'My dear Jane, no; that is merely her way of expressing herself. We are all creatures of God, made in His image, and so in a fashion equal. She means no offence.'
'Very well. That creature—that is me. Read on after "that creature."'
'"Who has——"' Mrs. Jose turned mottled, and her voice betrayed her uneasiness.
'"Who has"——Go on, alter not a word.'
'"Who has—has—has had a very prejudicial effect on the girl."'
'Prejudicial effect! What does she mean by that?'
'I think she means that Winefred has learned to talk like us folk of humble life, and not like to gentlefolk.'
'That's like enough. It is true, quite true, and I do not dispute it. Go on.'
Mrs. Jose fidgeted in her seat, and was reluctant to proceed. She was not a woman of readiness to substitute a word, an expression for another; moreover, Jane Marley overawed her.
'Go on,' said the mother sternly. 'I will hear every word in that letter. I can bear it. God in heaven knows that I have borne much already.'