Receiving Day for Foundlings Nowadays regulations for the admission of babies to the Foundling Hospital in Guilford Street are very strict . The mothers , assisted by a female attendant , undress their babes and wrap each one in a large grey woollen shawl . The doctor present examines them , after which they are clothed in the garments provided . The doctor presses a bell , three Foundling girls enter , and almost before the mothers are aware , their babies are carried away , never to be known to them again . 1883