Many servants were wanting work, and they stood in the market-place.

All around were the old houses of the square; there was the church and the pastor's house, and the house and office of the notary, and many other houses standing very close together, with high-peaked roofs and gable windows.

The sun shone down, lighting the roofs, throwing eaves and niches into strong shadow, gleaming upon yellow bowls and dishes, upon gay calicoes, upon cheese and sausages, on all bright things displayed on the open market-stalls, and upon the faces of the maid-servants who stood to be hired.

Many ladies of the town went about seeking servants: among them was Madame Verine, and the Russian lady and Marie were with her.

When they came in front of Celeste they all stopped.
'Ah, what eyes!' said the Russian lady--'what simple, innocent, trustful eyes! In these days how rare!' 'She is like a flower,' said Marie.
Now, they quickly found out that Celeste knew very little about the work she would have to do; it was because of this she had not yet found a mistress.
'I myself would delight to teach her,' cried the Russian lady.
'And I,' cried Marie.