Mrs. Almond was a rotund woman trying to hide a pitted complexion behind a thick layer of powder. She lost no time before casting doubt on my moral character and virtue. “No visitors allowed in your room,” she said with irritation, as if I’d just asked how late my beau could stay. “I run a respectable place.” At least I knew enough not to take it personally. “I don’t expect to have company.” She narrowed her eyes with suspicion. “I lock the door promptly at ten.” “I plan to be asleep every evening by nine.” “Six dollars a week—includes your own room, breakfast, and dinner.” “That would be acceptable.” She raised her chin so I’d know who was boss. “If you’re one week late, out you go.” “I’ll be paying in advance.” “I got my own bills to pay,” she said with a sniff. “None of you girls seem to understand that.” I took that as my acceptance and opened my pocketbook. November 16, 1907 Week’s wages $7.00 Expenses: Board (includes breakfast and dinner) 6.00 Lunch, 7 days @ 10 cents .70 Paper, 3 days @ 2 cents .06 Stamps .04 Bananas .10 Witch hazel .10 Chewing gum .06 Laundry .18 Collar .15 TOTAL 7.39 I haven’t even included anything for clothing, medicine, or entertainment.
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