A Tale of Two Choices

"M-mister Withenstrop," the maid stammered, flushing as she spoke, "Lady Withenstrop wishes to speak to you urgently.

Edmund had noticed this young woman before. She had arrived at Loxley Manor three months ago, the daughter of a cloth merchant who had fallen onto hard times. He had been aware of the maid blushing whenever he was close.

"Stay a while and tell me your name, you pretty young thing," Edmund said, ignoring the maid's obvious discomfort.

"But my Lady said it was important, that she had to speak to you immediately."