ESO YEAR 2 - READING: Jump to Freedom

DUE THURSDAY 2ND FEBRUARY

CHAPTER 6 – A NEW SITUATION

Molly knocked timidly and the nanny, a young slave named Eve, opened the door. Mrs Smith was inside with Catherine. The baby was crying. Molly didn't see any scales in the room.

“Come here, child,” said Mrs Smith. “Catherine likes you. Sing to her for a while!”

Eve put Catherine in Molly's arms and Molly started to sing. Catherine stopped crying immediately. “I think she likes music, Madam,” said Molly.

“Incredible,” said Mrs Smith. “You are very good with her! You must stay in the house now, Molly. You'll sleep here,” she said. Then she left Molly alone with Eve.

Molly didn't understand. “Isn't the master going to sell me?” she asked.

Eve laughed. “No, Molly. You'll start to work in the house,” she repied. “You're lucky. This is easier than picking cotton and you'll get nice clothes and better food.”

But Molly didn't want nice clothes and better food. She wanted to return to her mother.

That night, Molly lay on the straw mattress in the little room, but she didn't sleep. “When will I go home?” she asked herself repeatedly.

Catherine woke every few hours, and Eve changed her clothes and fed her. Then, Molly sang to her and soon, the baby was asleep.