...., he thought her too forward for her age, but although annoyed he was a fair man: 'Master, the girl was not so slow at the work. She'd finished the Aeschylus and had started on the customer's order. It's her tongue that should be slower maybe!'

Despite the ill-fated letter, Vincent laughed gently and looked at the girl standing there proud and staring intensely as if she would turn to stone anybody who defied her. 'Pretty little gorgon!' he thought.'Well there's not too much to lose I guess in giving her a chance, if her hand was good enough that is. I could ask Blanche to drop by and keep an eye on things.'

'What's your name girl?' He asked in Greek.

'Hypatia Solon sir.'

'So you intend to go from trainee copyist to acting-manager in the space of day?'

'Vincent Romulus I am educated woman from a proud Athenian family. I would hope for better prospects in the future, but for now I am willing to make my skills available to you!' She announced confidently.

'Indeed, so it sounds as if I'm the one who should be grateful?'. Vincent walked over to the desk and picked up one of the papyrus sheets. The work was good and he wasn't in the mind to loose his first and so far only copyist. He slumped down in the chair facing her. 'Very well I'll give you a chance, but my educated and proud Athenian lady, I am as much concerned that this place be looking fit for business when I return. I will agree terms and the work schedule with the artisan, you will need to ensure it gets done. You will demonstrate your commitment by turning up here at noon tomorrow to receive your first advance.'

A mixture of joy and relief arose in Hypatia's breast, she inadvertently let a smile escape onto her lips: 'Vincent Romulus you will not regret this decision.' She said eagerly.

'I will be the judge of that young lady, now I must say adeiu. I have much to attend to.'

'Til tomorrow sir!' And with that Hypatia turned on her heels and almost danced out of the front door.