Before I came back from Geelong I learned that they wanted a housekeeper at the Government House, Adelaide. I was advised to apply for the position. The Frenchman who was chef there when I was there told me that I knew enough for the position. It would be open for a month, and I put my name down amongst a long list of others, and sent in my testimonials even to that of being a stewardess and lady's maid. They sent for me, and I told them that I was there before, only as a young girl to do as I was told. I did not think I would be competent, but I promised to try for a month, and said that I would like to have some skilled help for all the large public functions. I knew so well what Government House was in festive times. We were at Marble Hill when my month was up. They were satisfied, and told me I could consider myself permanently employed if agreeable to me.

It would not do for me to attempt to describe the sayings and doings of that big house. I had to be in evidence at all times both to see and to speak to distinguished visitors, and often eminent celebrities. I did not find the work hard, but there was plenty of brain worry. After I had been there a year and a half the Governor and the lady, too, thought I was capable to arrange for all the banquets and large parties by myself. It was overpowering sometimes because of the late nights and the want of sleep. To cater for a thousand at one time meant a lot of consideration. I have known a hundred for dinner. I had been at work all the time and seldom ever went out. Government House had none too many appliances for those big affairs. They have had both a duchess and also a countess there when they were staying on a visit. They would come and see the kitchen. One grand lady said that her cook could not do like that with such appliances. I could see by the way the lady spoke that someone wanted my position, and I thought it was like my fate. There was always someone wanted whatever I had. So I left Government House, but not in bad friends. I think they were doubtful whether the person would suit. They asked if I would come back if my successor did not do things rightly. I forget what I said, but I felt cross.

I went to see a gentleman and lady who had the management of the Largs Pier Hotel. It was Mr. Hixon. I had lived with them at the Port Adelaide Club before I went to England. Mrs. Hixon was not very well, and they asked me if I would come as housekeeper. I admit that I rather liked the idea of going there. It was a large hotel, and I would have to see to a number of employes, to engage them or dismiss them, as the case may be. I had found Mr. and Mrs. Hixon in past years straight and upright and sincere. I felt at home with them. I was not long at my new duties before I received word from Government House that the person who succeeded me did not know enough for them there. I did not go back, as I was very comfortable where I was, and Mr. and Mrs. Hixon had the greatest confidence in me. It was a change and the sea was near, so that we often went out for a sail in one of the many boats available for us on the jetty.