“I can.”

“Have you an engagement now?”

“No, madam.”

“Are you desirous of obtaining a situation?”

“I am.”

“Can you produce the ‘best of references?’”

This question was also accompanied by a sneer.

“I cannot, madam. I have only my qualifications and my own word to recommend me,” Brownie answered, with a good deal of spirit.

Again the old woman chuckled, and distorted her neck to look at her, in a way which made Brownie fear she would dislocate it.

“Where were you last?” she demanded.