tapes and a Dictaphone. The tapes were numbered and dated. I slipped the first numbered tape, dated 11/04/80, into the slot, but the batteries were long dead. I replaced them and pressed play. I recognized Dad’s voice immediately.
Tom: Denise, come in, no need to be afraid, this is a safe place. Nobody is going to hurt you here. And this is your little girl, Mary?
Me!
Denise: [screaming] Leave the door open, please open the door!
Child: [whimpering]
Tom: I’m so sorry. Jean, will you leave the door open wide, please?
Denise: Where is she going? I don’t want her to go!
Jean: Tom, it might be better if I stay?
My mum’s voice!
Tom: You’re right. Now, Denise, is that better? Jean will stay and the door is open. Would you like to sit down there, and Mary can sit – oh I see, well, you can sit together. Wherever you are comfortable.
Denise: [mumbles]
Tom: Did you sleep last night, Denise? I know everything must be strange to you after being … away for so long.
Denise: [mumbles a question]
Child: [whispers an answer]
Tom: There is no need to whisper any more, Mary.
Denise: Don’t talk to her!
Jean: Will I take Mary over here to the play area?
Denise: No!
Tom: It’s just a few steps away. You can watch.
Denise: No. I said no!
[A long silence. Jean coughs]
Tom: You saw your mother and father last night, Denise, how did that feel?
Denise: They look old.
Tom: It’s been fourteen years. People age. Do you think you look different to the way you looked fourteen years ago?
Denise: I suppose.
Tom: Jean, can you check that file and see if there are any photos of Denise before …
Jean: Yes, there are some right here.
Tom: Denise, would you like to see what you looked like fourteen years ago?
Tom: Are you nodding your head or shaking it?
Denise: I want to see.
