About this story
You needle the room's comfortable idea that daughters should be spared money, work, and the vote, while Alice and Virginia edge toward agreeing with you and Dr Madden defends the shelter he cannot actually promise. He is called out on a bad horse to a patient taken dangerously ill before he can sign anything, and by nine that night, the horse has fallen.
How it opens
Summer light crossed the Severn and entered the Maddens' crowded parlour at tea.
Six daughters filled a room made smaller by books, cups, and careful economies.
Alice MaddenFather means to insure his life for one thousand pounds tomorrow.
Dr MaddenA precaution only; my practice is growing, and health has never failed me.
Monica MaddenDoes one thousand pounds come in a box when tomorrow arrives?
Choose
A promise for tomorrow cannot protect anyone tonight.
The insurance is wise, especially with six futures depending on it.