Question: Why did the two cops threaten to put Matilda in an orphanage? Matilda had nothing to do with her father's dirty dealings.
Answer: The cops are being unprofessional and rude, but they probably have experience dealing with people like Matilda's parents. They assume that she will have few options - if any - after her father goes to jail. No responsible family members who will take her into their home, etc. Depending on what Mrs. Wormwood might be charged with (being an accessory to her husband's crimes), she could also go to jail, and Matilda will need to be placed in an orphanage or foster care.
Answer: In the books, Matilda discovers she has the ability to do things with her mind due to her intellect.
Ssiscool ★