From 23b1fb1a7570fb35b71bb15f2621baf667bcbe68 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Tarynea Date: Fri, 7 Nov 2025 19:38:43 -0500 Subject: [PATCH] HW 2 --- README.md | 21 +- data/processed/oliver_tokens_nostop.txt | 1 + data/raw/oliver_twist.txt | 38376 ++++++++++++++++++++++ data/results/stats.txt | 7 + data/results/top_words.csv | 21 + src/analyze.py | 23 + src/clean.py | 30 + src/fetch.py | 11 + src/main.py | 61 + src/utils.py | 29 + src/viz.py | 17 + 11 files changed, 38595 insertions(+), 2 deletions(-) create mode 100644 data/processed/oliver_tokens_nostop.txt create mode 100644 data/raw/oliver_twist.txt create mode 100644 data/results/stats.txt create mode 100644 data/results/top_words.csv create mode 100644 src/analyze.py create mode 100644 src/clean.py create mode 100644 src/fetch.py create mode 100644 src/main.py create mode 100644 src/utils.py create mode 100644 src/viz.py diff --git a/README.md b/README.md index 05aa109..a677b57 100644 --- a/README.md +++ b/README.md @@ -1,3 +1,20 @@ -# Text-Analysis-Project +#PART 3 AND 4 +For thir project I worked with text data from Project Gutenberg, using Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens as my main source. My goal was to practice text cleaning, processing, and basic analysis (as required by the homework assignment), and see what kind of insights I could pull from a long public-domain novel. I als learnt how to structure a Python project that feels real, with separate files for different tasks, instead of one big messy notebook. +I organized everythiing into small, modular scripts because when I was coding everything in the main.py file, whenever I got an error I wasnt able to track what part of my code was not working. The division of scripts is as follows: + fetch.py- downloads the text from Project Gutenberg. + clean.py-handles the cleaning, removing extra spaces, headers, and stop words. + analyze.py-calculates word frequencies, top words, and basic stats like average sentence length. + viz.py prints a simple ASCII bar chart right in the terminal so I can actually see the most common words. +Main.py ties it all together and run the full pipeline from start to finish. -Please read the [instructions](instructions.md). +I had to make one design choice about whether to include the optional sentiment analysis step with NLTK. +It caused environment issues and even ChatGPT wasn't able to help me with my errors, plus as professor mentioned it was optional, and it wasnt essential to the end project goal, so I left it out. + +ChatGPT was helpful in some places, and unhelpful in some. When I was confused with how to rearrange my main.py and divide it into different python files, I used chat to tell me exactly how to divide it and what would be the purpose of each file. However, when I wanted to know how to why my optional_sentiment wasn't working, I hated ChatGPT because not only did it not tell me what was wrong, it told me errors in my main.py and viz.py that did not exist. I had to go back and redo all my code. + +After cleaning the text, my program processed over 930k characaters from Olier Twist. The analysis printed the Top 20 most frequent words, where "said," "mr," and "which" dominated the list, which did not surprise me for a dialogue heavy book. The ASCII bar chart in the terminal made it easy to see frequency patterns visually. AI also helped me store my data neatly in the data/processed, and data/results folder. + +The hardest part was getting everything to connect smoothl, imports between files, directory paths, and figuring out why 'fetch' would not load at first. +Once I fixed those, running the whole thing and seeing atctual results felt AMAZING. The most frustating part was redoing the code over and over again till it worked. I feel like I know the book Oliver Twist in and out without having read it. + +From a learning perspective, I'm walking away much more confident with text analysis and file handling in Python. The AI part was like a patient tutor who explained what my errors meant. If I had to redo this project then I would ask all students to submit a list of the texts that we were analyzing so that no two students clean the same text. That way, we can get access to different clean texts for further projects. \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/data/processed/oliver_tokens_nostop.txt b/data/processed/oliver_tokens_nostop.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..4d6eb46 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/processed/oliver_tokens_nostop.txt @@ -0,0 +1 @@ +oliver twist parish boy progress charles dickens contents treats place where oliver twist born circumstances attending birth ii treats oliver twist growth education board iii relates how oliver twist near getting place which sinecure iv oliver offered another place makes first entry public life oliver mingles new associates going funeral first time forms unfavourable notion master business vi oliver goaded taunts noah rouses action rather astonishes vii oliver continues refractory viii oliver walks london encounters road strange sort young gentleman ix containing further particulars concerning pleasant old gentleman hopeful pupils oliver becomes better acquainted characters new associates purchases experience high price short important chapter history xi treats mr fang police magistrate furnishes slight specimen mode administering justice xii which oliver taken better care ever before which narrative reverts merry old gentleman youthful friends xiii some new acquaintances introduced intelligent reader connected whom various pleasant matters related appertaining history xiv comprising further particulars oliver stay mr brownlow remarkable prediction which one mr grimwig uttered concerning when went errand xv showing how fond oliver twist merry old jew miss nancy xvi relates what became oliver twist after claimed nancy xvii oliver destiny continuing unpropitious brings great man london injure reputation xviii how oliver passed time improving society reputable friends xix which notable plan discussed determined xx wherein oliver delivered mr william sikes xxi expedition xxii burglary xxiii which contains substance pleasant conversation between mr bumble lady shows even beadle susceptible some points xxiv treats poor subject short one found importance history xxv wherein history reverts mr fagin company xxvi which mysterious character appears upon scene many things inseparable history performed xxvii atones unpoliteness former chapter which deserted lady most unceremoniously xxviii looks after oliver proceeds adventures xxix introductory account inmates house which oliver resorted xxx relates what oliver new visitors thought xxxi involves critical position xxxii happy life oliver began lead kind friends xxxiii wherein happiness oliver friends experiences sudden check xxxiv contains some introductory particulars relative young gentleman who now arrives upon scene new adventure which happened oliver xxxv containing unsatisfactory result oliver adventure conversation some importance between harry maylie rose xxxvi short one appear great importance place read notwithstanding sequel last key one follow when time arrives xxxvii which reader perceive contrast uncommon matrimonial cases xxxviii containing account what passed between mr mrs bumble mr monks nocturnal interview xxxix introduces some respectable characters whom reader already acquainted shows how monks jew laid worthy heads together xl strange interview which sequel last chamber xli containing fresh discoveries showing suprises like misfortunes seldom come alone xlii old acquaintance oliver exhibiting decided marks genius becomes public character metropolis xliii wherein shown how artful dodger got trouble xliv time arrives nancy redeem pledge rose maylie fails xlv noah claypole employed fagin secret mission xlvi appointment kept xlvii fatal consequences xlviii flight sikes xlix monks mr brownlow length meet conversation intelligence interrupts pursuit escape li affording explanation more mysteries one comprehending proposal marriage word settlement pin money lii fagin last night alive liii last chapter treats place where oliver twist born circumstances attending birth among other public buildings certain town which many reasons prudent refrain mentioning which assign fictitious name there one anciently common most towns great small wit workhouse workhouse born day date which need trouble myself repeat inasmuch possible consequence reader stage business all events item mortality whose name prefixed head chapter long time after ushered world sorrow trouble parish surgeon remained matter considerable doubt whether child survive bear any name all which case somewhat more probable memoirs never appeared comprised within couple pages possessed inestimable merit most concise faithful specimen biography extant literature any age country although am disposed maintain born workhouse itself most fortunate enviable circumstance possibly befall human mean say particular instance best thing oliver twist possibility occurred fact there considerable difficulty inducing oliver take upon himself office respiration troublesome practice one which custom rendered necessary easy existence some time lay gasping little flock mattress rather unequally poised between world next balance decidedly favour latter now during brief period oliver surrounded careful grandmothers anxious aunts experienced nurses doctors profound wisdom most inevitably indubitably killed time there nobody however pauper old woman who rendered rather misty unwonted allowance beer parish surgeon who matters contract oliver nature fought point between result after few struggles oliver breathed sneezed proceeded advertise inmates workhouse fact new burden imposed upon parish setting loud cry reasonably expected male infant who possessed useful appendage voice much longer space time three minutes quarter oliver gave first proof free proper action lungs patchwork coverlet which carelessly flung iron bedstead rustled pale face young woman raised feebly pillow faint voice imperfectly articulated words let see child die surgeon sitting face turned towards fire giving palms hands warm rub alternately young woman spoke rose advancing bed head said more kindness expected oh must talk dying yet lor bless dear heart interposed nurse hastily depositing pocket green glass bottle contents which tasting corner evident satisfaction lor bless dear heart when lived long sir thirteen children own all em dead except two wurkus ll know better take way bless dear heart think what mother there dear young lamb apparently consolatory perspective mother prospects failed producing due effect patient shook head stretched hand towards child surgeon deposited arms imprinted cold white lips passionately forehead passed hands face gazed wildly round shuddered fell back died chafed breast hands temples blood stopped forever talked hope comfort strangers long all mrs thingummy said surgeon last ah poor dear said nurse picking cork green bottle which fallen pillow stooped take child poor dear needn mind sending child cries nurse said surgeon putting gloves great deliberation likely troublesome give little gruel put hat pausing bed side way door added good looking girl where come brought here last night replied old woman overseer order found lying street walked some distance shoes worn pieces where came where going nobody knows surgeon leaned body raised left hand old story said shaking head wedding ring see ah good night medical gentleman walked away dinner nurse once more applied herself green bottle sat low chair before fire proceeded dress infant what excellent example power dress young oliver twist wrapped blanket which hitherto formed only covering child nobleman beggar hard haughtiest stranger assigned proper station society now enveloped old calico robes which grown yellow same service badged ticketed fell place once parish child orphan workhouse humble half starved drudge cuffed buffeted through world despised