`` Oh , I like the Tall Lady , '' she gasped , `` but I love the Pretty Lady and I promised her I 'd be her little girl . I ca n't break my promise . '' `` What on earth is the child talking about ? '' said the mystified matron . And just then the maid showed in the Pretty Lady . Charlotte flew to her and flung her arms about her . `` Oh , tell them I am your little girl ! '' she begged . `` Tell them I promised you first . I do n't want to hurt the Tall Lady 's feelings because I truly do like her so very much . But I want to be your little girl . '' The Pretty Lady had given one glance at the Tall Lady and flushed red . The Tall Lady , on the contrary , had grown very pale . The matron felt uncomfortable . Everybody knew that Miss Herbert and Mrs. Bond had n't spoken to each other for years , even if they were sisters and alone in the world except for each other . Mrs. Bond turned to the matron . `` I have come to ask permission to adopt this little girl , '' she said . `` Oh , I 'm very sorry , '' stammered the matron , `` but Miss Herbert has just asked for her , and I have consented . '' Charlotte gave a great gulp of disappointment , but the Pretty Lady suddenly wheeled around to face the Tall Lady , with quivering lips and tearful eyes . `` Do n't take her from me , Alma , '' she pleaded humbly .
`` She -- she is so XXXXX my own baby and I 'm so lonely .
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