QUOTE : The baby closed its mouth, staring at him with hope and small hiccups.<br /><br />“Jesus,” he said. He lay down on the bed, pulling the pillow under his head, and drew the whole bundle of coat, shawl and infant up against his shirt. A tiny hand closed tight on the lace. One sob erupted, and then changed midbreath to a soft sigh.<br /><br />Women, he thought sardonically, sinking in the bedclothes, with sleep revolving and closing in his head. He moved one finger, feeling a cheek as soft as down.<br /><br />What’s your name?<br /><br />Ask the girl. Remember that…<br /><br />Maddy…<br /><br />It was wrong. I must leave thee now.<br /><br />Don’t cry. Don’t cry, little girl… I’m so tired. I never deserved you, did I? Maddy… but I loved you.<br /><br />I always loved you.