This opinion received a startling confirmation the next time that she saw him.
“Have you decided upon the exact nature of your employment in London?” he inquired of her, with an air of caution.
“Oh, no. I don’t very much care for the idea of teaching, and I should have to learn shorthand and typewriting before I could get secretarial work. What I should really like would be something to do with figures—accountancy perhaps.”
“Ah! I thought so. The mathematical mind! A very rare thing in your sex,” said Mr. Monteagle Almond, as he had frequently said before. “But subject to the approval of your good aunt, I have here something that may interest you, I think.”
Aunt Beryl and Lydia gazed eagerly at the paper he held out to them, covered with telegraphic notes written in Mr. Almond’s neat little clerkly hand.
“New venture. Robes et Modes. Started last year. Establishment owned by Lady Proprietress, personally known to informant. Prem. in West End already acquired and cap. assured.”
“Opening for educ. young lady; a/cs and help in sales-room when required.”
“Live out; midday meal in. Special feature made of employees’ welfare.”
“Personal interview previous to engagt. Probably Sept. Salary to begin—no premium.”
“Only superior young ladies considered.”