AustLit

Lively tale of an old misanthropist's adoption of two children - at his sister's instigation - and the hope and warmth they bring to his life in East Melbourne. The girl, an orphan repudiated by her noble English connections, the boy - a street larrikin found in Fitzroy Gardens amply repay his and his sister's kindness. Includes interesting philosophical reflections, passing reference to Hamlet by the larrikin, etc. (PB)