The old woman carried a basket in one hand, for the reception of cold victuals, for, though she preferred money, provisions were also acceptable, and she had learned from experience that there were some who refrained from giving money on principle, but would not refuse food.
Tom was not anxious to fall into the old woman’s clutches. Still she felt like following her up, and hearing what she had to say.
She had not long to wait.
Granny turned into the area of an English basement house, and rang the basement bell.
Tom paused, and leaned her back against the railing, in such a position that she could hear what passed.
A servant answered the bell.
“What do you want?” she asked, not very ceremoniously.
“I’m a poor widder,” whined granny, “with five small children. They haven’t had anything to eat since yesterday. Can’t you give me something? and may the Lord bless you!”
“She knows how to lie,” thought Tom. “So she’s got five small children!”
“You’re pretty old to have five small children,” said the servant, suspiciously.