Edith’s Story

Edith Sommerville illustration

CHAPTER FOUR

It takes some time, but your parents find the invitation under your bed.

When you explain, Mother sighs. “If you won’t be social, Edith, be useful!”

Excellent idea! You decide to visit the poor, distributing food and warm clothing.

On your first day, the children strike you most deeply: how many bright futures are being squandered, for want of proper aid?

You work alongside a man named Hugh. He’s got a shabby coat himself, but he’s bright and very interested in improving labourers’ lots. He’s not the sort of man you’d usually introduce to your parents, but you find yourself warming to him.

Do you talk to Hugh anyway, or excuse yourself?