Helena Schumacher

the Wednesday before Whitsun, at Sext

Master Tobias was shouting by the guildhall today because someone's thread was too loose. I stayed behind the washing tubs and let Elizabeth take my work in. I am so frightened he will turn me away if I drop another spindle.

• 
  Elizabeth Wright

  Do not fret, Helena. I gave him the thread and he said not a word.

Nota scribaeShe spoke so softly I had to ask her to repeat it thrice.

the feast of Saint Pancras, at None

I saw Vlasta spinning so quickly today. She is so clever with her hands. I know she still has Jitka's fine iron comb, but I would never tell a soul. I wish I had her courage to ask for better wages.

• 
  Vlasta Miller

  Hush now, little bird. Some things are better left unspoken in the yard.

the second day of Easter week, at Vespers

Kona was shouting about Emma and that ruined apron again. It made my chest tight and I had to go sit in the straw. I just want the lane to be quiet. At least Emma is gone to Prague now.

• 
  Kona Cutler

  If she had not been so clumsy, my good apron would not be ruined! I will shout if I please.

the Tuesday before Palm Sunday, at Prime

I cannot find it. I have turned over every handful of straw by the bench and dug through the dirt in the yard. The girls ask why I am weeping and I tell them it is only the lye soap in my eyes. Please, Lord, let me find grandfather's little bird.

• 
  Adelheid Schumacher

  Oh, sister. He would not want you to cry so much over a piece of wood.

• 
  Helena Schumacher

  It is all I have left of him. I must find it.

Nota scribaeShe spent the whole time weeping into her apron.

the feast of Saint Gregory, at Terce

Elizabeth winced when she was hauling the heavy wet wool today. I know her hand pains her, though she never speaks of it. I fetched the water from the well so she would not have to. We must help each other in the yard.

• 
  Elizabeth Wright

  You are a good girl, Helena. The Lord will reward your kindness.