6Caroline opened her eyes and stretched out her arms.
“Lud, but this is an uncomfortable bed,” she said to Maria who was drawing back the curtains.
“’Tis not the only thing that is uncomfortable in this house,” Maria answered. “Oh m’lady, I never thought I would live to see such a set of servants. Why, the head housemaid even had the impudence to tell me that there was no reason why I should trouble to bring you a cup of chocolate in the morning.”
“Miss Fry is only a companion,” she says, “and is not entitled to extra attentions.” Extra attention indeed! I nearly boxed her ears for her. But ‘tis from Mrs. Miller they take their orders.”
Caroline sat up in bed.
“For goodness’ sake, Maria, don’t parade your partiality for me too obviously or they may guess that I am not what I seem.”
“
