Maisie Dobbs

Maisie leaves for her new position at Chelstone Manor, with more books and homework from Maurice. Her mentor has recently asked her to think of her future. She tells him that while she once wanted to be a teacher, she is now drawn to his line of work, wanting to use disciplines like psychology and ethics to help others.

Maisie finds her new tasks relatively easy, though she misses her London friends. With Maurice’s help, Maisie travels to Cambridge in January 1914 to take the entrance examinations, a daylong ordeal. Over tea, Maurice asks Maisie about her responses and the essay prompts, telling her he is certain she will be admitted. Maisie asks Maurice about his education and is taken aback to discover that he studied forensic science, including determining causes of death.

In July 1914, with talk of war brewing, the Comptons host a large garden party at the Kent house. Rowan tells her husband that Maisie’s exam results have arrived. Lord Julian reminds her that Maisie may find it difficult to thrive in her new environment. Carter, the butler, arrives and tells them that Maisie has been accepted to Cambridge.