The Rexford family was without a servant.

Eliza, the girl they had brought with them from Quebec, had gone to a situation at the Chellaston hotel.

The proprietor and manager of that large building, having become lame with rheumatism, had been sorely in need of a lieutenant, or housekeeper, and had chosen one with that shrewdness which had ever been his business capital.

His choice had fallen on Eliza and she had accepted the place.
When Robert Trenholme heard of this arrangement he was concerned, knowing how difficult servants were to procure.

He took occasion to speak to Miss Rexford on the subject, expressing sympathy with her and strong censure of Eliza.
"Indeed I am not sure but that she has done right," said Sophia.
"You surprise me very much.