all pitied none oliver cried lustily known orphan left tender mercies churchwardens overseers perhaps cried louder chapter ii treats oliver twist growth education board next eight ten months oliver victim systematic course treachery deception brought hand hungry destitute situation infant orphan duly reported workhouse authorities parish authorities parish authorities inquired dignity workhouse authorities whether there female domiciled house who situation impart oliver twist consolation nourishment which stood need workhouse authorities replied humility there upon parish authorities magnanimously humanely resolved oliver farmed other words dispatched branch workhouse some three miles where twenty thirty other juvenile offenders against poor laws rolled floor all day without inconvenience much food much clothing parental superintendence elderly female who received culprits consideration sevenpence halfpenny per small head per week sevenpence halfpenny worth per week good round diet child great deal got sevenpence halfpenny quite enough overload stomach make uncomfortable elderly female woman wisdom experience knew what good children accurate perception what good herself appropriated greater part weekly stipend own use consigned rising parochial generation even shorter allowance originally provided thereby finding lowest depth deeper still proving herself great experimental philosopher everybody knows story another experimental philosopher who great theory horse able live without eating who demonstrated well got own horse straw day unquestionably rendered spirited rampacious animal nothing all died four twenty hours before first comfortable bait air unfortunately experimental philosophy female whose protecting care oliver twist delivered similar result usually attended operation system moment when child contrived exist upon smallest possible portion weakest possible food perversely happen eight half cases ten either sickened want cold fell fire neglect got half smothered accident any one which cases miserable little usually summoned another world there gathered fathers never known occasionally when there some more usually interesting inquest upon parish child who overlooked turning bedstead inadvertently scalded death when there happened washing though latter accident scarce anything approaching washing rare occurrence farm jury take heads ask troublesome questions parishioners rebelliously affix signatures remonstrance impertinences speedily checked evidence surgeon testimony beadle former whom always opened body found nothing inside which probable indeed latter whom invariably swore whatever parish wanted which self devotional besides board made periodical pilgrimages farm always sent beadle day before say going children neat clean behold when went what more people cannot expected system farming produce any extraordinary luxuriant crop oliver twist ninth birthday found pale thin child somewhat diminutive stature decidedly small circumference nature inheritance implanted good sturdy spirit oliver breast plenty room expand thanks spare diet establishment perhaps circumstance attributed any ninth birth day all however ninth birthday keeping coal cellar select party two other young gentleman who after participating sound thrashing locked atrociously presuming hungry when mrs mann good lady house unexpectedly startled apparition mr bumble beadle striving undo wicket garden gate goodness gracious mr bumble sir said mrs mann thrusting head window well affected ecstasies joy susan take oliver two brats upstairs wash em directly heart alive mr bumble how glad am see sure ly now mr bumble fat man choleric instead responding open hearted salutation kindred spirit gave little wicket tremendous shake bestowed upon kick which emanated leg beadle lor only think said mrs mann running three boys removed time only think forgotten gate bolted inside account dear children walk sir walk pray mr bumble sir although invitation accompanied curtsey softened heart churchwarden means mollified beadle think respectful proper conduct mrs mann inquired mr bumble grasping cane keep parish officers waiting garden gate when come here upon porochial business porochial orphans aweer mrs mann say porochial delegate stipendiary sure mr bumble only telling one two dear children fond coming replied mrs mann great humility mr bumble great idea oratorical powers importance displayed one vindicated other relaxed well well mrs mann replied calmer tone say lead way mrs mann come business something say mrs mann ushered beadle small parlour brick floor placed seat officiously deposited cocked hat cane table before mr bumble wiped forehead perspiration which walk engendered glanced complacently cocked hat smiled yes smiled beadles men mr bumble smiled now don offended what going say observed mrs mann captivating sweetness ve long walk know wouldn mention now take little drop somethink mr bumble drop nor drop said mr bumble waving right hand dignified placid manner think said mrs mann who noticed tone refusal gesture accompanied just leetle drop little cold water lump sugar mr bumble coughed now just leetle drop said mrs mann persuasively what inquired beadle why what obliged keep little house put blessed infants daffy when ain well mr bumble replied mrs mann opened corner cupboard took bottle glass gin ll deceive mr gin give children daffy mrs mann inquired bumble following eyes interesting process mixing ah bless em dear replied nurse couldn see em suffer before eyes know sir said mr bumble approvingly humane woman mrs mann here set glass shall take early opportunity mentioning board mrs mann drew towards feel mother mrs mann stirred gin water drink health cheerfulness mrs mann swallowed half now business said beadle taking leathern pocket book child half baptized oliver twist nine year old today bless interposed mrs mann inflaming left eye corner apron notwithstanding offered reward ten pound which afterwards increased twenty pound notwithstanding most superlative say supernat ral exertions part parish said bumble never able discover who father what mother settlement name condition mrs mann raised hands astonishment added after moment reflection how comes any name all beadle drew himself great pride said inwented mr bumble mrs mann name fondlings alphabetical order last swubble named twist named next one comes unwin next vilkins got names ready made end alphabet all way through again when come why re quite literary character sir said mrs mann well well said beadle evidently gratified compliment perhaps perhaps mrs mann finished gin water added oliver now old remain here board determined back house come myself take there let see once ll fetch directly said mrs mann leaving room purpose oliver time much outer coat dirt which encrusted face hands removed scrubbed one washing led room benevolent protectress make bow gentleman oliver said mrs mann oliver made bow which divided between beadle chair cocked hat table go along oliver said mr bumble majestic voice oliver say go along anybody great readiness when glancing upward caught sight mrs mann who got behind beadle chair shaking fist furious countenance took hint once fist often impressed upon body deeply impressed upon recollection go inquired poor oliver replied mr bumble ll come see sometimes great consolation child young however sense enough make feint feeling great regret going away difficult matter boy call tears eyes hunger recent ill usage great assistants want cry oliver cried naturally indeed mrs mann gave thousand embraces what oliver wanted great deal more piece bread butter lest seem hungry when got workhouse slice bread hand little brown cloth parish cap head oliver led away mr bumble wretched home where one kind word look never lighted gloom infant years yet burst agony childish grief cottage gate closed after wretched little companions misery leaving behind only friends ever known sense loneliness great wide world sank child heart first time mr bumble walked long strides little oliver firmly grasping gold laced cuff trotted beside inquiring end every quarter mile whether nearly there interrogations mr bumble returned brief snappish replies temporary blandness which gin water awakens some bosoms time evaporated once again beadle oliver within walls workhouse quarter hour scarcely completed demolition second slice bread when mr bumble who handed care old woman returned telling board night informed board said appear before forthwith clearly defined notion what live board oliver rather astounded intelligence quite certain whether ought laugh cry time think matter however mr bumble gave tap head cane wake another back make lively bidding follow conducted large whitewashed room where eight ten fat gentlemen sitting round table top table seated arm chair rather higher rest particularly fat gentleman round red face bow board said bumble oliver brushed away two three tears lingering eyes seeing board table fortunately bowed what name boy said gentleman high chair oliver frightened sight many gentlemen which made tremble beadle gave another tap behind which made cry two causes made answer low hesitating voice whereupon gentleman white waistcoat said fool which capital way raising spirits putting quite ease boy said gentleman high chair listen know re orphan suppose what sir inquired poor oliver boy fool thought said gentleman white waistcoat hush said gentleman who spoken first know ve got father mother brought parish don yes sir replied oliver weeping bitterly what crying inquired gentleman white waistcoat sure extraordinary what boy crying hope say prayers every night said another gentleman gruff voice pray people who feed take care like christian yes sir stammered boy gentleman who spoke last unconsciously right like christian marvellously good christian oliver prayed people who fed took care hadn because nobody taught well come here educated taught useful trade said red faced gentleman high chair ll begin pick oakum tomorrow morning six clock added surly one white waistcoat combination both blessings one simple process picking oakum oliver bowed low direction beadle hurried away large ward where rough hard bed sobbed himself sleep what novel illustration tender laws england let paupers go sleep poor oliver little thought lay sleeping happy unconsciousness all around board day arrived decision which exercise most material influence all future fortunes members board sage deep philosophical men when came turn attention workhouse found once what ordinary folks never discovered poor people liked regular place public entertainment poorer classes tavern where there nothing pay public breakfast dinner tea supper all year round brick mortar elysium where all play work oho said board looking knowing fellows set rights ll stop all time established rule all poor people alternative compel nobody starved gradual process house quick one view contracted water works lay unlimited supply water corn factory supply periodically small quantities oatmeal issued three meals thin gruel day onion twice week half roll sundays made great many other wise humane regulations reference ladies which necessary repeat kindly undertook divorce poor married people consequence great expense suit doctors commons instead compelling man support family theretofore took family away made bachelor there saying how many applicants relief last two heads started all classes society coupled workhouse board long headed men provided difficulty relief inseparable workhouse gruel frightened people first six months after oliver twist removed system full operation rather expensive first consequence increase undertaker bill necessity taking clothes all paupers which fluttered loosely wasted shrunken forms after week two gruel number workhouse inmates got thin well paupers board ecstasies room which boys fed large stone hall copper one end which master dressed apron purpose assisted one two women ladled gruel mealtimes festive composition each boy one porringer more except occasions great public rejoicing when two ounces