written one from some unknown quarter; but it is better to have an
interview, if at all possible, with the former mistress. By this means
you will be assisted in your decision of the suitableness of the servant
for your place, from the appearance of the lady and the state of her
house. Negligence and want of cleanliness in her and her household
generally, will naturally lead you to the conclusion, that her servant
has suffered from the influence of the bad example.
The proper course to pursue in order to obtain a personal
interview with the lady is this:--The servant in search of the
situation must be desired to see her former mistress, and ask
her to be kind enough to appoint a time, convenient to herself,
when you may call on her; this proper observance of courtesy
being necessary to prevent any unseasonable intrusion on the
part of a stranger. Your first questions should be relative to
the honesty and general morality of her former servant; and if
no objection is stated in that respect, her other qualifications
are then to be ascertained. Inquiries should be very minute, so
that you may avoid disappointment and trouble, by knowing the
weak points of your domestic.