I trembled with disgust, almost fear, of the place I was in. I bethought me, I am here to benefit these poor wretches. I held my breath as I asked,—
"What was all that done for?"
"Because I sauced a matron, and wouldn't say I was sorry."
"Did you say it at last?"
"No, ma'am! I wouldn't have said it if they had killed me. I was so mad I had just as soon died as not. The more they did to me, the madder I grew, and I swore, if ever I should catch her outside, I would pay her back, if I got in here for life."
"Annie O'Brien, if you were to sauce me, as you call it, I should punish you." I did not say how. "I expect you to treat me with respect always. It is not treating me with respect to quarrel with the other women in my presence."
"I shall always treat you with respect. I could never be mean enough to do anything else after the way you have treated me."
She fulfilled her promise. Never yet have I met a human being that kindness would not influence; but I have met with many a perverse will that harshness would neither bend or break.
"Now, Annie, you say that you wish to govern your temper, and that you will try?"
"I will try!"