"That depends on circumstances," answered Phoebe, with assumed
gravity; "the servants of noble families like the Countess of
Hurstmonceux's lie late; but the servants of common folks like yours
have to get up early."

"Like ours, you impudent minx! I'll have you to know that our
family--the Brudenells--are as good as any other family in the world!
But it is not the custom here for the maids to lie in bed until all
hours of the morning, and that you'll find!" cried Mrs. Spicer in a
passion.

"You'll find yourself discharged if you go on in this way! You seem to
forget that my lady is the mistress of this house," said Phoebe,
seating herself at the table, which was covered with the litter of the
housekeeper's breakfast.

Before the housekeeper had time to reply, or the lady's maid had time to
pour out her cold coffee, the drawing-room bell rang. And soon after
Jovial entered to say that Mrs. Brudenell required the attendance of
Phoebe. The girl rose at once and went up to the drawing room.

"How is the countess this morning?" was the first question of Mrs.
Brudenell.

"My lady is sleeping; she has had a bad night; I thought it best not to
awake her," answered Phoebe.

"You did right. Let me know when she is awake and ready to receive me.
You may go now."