“If you again found yourself out of a situation, and saw Jackie crying for his dinner, you’d reproach yourself.”
“I don’t think I should, miss.”
“I know you are very obstinate, Esther. When does Parsons return?”
“In about a week, miss.”
“Without telling William anything about Parsons, you’ll be able to find out whether it is his intention to interfere in your life. I quite agree with you that it is important that the two men should not meet; but it seems to me, by refusing to speak to William, by refusing to let him see Jackie, you are doing all you can to bring about the meeting that you wish to avoid. Is he much about here?”
“Yes, miss, he seems hardly ever out of the street, and it do look so bad for the ‘ouse. I do feel that ashamed. Since I’ve been with you, miss, I don’t think y
