“I will not have any trouble with that, Dr. Hall,” Grace said, leaning forward. “I am here to learn.”
“But only because I allow it,” Aunt Belle interrupted. “And you will participate in society if you wish to continue your studies. That is the stipulation that you agreed to, is it not?”
Grace frowned.
“Yes, Aunt Belle.”
“Come, do not sound so miserable about it. You will thank me one day for forcing this.” She turned to Hall. “I daresay you both might benefit from this little arrangement.”
Dr. Hall smiled, but it was not genuine. How Grace knew, she wasn’t sure, but his contempt was written all over his face. She hoped he wouldn’t let his dislike for her or their situation spill over into her apprenticeship, but then she remembered what Mrs. Fletcher had told her. That as boorish as her nephew could be, Dr. James Hall was truly devoted to his craft and wouldn’t allow his dislike for a situation to color what needed to be done. After all, Grace was going to be known throughout the city as Dr. Hall’s apprentice and that alone would cause the doctor a good amount of pressure to make sure her tenure was successful. At the least, Grace didn’t have to worry about being sabotaged.
“Dr. Barkley mentioned that you were handy with a scalpel,” he asked, breaking her from her thoughts.
“Yes. I’ve a talent for it.”
“My dear, do not sound so sure of yourself. It is unbecoming.”
“On the contrary,” Dr. Hall stated. “Surgeons should have an unwavering confidence in themselves and their abilities. Do you, Miss Sharpe?”
“Yes. I do.”
Dr. Hall’s gaze lingered on her face for a moment before he nodded.
“Very good. But I assume you’ve only ever used your skills to drain infected wounds? Not assisting in amputations?”
“Oh goodness,” Arabella said queasily, bringing her napkin to cover her mouth.
“Dr. Hall, please,” Aunt Belle hissed.
Grace leaned forward, excited.
“Have you attended many amputations?”
“A few.”
“Oh goodness,” Arabella said again, standing up. “I don’t think I can hear any more.”
“Really, Grace. Dr. Hall, while at this dining room table, I refuse to hear such discussion. Save it for your rounds.”
“But that’s next week,” Grace pouted, unable to help herself. She was so interested in what he was talking about.
“I’m sure Dr. Hall wouldn’t mind having you a few days early. Isn’t that right, Dr. Hall?”
Although it was difficult to see his color change due to his beard, Grace noticed the bridge of his nose change several shades before answering.
“I don’t know if that’s such a good idea.”
“Oh, posh. Grace is desperate to start.”
“Tomorrow is the day I make rounds in the East End, near Gallowgate.”
Aunt Belle’s eyes widened slightly as she watched Dr. Hall.
“Oh. I see. Well then, perhaps next week is better. It will allow her to settle into her place here.”
“I can go to Gallowgate,” Grace said earnestly.
“Gallowgate is a slum. It is overcrowded, dirty, and dangerous.” He shook his head. “It’s not a place for gentle born ladies.”
