"An' what about binding our bargain?" asked Mrs Gowler.
"How much do you want?" asked Mavis, as she produced her purse. "Will five shillings do?"
"It'll do," admitted Mrs Gowler grudgingly, although the deposit she usually received was half a crown.
"I feel rather faint. Is there anywhere I can sit down for a minute?" asked Mavis.
"If you don't mind the kitchen. P'raps you'd like a cup of tea. I always keep it ready on the fire."
Mavis thanked her and followed Mrs Gowler to the room indicated. Although it was late in May, a roaring fire was burning in the kitchen, about which, on various sized towel-horses, numerous articles of babies' attire were airing.
"Too 'ot for yer?" asked Mrs Gowler.
"I don't mind where it is so long as I sit down."
"'Ow do you like your tea?" asked her hostess. "Noo or stooed?"
"I'd like fresh tea if it isn't any trouble," replied Mavis.