Hunith always knew Merlin was special but when she found him and will laughing as Merlin's chores seemed to complete themselves she knew that she would need to do something.
She was angry and afraid, she didn't want to send her only son away but it would be safer for him in Camelot. She'd send him to Gaius he owed her a favour or two.
She packed his bag with tears in her eyes but did not let them fall until Merlin had disappeared over the hill that lined their village. As her tears fell she prayed that Merlin would be kept safe from harm.