"I am happy to have the position. I worked for the Goodwin's for several years, taking care of their children. Most of them are grown now, so Mrs. Goodwin loaned me to your brother and he asked me to stay."
"I am pleased he did. What did you wish to talk to me about?"
"I should not have, but while Sassy took a bath, I looked in her drawers and she has nothing but a brush, a nightshirt and a change of undergarments."
"I know. The poor dear was wearing a filthy tattered dress that was far too large when I found her. I saw her steal an apple, followed her and discovered she'd been living in a broom closet. Millie, the lady's maid you have not yet met, gave her the frock she wears now, but she will need much more."
"Outer clothing will not be a problem. Mr. MacGreagor anticipated the need and had a seamstress in town make several uniforms. They only need altering."
"Good. My brother's attention to detail often amazes me. I gave Sassy the nightshirt and the undergarments, and tried to give her more, but she is proud. She has lived on charity all her life and now she wishes to pay her own way. I do not know what to do to help her."
"I see." Sarah paused to think for a moment. "She has been with you more than two weeks now?"
"Aye."
"Is it not time for her pay?"
McKenna's eyes lit up. "You are dead right brilliant, Sarah. Would you be willing to take her shopping?"
"I would be more than pleased; I need a few things myself."
"Splendid, I shall talk to my brother…I wonder if Sassy knows how to make a purchase. Probably not, but you will help her. She is so enthralled with the world; I confess I enjoy watching her. Nevertheless, she will do better if I am not there. She fears she will make a mistake around me, which of course is nonsense."
"She is very young still, but in time, she will do well."
"I am certain she will. We have just enough time to catch Prescot before he leaves for town." McKenna got up, started to leave, and then paused. "Just now I am reminded. Blanka and Donnel are getting on in years. I feared they would not do well on the journey and now that they are here, they have two flights of stairs to climb often. Might you confine their duties to the bottom floor? I would be ever so grateful."
"Of course. Perhaps Mr. MacGreagor would let us have a room on the first floor where they can rest when they are tired."