The Adoption of Anne Shirley

The adoption of Anne was a mistake. They asked
for a boy, but they got a girl instead. Marilla did
not approve at first.
" 'It seems a sort of duty. I've never brought up a child, especially a girl, and I dare say I'll make a terrible
mess of it. But I'll do my very best. So as far as I'm concerned, Matthew, she may stay.' " (69)