Willie the Waif

A shared penny bun offers Willie and his older brother Bob a small comfort in a crowded London court. Bob spends his days sweeping a crossing for coins, while Willie waits for him to return. After their father's anger and blows leave Willie frightened, Bob leads him away from home. Finding a place to sleep proves difficult, and the brothers finally take shelter in an empty barrel at Covent Garden Market.

Minie Herbert's children's story follows the boys through hunger, uncertain earnings and the care offered by other people. Mrs. Blair provides food and helps mend Bob's clothes, while Miss Elton visits Willie and gives money so that he can avoid selling matches in cold weather. A picture book showing Jesus with children and the prospect of a Christmas treat bring excitement into their days. The brothers' loyalty, direct dialogue and scenes of practical help give readers a close view of the story's treatment of childhood poverty and kindness.