Both come to live with their aunt after the sudden death of their parents. At first, all seems well. However, Ruth's mental state has been deteriorating over time, and the burden of having two more children to care for seems to accelerate her descent into madness.
After the sudden loss of their parents, both children are taken in by their aunt. At first, things seem fine, but as time goes on, Ruth's mental health begins to deteriorate, and the added responsibility of caring for two more children accelerates her decline into madness.