“Are they not? They are quite close. You are sister to my sister, so they might as well be my nieces.”
“It makes sense when you put it that way, I suppose, but the thought never occurred to me.”
“Why did you not ask for help?”
“Can you really believe I would have thought forgiveness was possible?”
“Were you afraid we would take them, or interfere in their upbringing?”
… …
“Mrs Harrison—”
… …
“Perhaps, but I think it might have been my pride. I thought if I could secure a position, then I could eventually hold my head up… eventually have my girls think their mother was… well… worthy of something more than charity from a family who rightly despised her.”
“I understand. May I ask you one thing more?”
“Yes.”
“Is that still your aim? To become a governess—a teacher?”
“If that allows me to raise my girls well, then yes.”
“I have an idea. Can you teach two girls all the accomplishments you learned in your seminary, without the condescension, ill manners, scheming, backbiting, and spite?”
“I am not what I was. I cannot claim to be the best of women, or even much better than the worst, but if you give me a chance, I will not disappoint you.”
“Very well. Would you mind ringing the silver bell?”
“Of course.”
… …
“Ma’am”
“Mrs Harrison, could you call for my carriage, and… I think… Martha. Yes, Martha… and Joshua. I wish them to assist me.”
“Of course.”
… …
“Mrs Darcy.”
“Ah, Joshua. I cannot leave your mistress just now, so I would ask some assistance.”
“It would be my pleasure, madam.”
“Would you kindly escort Martha and Mrs Harrison in the carriage to collect her two daughters? They are three and five years of age. Martha, I would like them fed, bathed, combed, in new night-rails, and tucked into bed in that order as soon as it may be arranged. Take a hamper with you for the girls, and another for the lady taking care of them. Borrow some clothing from Jenny and Susan. Joshua, pray pay any owing on her lodging and a bit extra… a substantial bit.”
“Where shall I take them, ma’am?”
“Darcy House, naturally.”
“Do I rightly understand you? You are offering me employment?”
“I thought that was obvious.”
