Errands For The Master

[Mary Anne Weatherby]

Mary tugs fretfully at her cloak, pulling it more tightly about herself. She catches sight of her reflect and sighs ruefully. She's going to have to ask the master for a new cloak, if he keeps expecting her to leave the hall as seems to be the case. Surely he'd not begrudge her a new cloak? He was so kindly after all.

She smiles to herself, remembering how cross he'd been at her for not buying herself a new ribbon when she'd been to market. He was so generous to her! yes, he did get somewhat crosser than the mistress had, but on the other hand he was a far less demanding master on the whole. Look at the last time she'd been present during the lady and gentlemen's dancing! Introducing her to people, saying he liked her work! She unconsciously straightens herself, pride giving her confidence. The master believes in her and wants the best for her. She owes it to him, to do her very best for him and after all, she's only been tasked with delivering a letter.

Smiling faintly, she scurries along the streets, trying hard not to get in anyone else's way, keeping herself warm with thoughts about the master, her destination apparently in one of the better areas of the city.