I am leaving my two trusted servants, Martha and Ellen, to cook, and clean the house. When I return at the end of six months I will hand over to you—providing you have not broken any of the above conditions—the sum of £50, which is deposited meanwhile with my banker. (Enclosed you will find banker's guarantee for same.)
I am likewise offering the same sum of money to three other girls who are being asked to come and stay at my house, and to whom I want you to act as hostess. The girls' names are: Beryl Cranswick, Isobel Prior, and Caroline Weston.
Send me a wire to reach me by Saturday evening saying whether you accept this invitation or not. If you accept you must arrive at Barrowfield not later than Tuesday next.
Trusting you will be sensible and wire 'yes,'
Yours sincerely,
EMILY CRABINGWAY
There was silence for a few moments when Pamela finished reading. She handed the banker's guarantee across to her father, who took it without a word.
"Well!" queried Mr Sigglesthorne, polishing nervously.
"Well," said Mrs Heath, "I think we must have a little time to consider the matter."
"Why does Miss Crabingway want to cut me off from you all like that, Mother, for six whole months?" burst out Pamela.