She called on me shortly after midday with a story that an aunt of hers, who may or may not exist, but whom she pretended to anticipate, took an interest in this child.

While she waited for this aunt's arrival, the--er--matron, Mrs.Huggins, incautiously allowed her access to the kitchen garden, where--without my knowledge and against my rules--the boy happened to be working.

The pair of them have disappeared; and, further, I have convinced myself that their exit was made by way of the coal-shaft." "A small girl, you say?
What age ?" "About ten, as nearly as I can guess.

A slip of a child, very poorly dressed, and walking with a decided limp." "I follow you this far," said Mr.Hucks, ruminating.

"-- Allowin' there's a plot, if 'tis worth folks' while to get hold o' the child, 'tis worth your while to get him back from 'em.