第03期-处女(3) Chapter 3 The Maiden 3

Life now became rather difficult for the Durbeyfields. Without Prince to carry loads, John Durbeyfield could not buy and sell as he used to.

He had never worked hard or regularly, and now he only occasionally felt like working. Tess wondered how she could help her parents.

One day her mother made a suggestion. 'It's lucky we've found out about your noble blood, Tess.

Do you know there's a very rich lady called Mrs d'Urberville living on the other side of the wood? She must be our relation.

You must go to her and claim relationship with her, and ask for some help in our trouble. ' 'I wouldn't like to do that, ' said Tess.

'If there is such a lady, it would be enough to be friendly. We can't expect help from her. '

'You could persuade anybody, my dear. Besides, something else might happen. You never know. '

And her mother nodded wisely. 'I'd rather try to get work, ' said Tess sadly.

'What do you say, Durbeyfield? ' said his wife, turning to him. 'I don't like my children asking for help, ' said he proudly.

'I'm the head of the oldest branch of the family and a noble family like ours shouldn't have to ask for help. ' Tess could not accept his reasons for not going.