quarter bread besides bowls never wanted washing boys polished spoons till shone again when performed operation which never took long spoons nearly large bowls sit staring copper eager eyes devoured bricks which composed employing themselves meanwhile sucking fingers most assiduously view catching any stray splashes gruel cast thereon boys generally excellent appetites oliver twist companions suffered tortures slow starvation three months last got voracious wild hunger one boy who tall age hadn used sort thing father kept small cook shop hinted darkly companions unless another basin gruel per diem afraid some night happen eat boy who slept next who happened weakly youth tender age wild hungry eye implicitly believed council held lots cast who walk master after supper evening ask more fell oliver twist evening arrived boys took places master cook uniform stationed himself copper pauper assistants ranged themselves behind gruel served long grace said short commons gruel disappeared boys whispered each other winked oliver while next neighbors nudged child desperate hunger reckless misery rose table advancing master basin spoon hand said somewhat alarmed own temerity please sir want some more master fat healthy man turned pale gazed stupefied astonishment small rebel some seconds clung support copper assistants paralysed wonder boys fear what said master length faint voice please sir replied oliver want some more master aimed blow oliver head ladle pinioned arm shrieked aloud beadle board sitting solemn conclave when mr bumble rushed room great excitement addressing gentleman high chair said mr limbkins beg pardon sir oliver twist asked more there general start horror depicted every countenance more said mr limbkins compose yourself bumble answer distinctly understand asked more after eaten supper allotted dietary sir replied bumble boy hung said gentleman white waistcoat know boy hung nobody controverted prophetic gentleman opinion animated discussion took place oliver ordered instant confinement bill next morning pasted outside gate offering reward five pounds anybody who take oliver twist hands parish other words five pounds oliver twist offered any man woman who wanted apprentice any trade business calling never more convinced anything life said gentleman white waistcoat knocked gate read bill next morning never more convinced anything life am boy come hung purpose show sequel whether white waistcoated gentleman right perhaps mar interest narrative supposing possess any all ventured hint just yet whether life oliver twist violent termination chapter iii relates how oliver twist near getting place which sinecure week after commission impious profane offence asking more oliver remained close prisoner dark solitary room which consigned wisdom mercy board appears first sight unreasonable suppose entertained becoming feeling respect prediction gentleman white waistcoat established sage individual prophetic character once ever tying one end pocket handkerchief hook wall attaching himself other performance feat however there one obstacle namely pocket handkerchiefs decided articles luxury all future times ages removed noses paupers express order board council assembled solemnly given pronounced hands seals there still greater obstacle oliver youth childishness only cried bitterly all day when long dismal night came spread little hands before eyes shut darkness crouching corner tried sleep ever anon waking start tremble drawing himself closer closer wall feel even cold hard surface protection gloom loneliness which surrounded let supposed enemies system during period solitary incarceration oliver denied benefit exercise pleasure society advantages religious consolation exercise nice cold weather allowed perform ablutions every morning pump stone yard presence mr bumble who prevented catching cold caused tingling sensation pervade frame repeated applications cane society carried every other day hall where boys dined there sociably flogged public warning example far denied advantages religious consolation kicked same apartment every evening prayer time there permitted listen console mind general supplication boys containing special clause therein inserted authority board which entreated made good virtuous contented obedient guarded sins vices oliver twist whom supplication distinctly set forth exclusive patronage protection powers wickedness article direct manufactory devil himself chanced one morning while oliver affairs auspicious comfortable state mr gamfield chimney sweep went way high street deeply cogitating mind ways means paying certain arrears rent which landlord become rather pressing mr gamfield most sanguine estimate finances raise within full five pounds desired amount species arithmetical desperation alternately cudgelling brains donkey when passing workhouse eyes encountered bill gate wo said mr gamfield donkey donkey state profound abstraction wondering probably whether destined regaled cabbage stalk two when disposed two sacks soot which little cart laden without noticing word command jogged onward mr gamfield growled fierce imprecation donkey generally more particularly eyes running after bestowed blow head which inevitably beaten any skull donkey catching hold bridle gave jaw sharp wrench way gentle reminder own master means turned round gave another blow head just stun till came back again completed arrangements walked gate read bill gentleman white waistcoat standing gate hands behind after delivered himself some profound sentiments board room witnessed little dispute between mr gamfield donkey smiled joyously when person came read bill saw once mr gamfield exactly sort master oliver twist wanted mr gamfield smiled perused document five pounds just sum wishing boy which encumbered mr gamfield knowing what dietary workhouse well knew nice small pattern just thing register stoves spelt bill through again beginning end touching fur cap token humility accosted gentleman white waistcoat here boy sir wot parish wants prentis said mr gamfield ay man said gentleman white waistcoat condescending smile what parish vould like learn right pleasant trade good spectable chimbley sweepin bisness said mr gamfield wants prentis am ready take walk said gentleman white waistcoat mr gamfield lingered behind give donkey another blow head another wrench jaw caution run away absence followed gentleman white waistcoat room where oliver first seen nasty trade said mr limbkins when gamfield again stated wish young boys smothered chimneys before now said another gentleman acause damped straw afore lit chimbley make em come again said gamfield all smoke blaze vereas smoke ain use all making boy come only sinds sleep wot likes boys wery obstinit wery lazy gen men there nothink like good hot blaze make em come vith run humane gen men acause even ve stuck chimbley roasting feet makes em struggle hextricate theirselves gentleman white waistcoat appeared much amused explanation mirth speedily checked look mr limbkins board proceeded converse among themselves few minutes low tone words saving expenditure looked well accounts printed report published alone audible only chanced heard indeed account frequently repeated great emphasis length whispering ceased members board resumed seats solemnity mr limbkins said considered proposition don approve all said gentleman white waistcoat decidedly added other members mr gamfield happen labour slight imputation bruised three four boys death already occurred board perhaps some unaccountable freak taken heads extraneous circumstance ought influence proceedings unlike general mode doing business still particular wish revive rumour twisted cap hands walked slowly table won let gen men said mr gamfield pausing near door replied mr limbkins least nasty business think ought take something less premium offered mr gamfield countenance brightened quick step returned table said what ll give gen men come don hard poor man what ll give say three pound ten plenty said mr limbkins ten shillings much said gentleman white waistcoat come said gamfield say four pound gen men say four pound ve got rid good all there three pound ten repeated mr limbkins firmly come ll split diff erence gen men urged gamfield three pound fifteen farthing more firm reply mr limbkins re desperate hard upon gen men said gamfield wavering pooh pooh nonsense said gentleman white waistcoat cheap nothing all premium take silly fellow just boy wants stick now ll good board needn come expensive hasn overfed since born ha ha ha mr gamfield gave arch look faces round table observing smile all gradually broke smile himself bargain made mr bumble once instructed oliver twist indentures conveyed before magistrate signature approval afternoon pursuance determination little oliver excessive astonishment released bondage ordered put himself clean shirt hardly achieved unusual gymnastic performance when mr bumble brought own hands basin gruel holiday allowance two ounces quarter bread tremendous sight oliver began cry piteously thinking unnaturally board must determined kill some useful purpose never begun fatten way don make eyes red oliver eat food thankful said mr bumble tone impressive pomposity re going made prentice oliver prentice sir said child trembling yes oliver said mr bumble kind blessed gentleman which many parents oliver when none own going prentice set life make man although expense parish three pound ten three pound ten oliver seventy shillins one hundred forty sixpences all naughty orphan which nobody love mr bumble paused take breath after delivering address awful voice tears rolled poor child face sobbed bitterly come said mr bumble somewhat less pompously gratifying feelings observe effect eloquence produced come oliver wipe eyes cuffs jacket don cry gruel foolish action oliver certainly there quite enough water already way magistrate mr bumble instructed oliver all look happy say when gentleman asked wanted apprenticed like much indeed both which injunctions oliver promised obey rather mr bumble threw gentle hint failed either particular there telling what when arrived office shut little room himself admonished mr bumble stay there until came back fetch there boy remained palpitating heart half hour expiration which time mr bumble thrust head unadorned cocked hat said aloud now oliver dear come gentleman mr bumble said put grim threatening look added low voice mind what told young rascal oliver stared innocently mr bumble face somewhat contradictory style address gentleman prevented offering any remark thereupon leading once adjoining room door which open large room great window behind desk sat two old gentleman powdered heads one whom reading newspaper while other perusing aid pair tortoise shell spectacles small piece parchment which lay before mr limbkins standing front desk one side mr gamfield partially washed face other while two three bluff looking men top boots lounging old gentleman spectacles gradually dozed little bit parchment there short pause after oliver stationed mr bumble front desk boy worship said mr bumble old gentleman who reading newspaper raised head moment pulled other old gentleman sleeve whereupon last mentioned old gentleman woke oh boy said old gentleman sir replied mr bumble bow magistrate dear oliver roused himself made best obeisance wondering eyes fixed magistrates powder whether all boards born white stuff heads boards thenceforth account well said old gentleman suppose fond chimney sweeping doats worship replied bumble giving oliver sly pinch intimate better say didn sweep inquired old gentleman bind any other trade tomorrow run away simultaneous worship replied bumble man master sir ll treat well feed all sort thing said old gentleman when says means replied mr gamfield doggedly re rough speaker friend look honest open hearted man said old gentleman turning spectacles direction candidate oliver premium whose villainous countenance regular stamped receipt cruelty magistrate half blind half childish couldn reasonably expected discern what other people hope am sir