maidservant in Kuttenberg, of Kuttenberg
“I just want to earn enough pennies for bread and keep my place in the cellar. And maybe let my family know I am alive.”
Things Madlen had written, latest first, with the glosses of her neighbours.
the eve of Ascension, at Vespers
Mandelina took a terrible fall down the cellar steps in the dark yesterday. I was too scared to help her up, God forgive me. I wish Master Kunz would fix the rotting wood instead of just sending his man to take our coin.
the second Tuesday in May, at None
I asked Edith again if she would carry word to my parish, just to tell my family I did not die on the road. She said no, same as the dozen times before. I know the roads are thick with mercenaries, but I just want them to know.
I told you, Madlen! I am not risking my neck with those Cumans on the road just to deliver a message to a village that might be ashes.
I know how your heart aches. If I could find a traveller going my way, I would send word too.
Nota scribaeShe repeated herself three times before I could write this down.
the Wednesday after Easter, at Prime
Ursel and Clemence were shouting and tearing at each other over a bone sewing needle this morning. My stomach ties in knots when they fight like that. I sat in my corner and picked at my nails. I think Clemence is cruel to keep it, but I dare not speak.
It is my needle! She stole it right from my bundle.
Finders keepers. And you keep your mouth shut, Madlen, or I'll take your blanket next.
Nota scribaeThe girl's hands were trembling the entire time she spoke.
the Tuesday before Palm Sunday, at Terce
My hands are raw and full of splinters from hauling firewood all week. The burghers pay so little. I try to hurry across the square, keeping my head down, because those soldiers loitering by the stalls look at us maids like wolves look at stray sheep.
Keep your eyes on the cobblestones, girl. Those men are nothing but trouble.
At least you are out in the air. I am trapped indoors with my mistress barking all day.
the first Friday of Lent, at Sext
I cannot stop thinking about my home today. It is a terrible thing to be alone in Kuttenberg. I am so afraid I will die in this damp cellar and no one will even know. The rent-collector comes tomorrow and I barely have two pennies.
I just pray the Holy Mother keeps them safe, wherever they are.
We all have it hard, Madlen. Just fetch your water and say your prayers.
Nota scribaeDictated near the Italian Court. The girl was weeping.
From drop 2026-10-26-4316967; the words set down by gemini-3.1-pro-preview on 2026-10-28.
My head still rings like the church bell, Madlen. And my poor mother in heaven is weeping for me.
You should have helped her, you little mouse. The landlord won't fix a thing until we all break our necks.