Mildred had not noticed it. She had been too absorbed in the lovely face. She turned to Mrs. Dewsbury, apologized for calling upon her, told her errand, that she wished to go out in the world, and craved the assistance of herself and Colonel Dewsbury in endeavouring to place her.
"I know, madam, that you have influential friends in many parts of England," she said, "and it is this——"
"But in what capacity do you wish to go out?" interrupted Mrs. Dewsbury. "As governess?"
"I would go as English governess," answered Mildred, with a stress upon the word. "But I do not understand French, and I know nothing of music or drawing: therefore I fear there is little chance for me in that capacity. I thought perhaps I might find a situation as companion; as humble companion, that is to say, to make myself useful."
Mrs. Dewsbury shook her head. "Such situations are rare, Miss Arkell."
"I suppose they are; too rare, perhaps, for me to find. Rather than not find anything, I would go out as lady's maid."
"As lady's maid!" repeated Mrs. Dewsbury.
Mildred's cheek burnt, and she suddenly thought of what the town would say. "Yes, as lady's maid, rather than not go," she repeated, firm in her resolution. "I think I have not much pride; what I have, I must subdue."
"But, Miss Arkell, allow me to ask—and I have a motive in it—whether you would be capable of a lady's-maid's duties?"
"I think so," replied Mildred. "I would endeavour to render myself so. I have made my own dresses and bonnets, and I used to make my mother's caps until she became a widow; and I am fond of dressing hair."