It occurred to her that they might wish to say something and had a difficulty in approaching.

She went to them, and a question or two soon led the elder girl to disclose that she was indeed desirous of speaking in private.

Giving a hand to each, she drew them a little apart.

Then both children began to cry, and the elder sobbed out a pitiful story.

Their mother was wretchedly ill and had sent them to implore Mrs.Mutimer's good word that the father might be allowed another chance.