amazed at Mrs. Grundy, who replied, "In the back room sink, of course.
May-be you expected to have a china bowl and pitcher in your room, and
somebody to empty your slop. I wonder what _airs_ paupers won't take
on themselves next."

"I didn't mean to take airs," said Mary; "I don't care where I wash
myself, but Alice is sick, and mother had me bathe her every morning.
While we were at Mrs. Bender's, though, I didn't do it, and I don't
think she seems as well."

"Pride and poverty," muttered Mrs. Grundy. "She won't get many baths
here, I can tell you, nor you either, unless it is a dishwater one.
Know how to wash dishes hey?"

"Yes, ma'am," said Mary meekly.

"Then I'll give you a chance to try your hand after breakfast, but
come, I'm in a hurry."

Mary glanced at Alice. She was sleeping sweetly, and though there
seemed to be no reason, she still lingered.

"What are you waiting for?" asked Mrs. Grundy, and Mary, with some
hesitation, answered, "I haven't said my prayers yet."

A change passed suddenly over Mrs. Grundy's face, and she turned away
without a word. When she was gone Mary fell on her knees, and though
the words she uttered were addressed more to her mother than to God,
she felt comforted, and rising up started for the kitchen. It was a
motley group which she found assembled around the breakfast table, and