mb had certainly a very strong idea of marrying Ruby Ruggles. Mrs
Hurtle had smiled, thinking that Mrs Pipkin was also very unlike her
own countrywomen. But she was very kind to Mrs Pipkin, ordering
rice-puddings on purpose that the children might eat them, and she was
quite determined to give John Crumb all the aid in her power.

In order that she might give effectual aid she took Mrs Pipkin into
confidence, and prepared a plan of action in reference to Ruby. Mrs
Pipkin was to appear as chief actor on the scene, but the plan was
altogether Mrs Hurtle's plan. On the day following John's return to
Bungay Mrs Pipkin summoned Ruby into the back parlour, and thus
addressed her. 'Ruby, you know, this must come to an end now.'

'What must come to an end?'

'You can't stay here always, you know.'

'I'm sure I work hard, Aunt Pipkin, and I don't get no wages.'

'I can't do with more than one girl,--and there's the keep if there
isn't wages. Besides, there's other reasons. Your grandfather won't
have you back there; that's certain.'

'I wouldn't go back to grandfather, if it was ever so.'

'But you must go somewheres. You didn't come to stay here always,--nor
I couldn't have you. You must go into service.'

'I don't know anybody as'd have me,' said Ruby.

'You must put a 'vertisement into the paper. You'd better say as
nursemaid, as you seems to take kindly to children. And I must give
you a character;--only I shall say just the truth. You mustn't ask
much wages just at first.' Ruby looked very sorrowful, and the tears
were near her eyes. The change from the glories of the music hall was
so startling and so oppressive! 'It has got to be done sooner or later,
so you may as well put the 'vertisement in this afternoon.'

'You'r going to turn me out, Aunt Pipkin.'

'Well;--if that's turning out, I am. You see you never would be said
by me as though I was your mistress. You would go out with that
rapscallion when I bid you not. Now when you're in a regular place
like, you must mind when you're spoke to, and it will be best for you.
You've had your swing, and now you see you've got to pay for it. You
must earn your bread, Ruby, as you've quarrelled both with your lover
and your grandfather.'

There was no possible answer to this, and therefore the necessary
notice was put into the paper,--Mrs Hurtle paying for its insertion.
'Because, you know,' said Mrs Hurtle, 'she must stay here really, till
Mr Crumb comes and takes h