Moya nodded. "She did."

"We need a cook. We are going to give them simple food, but nourishing
and well cooked."

"If it's me you're thinking of for the cooking, ma'am, I'm a poor cook
beyond potaties and stew."

"You never were taught to cook?"

"Taught? No, ma'am. I picked up what little I know from me mother.
'Tis simple enough, but too simple for what you need."

"If you'll try to learn, here's what we've planned. Kate needs a
helper. Not because she isn't strong and hearty, but because Mr.
Emerson and I want her to have a little more time for pleasure than she
has had for a good many years. She won't take a real vacation, so we
are going to give her a partial vacation."

"Me being the helper?" inquired Moya, her thin face lighting.

"More than the helper. Kate has agreed to teach you how to cook all
the dishes that it will be necessary to cook for the women and children
this summer. You couldn't have a better teacher."

"I'm sure of it," answered the young woman, turning gratefully to Kate.
"I'll do my very best."

"You shall have a room for yourself and the baby, and wages," and she
named a sum that made Moya's eyes burn.