She then walked up the stairs.
As it was quite early, there were not many servants waiting to hear of a new job and there were only two boys present, who obviously wanted to be employed in a stable.
She saw at the far end of the room a woman at a very tall desk and walked towards her.
“Good morning, Mrs. Hill,” she said. “I have been told by so many people how efficient you are at finding work for those who need it and I am hoping that you will be able to oblige me.”
The woman, who was elderly, then adjusted her spectacles and looked at Arliva critically.
“I am always very glad to hear a kind word about myself,” she answered. “They always say that they could not manage in Mayfair without me.”
“That is exactly what they do say,” Arliva replied. “Therefore I am sure that you will be ab
