Somehow I doubt it…. but who knows.^^But you are right, that is rather curious. From what I know, it mostly was done this way, when he either died during birth or very soon after.
Actually I did know. My father had a construction business and I manned the telephone, when I was at home. Basically took messages and chatted with customers. Did wonders for my English, too, as my dad did a lot of contract work for the US forces here in Germany. If your family has a business you know about it, I think.
Mrs. Maclellan seems to have a reputation.