"Dear me, how much help you will be able to give them! Imagine beginning with a salary at fifteen! You are to leave things to me, Mary.

I have sent help to your stepmother--an excellent woman, Mrs.Devine, whom I have known for many years.

She is very capable.

I will tell her that she must remain with your stepmother.
It is amazing what one really capable woman can do.

And afterwards there will be the salary." The salary, and perhaps a quick, warm feeling for Lady Anne which sprang up suddenly in Mary's heart, settled the question.