Maestra

“That is fair,” we say of a rhymed page that sounds as if it might have been indited to the fair Caroline and she only. But the maestra curls her lip contemptuously and utters “umph! Pope!” We are shy of gems. If, therefore, we attribute to Moore what rightly belongs to the scribe here recorded, may his shade forgive us, and appreciate the compliment./[…]/ “The interesting feature of the book,” said the maestra, “is its ministerial records. Do you notice what an assembly of the saints is there represented?”

Four o’clock struck, and I and my young companions were setting out when the maestra stopped us. “Where are you going?” she said; “to hear a sermon? These girls must not go without leave.”[…]The manager used to watch as she passed with her Bible in her hand, and tell her that she must never bring that book to the factory. She told him she had a right to bring her Bible to read in the intervals of her work, and she would do it, come what might. The maestra used to tell her that she would turn her out if she ever brought a book or tract with her; but Antonia conciliated her with little attentions, and now the woman has actually bought a New Testament for herself.

The central boys’ school has three native masters and the central girls’ school has two maestras.

Her tears fell upon the cold floor she’d found herself dancing upon for several years now. Maestra has forced Katya to do the same taxing routine fourteen times since 7 am.