the window, when she saw that the men, whom she had previously seen
idling in the yard, were now hard at work.

The next moment, Mrs Ellis, looking rather hot, re-entered the
room.

"I've had to talk to my men," she said.

"You employ them?" asked Mavis.

"Yes, the lazy rascals. It was my husband's business, but since he
died I've kept it on."

"You must be very clever."

"It wants managing. You didn't open the window, miss?" This question
was asked anxiously.

"No."

"How much did you wish to pay, miss?"

Mavis explained that she didn't wish to pay more than five shillings
a week for a bedroom, but after some discussion it was agreed that
she should pay six shillings a week, which would include the use of
the sitting-room, together with a morning bath, bathrooms not having
been supplied to Mrs Ellis's house.

"I'm letting it go reasonable to you, miss, because you're a real
young lady and not like most who thinks they are."