gentlemanly man, with a wife and family, too--it would not be fair to
part with him without any cause. And, indeed, the business was not what
it used to be--it needed the most careful management to get along, and
she could not risk having a change in her establishment just at
present; perhaps by-and-by.

"While grass grows horses starve," said Jane. "If I establish a
reputation and get employment from others you could not object to me.
Everyone is alike; neither man nor woman will give me a chance.

"I cannot blame you, Mrs. Dunn, for thinking and acting so much
like other people."

"I am sure it would be better for you to take a nice comfortable
situation; but I thought you had friends. If there was any other way
that I could serve you in I would be so happy. If you had asked to be
taken into the work-room--but I suppose you look higher."

"I do not know how low I may look ere long, Mrs. Dunn. It is quite
possible I may trouble you again, but in the meantime-----"

"In the meantime I want you to come into the show-room and see the new
sleeve just out from Paris--it would improve the dress you have on
amazingly. I suppose that was made in Swinton. And you must see
Mademoiselle; she is with us still, and as positive as ever; and many
of the young people you will recognise. How we have all talked about
you and Miss Alice lately. It was such an extraordinary settlement!"

Jane forced herself into the show-room, listened mechanically to the
exclamations and remarks of Mademoiselle, the forewoman, shook