Unknown to her new employers, she has already murdered the father for whom she had been caring, and has falsified her references. Her inability to adapt to her place in society is masked by the cunning with which she conceals the truth about herself. Misinterpreting every act of kindness she is offered by her employers, she eventually turns on them, stealing the guns that are normally kept locked away.
The woman's hidden murderous intent and deceptive nature are central themes. Her inability to integrate into her new life leads to a dangerous act of betrayal.