CHAPTER II.
EARLY CHILDHOOD.
And now began my mother's time of struggle and of anxiety.

Hitherto, since her marriage, she had known no money troubles, for her husband was earning a good income; he was apparently vigorous and well: no thought of anxiety clouded their future.

When he died, he believed that he left his wife and children safe, at least, from pecuniary distress.

It was not so.

I know nothing of the details, but the outcome of all was that nothing was left for the widow and children, save a trifle of ready money.