you agree to remain at Deepley Walls, your salary will be thirty guineas
a-year. If you wish it, you can take a day for consideration, and let me
have your decision in the morning."

Lady Chillington's mention of a fixed salary stung Janet to the quick:
it was so entirely unexpected. It stung her, but only for a moment; the
next she saw and gratefully recognised the fact that she should no
longer be a pensioner on the bounty of Lady Chillington. A dependent she
might be--a servant even, if you like; but at least she would be earning
her living by the labour of her own hands; and even about the very
thought of such a thing there was a sweet sense of independence that
flushed her warmly through and through.

Her hesitation lasted but a moment, then she spoke. "Your ladyship is
very kind, but I require no time for consideration," she said. "I have
already made up my mind to take the position which you have so
generously offered me; and if my ability to please you only prove equal
to my inclination, you will not have much cause to complain."

A faint smile of something like satisfaction flitted across Lady
Chillington's face. "Very good, Miss Hope," she said, in a more gracious
tone than she had yet used. "I am pleased to find that you have taken so
sensible a view of the matter, and that you understand so thoroughly
your position under my roof. How soon shall you be prepared to begin
your new duties?"

"I am ready at this moment."

"Come to me an hour hence, and I will then instruct you."