she said. “Let’s try the window.” Bess stood. “Give me a boost.” “Good thought.” Agnes put a chair to one side below the window and helped Bess to climb from the chair to Catharine’s shoulders. Bess teetered and straightened. “Got the bars,” she said. “But they’re solid.” They wouldn’t budge no matter how she strained. “Agnes, how about you trying?” Bess climbed down to the floor “A weak old woman like me? But I can boost you up, my lady.” Bess steadied Catharine when she climbed on Agnes’ back. They eased her up until she reached the bars. Agnes grunted. “Hurry. My back is old.” “Ha. Your back is strong as an ox. I’ve often thought you ought to hire yourself out for plowing, Mistress Scoville.” “Thank you, my lady. Gracious you say so.” Agnes shifted and when Catharine swore, she snickered.
