Good Lady Ducayne

This story by Mary Elizabeth Braddon, first published in 1896 (around Bryony's time) is about
a young, healthy girl, Bella, with a strong desire to help her poverty-stricken mother.

Bella is determined to eek a living as a companion to an elderly woman. She applies for a position with Lady Ducayne, who, withered and gaunt, is more interested in Bella’s overall physical stamina than in her skills.

You see, all of Lady Ducayne’s other employees always get sick and die, so she is constantly seeking a rosy, vigorous replacement. Of course, once in her service, a mysterious illness befalls Bella. But you knew that would happen, didn’t you?

Read it online.