See if it isn't nicely
done." And Christie displayed her exquisite needlework with pride.
The girl admired it, and, having a grievance of her own, took
satisfaction in berating her mistress.
"It's a shame! These things are part of a present, the ladies are
going to give the minister; but I don't believe he'll feel easy in
'em if poor folks is wronged to get 'em. Missis won't pay what they
are worth, I know; for, don't you see, the cheaper the work is done,
the more money she has to make a spread with her share of the
present? It's my opinion you'd better hold on to these shirts till
she pays for 'em handsome."
"No; I'll keep my promise, and I hope she will keep hers. Tell her I
need the money very much, and have worked very hard to please her.
I'll come again on Monday, if I'm able."
Christie's lips trembled as she spoke, for she was feeble still, and
the thought of that hard-earned money had been her sustaining hope
through the weary hours spent over that ill-paid work. The girl said
"Good-bye," with a look of mingled pity and respect, for in her eyes
the seamstress was more of a lady than the mistress in this
transaction.
Christie hurried to another place, and asked eagerly if the young
ladies had any work for her.
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