said mr gamfield ugly leer doubt friend replied old gentleman fixing spectacles more firmly nose looking inkstand critical moment oliver fate inkstand where old gentleman thought dipped pen signed indentures oliver straightway hurried chanced immediately nose followed matter course looked all desk without finding happening course search look straight before gaze encountered pale terrified face oliver twist who despite all admonitory looks pinches bumble regarding repulsive countenance future master mingled expression horror fear palpable mistaken even half blind magistrate old gentleman stopped laid pen looked oliver mr limbkins who attempted take snuff cheerful unconcerned aspect boy said old gentleman look pale alarmed what matter stand little away beadle said other magistrate laying aside paper leaning forward expression interest now boy tell us what matter don afraid oliver fell knees clasping hands together prayed order back dark room starve beat kill pleased rather send away dreadful man well said mr bumble raising hands eyes most impressive solemnity well all artful designing orphans ever see oliver one most bare facedest hold tongue beadle said second old gentleman when mr bumble given vent compound adjective beg worship pardon said mr bumble incredulous heard aright worship speak yes hold tongue mr bumble stupefied astonishment beadle ordered hold tongue moral revolution old gentleman tortoise shell spectacles looked companion nodded significantly refuse sanction indentures said old gentleman tossing aside piece parchment spoke hope stammered mr limbkins hope magistrates form opinion authorities guilty any improper conduct unsupported testimony child magistrates called upon pronounce any opinion matter said second old gentleman sharply take boy back workhouse treat kindly seems want same evening gentleman white waistcoat most positively decidedly affirmed only oliver hung drawn quartered bargain mr bumble shook head gloomy mystery said wished come good whereunto mr gamfield replied wished come which although agreed beadle most matters seem wish totally opposite description next morning public once informed oliver twist again let five pounds paid anybody who take possession chapter iv oliver offered another place makes first entry public life great families when advantageous place cannot obtained either possession reversion remainder expectancy young man who growing general custom send sea board imitation wise salutary example took counsel together expediency shipping oliver twist some small trading vessel bound good unhealthy port suggested itself best thing possibly probability skipper flog death playful mood some day after dinner knock brains iron bar both pastimes pretty generally known favourite common recreations among gentleman class more case presented itself board point view more manifold advantages step appeared came conclusion only way providing oliver effectually send sea without delay mr bumble despatched make various preliminary inquiries view finding some captain other who wanted cabin boy without any friends returning workhouse communicate result mission when encountered gate less person mr sowerberry parochial undertaker mr sowerberry tall gaunt large jointed man attired suit threadbare black darned cotton stockings same colour shoes answer features naturally intended wear smiling aspect general rather given professional jocosity step elastic face betokened inward pleasantry advanced mr bumble shook cordially hand taken measure two women died last night mr bumble said undertaker ll make fortune mr sowerberry said beadle thrust thumb forefinger proffered snuff box undertaker which ingenious little model patent coffin say ll make fortune mr sowerberry repeated mr bumble tapping undertaker shoulder friendly manner cane think said undertaker tone which half admitted half disputed probability event prices allowed board small mr bumble coffins replied beadle precisely near approach laugh great official ought indulge mr sowerberry much tickled course ought laughed long time without cessation well well mr bumble said length there denying since new system feeding come coffins something narrower more shallow used must some profit mr bumble well seasoned timber expensive article sir all iron handles come canal birmingham well well said mr bumble every trade drawbacks fair profit course allowable course course replied undertaker don get profit upon particular article why make long run see just said mr bumble though must say continued undertaker resuming current observations which beadle interrupted though must say mr bumble contend against one great disadvantage which all stout people go quickest people who better paid rates many years first sink when come house let tell mr bumble three four inches one calculation makes great hole one profits especially when one family provide sir mr sowerberry said becoming indignation ill used man mr bumble felt rather tended convey reflection honour parish latter gentleman thought advisable change subject oliver twist uppermost mind made theme bye said mr bumble don know anybody who wants boy porochial prentis who present dead weight millstone say round porochial throat liberal terms mr sowerberry liberal terms mr bumble spoke raised cane bill above gave three distinct raps upon words five pounds which printed thereon roman capitals gigantic size gadso said undertaker taking mr bumble gilt edged lappel official coat just thing wanted speak know dear what elegant button mr bumble never noticed before yes think rather pretty said beadle glancing proudly downwards large brass buttons which embellished coat die same porochial seal good samaritan healing sick bruised man board presented newyear morning mr sowerberry put remember first time attend inquest reduced tradesman who died doorway midnight recollect said undertaker jury brought died exposure cold want common necessaries life didn mr bumble nodded made special verdict think said undertaker adding some words effect relieving officer tush foolery interposed beadle board attended all nonsense ignorant jurymen talk enough true said undertaker indeed juries said mr bumble grasping cane tightly wont when working passion juries ineddicated vulgar grovelling wretches said undertaker haven more philosophy nor political economy em said beadle snapping fingers contemptuously more acquiesced undertaker despise em said beadle growing red face rejoined undertaker only wish jury independent sort house week two said beadle rules regulations board soon bring spirit em let em alone replied undertaker saying smiled approvingly calm rising wrath indignant parish officer mr bumble lifted cocked hat took handkerchief inside crown wiped forehead perspiration which rage engendered fixed cocked hat again turning undertaker said calmer voice well what boy oh replied undertaker why know mr bumble pay good deal towards poor rates hem said mr bumble well well replied undertaker thinking pay much towards em ve right get much em mr bumble think ll take boy myself mr bumble grasped undertaker arm led building mr sowerberry closeted board five minutes arranged oliver go evening upon liking phrase which means case parish apprentice master find upon short trial get enough work boy without putting much food shall term years what likes when little oliver taken before gentlemen evening informed go night general house lad coffin maker complained situation ever came back parish again sent sea there drowned knocked head case evinced little emotion common consent pronounced hardened young rascal ordered mr bumble remove forthwith now although natural board all people world feel great state virtuous astonishment horror smallest tokens want feeling part anybody rather particular instance simple fact oliver instead possessing little feeling possessed rather much fair way reduced life state brutal stupidity sullenness ill usage received heard news destination perfect silence luggage put hand which difficult carry inasmuch all comprised within limits brown paper parcel half foot square three inches deep pulled cap eyes once more attaching himself mr bumble coat cuff led away dignitary new scene suffering some time mr bumble drew oliver along without notice remark beadle carried head erect beadle always windy day little oliver completely enshrouded skirts mr bumble coat blew open disclosed great advantage flapped waistcoat drab plush knee breeches drew near destination however mr bumble thought expedient look see boy good order inspection new master which accordingly fit becoming air gracious patronage oliver said mr bumble yes sir replied oliver low tremulous voice pull cap eyes hold head sir although oliver desired once passed back unoccupied hand briskly across eyes left tear when looked conductor mr bumble gazed sternly upon rolled cheek followed another another child made strong effort unsuccessful one withdrawing other hand mr bumble covered face both wept until tears sprung between chin bony fingers well exclaimed mr bumble stopping short darting little charge look intense malignity well all ungratefullest worst disposed boys ever see oliver sir sobbed oliver clinging hand which held well known cane sir good indeed indeed indeed sir am little boy sir what inquired mr bumble amazement lonely sir lonely cried child everybody hates oh sir don don pray cross child beat hand upon heart looked companion face tears real agony mr bumble regarded oliver piteous helpless look some astonishment few seconds hemmed three four times husky manner after muttering something troublesome cough bade oliver dry eyes good boy once more taking hand walked silence undertaker who just put shutters shop making some entries day book light most appropriate dismal candle when mr bumble entered aha said undertaker looking book pausing middle word bumble one mr sowerberry replied beadle here ve brought boy oliver made bow oh boy said undertaker raising candle above head get better view oliver mrs sowerberry goodness come here moment dear mrs sowerberry emerged little room behind shop presented form short thin squeezed woman vixenish countenance dear said mr sowerberry deferentially boy workhouse told oliver bowed again dear said undertaker wife small why rather small replied mr bumble looking oliver fault bigger small there denying ll grow mrs sowerberry ll grow ah dare say replied lady pettishly victuals drink see saving parish children always cost more keep re worth however men always think know best there get downstairs little bag bones undertaker wife opened side door pushed oliver steep flight stairs stone cell damp dark forming ante room coal cellar denominated kitchen wherein sat slatternly girl shoes heel blue worsted stockings much repair here charlotte said mr sowerberry who followed oliver give boy some cold bits put trip hasn come home since morning go without em dare say boy isn dainty eat em boy oliver whose eyes glistened mention meat who trembling eagerness devour replied negative plateful coarse broken victuals set before wish some well fed philosopher whose meat drink turn gall within whose blood ice whose heart iron seen oliver twist clutching dainty viands dog neglected wish witnessed horrible avidity which oliver tore bits asunder all ferocity famine there only one thing like better see philosopher making same sort meal himself same relish well said undertaker wife when oliver finished supper which regarded silent horror fearful auguries future appetite there nothing eatable within reach oliver replied affirmative come said mrs sowerberry taking dim dirty lamp leading way upstairs bed counter don mind sleeping among coffins suppose doesn much matter whether don sleep anywhere come don keep here all night oliver lingered longer meekly followed new mistress chapter oliver mingles new associates going funeral first time forms unfavourable notion master business oliver left himself undertaker shop set lamp workman bench gazed timidly feeling awe dread which many people good deal older loss understand unfinished coffin black tressels