Wingless Bird - стр. 6
And what could she say? Having struggled to raise the money for the journey to London, London tailors and fashionable shops, she had arrived at Greenhall, at her rich aunt's house, like a beggar, like a beggar. Vivian knew she should have been grateful that she had been allowed to come and even taken into her care. She would live in this huge, beautiful house, walk on those long great balconies, and eat with the Cranfords in their what must have been a large sumptuous dining room. Her aunt had promised her mother to take Vivian out into the world and give a reception in her honour (that was what Beatrice Cranford had written to her dying sister), which would probably help Vivian to make a good party.
After all, the only purpose for which the penniless niece came to London and was prepared to endure the ridicule and coldness of her relatives was to find and marry a rich groom.
– Well, then you should go shopping, and as soon as possible," Lady Cranford replied, but she was not unmindful of the thought that her niece was counting on her aunt's generosity, which was so unfortunate: to tolerate this insolent woman in her house? Yes, in memory of her sister. But to renew her wardrobe, and at London prices? No, that's not going to happen! – But I must warn you that London prices are very different from what you are used to in your little town. Be very careful how you spend your money," she added, to let her niece know that she would have to pay for the cost of her wardrobe.
– Thank you for your concern, Auntie. I will," said Vivian, with another sweet smile, but with anger in her heart. It irritated her to the core that her aunt considered her a sponger and a beggar (which was hard not to notice). She had no intention of begging her aunt for money for new dresses! Vivian had her own means! Did her "good aunt" really think that pride would allow her, Vivian, to come empty-handed?
– You can go shopping with Jane," Lady Cranford told her with satisfaction when she heard Vivian's reply. – Jane is nineteen, like you. She will be your personal maid.
Jane made a hasty curtsy and smiled a broad, sincere smile at Vivian.
– It will be a pleasure to serve you, miss! – she exclaimed quietly, and her face shone like a new cent.
Vivian smiled back at her.
– It's a pleasure to meet you, Jane. I'm sure we'll have a wonderful time together! – Vivian said in a friendly tone to her maid.
The maid could not find words to reply and only curtsied again.
– Jane, show Miss Cowell to her chambers. Anthony, take care of her luggage. Luncheon will be served in an hour on the South Balcony," she ordered in a commanding tone, the mistress of Greenhall (which her eldest son Richard was to inherit on her death). – But be on time, Vivian. I don't tolerate tardiness.
Jane and Vivian went to the latter's chambers, and Anthony was about to go into the house and give orders for his cousin's luggage when his mother's quiet but imperious voice stopped him halfway:
– Don't you dare even think about her, my son.
Anthony turned round to his mother, gave her a sarcastic smile and said:
– Mother, I am well aware of my position.
She grinned contentedly.
Anthony continued his way.
Lady Cranford hurried to her study and locked the door to reread her late sister's last letter once more. She wished she could feel pity for her niece, but, against her will, she felt only dislike for her.