Fingerrrrs crossed. I received a very encouraging email t'other day. The agent says she hasn't finished reading yet but is loving, LOVING my revised ms. Also that she can see how much thought and work I've put into it, and she finished by saying 'well done you!' She said she'd be in touch as soon as she's finished reading it.
You'll be glad to know I didn't wee myself - that will come later, if at all - but I did do an undignified sort of arm-wave, face-scrunch victory chair dance.
Oh, for the even very small steps, they are to be celebrated. And I have to say thank you to Alex for being one of my readers; you read very closely and had terrific feedback. So, thanks!