It seems such a mockery.

Every time I find myself smiling at what you say to me, I think I must be the most heartless creature in the world." "Is it so very bad with them, Grace ?" "Indeed it is bad.

I don't think you can imagine what mamma has to go through.

She has to cook all that is eaten in the house, and then, very often, there is no money in the house to buy anything.

If you were to see the clothes she wears, even that would make your heart bleed.