“And I guess from your expression that there’s not been much of a response?”

“A few letters of support and that’s it. I don’t know what else to do,” Margaret said despondently. “I’ve tried to interest the wealthy people I know, to the point where I’m in danger of being ostracized from society, but to no avail. I tried to have that article published in a magazine with a significant readership, also to no avail. Demorest’s wouldn’t touch it, nor Harper’s. It was Mary Louise who introduced me to Mrs. Cady Stanton, who is one of the founders and editors of the Revolution and a member of the Sorosis Club. Even with Jane’s help, I couldn’t persuade any of the other dailies to take it.”

“I’m not surprised. You’re holding up a mirror to a part of the city their readership prefer to ignore.”

“Those who could do something about it aren’t sympathetic; those who are sympathetic don’t have the means to help.”

“The real problem is that we tend to accuse people who fail to make something of themselves of being lazy or no good.” Randolph joined her on the window seat and put his arm around her. “Don’t look so down. You already do more than enough, helping at the mission. I know you use your own money to buy things for those kids, not to mention finding their mothers work when you can, including positions in your own home. There’s a limit to what one person can do.”

“But there’s no limit to what needs to be done, and my contribution is a drop in the ocean. These children need somewhere they feel safe, Randolph, a sanctuary they can go to anytime.”

“Somewhere they won’t be judged.” He smiled sadly. “I’m flattered you’ve taken that idea so much to heart but, like I said, maybe it’s time to stop berating yourself for what you’ve not achieved and pat yourself on the back for what you have.”

“It’s not enough. I need to find a way to reach more people. New Yorkers need to know what is going in their back garden.”

“And then what? Even if you persuaded the New York Times to publish that piece, what difference would it make? A few more people shaking their heads and muttering about how dreadful it all is before they forget about it and get on with their lives.”

“You’re right,” Margaret said grimly after a moment. “Words are not enough. What we need is action. I need to raise the funds myself, but how? I have signally failed to interest a single one of my philanthropically minded acquaintances that this is a worthy cause.”

“You’re really set on this? No, that’s a stupid question. You want my advice?”

“Always.”