It was an indication of the family's social position that they kept "hired help." This was unusual in Trumet in those days, even among the well to do.
"Good night," said the young man, extending his hand.

"Good night, Miss--or is it Mrs .-- Coffin ?" "Mrs.Good night." "She's a widow," explained Matilda.

"Husband died 'fore she come back here to live.

Guess he didn't amount to much; she never mentions his name." "There was one thing I meant to tell her," mused the minister, hesitating on the threshold.

"I meant to tell her not to attempt any cleaning up at the parsonage to-night.