The Lonely House by Marie Belloc Lowndes

Lily's first real luncheon at La Solitude consisted of the remains of last night's excellent, almost luxurious supper. But a rough-looking, unbleached tablecloth had taken the place of the beautiful lace one, and the fine cut-glass decanters had disappeared from the sideboard.

They all three drank out of coarse, thick glass tumblers, and they ate off heavy yellow plates. But the food was of the best, and they all make a good and hearty meal-once, indeed, Aunt Cosy, looking affectionately at the girl, exclaimed: "Yes, do not stint yourself, my little Lily, for we have to live as a rule exceedingly simply. It is a strange fact"-a hard tone came into her voice-"that Cristina has never learnt to cook. Even I can cook better than Cristina!"