The judge had conceived a great affection for her, and on hearing her story had offered to adopt her.
This proved a cross to Jessica, who was torn between her desire to keep Mabel with her, and the feeling that the opportunity was too great for Mabel to refuse.

Mabel had left the decision to Jessica, and the judge was still awaiting his answer.
"I might have known something would happen to take her away," almost wailed Jessica.

"First, the judge, and now--" "Don't be a goose, Jessica," said Nora stoutly, "and don't jump at the conclusion that this strange woman is a relative of Mabel's.

There are lots of chance resemblances." "Of course there are," consoled Grace.

"When we go to the hospital to-morrow we'll find no doubt that our stranger is named 'Smith' or 'Brown' or anything except 'Allison.'" "Don't worry, dear," said Anne, slipping her hand into Jessica's.