Cranford2007

[Lady Ludlow is interviewing Margaret Gidman who is applying to be a maid]

Lady Ludlow:
What is your father's occupation.

Margaret Gidman:
He's a cooper, madam. I've been accustomed to helping him.

Lady Ludlow:
To make his barrels?

Margaret Gidman:
[proudly] No, to cast up his accounts. And I taught myself to read, and write a bold clear hand. I can...

Lady Ludlow:
Enough! Margaret, your parents have served you ill by not stopping you from meddling in this manner. If you can read and write I cannot possibly take you into my employ.

Lady Ludlow:
[to herself] You're fit only for trade.

[Lady Ludlow walks off, discussing Margaret with Mr Carter]

Lady Ludlow:
Mr Carter, did you know that she was equipped beyond her station?

Mr. Carter:
It is becoming common for the lowest class to have some education.

Lady Ludlow:
The more common it becomes, the less I can condone it. Dissatisfaction will result as it did in France and the proper order of the world will be undone. You do not recall, I think, the reign of terror, Mr Carter. I had cousins in Paris and the knowledge of their fate will haunt me all my days.

Mr. Carter:
Margaret Gidman is not blessed with a great deal of advantage.

Lady Ludlow:
I am most concerned with the lot of those less fortunate. At my charitable school the girls are taught to serve and to know their prayers. That is all that is necessary to fit them for the world.