Mamselle finds fault with everything I do, although Nurse, who has always been far stricter in the past, calls me a clever little duck.
‘And I say what I said before: you should be down in the main part of the house, where people can see how hard-working you are. No, no arguments. If you don’t move at my suggestion, chances are you’ll be thrown out altogether – and you wouldn’t want to go back to the workhouse, would you? Mrs Baird will know my feelings, and, you mark my words, you’ll be on your way up in the world before you can say “Thank you, Nurse!” and make your curtsy. Come on, give old Nurse a hug: we shan’t be seeing so much of each other soon, but I want you to promise me something. If you’re ever in trouble, whatever the reason, you come to old Nurse. Promise.’
‘I promise, Nurse. Thank you.’ And I cry all over her crisp white apron-bib.