Very curious. Mrs Lennox seemed quite fustered by Mrs Wells. An interesting development. Mrs Lennox herself did not seem an admirer, so perhaps the woman was a rival, but in what? Maybe influence in the town? Mrs Wells did carry herself with Authority.
She would need to do some digging into that. She would not ask Arthur though if she had any other option.
Her musing was interrupted by the joyful and plaintiff noises of children. Having only tutored and been tutored, she had little experience with commoner's children. They were messy and unkempt, smeared with dust or dirt from playing outside but she smiled warmly at them anyway.
She would have preferred if the had lined up rather than left in a messy group, shoving to be in the middle of the group; close enough to see the new teacher, but safe behind another.
Turning to Mrs Lennox, she agreed. "Yes, five years seems acceptable. Though if they are mature enough to receive instruction I see no need to turn them away."
Truth be told, she had only taught up to three older children at a time. She's didn't let her uncertainty show.
"That won't due at all." She whispered back, her face becoming formal. Her mother had always impressed upon her the importance of punctuality and education.
"Hello Children, I am Mrs Belle, your new teacher." She said formally and loud enough the children quieted before continuing more softly.
"I am looking forward to teaching you all. You are to tell your parents that your lessons start in two days time, and I expect you all to be there, and in your seats at half past eight. Tarty pupils will be given a warning for there first offense, and a rap on the knuckles there after for each consecutive day late.
Absent students without suitable cause will be switched. This is a small town and there are few places for you to hide." She eyed the students, each in turn.
"Your education is important, and timleyness is essential for any work you may grow up to do. The late farmer starves. The late merchant cannot sell his wears, and the late woman never weds." She paused to let it sink in. Her mother had often reminded her of these points.
"Are there any questions?"
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