which stood middle shop looked gloomy death like cold tremble came every time eyes wandered direction dismal object which almost expected see some frightful form slowly rear head drive mad terror against wall ranged regular array long row elm boards cut same shape looking dim light like high shouldered ghosts hands breeches pockets coffin plates elm chips bright headed nails shreds black cloth lay scattered floor wall behind counter ornamented lively representation two mutes stiff neckcloths duty large private door hearse drawn four black steeds approaching distance shop close hot atmosphere seemed tainted smell coffins recess beneath counter which flock mattress thrust looked like grave nor only dismal feelings which depressed oliver alone strange place all know how chilled desolate best us sometimes feel situation boy friends care care regret recent separation fresh mind absence loved well remembered face sank heavily heart heart heavy notwithstanding wished crept narrow bed coffin lain calm lasting sleep churchyard ground tall grass waving gently above head sound old deep bell soothe sleep oliver awakened morning loud kicking outside shop door which before huddle clothes repeated angry impetuous manner twenty five times when began undo chain legs desisted voice began open door yer cried voice which belonged legs which kicked door directly sir replied oliver undoing chain turning key suppose yer new boy ain yer said voice through key hole yes sir replied oliver how old yer inquired voice ten sir replied oliver ll whop yer when get said voice just see don all work us brat made obliging promise voice began whistle oliver often subjected process which expressive monosyllable just recorded bears reference entertain smallest doubt owner voice whoever redeem pledge most honourably drew back bolts trembling hand opened door second two oliver glanced street street way impressed belief unknown who addressed through key hole walked few paces warm himself nobody see big charity boy sitting post front house eating slice bread butter which cut wedges size mouth clasp knife consumed great dexterity beg pardon sir said oliver length seeing other visitor made appearance knock kicked replied charity boy want coffin sir inquired oliver innocently charity boy looked monstrous fierce said oliver want one before long cut jokes superiors way yer don know who am suppose work us said charity boy continuation descending top post meanwhile edifying gravity sir rejoined oliver mister noah claypole said charity boy re take shutters yer idle young ruffian mr claypole administered kick oliver entered shop dignified air which great credit difficult large headed small eyed youth lumbering make heavy countenance look dignified any circumstances more especially when superadded personal attractions red nose yellow smalls oliver taken shutters broken pane glass effort stagger away beneath weight first one small court side house which kept during day graciously assisted noah who consoled assurance catch condescended help mr sowerberry came soon after shortly afterwards mrs sowerberry appeared oliver caught fulfilment noah prediction followed young gentleman stairs breakfast come near fire noah said charlotte saved nice little bit bacon master breakfast oliver shut door mister noah back take bits ve put cover bread pan there tea take away box drink there make haste ll want mind shop ye hear ye hear work us said noah claypole lor noah said charlotte what rum creature why don let boy alone let alone said noah why everybody lets alone enough matter neither father nor mother ever interfere all relations let own way pretty well eh charlotte oh queer soul said charlotte bursting hearty laugh which joined noah after which both looked scornfully poor oliver twist sat shivering box coldest corner room ate stale pieces which specially reserved noah charity boy workhouse orphan chance child trace genealogy all way back parents who lived hard mother washerwoman father drunken soldier discharged wooden leg diurnal pension twopence halfpenny unstateable fraction shop boys neighbourhood long habit branding noah public streets ignominious epithets leathers charity like noah borne without reply now fortune cast way nameless orphan whom even meanest point finger scorn retorted interest affords charming food contemplation shows us what beautiful thing human nature made how impartially same amiable qualities developed finest lord dirtiest charity boy oliver sojourning undertaker some three weeks month mr mrs sowerberry shop shut taking supper little back parlour when mr sowerberry after several deferential glances wife said dear going say more mrs sowerberry looking peculiarly unpropitious aspect stopped short well said mrs sowerberry sharply nothing dear nothing said mr sowerberry ugh brute said mrs sowerberry all dear said mr sowerberry humbly thought didn want hear dear only going say oh don tell what going say interposed mrs sowerberry am nobody don consult pray don want intrude upon secrets mrs sowerberry said gave hysterical laugh which threatened violent consequences dear said sowerberry want ask advice don ask mine replied mrs sowerberry affecting manner ask somebody here there another hysterical laugh which frightened mr sowerberry much common much approved matrimonial course treatment which often effective once reduced mr sowerberry begging special favour allowed say what mrs sowerberry most curious hear after short duration permission most graciously conceded only young twist dear said mr sowerberry good looking boy dear need eats enough observed lady there expression melancholy face dear resumed mr sowerberry which interesting make delightful mute love mrs sowerberry looked expression considerable wonderment mr sowerberry remarked without allowing time any observation good lady part proceeded don mean regular mute attend grown people dear only children practice new mute proportion dear depend upon superb effect mrs sowerberry who good deal taste undertaking way much struck novelty idea compromising dignity said existing circumstances merely inquired much sharpness why obvious suggestion presented itself husband mind before mr sowerberry rightly construed acquiescence proposition speedily determined therefore oliver once initiated mysteries trade view accompany master next occasion services required occasion long coming half hour after breakfast next morning mr bumble entered shop supporting cane against counter drew forth large leathern pocket book which selected small scrap paper which handed sowerberry aha said undertaker glancing lively countenance order coffin eh coffin first porochial funeral afterwards replied mr bumble fastening strap leathern pocket book which like himself corpulent bayton said undertaker looking scrap paper mr bumble never heard name before bumble shook head replied obstinate people mr sowerberry obstinate proud afraid sir proud eh exclaimed mr sowerberry sneer come much oh sickening replied beadle antimonial mr sowerberry acquiesced undertaker only heard family night before last said beadle shouldn known anything only woman who lodges same house made application porochial committee send porochial surgeon see woman bad gone dinner prentice which clever lad sent em some medicine blacking bottle offhand ah there promptness said undertaker promptness indeed replied beadle what consequence what ungrateful behaviour rebels sir why husband sends back word medicine won suit wife complaint shan take says shan take sir good strong wholesome medicine given great success two irish labourers coal heaver only week before sent em nothing blackin bottle sends back word shan take sir atrocity presented itself mr bumble mind full force struck counter sharply cane became flushed indignation well said undertaker ne ver never sir ejaculated beadle nor nobody never now dead ve got bury direction sooner better thus saying mr bumble put cocked hat wrong side first fever parochial excitement flounced shop why angry oliver forgot even ask after said mr sowerberry looking after beadle strode street yes sir replied oliver who carefully kept himself sight during interview who shaking head foot mere recollection sound mr bumble voice needn taken trouble shrink mr bumble glance however functionary whom prediction gentleman white waistcoat made strong impression thought now undertaker got oliver upon trial subject better avoided until time firmly bound seven years all danger returned upon hands parish thus effectually legally overcome well said mr sowerberry taking hat sooner job better noah look after shop oliver put cap come oliver obeyed followed master professional mission walked some time through most crowded densely inhabited part town striking narrow street more dirty miserable any yet passed through paused look house which object search houses either side high large old tenanted people poorest class neglected appearance sufficiently denoted without concurrent testimony afforded squalid looks few men women who folded arms bodies half doubled occasionally skulked along great many tenements shop fronts fast closed mouldering away only upper rooms inhabited some houses which become insecure age decay prevented falling street huge beams wood reared against walls firmly planted road even crazy dens seemed selected nightly haunts some houseless wretches many rough boards which supplied place door window wrenched positions afford aperture wide enough passage human body kennel stagnant filthy rats which here there lay putrefying rottenness hideous famine there neither knocker nor bell handle open door where oliver master stopped groping way cautiously through dark passage bidding oliver keep close afraid undertaker mounted top first flight stairs stumbling against door landing rapped knuckles opened young girl thirteen fourteen undertaker once saw enough what room contained know apartment which directed stepped oliver followed there fire room man crouching mechanically empty stove old woman drawn low stool cold hearth sitting beside there some ragged children another corner small recess opposite door there lay upon ground something covered old blanket oliver shuddered cast eyes toward place crept involuntarily closer master though covered boy felt corpse man face thin pale hair beard grizzly eyes bloodshot old woman face wrinkled two remaining teeth protruded lip eyes bright piercing oliver afraid look either man seemed like rats seen outside nobody shall go near said man starting fiercely undertaker approached recess keep back damn keep back ve life lose nonsense good man said undertaker who pretty well used misery all shapes nonsense tell said man clenching hands stamping furiously floor tell won put ground couldn rest there worms worry eat worn away undertaker offered reply raving producing tape pocket knelt moment side body ah said man bursting tears sinking knees feet dead woman kneel kneel kneel round every one mark words say starved death never knew how bad till fever came upon bones starting through skin there neither fire nor candle died dark dark couldn even see children faces though heard gasping names begged streets sent prison when came back dying all blood heart dried starved death swear before god saw starved twined hands hair loud scream rolled grovelling upon floor eyes fixed foam covering lips terrified children cried bitterly old woman who hitherto remained quiet wholly deaf all passed menaced silence unloosened cravat man who still remained extended ground tottered towards undertaker daughter said old woman nodding head direction corpse speaking idiotic leer more ghastly even presence death place lord lord well strange who gave birth woman alive merry now lying there cold stiff lord lord think good play good play wretched creature mumbled chuckled hideous merriment undertaker turned go away stop stop said old woman loud whisper buried tomorrow next day tonight laid must walk know send large cloak good warm one bitter cold cake wine before go never mind send some bread only loaf bread cup water shall some