office at Bath. It was a move towards London, and I couldn't rest
till I had come the whole way. My first engagement here was as
shorthand writer to the secretary of a company. But he soon wanted
some one who could use a typewriter. That was a suggestion. I went
to learn typewriting, and the lady who taught me asked me in the end
to stay with her as an assistant. This is her house, and here I live
with her.'

'How energetic you have been!'

'How fortunate, perhaps. I must tell you about this lady--Miss
Barfoot. She has private means--not large, but sufficient to allow
of her combining benevolence with business. She makes it her object
to train young girls for work in offices, teaching them the things
that I learnt in Bristol, and typewriting as well. Some pay for
their lessons, and some get them for nothing. Our workrooms are in
Great Portland Street, over a picture-cleaner's shop. One or two
girls have evening lessons, but our pupils for the most part are
able to come in the day. Miss Barfoot hasn't much interest in the
lower classes; she wishes to be of use to the daughters of educated
people. And she is of use. She is doing admirable work.'

'Oh, I am sure she must be! What a wonderful person!'

'It occurs to me that she might help Monica.'

'Oh, do you think she would?' exclaimed Virginia, with eager
attention. 'How grateful we should be!'

'Where is Monica employed?'