The Ninny is about a brief encounter between an employer and the governess he hires for his children, Yulia. The man calls the governess to his study to discuss the wages owed for the month. The man states that they planned to pay her thirty rubles a month, but she counters that it was forty. He keeps tricking her out of money. The moral of this story is to be strong and stand up for yourself when anybody is trying to put you down or make you lose your spirits.


The Ninny

Yulia nervously standing in front of Dad's study door, holding a tray with a teapot

Yulia was a kind and gentle governess hired to take care of Dad's children. She worked very hard and loved the children dearly. One day, Dad called Yulia into his study to discuss her wages. She felt a bit nervous but went to see him anyway.

The New Governess

Dad sitting behind his desk, looking stern, while Yulia stands in front of him looking surprised

Dad told Yulia that they had agreed to pay her thirty rubles a month. Yulia was surprised and said, 'But, I thought it was forty rubles a month.' Dad shook his head and insisted it was thirty. Yulia felt unsure but didn't want to argue.

The Discussion

Dad pointing to a broken plate on the floor, while Yulia looks sad and confused

Dad continued to trick Yulia by saying she owed money for various things. He said she broke a plate and it cost five rubles. Yulia knew it wasn't true but felt too timid to speak up. She was starting to feel very sad and confused.

Tricks and Doubts

Yulia standing tall with a determined expression, while Dad looks surprised

Finally, Yulia took a deep breath and said, 'No, this isn't right.' She stood tall and explained that she deserved her full wages. Dad looked surprised but finally agreed to pay her what she was owed. Yulia felt proud for standing up for herself and learned an important lesson.