This affable and kind little widow was no great dame, but a dependent like myself. I did not like her the worse for that; on the contrary, I felt better pleased than ever. The equality between her and me was real; not the mere result of condescension on her part: so much the better – my position was all the freer.
– Charlotte Bronte
Jane Eyre, Chapter 11. Newly arrived at Thornfield, Jane is surprised by the friendliness and informality of Mrs. Fairfax, whom she at first mistakes for her “employer and superior.” Then Jane learns that she is just the housekeeper and manager of Thornfield, not the owner.