bread dear said eagerly catching undertaker coat once more moved towards door yes yes said undertaker course anything like disengaged himself old woman grasp drawing oliver after hurried away next day family meanwhile relieved half quartern loaf piece cheese left mr bumble himself oliver master returned miserable abode where mr bumble already arrived accompanied four men workhouse who act bearers old black cloak thrown rags old woman man bare coffin screwed hoisted shoulders bearers carried street now must put best leg foremost old lady whispered sowerberry old woman ear rather late won keep clergyman waiting move men quick like thus directed bearers trotted light burden two mourners kept near mr bumble sowerberry walked good smart pace front oliver whose legs long master ran side there great necessity hurrying mr sowerberry anticipated however when reached obscure corner churchyard which nettles grew where parish graves made clergyman arrived clerk who sitting vestry room fire seemed think means improbable hour before came put bier brink grave two mourners waited patiently damp clay cold rain drizzling while ragged boys whom spectacle attracted churchyard played noisy game hide seek among tombstones varied amusements jumping backwards forwards coffin mr sowerberry bumble personal friends clerk sat fire read paper length after lapse something more hour mr bumble sowerberry clerk seen running towards grave immediately afterwards clergyman appeared putting surplice came along mr bumble thrashed boy two keep appearances reverend gentleman read much burial service compressed four minutes gave surplice clerk walked away again now bill said sowerberry grave digger fill difficult task grave full uppermost coffin within few feet surface grave digger shovelled earth stamped loosely feet shouldered spade walked followed boys who murmured loud complaints fun soon come good fellow said bumble tapping man back want shut yard man who never once moved since taken station grave side started raised head stared person who addressed walked forward few paces fell swoon crazy old woman much occupied bewailing loss cloak which undertaker taken pay any attention threw cold water when came saw safely churchyard locked gate departed different ways well oliver said sowerberry walked home how like pretty well thank sir replied oliver considerable hesitation much sir ah ll get used time oliver said sowerberry nothing when used boy oliver wondered own mind whether taken long time get mr sowerberry used thought better ask question walked back shop thinking all seen heard chapter vi oliver goaded taunts noah rouses action rather astonishes month trial oliver formally apprenticed nice sickly season just time commercial phrase coffins looking course few weeks oliver acquired great deal experience success mr sowerberry ingenious speculation exceeded even most sanguine hopes oldest inhabitants recollected period which measles prevalent fatal infant existence many mournful processions which little oliver headed hat band reaching knees indescribable admiration emotion all mothers town oliver accompanied master most adult expeditions order acquire equanimity demeanour full command nerve which essential finished undertaker many opportunities observing beautiful resignation fortitude which some strong minded people bear trials losses instance when sowerberry order burial some rich old lady gentleman who surrounded great number nephews nieces who perfectly inconsolable during previous illness whose grief wholly irrepressible even most public occasions happy among themselves need quite cheerful contented conversing together much freedom gaiety nothing whatever happened disturb husbands bore loss wives most heroic calmness wives again put weeds husbands far grieving garb sorrow made minds render becoming attractive possible observable ladies gentlemen who passions anguish during ceremony interment recovered almost soon reached home became quite composed before tea drinking all pleasant improving see oliver beheld great admiration oliver twist moved resignation example good people cannot although am biographer undertake affirm any degree confidence most distinctly say many months continued meekly submit domination ill treatment noah claypole who used far worse before now jealousy roused seeing new boy promoted black stick hat band while old one remained stationary muffin cap leathers charlotte treated ill because noah mrs sowerberry decided enemy because mr sowerberry disposed friend between three one side glut funerals other oliver altogether comfortable hungry pig when shut mistake grain department brewery now come important passage oliver history record act slight unimportant perhaps appearance which indirectly produced material change all future prospects proceedings one day oliver noah descended kitchen usual dinner hour banquet upon small joint mutton pound half worst end neck when charlotte called way there ensued brief interval time which noah claypole hungry vicious considered possibly devote worthier purpose aggravating tantalising young oliver twist intent upon innocent amusement noah put feet table cloth pulled oliver hair twitched ears expressed opinion sneak furthermore announced intention coming see hanged whenever desirable event take place entered upon various topics petty annoyance like malicious ill conditioned charity boy making oliver cry noah attempted more facetious still attempt what many sometimes day when want funny got rather personal work us said noah how mother dead replied oliver don say anything oliver colour rose said breathed quickly there curious working mouth nostrils which mr claypole thought must immediate precursor violent fit crying impression returned charge what die work us said noah broken heart some old nurses told replied oliver more talking himself answering noah think know what must die tol de rol lol lol right fol lairy work us said noah tear rolled oliver cheek what set snivelling now replied oliver sharply there enough don say anything more better better exclaimed noah well better work us don impudent mother nice un oh lor here noah nodded head expressively curled much small red nose muscular action collect together occasion yer know work us continued noah emboldened oliver silence speaking jeering tone affected pity all tones most annoying yer know work us helped now course yer couldn help am sorry sure all pity yer much yer must know work us yer mother regular right bad un what say inquired oliver looking quickly regular right bad un work us replied noah coolly great deal better work us died when hard labouring bridewell transported hung which more likely either isn crimson fury oliver started overthrew chair table seized noah throat shook violence rage till teeth chattered head collecting whole force one heavy blow felled ground minute ago boy looked quiet child mild dejected creature harsh treatment made spirit roused last cruel insult dead mother set blood fire breast heaved attitude erect eye bright vivid whole person changed stood glaring cowardly tormentor who now lay crouching feet defied energy never known before ll murder blubbered noah charlotte missis here new boy murdering help help oliver gone mad char lotte noah shouts responded loud scream charlotte louder mrs sowerberry former whom rushed kitchen side door while latter paused staircase till quite certain consistent preservation human life come further oh little wretch screamed charlotte seizing oliver utmost force which equal moderately strong man particularly good training oh little un grate ful mur de rous hor rid villain between every syllable charlotte gave oliver blow all accompanying scream benefit society charlotte fist means light one lest effectual calming oliver wrath mrs sowerberry plunged kitchen assisted hold one hand while scratched face other favourable position affairs noah rose ground pommelled behind rather violent exercise last long when all wearied tear beat longer dragged oliver struggling shouting nothing daunted dust cellar there locked mrs sowerberry sunk chair burst tears bless going said charlotte glass water noah dear make haste oh charlotte said mrs sowerberry speaking well through deficiency breath sufficiency cold water which noah poured head shoulders oh charlotte what mercy all murdered beds ah mercy indeed ma am reply only hope ll teach master any more dreadful creatures born murderers robbers cradle poor noah all killed ma am when came poor fellow said mrs sowerberry looking piteously charity boy noah whose top waistcoat button somewhere level crown oliver head rubbed eyes inside wrists while commiseration bestowed upon performed some affecting tears sniffs what exclaimed mrs sowerberry master home there man house ll kick door ten minutes oliver vigorous plunges against bit timber question rendered occurance highly probable dear dear don know ma am said charlotte unless send police officers millingtary suggested mr claypole said mrs sowerberry bethinking herself oliver old friend run mr bumble noah tell come here directly lose minute never mind cap make haste hold knife black eye run along ll keep swelling noah stopped make reply started fullest speed much astonished people who walking see charity boy tearing through streets pell mell cap head clasp knife eye chapter vii oliver continues refractory noah claypole ran along streets swiftest pace paused once breath until reached workhouse gate rested here minute collect good burst sobs imposing show tears terror knocked loudly wicket presented rueful face aged pauper who opened even who saw nothing rueful faces best times started back astonishment why what matter boy said old pauper mr bumble mr bumble cried noah well affected dismay tones loud agitated only caught ear mr bumble himself who happened hard alarmed much rushed yard without cocked hat which curious remarkable circumstance showing even beadle acted upon sudden powerful impulse afflicted momentary visitation loss self possession forgetfulness personal dignity oh mr bumble sir said noah oliver sir oliver what what interposed mr bumble gleam pleasure metallic eyes run away hasn run away noah sir run away sir turned wicious replied noah tried murder sir tried murder charlotte missis oh what dreadful pain agony please sir here noah writhed twisted body extensive variety eel like positions thereby giving mr bumble understand violent sanguinary onset oliver twist sustained severe internal injury damage which moment suffering acutest torture when noah saw intelligence communicated perfectly paralysed mr bumble imparted additional effect thereunto bewailing dreadful wounds ten times louder before when observed gentleman white waistcoat crossing yard more tragic lamentations ever rightly conceiving highly expedient attract notice rouse indignation gentleman aforesaid gentleman notice soon attracted walked three paces when turned angrily round inquired what young cur howling why mr bumble favour something which render series vocular exclamations designated involuntary process poor boy free school sir replied mr bumble who nearly murdered all murdered sir young twist jove exclaimed gentleman white waistcoat stopping short knew felt strange presentiment first audacious young savage come hung likewise attempted sir murder female servant said mr bumble face ashy paleness missis interposed mr claypole master think said noah added mr bumble murdered replied noah said wanted ah said wanted boy inquired gentleman white waistcoat yes sir replied noah please sir missis wants know whether mr bumble spare time step there directly flog cause master certainly boy certainly said gentleman white waistcoat smiling benignly patting noah head which three inches higher own re good boy good boy here penny bumble just step sowerberry cane see what best don spare bumble sir replied beadle cocked hat cane time adjusted owner satisfaction mr bumble noah claypole betook themselves all speed undertaker shop here position affairs all improved sowerberry yet returned oliver continued kick undiminished vigour