Content Warning: This section includes depictions of physical abuse and sexual assault, and offensive and outdated language concerning gay men and sexual preferences.

Fanny begins the first letter of the novel by telling her acquaintance that she will tell the full truth of her life. Fanny grew up in Liverpool, where both her parents worked to maintain their modest lifestyle. When she is 15 years old, Fanny’s parents die, and a friend, Esther Davis, accompanies Fanny to London. At first, Esther takes care of Fanny’s money and well-being, but she leaves Fanny without assistance when they arrive in town. Fanny is aware that she is a simple country girl, and she is afraid that she will be taken advantage of, though she is also innocent and optimistic. Fanny goes to an employment office to look for a job, where she meets Mrs. Brown, who claims she wants to hire Fanny as a personal servant. At Mrs. Brown’s home, Fanny is impressed by the lavish furniture, and Mrs. Brown’s maid, Martha, leads her to her room, telling Fanny how wonderful Mrs. Brown is. At dinner, Mrs. Brown introduces Fanny to her “cousin,” Phoebe Ayres. Fanny is uncomfortable sitting at dinner with two “ladies.