Kelty held the basket in the crook of one arm as she rapped on the door with her free hand. There was a sudden piercing wail like a bad spirit come to snatch her away. Kelty knew it was only the youngest of the widow's children but the baby's scream had its effect and she nearly dropped the basket.

The widow flung the door wide, a haggard look of exhaustion and deprivation in her sad face. She looked as though she had aged a great deal in the months since her husband's passing. Still a young woman, she seemed ever so worn out and tired.