A Sydney friend of the Clearys found Janey wandering barefoot around the docks three years ago and passed her on to their care with the blessing of the Governor's Office when it became clear no-one was willing to claim her. Though quite pale, it's possible she's part Indian or Pacific Islander and comes from somewhere on the trade routes rather than the colony.

It's not entirely obvious what's wrong with the girl, save that she's "natural" as any animal, with limited ability to comprehend and communicate. She can feed and dress herself (and, unfortunately, undress herself, usually when extremely frustrated or anxious), knows her name and those of people and things she sees often, and can do simple work if guided. She likes to hum to herself and watch clouds. The Cleareys are very protective of her.