“That is true,” answered Annie; “I was doing so upon probation; but I had not yet begun to receive any salary for it. I was only a sort of apprentice to the work, and under no engagement.”
Mrs. Macintosh, after regarding Annie for some time, and taking silent observation of her modesty and good-breeding, said at last:
“I like the look of you, Miss ——, Miss ——”
“My name is Annie Melville.”
“Well, Annie, I confess I do not indeed see anything particularly unsuitable in you, but at the same time I cannot help fearing you may be—or, I should say rather, may imagine yourself—superior to what may be required of you.”
“Oh, no, ma’am!” answered Annie; “I assure you I am too poor to think of any such thing! Indeed, I am so anxious to make money at once that, if you would consent to give me a trial, I should be ready to come to you this very evening.”
“You will have no wages before the end of your six months.”
“I understand, ma’am.”
“It is a risk to take you without a character.”
“I am very sorry, ma’am; but I have no one that can vouch for me—except, indeed, Mrs. Slater, of the High School, would say a word in my favor.”