A sound of stifled crying came from the room. Gwenda went up to the door and knocked.
"Essy, are you in bed?"
A pause. "Yes, miss."
"What is it? Are you ill?"
No answer.
"Is there anything wrong?"
A longer pause. "I've got th' faace-ache."
"Oh, poor thing! Can I do anything for you?"
"Naw, Miss Gwenda, thank yo."
"Well, call me if I can."