"People are so deceitful, and what is almost as bad, so, ungrateful. I'll take you on trial, Miss Braham, will you promise to teach my sweet children and do everything that is required of you?"
"Yes, madam," replied Emilia, eagerly, "everything; and you will find me very grateful--indeed, indeed you will."
"I will wait to convince myself of that. When can you come?"
"At once, madam. To-day, if you wish.
"Not to-day; to-morrow, early. Servants invariably come at night, which shows their unwillingness and the spirit in which they accept a situation. Here is my address. You understand? I take you on trial only."
"Yes, madam, I understand, and I thank you with all my heart."
"Of course, in these circumstances I can give you no wages for the first month. If we suit each other we will arrange terms afterward. Is that agreeable to you?"
"Quite agreeable, madam. I will come to-morrow morning."
"Very well; I shall expect you before twelve."
That night Emilia went to bed without food; but her week's rent was paid and she left her lodgings without disgrace.