"I see," Ambrose says tapping his chin in thought. He wasn't not going to question the status of her relationship with the boy's father. That was neither his business nor his concern. "I will be frank Miss Blacke, all things considered, you are not the sort of person I would hire. Both Betsy and Eleanor have considerable experience and can handle the house by themselves. An additional maid would be adding another chef to stir the pot. A chef that comes with no skills not already on my staff and a child that she is, evidently, reluctant to leave behind who could create all kinds of additional problems."

The man lets out a sigh. "However, you managed to get my brother to eat a full meal, go to bed, and even tidy up a bit. Perhaps simply due to persistence and novelty, perhaps due to some innate quality to yourself, or maybe you just got lucky. Either way, I love my brother and I am doing everything within my power to try and make sure he doesn't...." He trails off but Ruth could probably fill in the blank. "Well, regardless. Talk to Eleanor, she will see about getting you fitted with a proper uniform. We will also see about having an area placed in the servant's wing that will be suitable for Jacob. With an extra maid on staff, Eleanor's duties will be a bit lighter so between the two of you, you should be able to keep an eye on him without having him be in your way at all times."

Reaching out he grabs a scrap of paper and a pen writing a few words on it before he seals it. "Your salary will be sixteen pounds a month. You will be given four pounds per week as well as food and board if you wish to move into the servant's quarters. If you choose not to do so then it will be on you to figure out how you will get to the house on time. Eleanor will schedule your shifts, take this." He hands her the paper. "Give that to Mister Lane, you are dismissed Miss Blacke."