Washing and sweeping and doing scrubwoman's work are my regular employments." "Indeed! Then I'm just in time to help.

Is this the dish towel ?" regarding it dubiously.
"It is, but I don't need any help, thank you." "Of course you do.

Everyone is glad to be helped at doing dishes.

I may as well make myself useful while I'm waiting for Mr.Atkins." She picked up a platter and proceeded to wipe it, quite as a matter of course.

Brown, swearing inwardly, turned fiercely to the suds.
"Did you wish to see Atkins on particular business ?" he asked, a moment later.
"Oh, no; I wanted to make his acquaintance, that's all.