FOUNDLING

A new-born child, abandoned by, its parents, who are unknown. The settlement of, such a child is in the place where found. A deserted or exposed infant; a child found without a parent or guardian, its relatives being unknown. It has a settlement in the district where found. Foundling hospitals. Charitable institutions which exist in most countries for taking care of infants forsaken by their parents, such being generally the offspring of illegal connections. The foundling hospital act in England is the 13 Geo. II. c. 29.