About this story
You play Rutherford, the new book-keeper, arriving too well dressed and hours after the overseer expected you. Ashman turns your first day into a punishment, and the man who has carried two men's work for a week warns you not to be blamed for the delay. Everyone glances uphill before answering a question about Mrs Palmer.
Who you’ll meet
Annie Palmer, the owner of Rosehall, and Burbridge, a fellow book-keeper.
How it opens
At eight on a December morning in 1831, you reined in before Rosehall's iron gates.
The white Great House commanded cane fields, smoking works, blue sea, and workers' huts.
BurbridgeYou are Rutherford, then; the overseer expected you before daybreak.
BurbridgeI have carried two men's work for a week, so your lateness will be noticed.
SamMr Ashman is at his house now, if the new book-keeper is looking for him.
Choose
My agreed duty begins today, not at daybreak without notice.
Give me one useful warning before I meet the overseer.