The Mystery Maid-Servant – Barbara Cartland

Description

Having let off steam, the count felt his anger gradually dissipate. His attention was attracted by a timid movement at the other end of the large bedroom, and only then did he realize that one of the servants was cleaning the fireplace there. The count could see her poorly through the carved footboard of the massive four-poster bed. She raised herself from the pillows and shouted:
“Who are you? What are you doing here? I didn’t even notice that there was anyone in the room.”
The maid turned, and the sick man noticed that she was unusually thin. Her face under the wide veil seemed unnaturally small.
“I… cleaned the fireplace grate… milord.”
To the count’s amazement, the servant’s voice sounded melodious and she spoke in a completely impeccable language, characteristic of educated people. Her gentle voice, fragile figure, and grace of movements completely distinguished her from the strong, red-headed, and gruff-voiced servants.