The woman to whom this appeal was made called Marian Lennox to her side and, with a brief explanation of what the girl had just said, introduced Carrie.
"Didn't you tell me," she asked, "that you'd heard to-day of somebody that needed an extra servant?"
Marian had heard of such an opportunity. The word had not come at first hand, and the housewife was personally unknown to her. She was sure, however, that the place was entirely estimable, and she at once gladly gave the address, to which her co-laborer added, upon strength of Carrie's assurances, a recommendation.
Violet was brought over and presented, and when Marian saw the girl's wan cheeks and dull eyes, and read there the plain tokens of suffering, her own fine face shone with sympathy.
She drew Violet aside.
"Have you ever done housework before?" she asked.
"Only at home, ma'am," said Violet.
"Well, you'll like it, I'm sure. I can't see why all you girls are so foolish as to go into factories. Housework is so much more healthy and safe, and it's just what women are made for. It pays so well, too. Even if you can't cook, you can scrub and clean and help and get three dollars or more a week for it, and board, too."
"I think I'll like it," Violet assented, knowing in her heart that she would like any work that gave her a living and protection.
"Then be sure to come to see me after you're settled," said Marian.