“No, that is very thoughtful of you Mrs. Dawson,” she turned and smiled warmly at the cook. “I will be retiring shortly.”
“Your father has told me about that little chit, Millie.” She quickly added, “Pardon, I meant no disrespect.”
“There is no one around now, Mrs. Dawson. You can speak informally as much as you wish.” She walked toward the older woman and gently patted her arm. “I don't care if other people think it is improper. You have been like a mother to me. I love you dearly.”
“And I love you, too. Now, let me help you get undressed.” She turned Edith around and began to undo the buttons to her dress. “I dismissed the … Millie this evening. Your father is too good to her. Do you know he gave her a month's wages? 'Tis a fine thing to do,” she grumbled sarcastically. “She barely wo
