The subtle differences in class hidden within the bricks of the Ennington manor were lost on Ellie as the house grew larger in her vision. The carriage ride from the gate only amplified her nerves, and deepened her unease. Why couldn't she just enjoy the dream of being a rich lady visiting her rich friend? Because she wasn't rich in reality obviously.

Shown round the back, even the plain servants area and stairs were cleaner and more impressive than anywhere Ellie had been before. The girl was led not into the main parlour but upstairs to the private rooms of the family. Her senses were overloaded with detail: art, flowers, paintings. Ellie was quickly ushered into a room with a large bay window and the trappings of relaxation.

Her host was the only one in the room, a girl who with her palid skin might have been mistaken for a much poorer girl if it weren't for the fine cloth that covered her feeble frame. Still, Ellie knew her social better.

"Thank you Miss," she answered with a curtsey "You 'ave a lovely 'ouse."