maid at Zhelejov baths, of Zhelejov
“I wash the dirt from levied men to earn my crust, and I have made a respectable name for myself doing it.”
Things Alice had written, latest first, with the glosses of her neighbours.
the Wednesday before Whitsun, at Vespers
Roger came by the yard again today and shouted that foolish name across the yard. I dropped my bucket. If word reaches the castle before the wedding, my life is ruined. He thinks it a fine joke.
Nota scribaeShe looked over her shoulder thrice while speaking this, wiping her red hands on an apron.
the eve of the Ascension, at None
Elizabeth covered my shift while I searched the floorboards. My mother's tin ring is gone from where I hid it. It is cheap metal to a thief but it meant the world to me.
We will find it, Alice. Keep your head down and do not fret.
the third day of Easter week, at Sext
Jacob sent word from Trosky that his contract for barrels goes well. Praise be. I only wish he was here to wed me and take me from this aching work.
He is a steady man, Alice. You are a lucky woman to leave the tubs.
I will return when the castle has enough barrels, woman. Mind your tasks until then.
Nota scribaeDictated in a low, hurried voice.
the Monday after St Gregory, at Terce
My hands are cracked and bleeding from the coarse sand and winter water. The levied men come in thicker every week with mud on their boots.
Candlemas, at Prime
I swear the cold wind comes straight through the timbers in the staff room. But I save my pennies and keep my nose clean. A quiet life is all I ask.
Share my blanket tonight, the fire is dying too early.
Nota scribaeShe rubbed her arms against the cold.
From drop 2026-10-26-4316967; the words set down by gemini-3.1-pro-preview on 2026-10-28.
Ah, Troyan! Still hauling water like a dutiful lad, I see.
Hold your tongue, Roger, or I will hold you under the water.