<div style="text-align: justify;">Mary nodded at Lorna's words about knowing about general visitors. She didn't really believe the woman, but it wouldn't do any good to tell her that. No, what she had to do was to stay on Lorna's good side. That could advance her position in several levels. She could find a good marriage, she could get other advantages. It would all depend on her behavior and on how pleased Lorna would be with her. Smiling discreetly, the woman decided she would milk this situation as much as she possibly could. And for that, she would have to keep her eyes and ears open at all times, and her lips only in the right moments. "Worry not, my lady", she replied respectfully. "I will keep you informed, but not to the point where I will hinder the necessary peace to your penance".<br/><br/>The question about the food had been more of a test than anything. She wanted to know how much lack of satisfaction the woman would display. And if she could hide it should she choose to. Mary might not be the best liar in court, but she had something better than that. She had a keen eye for people, and was good at detecting how they were actually feeling from subtle signs. And that was exactly what she planned on doing with Lorna. And of course, she would keep really quiet about anything she did happen to pick up on the air.<br/><br/>"I really admire your willingness to subject yourself to the penance", she commented. "I am sure God will see your good spirits and forgive you briefly".<br/><br/>Lorna's comment about not recognizing her surname made Mary nod. "I would have imagined, my lady", she murmured humbly. "My parents are Viscount and Viscountess Edward and Sarah Parkinson. They live a few days away from court, but sent me here for a better start at life, for which I am most grateful".</div>