cellar door accounts ferocity related mrs sowerberry charlotte startling nature mr bumble judged prudent parley before opening door view gave kick outside way prelude applying mouth keyhole said deep impressive tone oliver come let replied oliver inside know here voice oliver said mr bumble yes replied oliver ain afraid sir ain trembling while speak sir said mr bumble replied oliver boldly answer different one expected elicit habit receiving staggered mr bumble little stepped back keyhole drew himself full height looked one another three standers mute astonishment oh know mr bumble must mad said mrs sowerberry boy half senses venture speak madness ma am replied mr bumble after few moments deep meditation meat what exclaimed mrs sowerberry meat ma am meat replied bumble stern emphasis ve overfed ma am ve raised artificial soul spirit ma am unbecoming person condition board mrs sowerberry who practical philosophers tell what paupers soul spirit quite enough let em live bodies kept boy gruel ma am never happened dear dear ejaculated mrs sowerberry piously raising eyes kitchen ceiling comes liberal liberality mrs sowerberry oliver consisted profuse bestowal upon all dirty odds ends which nobody eat there great deal meekness self devotion voluntarily remaining mr bumble heavy accusation which justice wholly innocent thought word deed ah said mr bumble when lady brought eyes earth again only thing now know leave cellar day till little starved take keep gruel all through apprenticeship comes bad family excitable natures mrs sowerberry both nurse doctor said mother made way here against difficulties pain killed any well disposed woman weeks before point mr bumble discourse oliver just hearing enough know some allusion made mother recommenced kicking violence rendered every other sound inaudible sowerberry returned juncture oliver offence explained exaggerations ladies thought best calculated rouse ire unlocked cellar door twinkling dragged rebellious apprentice collar oliver clothes torn beating received face bruised scratched hair scattered forehead angry flush disappeared however when pulled prison scowled boldly noah looked quite undismayed now nice young fellow ain said sowerberry giving oliver shake box ear called mother names replied oliver well what little ungrateful wretch said mrs sowerberry deserved what said worse didn said oliver said mrs sowerberry lie said oliver mrs sowerberry burst flood tears flood tears left mr sowerberry alternative hesitated one instant punish oliver most severely must quite clear every experienced reader according all precedents disputes matrimony established brute unnatural husband insulting creature base imitation man various other agreeable characters numerous recital within limits chapter justice far power went extensive kindly disposed towards boy perhaps because interest perhaps because wife disliked flood tears however left resource once gave drubbing which satisfied even mrs sowerberry herself rendered mr bumble subsequent application parochial cane rather unnecessary rest day shut back kitchen company pump slice bread night mrs sowerberry after making various remarks outside door means complimentary memory mother looked room amidst jeers pointings noah charlotte ordered upstairs dismal bed until left alone silence stillness gloomy workshop undertaker oliver gave way feelings which day treatment supposed likely awakened mere child listened taunts look contempt borne lash without cry felt pride swelling heart which kept shriek last though roasted alive now when there none see hear fell upon knees floor hiding face hands wept tears god send credit nature few young ever cause pour before long time oliver remained motionless attitude candle burning low socket when rose feet gazed cautiously round listened intently gently undid fastenings door looked abroad cold dark night stars seemed boy eyes farther earth ever seen before there wind sombre shadows thrown trees upon ground looked sepulchral death like still softly reclosed door availed himself expiring light candle tie handkerchief few articles wearing apparel sat himself upon bench wait morning first ray light struggled through crevices shutters oliver arose again unbarred door one timid look around one moment pause hesitation closed behind open street looked right left uncertain whither fly remembered seen waggons went toiling hill took same route arriving footpath across fields which knew after some distance led again road struck walked quickly along same footpath oliver well remembered trotted beside mr bumble when first carried workhouse farm way lay directly front cottage heart beat quickly when bethought himself half resolved turn back come long way though lose great deal time doing besides early there little fear seen walked reached house there appearance inmates stirring early hour oliver stopped peeped garden child weeding one little beds stopped raised pale face disclosed features one former companions oliver felt glad see before went though younger himself little friend playmate beaten starved shut together many many time hush dick said oliver boy ran gate thrust thin arm between rails greet any one nobody replied child musn say saw dick said oliver am running away beat ill use dick am going seek fortune some long way don know where how pale heard doctor tell dying replied child faint smile am glad see dear don stop don stop yes yes say good ye replied oliver shall see again dick know shall well happy hope replied child after am dead before know doctor must right oliver because dream much heaven angels kind faces never see when am awake kiss said child climbing low gate flinging little arms round oliver neck good ye dear god bless blessing young child lips first oliver ever heard invoked upon head through struggles sufferings troubles changes after life never once forgot chapter viii oliver walks london encounters road strange sort young gentleman oliver reached stile which path terminated once more gained high road eight clock now though nearly five miles away town ran hid behind hedges turns till noon fearing pursued overtaken sat rest side milestone began think first time where better go try live stone which seated bore large characters intimation just seventy miles spot london name awakened new train ideas boy mind london great place nobody even mr bumble ever find there often heard old men workhouse say lad spirit need want london there ways living vast city which who bred country parts idea place homeless boy who must die streets unless some one helped things passed through thoughts jumped upon feet again walked forward diminished distance between himself london full four miles more before recollected how much must undergo ere hope reach place destination consideration forced itself upon slackened pace little meditated upon means getting there crust bread coarse shirt two pairs stockings bundle penny gift sowerberry after some funeral which acquitted himself more ordinarily well pocket clean shirt thought oliver comfortable thing two pairs darned stockings penny small helps sixty five miles walk winter time oliver thoughts like most other people although extremely ready active point difficulties wholly loss suggest any feasible mode surmounting after good deal thinking particular purpose changed little bundle other shoulder trudged oliver walked twenty miles day all time tasted nothing crust dry bread few draughts water which begged cottage doors road side when night came turned meadow creeping close hay rick determined lie there till morning felt frightened first wind moaned dismally empty fields cold hungry more alone ever felt before tired walk however soon fell asleep forgot troubles felt cold stiff when got next morning hungry obliged exchange penny small loaf first village through which passed walked more twelve miles when night closed again feet sore legs weak trembled beneath another night passed bleak damp air made worse when set forward journey next morning hardly crawl along waited bottom steep hill till stage coach came begged outside passengers there few who took any notice even told wait till got top hill let see how far run halfpenny poor oliver tried keep coach little way unable reason fatigue sore feet when outsides saw put halfpence back pockets again declaring idle young dog didn deserve anything coach rattled away left only cloud dust behind some villages large painted boards fixed warning all persons who begged within district sent jail frightened oliver much made glad get villages all possible expedition others stand inn yards look mournfully every one who passed proceeding which generally terminated landlady ordering one post boys who lounging drive strange boy place sure come steal something begged farmer house ten one threatened set dog when showed nose shop talked beadle which brought oliver heart mouth often only thing there many hours together fact good hearted turnpike man benevolent old lady oliver troubles shortened same process which put end mother other words most assuredly fallen dead upon king highway turnpike man gave meal bread cheese old lady who shipwrecked grandson wandering barefoot some distant part earth took pity upon poor orphan gave what little afford more kind gentle words tears sympathy compassion sank deeper oliver soul all sufferings ever undergone early seventh morning after left native place oliver limped slowly little town barnet window shutters closed street empty soul awakened business day sun rising all splendid beauty light only served show boy own lonesomeness desolation sat bleeding feet covered dust upon door step degrees shutters opened window blinds drawn people began passing fro some few stopped gaze oliver moment two turned round stare hurried none relieved troubled themselves inquire how came there heart beg there sat crouching step some time wondering great number public houses every other house barnet tavern large small gazing listlessly coaches passed through thinking how strange seemed ease few hours what taken whole week courage determination beyond years accomplish when roused observing boy who passed carelessly some minutes before returned now surveying most earnestly opposite side way took little heed first boy remained same attitude close observation long oliver raised head returned steady look upon boy crossed walking close oliver said hullo covey what row boy who addressed inquiry young wayfarer own age one queerest looking boys oliver even seen snub nosed flat browed common faced boy enough dirty juvenile one wish see all airs manners man short age rather bow legs little sharp ugly eyes hat stuck top head lightly threatened fall every moment often wearer knack every now giving head sudden twitch which brought back old place again wore man coat which reached nearly heels turned cuffs back half way arm get hands sleeves apparently ultimate view thrusting pockets corduroy trousers there kept altogether roystering swaggering young gentleman ever stood four feet six something less bluchers hullo covey what row said strange young gentleman oliver am hungry tired replied oliver tears standing eyes spoke walked long way walking seven days walking sivin days said young gentleman oh see beak order eh added noticing oliver look surprise suppose don know what beak flash com pan oliver mildly replied always heard bird mouth described term question eyes how green exclaimed young gentleman why beak madgst rate when walk beak order straight forerd always agoing niver coming agin never mill what mill inquired oliver what mill why mill mill takes little room ll work inside stone jug always goes better when wind low people when high acos get workmen come said young gentleman want grub shall low water mark myself only one bob magpie far goes ll fork stump pins there now morrice assisting oliver rise young gentleman took adjacent chandler shop where purchased sufficiency ready dressed ham half quartern loaf himself expressed fourpenny bran ham kept clean preserved dust ingenious expedient making hole loaf pulling portion