"William," Tamara said. "It was kind of you to divert her attention. Something like this could drive the poor woman to madness if she did not have someone to care for, something else to concentrate on. There are times when you are far more perceptive and far more thoughtful than ever I give you credit for."

William took the praise, though he knew in his heart that it was not entirely deserved. A moment later Mrs. Nichols returned with the changeling baby and Tamara's compliment seemed a distant memory. William stared at Mrs. Nichols as the woman lovingly cradled the changeling child against her breast.

"This child may not be my flesh and blood, but it is a child and deserves our love, nonetheless," Mrs. Nichols announced. The look in her eyes defied either of them, or anyone else for that matter, to contradict her.

"You are very right indeed, Mrs. Nichols," Tamara said.