For she saw that the elder woman was unhappy for want of some interest in life, and she was sure that the domestic instinct, as well as the instinct for buying and selling, was well developed in her and only wanted exercise.

Indeed, an hour's conversation on the possibilities of Harlow House, of the money to be made on game, poultry, eggs, milk, butter, honey, fruit, had roused such good hopes in Mrs.
Harlow's heart that she could hardly wait until the house was put in order and the necessary servants hired.
She relied on Martha like a child, and anyone who did that was sure of her motherly kindness.

On this day Martha was particularly glad to turn the conversation on the subject.

She spoke of Jane's marriage and pointed out what a comfort it would be when she was alone to be making a bit of money at every turn.

"Why!" she cried enthusiastically.