“I have sent for you, Miss Harper, to say what you must have yourself inferred,—that you will not suit me for a governess.”
Mrs. Dainty spoke coldly,—almost severely. That Florence was surprised, her suddenly-heightened color showed plainly. She caught her breath, and, for a few moments, looked bewildered. Mrs. Dainty observed this, and said,—
“You have no reason to be surprised or disappointed, miss. I told you in the beginning that I didn’t think you would suit; and I have never seen cause for a moment to change my mind since you came into the house. Instead of falling into your place and doing your duty as became one in your position, you have done nothing but keep me and the children in hot water from the day you entered the house. When you get a good situation again, take my advice, and be content with a hireling’s place, and don’t assume the airs of a mistress. No lady will have her children domineered over as you have domineered over mine.”
“Mrs. Dainty, I repel——”
“Not a word to me, miss! Not a word to me!” replied the lady, imperiously. “I permit no one in my house to answer back. Here are your wages for the time you have been instructing the children. Take the money, and go!”
Miss Harper did not touch the money, but turned away, and was leaving the room.
“Miss Harper!” The voice of Mrs. Dainty had in it a commanding tone.
Florence paused, and turned partly around.
“Why don’t you take the money? say!”
“I cannot receive pay for services that are so poorly regarded,” was her calmly-spoken answer.