Her book, _The Story of a Modern Woman_, contains many descriptions
which reveal a mind to whom the ways of children are of deep interest.
We draw once more from the pages of the novel, as in no other way can we
show so well the mother-heart that was hers.

One of Hildeguard's friends, dying in India, leaves three small
children, whom she commends to her pity. Hildeguard's heart responds at
once, and the orphans find their home with her. Her first meeting with
the frightened children and their black nurse is described in detail:


"'Just let's wait a minute or two,' said Hildeguard. 'Let them get
used to me. Well, Baby,' she said, turning to the ayah, and holding
out her arms.

"With a great leap and a gurgle Baby precipitated himself towards
her, his strong little hands clutching uncertainly at the brooch at
her throat. Then the buttons distracted him, and then, after a
serious look at her face, his eyes suddenly caught sight of the hat
above it, and the irresistible gleam of some ornament on it. With
wildly working hands he pulled himself to his feet, and, with one
fat little hand on her face, grabbed at the shining jet.

"Hildeguard, laughing, and submitting herself half resistingly to
the onslaught, felt her hat dragged sideways by the uncertain
little hand.

"She held the little one close to her, still laughing, kissing the
firm little arms and hands, and talking baby nonsense as if it had