“I should like to think it over,” she said, stammering. “I have a friend I should like to talk it over with if you don’t mind. If you will give me just a day or two....”
“Take a week by all means. I am going away myself for a few days, and I shan’t want you till I come back. Write and tell me what you decide to do. Here is my card....” She took one from a heavy silver case and laid it on the table. She looked at Esther quizzically, then suddenly she held out her hand.
“Good-bye, Miss Shepstone. I hope I shall see you again,” and the next moment she had gone.
The stiff and stately owner of the agency was smiling, well pleased.
“You are most fortunate, Miss Shepstone,” she said. “You have secured one of the best posts I have on my books. If you take my advice you will not hesitate. Make up your mind at once.”
Esther did not answer. She took up the card from the table, then she drew in her breath with a hard sound, for the name printed there was Mrs. Raymond Ashton.
CHAPTER XI
Esther never knew how she got out into the street. She walked along like some one in a dream; her cheeks were burning hot.