I am doing them a favor; I cannot pay, and now they have a free bed.
-- Ate (Pages 1-50 (Jane, Ate, Jane, Mae))

Importance: Despite her failing health, Ate cannot afford medical treatment and has to make a choice between financial stability and healthcare. This points not only to Ate's precarious economic situation but also the difficulties she faces due to not having citizenship. In this situation, none of Ate's professional connections can help, and neither can Jane, who can barely afford the taxi ride back to their dormitory.

Ate did not mention the slights or indignities she suffered in certain homes, nor the illimitable tiredness that worked itself deep into her bones when she was on a job.
-- Ate (Pages 1-50 (Jane, Ate, Jane, Mae))

Importance: Though Ate tends to brag about all the professional connections she has made, her unique skills as a baby nurse, and the relationships she has developed, there is still a large class difference between her and her employers. Due...