“A basket!” repeated Mrs. Crump, in surprise. “Can it be a New Year's present? Bring it in, Jack.”
It was brought in immediately, and the cover being lifted there appeared a female child, of apparently a year old. All uttered exclamations of surprise, each in itself characteristic.
“What a dear, innocent little thing!” said Mrs. Crump, with true maternal instinct.
“Ain't it a pretty 'un?” said Jack, admiringly.
“Poor thing!” said the cooper, compassionately.
“It's a world of iniquity!” remarked Rachel, lifting up her eyes, dismally. “There isn't any one you can trust. I didn't think a brother of mine would have such a sin brought to his door.”
“Good heavens, Rachel!” said the honest cooper, in amazement, “what can you mean?”
“It isn't for me to explain,” said Rachel, shaking her head; “only it's strange that it should have been brought to this house, that's all I say.”
“Perhaps it was meant for you, Aunt Rachel,” said Jack, with thoughtless fun.
“Me!” exclaimed Rachel, rising to her feet, while her face betrayed the utmost horror at the suggestion. She fell back in her seat, and made a violent effort to faint.