Page 86 of The Mistress of All & Torn

She exited in haste, followed by her own party, equally astounded by Elizabeth’s outburst.

The inspection proved the worst of her suspicions: the bedchambers were as gloomy and cold as expected, with grey walls, thin sheets on the beds and only one basin for washing for every five girls. The cleaning was obviously scarce and the majority of the building looked just as neglected as the rest of the estate.

The pantry, however, was rich and full, like a treasure forbidden to those who deserve it.

Beyond the edge of her patience and to Mr. Mullen’s deepest horror, Elizabeth demanded the cook to prepare a proper dinner with soup, meat, potatoes and dessert for everyone.

“But, Lady Barrington, this might send the wrong message to the girls! Spoiling them one evening could damage their expectations!” the clergyman said patronisingly.

“It will not be for one evening only, Mr. Mullen, I believe it is clear to both of us that our collaboration must cease today,” Elizabeth declared.

“Cease? But that is not possible! Someone else must have a word in this! I have been a loyal servant of Lady Sedgewick, my great aunt, for years! I wish to speak to Mr. Reeves or Mr. Thorn!”

“Mr. Mullen, let us be clear. We may separate by mutual agreement now. If you choose otherwise, I shall ask for a detailed examination of all the expenses for the last five years and will demand due compensation, if needed. I am more than agreeable to discussing the subject with the trustees and even with a judge, if you prefer. Do not take me for a fool, sir! I am only being indulgent because you are Lady Sedgewick’s relative and a clergyman. You should accept my offer before I withdraw it.”

For a moment, Elizabeth was certain Mr. Mullen would suffer a stroke. But he did not. He left the school within an hour, together with three of the teachers—his sisters and his cousin—under the gaze of many faces, staring from the windows.

Chapter 26

That evening Jane, Bingley, Mary and Mr. Hoskins found accommodation at the local inn, as there were not enough spare rooms in the house. A guest apartment with two bedchambers was prepared for Elizabeth and Cece.

Before dinner, Elizabeth gathered the rest of the teachers in a less formal meeting with tea and refreshments.

Fearful, expecting the worst regarding their own fate, the teachers remained stunned, lost for words, waiting for the verdict.

“You must be assured that my main preoccupation is the children’s well being, as well as yours.” Elizabeth said. “I aim to provide security and a chance for a better life for the children, and due comfort and appreciation for you. Any reasonable request you may have, feel free to apply to me.”

“This is what we hope for too, Lady Barrington,” Mrs. Russell replied.

“Forgive me, but my own observations so far have proven otherwise. I will need some time to change my opinion.”

The teachers lowered their eyes in shame, but Mrs. Russell continued daringly.

“As superintendent, I take full responsibility and I accept any penalty. The rest of the teachers did their best for the children, with the little they had. They are beyond reproach.”

“Mrs. Russell is blameless,” one of the young teachers said. “She argued with Mr. Mullen many times, but… we knew he was Lady Sedgewick’s nephew. He always did as he pleased. He is the clergyman of the parish and all the villagers obeyed him. He said he could dismiss us all...”

“We wished to leave many times, but we could not abandon the girls,” another teacher said. “Mrs. Russell is blameless—she is all we have here.”

“You must not worry—any of you,” Elizabeth declared. “We are not speaking of punishment, but of finding a way to improve things. And I trust each of you will contribute to this goal. I am counting on Mrs. Russell’s experience and goodwill, as much as in your willingness to work hard.”

“Lady Sedgewick spoke very highly of you, Mrs. Russell,” Cece interjected warmly. “Sadly, her ladyship's health did not allow her to travel in her last years, but now Lady Barrington will take care of everything.”

“Is Mr. Mullen gone for good? He will not return?” another teacher asked shyly.

“Mr. Mullen should not be allowed in the school again without my consent,” Elizabeth stated.

“The girls will be happy,” the teacher whispered, barely audibly.

“Lady Barrington, we would be grateful if you would tell us your specific requirements for the school,” Mrs. Russell said and the others approved.

“I will—and I am expecting your honest opinion. The first thing I have noticed is that, while the girls were starving, there was an entire orchard with apples, pears and plums, completely neglected. The produce may be gathered for jam and stewed fruits.”

“But…Mr. Mullen forbade us to enter the orchard! The food was provided by his servants, twice a week,” the answer came.

“I imagined as much. We will change this, starting tomorrow. We should take the girls, after class, to collect the fruit. I hope they will enjoy some time in the fresh air!”

“Dear Lord, they will love it,” Mrs. Russell said with excitement.