Sally learns

Sandra led Sally to a service elevator and took it down to the basement. There they got two carts loaded with fresh towels and toiletries as well as cleaning supplies.

"We'll start on the third floor," she said. "I'll show you the routine for a couple of rooms, then let you go it alone. It's pretty simple. You won't have any trouble."

The girls took the elevator up, as Sandra consulted a list.

"These are the rooms that were occupied and need cleaning. Quite a few today, because a lot of people check out Monday. We'll start here." She tapped on a door and listened, then tapped again before using a pass card to open the door.

"Housekeeping," she said loudly, then stepped into the room and flicked the light switch. "Sometimes guests are heavy sleepers. You want to make sure you don't surprise them. Most don't mind if you do, but some get kind of cranky."

The room was clearly empty, the bed unmade and damp towels strewn on the floor. Sandra showed Sally the housekeeping routine of cleaning and replenishing towels and supplies, then strips the bed and remakes it. Sally helped, but mostly followed her mentor's instructions.

The second room was more of the same, although Sandra had Sally do more of the work while watching her and offering occasional friendly corrections.

"Think you're ready to wing it?" Sandra asked. "You seem to be catching on pretty quick." Sally nodded confidently and Sandra gave her a quick hug. "Great! I'll start down at the other end of the hall. If you need anything, just holler."