ANDY AND HIS MOTHER The house in which the Widow Burke and her daughter lived was a very humble one.

It had not been painted for many years, and the original coat had worn off, leaving it dark and time-stained.

But when Mrs.
Burke came to town, a short time before, it was the only dwelling she could hire that was held at a rent within her means.

So she and Mary, who was now eleven years old, had moved in their scanty furniture and made it look as much like a home as possible.
Mrs.Burke had not always been as poor as now.

She was the daughter of an Irish tradesman, and had received quite a good education.