for Sadje’s What Do You See? prompt
.
I spent a couple of hours this morning writing a pun-filled piece for today’s challenge. Then, I remembered a short story I wrote back in March 2017 and thought I’d give it another outing instead.
‘
,
At the manor, a log fire crackled before a food-laden breakfast table. Maids fetched and carried, servants moved discreetly.
Outside, a coachman readied a gleaming carriage for his master’s trip to his factory.
His workers tugged their forelocks as he walked twixt clanking machines, a handkerchief pressed to his face.
Times were good.
*
At the decrepit tied cottage, a chill wind whistled through broken windows. Five scruffy urchins played on a filthy floor.
Their mother, large with child, struggled to feed them. Hopefully, her husband would earn a shilling today to buy food tomorrow.
Recently a child died and was buried in a pauper’s grave. They couldn’t pay a doctor.
Soon their eldest would be six and sweeping chimneys at the manor.
Times were hard.
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Keith's Ramblings 
Good story but a bit close to home now in today’s climes Keith.
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Sadly so Di.
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that was what I was thinking too, Di!
❤
David
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Thanks David. Take care.
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A heartfelt story Keith. I could not help but think of Charles Dickens novels for some reason. Thank you.
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My thoughts too Suzette. Thank you.
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Again you knocked the prompt right out of the ballpark with your sad-but-true-ish tale 🙂
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It’s kind of you to say so, thank you Christine
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Unfortunately it’s too real
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Sadly so, Larry.
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Two side of society, opposite to each other and disconnected. Thanks for joining in with this moving and realistic story.
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Thanks, Sadje, I’m pleased it came across that way.
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You’re very welcome
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Hits the heart
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Thanks Beth
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you just painted the stark contrast of my neighborhood. great take on the prompt.
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