Mattie:—a Stray (vol 1 of 3)

Published in 1864, 'Mattie:—a Stray' by F. W. Robinson is a 19th-century English novel that follows the life of a destitute girl named Mattie as she navigates the challenges of poverty in London. The story begins with Mattie loitering in front of a stationer's shop, highlighting her struggles against societal judgments and the temptation to steal. Through her interactions with the Wesden family and other characters, the novel explores themes of social class, charity, and redemption, offering a poignant look at the harsh realities faced by the underprivileged.