Julia was regarded as a rather modern woman in her day, or at least, she aspired to be. She was always impeccably dressed, thanks to a respectable job where she was held in high esteem by her superiors. Julia had two grown sonsthe elder, Thomas, was thirty-eight, and the younger, Edward, was thirty. In addition, Julia had two daughters-in-law.
She would often remark, with a sigh and a gentle smile, that her daughters-in-law were completely different from one another, just as her sons were. This, perhaps, made perfect sense. Her elder daughter-in-law, Margaret, was a country girl at heart. Julia never subscribed to the typical notions about country girls being so very different from those from the city, but Margaret seemed to embody every rural stereotype.
Of course, Julia never interfered in the family affairs of her sons and knew very little about their daily lives with their wives. All she knew about her eldest sons relationship was that Margaret had married Thomas because she had fallen pregnant, and their eldest child had arrived five months after the wedding. Margaret treated her husband more as a necessity than as a partner.
In truth, Margaret was a complicated and rather prickly persondifficult to approach and talk to. She would only ring her mother-in-law, Julia, when she and Thomas were facing a problem, for she loved to complain above all else. Margaret had no friends; she was simply too hard to converse with.
Her younger daughter-in-law, Alice, was utterly different. After the wedding, Alice and Julia struck up a genuine friendship, and Alice enjoyed chatting with her. In time, Julia even helped Alice find a job within her own office. Alices work colleagues spoke warmly of her, praising her diligence and pleasant nature. Alice herself had only a handful of close friends with whom she met from time to time.
One drizzly morning long ago, Margaret turned up at Julias office, bringing with her an air of drama and her sister for moral support. Julia knew things hadnt been going well for Thomas and Margaret as of late, but she made it a point not to meddle in their marital matters. That day, Margaret strode in and declared:
Well, Julia. Ive had enough. I cant stand it any longer! Ive decided to leave your son and rent a flat of my own. He can fend for himself, the pig.
Good morning, Margaret, Julia replied calmly. You know Id rather not get involved in your marriage. Just tell mewhere do you plan on renting, and how will the children get to school?
Ill be taking a flat right in the centre of town.
Margaret, flats in the city centre are awfully expensive. How will you afford the rent?
Thats precisely what I came to discuss with you! As their grandmother, youre obliged to help me. You owe me!
Margaret, I simply havent that much money. If youre desperate, wait until this eveningIll withdraw what I can from my account and give you what you need. I never thought youd ask for such a large sum.
Margarets sister tugged at her sleeve, urging her to leave. Come on, Margaretyou must know a mother always sides with her son.
Just as they were about to depart, they spotted Alice peeking anxiously from behind the door.
What are you staring at?! Just you waityoull get the same treatment! She wont lift a finger for you either if you ever need help.
Alice started at their words, looking questioningly at Julia, who simply reassured her, Its nothing, Alice. Ill send Margaret the money this evening, if she truly needs it. She cant take the children to the hostel. Its just money, after all. Dont take it to heart… one should never take such things too seriously.”
