Fearful always for the unborn child, she wondered what she could do for warmth.

She went down to the coal-house, where there was an old hearthrug she had carried out for the rag-man the day before.

This she wrapped over her shoulders.

It was warm, if grimy.
Then she walked up and down the garden path, peeping every now and then under the blind, knocking, and telling herself that in the end the very strain of his position must wake him.
At last, after about an hour, she rapped long and low at the window.
Gradually the sound penetrated to him.

When, in despair, she had ceased to tap, she saw him stir, then lift his face blindly.