As if the house and the advert weren't intimidating enough... Anne looked up at the tall butler in immaculate dress and immediately realized that this was a mistake. Her mouth was suddenly dry and all the air seemed to have disappeared from her lungs, leaving her unable to speak. She stood mute there for at least half a minute, trying to find her voice, but failing, while heat crept up to her neck, cheeks and ears. She felt dizzy. She could just turn and run away... But she had to try, for Alice's sake.

"Err... Good afternoon, ser," she said, making sure that she spoke loud enough, even though she really wanted to whisper. "My name is Anne Ward. I'm here to apply to the position of part time maid." The last part was uttered quieter, for Anne felt ashamed of saying it. What was she thinking?