I'm Mrs.I'm Mrs. Jennings. I expect my husband at any moment. But, if you don't mind, I'll ask you some questions first? That may save us some time. How old did you say you were?" "Nineteen, ma'am." "Oh! how young you are. But anyone can see that by your baby face." "Am I too young?" asked Penny, almost in tears. "Not at all, not at all. On the contrary. Victor is looking for a young secretary. What training have you had?" "None." "Well, that doesn't really matter. We can soon teach you, unless you're stupid, and you don't look it." "You think I'll suit, ma'am?" asked Penny timidly. "I'm sure of it," laughed the young woman. "But it's my husband who has to decide." "Perhaps he'll think me too childish," sighed Penny. "Not at all. I'm sure he'll find you greatly to his liking." said Mrs. Jennings, smiling mysteriously. At that moment, they heard the noise of a key turning in the lock, and a distinguished, handsome man of about forty, wearing a well-cut suit, came into the lounge. "Ah, here comes my husband," the women cried gaily. "Darling, this is a young lady, who has come about the post of secretary." "How do you do, young lady. Well, Carola, send her into my office, and we'll see what we can do." "You know, dear, I've already had a long talk with her, and I think she'll do very well." "Well, we'll soon see if that is so." They moved into a very comfortable office where Mrs. Jennings ushered Penny into a deep armchair. Mr. Jennings, standing close to his wife, began to question Penny. After a few minutes, he smiled at the child. "Well, I think we'll get along very well together, but I have one last question to ask. Have you any family in Paris?" "No sir. My aunt died a month ago and all I have left is a godmother living in the country." "No fiance? No boyfriend?" "No sir," whispered Penny, blushing like a rose. "Victor asked you that because if you're going to work for him, you can come and live here," said Carola, smiling at the young girl's embarrassment. "Well, Miss Penny, this is the way it would work," the lawyer went on. "You would help Carola with her secretarial duties; my wife will teach you how to type. You will have your own room here, take your meals with us and receive thirty thousand francs a month. Are you interested?" "But... but... but. |