The promised afternoon

An original fiction passage set in the nineteenth century.

I had always believed that a well-managed household could be both orderly and humane. Therefore, when Ellen asked for three hours to visit her mother, who had been taken ill that morning, I answered at once that of course she might go, provided the dining room was put straight first. It would have been unkind to send her away anxious about work left unfinished.

While she polished the last glass, I packed a small basket. There was broth in a covered jar, half a loaf and the woollen scarf I no longer wore because its colour did not suit me. Ellen thanked me so earnestly that I was almost embarrassed. I told her that those with plenty ought not to forget those with little. She tied on her bonnet and had reached the passage when Mrs Hartley called unexpectedly.

Mrs Hartley could not be offered tea by Jane, whose hands shook whenever she carried the silver pot. I therefore asked Ellen to remain for a few minutes. She stood behind my visitor's chair while we discussed the new houses beyond the church. Once or twice Ellen looked towards the clock, although the visit lasted only three quarters of an hour. When Mrs Hartley eventually rose, she admired the basket. ‘Few mistresses would show such consideration, Mrs Vale,’ she said. I do not mention this from vanity, but because it proves that my conduct appeared generous even to an impartial observer.

Before Ellen left, I remembered two parcels that required delivery. I suggested that carrying them would save her a separate journey on the following day. She quietly observed that the shops were east of the square, while her mother lived beyond the western bridge. Her tone was respectful, yet the objection surprised me. I removed the heavier parcel but asked her to take the smaller one, since kindness cannot excuse wastefulness. Rain had begun, so I lent her the old green umbrella from the stand. One rib was loose, but it opened.

Ellen returned shortly before six with water darkening her sleeves. She had delivered the parcel and found her mother asleep when she arrived. They had spoken for ten minutes before Ellen had been obliged to begin the walk back. I reminded her that she had nevertheless been allowed the afternoon and assured her that nothing would be taken from her wages. That evening, in the household book, I recorded: ‘Ellen granted leave for the whole afternoon, with food and clothing sent to her mother.’ It was important to keep an accurate account of such matters.

“The writer makes Mrs Vale’s generosity seem real, while also revealing that she values the appearance of kindness more than Ellen’s needs.”

Evaluate how successfully the writer presents this idea. Support your judgement with detailed references to the passage.