"I can't get along very fast.

I have a constant pain in my side.

And there are other reasons." The last sentence was spoken only half aloud, but sufficiently distinct for Berlaps to hear it.
"I don't expect my workwomen," he said a little sharply, "to have any reasons for not finishing my work in good season, and bringing it in promptly.

Ten days to four shirts is unpardonable.

You can't earn your salt at that." The young woman made no reply to this, but stood with her eyes drooping to the floor, and her hands leaning hard upon the counter to support herself.
Berlaps then commenced examining the shirts.