Lottie was close enough to hear the conversation between the assistant and Anne and she was once again moved with pity for the poor girl. She couldn't fault Anne not asking her father. What did he know about corsets? But Lottie could think uncharitable thoughts about the other Ward women who had left Anne to fend for herself.

"Oh Anne, I'm sorry. Ye should have said." Lottie began trying to offer sympathy in the moment. "Right. This won't do." the older woman announced, deciding to give a damn about the child. "How much fer one that would fit her properly?"