1. Why does Otis Gardiner not abandon Meshak at birth, realizing him to be mentally challenged?

2. Why do few people care about the fate of orphans in mid-eighteenth-century England?

3. Is Alexander's befriending of Thomas believable considering their wildly different social standings?

4. How could Otis Gardiner transform himself into Philip Gaddarn, benefactor of Coram Hospital, without anyone seriously questioning his background?

5. Why is becoming a musician an unsuitable profession for a gentleman like Alexander?

6. Why does Toby not like the prospect of having to live in the Gaddarn household?

7. Why does Toby not tell anyone about Mr. Gardiner's secret tunnel and sale of orphan children?