Else

the Thursday before Whitsun, at Vespers

Saint Catherine preserve me, Joan is packing her bundle again! She speaks of the Italian Court and German households, while I am left to face the flagstones with no lye soap and hot water. My hands are raw to the bone and Alice just shouts that the linens are grey.

• 
  Joan

  I am not packing, Else, just sorting my things. You should look for a better place yourself, instead of weeping over the wash-tub.

• 
  Alice

  The linens are grey because you do not scrub hard enough. Stop your wailing and fetch more water.

Nota scribaeDictated in a rush of tears, wringing her apron into tight knots.

the second day of Rogation days, at None

Father Reginald has sent word again. If the three groschen are not paid by Sunday, he will read my name from the pulpit! I will be marked a defaulting sinner for all of Kuttenberg to hear. Who will marry me then? Master Ernest must return soon with the strongbox.

• 
  Joerg

  He threatens me too, Else. Where are we to find three groschen? The master is gone.

• 
  Else

  Saint Catherine preserve us, Joerg, do not say he is gone! He is only delayed.

• 
  Reginald

  The dues of the church are not suspended for a master's absence. The Lord expects His portion before Sunday.

the eve of St George, at Prime

I spent the entire morning trying to get the dirt out of the corridor. It is no use without fresh bristled brushes! Alice has the money, I know she does, but she chooses to see me suffer on my knees. And my stomach aches from Joan's thin pottage.

• 
  Alice

  There is no money, you foolish girl. Master Ernest took the strongbox to Prague. Scrub with what you have.

the Tuesday after Easter, at Sext

Poor Joerg got a beating from Alice over a silver spoon today. He is foolish, but it is hard to watch. We are both in the exact same trouble with the church, and if he brings the magistrate down on us, I do not know what I shall do.

• 
  Joerg

  I never touched the spoon! She hit me with the broom handle for nothing.

• 
  Alice

  A broom handle is less than a thief deserves. Watch yourself, Else, or you will be next.

the Monday after Candlemas, at Terce

Master Ernest rode out for Prague today with his best horses and the strongbox. The house is so quiet without him. Alice says he will return soon, but she did not deduct my spring wages for the parish dues before he left. Holy Mary, I hope the priest is patient.

Nota scribaeThe maid's hands were raw and red. She seemed fearful.