late
in January, the midday sun
And , with a clatter and a bang , she cast a pair of crutches on the floor at Billy 's feet . Billy sat in his chair before the McAlisters ' front steps . Theodora sat beside him on the steps , with her chin in her hands . Though it was late in January , the midday sun was warm around them , and they were basking in it like two young turtles . `` I know , '' Theodora was saying restively ; `` but I want to do something really and truly useful , something that will help on the world . Here I am , sixteen years old , and I 've never been of the least use to anybody . '' `` How about me ? ''