crumb stuffing therein taking bread arm young gentleman turned small public house led way tap room rear premises here pot beer brought direction mysterious youth oliver falling new friend bidding made long hearty meal during progress which strange boy eyed time time great attention going london said strange boy when oliver length concluded yes got any lodgings money strange boy whistled put arms pockets far big coat sleeves let go live london inquired oliver yes when home replied boy suppose want some place sleep tonight don indeed answered oliver slept roof since left country don fret eyelids score said young gentleman ve got london tonight know spectable old gentleman lives there wot ll give lodgings nothink never ask change any gentleman knows interduces don know oh least means certainly young gentleman smiled intimate latter fragments discourse playfully ironical finished beer unexpected offer shelter tempting resisted especially immediately followed assurance old gentleman referred doubtless provide oliver comfortable place without loss time led more friendly confidential dialogue which oliver discovered friend name jack dawkins peculiar pet prot elderly gentleman before mentioned mr dawkins appearance say vast deal favour comforts which patron interest obtained whom took protection rather flightly dissolute mode conversing furthermore avowed among intimate friends better known sobriquet artful dodger oliver concluded dissipated careless turn moral precepts benefactor hitherto thrown away upon impression secretly resolved cultivate good opinion old gentleman quickly possible found dodger incorrigible more half suspected decline honour farther acquaintance john dawkins objected entering london before nightfall nearly eleven clock when reached turnpike islington crossed angel st john road struck small street which terminates sadler wells theatre through exmouth street coppice row little court side workhouse across classic ground which once bore name hockley hole thence little saffron hill saffron hill great along which dodger scudded rapid pace directing oliver follow close heels although oliver enough occupy attention keeping sight leader help bestowing few hasty glances either side way passed along dirtier more wretched place never seen street narrow muddy air impregnated filthy odours there good many small shops only stock trade appeared heaps children who even time night crawling doors screaming inside sole places seemed prosper amid general blight place public houses lowest orders irish wrangling main covered ways yards which here there diverged main street disclosed little knots houses where drunken men women positively wallowing filth several door ways great ill looking fellows cautiously emerging bound all appearance well disposed harmless errands oliver just considering whether hadn better run away when reached bottom hill conductor catching arm pushed open door house near field lane drawing passage closed behind now cried voice below reply whistle dodger plummy slam reply seemed some watchword signal all right light feeble candle gleamed wall remote end passage man face peeped where balustrade old kitchen staircase broken away there two said man thrusting candle farther shielding eyes hand who other one new pal replied jack dawkins pulling oliver forward where come greenland fagin upstairs yes sortin wipes candle drawn back face disappeared oliver groping way one hand other firmly grasped companion ascended much difficulty dark broken stairs which conductor mounted ease expedition showed well acquainted threw open door back room drew oliver after walls ceiling room perfectly black age dirt there deal table before fire upon which candle stuck ginger beer bottle two three pewter pots loaf butter plate frying pan which fire which secured mantelshelf string some sausages cooking standing toasting fork hand old shrivelled jew whose villainous looking repulsive face obscured quantity matted red hair dressed greasy flannel gown throat bare seemed dividing attention between frying pan clothes horse which great number silk handkerchiefs hanging several rough beds made old sacks huddled side side floor seated round table four five boys none older dodger smoking long clay pipes drinking spirits air middle aged men all crowded associate whispered few words jew turned round grinned oliver jew himself toasting fork hand fagin said jack dawkins friend oliver twist jew grinned making low obeisance oliver took hand hoped honour intimate acquaintance upon young gentleman pipes came round shook both hands hard especially one which held little bundle one young gentleman anxious hang cap another obliging put hands pockets order tired trouble emptying himself when went bed civilities probably extended much farther liberal exercise jew toasting fork heads shoulders affectionate youths who offered glad see oliver said jew dodger take sausages draw tub near fire oliver ah re staring pocket handkerchiefs eh dear there good many em ain there ve just looked em ready wash all oliver all ha ha ha latter part speech hailed boisterous shout all hopeful pupils merry old gentleman midst which went supper oliver ate share jew mixed glass hot gin water telling must drink directly because another gentleman wanted tumbler oliver desired immediately afterwards felt himself gently lifted one sacks sunk deep sleep chapter ix containing further particulars concerning pleasant old gentleman hopeful pupils late next morning when oliver awoke sound long sleep there other person room old jew who boiling some coffee saucepan breakfast whistling softly himself stirred round round iron spoon stop every now listen when there least noise below when satisfied himself go whistling stirring again before although oliver roused himself sleep thoroughly awake there drowsy state between sleeping waking when dream more five minutes eyes half open yourself half conscious everything passing around five nights eyes fast closed senses wrapt perfect unconsciousness time mortal knows just enough what mind doing form some glimmering conception mighty powers bounding earth spurning time space when freed restraint corporeal associate oliver precisely condition saw jew half closed eyes heard low whistling recognised sound spoon grating against saucepan sides yet self same senses mentally engaged same time busy action almost everybody ever known when coffee jew drew saucepan hob standing irresolute attitude few minutes well know how employ himself turned round looked oliver called name answer all appearances asleep after satisfying himself upon head jew stepped gently door which fastened drew forth seemed oliver some trap floor small box which placed carefully table eyes glistened raised lid looked dragging old chair table sat took magnificent gold watch sparkling jewels aha said jew shrugging shoulders distorting every feature hideous grin clever dogs clever dogs staunch last never told old parson where never poached upon old fagin why wouldn loosened knot kept drop minute longer fine fellows fine fellows other muttered reflections like nature jew once more deposited watch place safety least half dozen more severally drawn forth same box surveyed equal pleasure besides rings brooches bracelets other articles jewellery magnificent materials costly workmanship oliver idea even names replaced trinkets jew took another small lay palm hand there seemed some minute inscription jew laid flat upon table shading hand pored long earnestly length put despairing success leaning back chair muttered what fine thing capital punishment dead men never repent dead men never bring awkward stories light ah fine thing trade five em strung row none left play booty turn white livered jew uttered words bright dark eyes which staring vacantly before fell oliver face boy eyes fixed mute curiousity although recognition only instant briefest space time possibly conceived enough show old man observed closed lid box loud crash laying hand bread knife which table started furiously trembled much though even terror oliver see knife quivered air what said jew what watch why awake what seen speak boy quick quick life wasn able sleep any longer sir replied oliver meekly am sorry disturbed sir awake hour ago said jew scowling fiercely boy indeed replied oliver sure cried jew still fiercer look before threatening attitude upon word sir replied oliver earnestly indeed sir tush tush dear said jew abruptly resuming old manner playing knife little before laid induce belief caught mere sport course know dear only tried frighten re brave boy ha ha re brave boy oliver jew rubbed hands chuckle glanced uneasily box notwithstanding see any pretty things dear said jew laying hand upon after short pause yes sir replied oliver ah said jew turning rather pale re mine oliver little property all live upon old age folks call miser dear only miser all oliver thought old gentleman must decided miser live dirty place many watches thinking perhaps fondness dodger other boys cost good deal money only cast deferential look jew asked get certainly dear certainly replied old gentleman stay there pitcher water corner door bring here ll give basin wash dear oliver got walked across room stooped instant raise pitcher when turned head box gone scarcely washed himself made everything tidy emptying basin window agreeably jew directions when dodger returned accompanied sprightly young friend whom oliver seen smoking previous night who now formally introduced charley bates four sat breakfast coffee some hot rolls ham which dodger brought home crown hat well said jew glancing slyly oliver addressing himself dodger hope ve work morning dears hard replied dodger nails added charley bates good boys good boys said jew what got dodger couple pocket books replied young gentleman lined inquired jew eagerness pretty well replied dodger producing two pocket books one green other red heavy said jew after looking insides carefully neat nicely made ingenious workman ain oliver indeed sir said oliver which mr charles bates laughed uproariously much amazement oliver who saw nothing laugh anything passed what got dear said fagin charley bates wipes replied master bates same time producing four pocket handkerchiefs well said jew inspecting closely re good ones haven marked well though charley marks shall picked needle ll teach oliver how shall us oliver eh ha ha ha please sir said oliver like able make pocket handkerchiefs easy charley bates wouldn dear said jew much indeed ll teach sir replied oliver master bates saw something exquisitely ludicrous reply burst another laugh which laugh meeting coffee drinking carrying some wrong channel nearly terminated premature suffocation jolly green said charley when recovered apology company unpolite behaviour dodger said nothing smoothed oliver hair eyes said know better upon which old gentleman observing oliver colour mounting changed subject asking whether there much crowd execution morning made wonder more more plain replies two boys both there oliver naturally wondered how possibly found time industrious when breakfast cleared away merry old gentleman two boys played curious uncommon game which performed way merry old gentleman placing snuff box one pocket trousers note case other watch waistcoat pocket guard chain round neck sticking mock diamond pin shirt buttoned coat tight round putting spectacle case handkerchief pockets trotted room stick imitation manner which old gentlemen walk streets any hour day sometimes stopped fire place sometimes door making believe staring all shop windows times look constantly round fear thieves keep slapping all pockets turn see hadn lost anything funny natural manner oliver laughed till tears ran face all time two boys followed closely getting sight nimbly every time turned round impossible follow motions last dodger trod upon toes ran upon boot accidently while charley bates stumbled against behind one moment took most extraordinary rapidity snuff box note case watch guard chain shirt pin pocket handkerchief even spectacle case old gentleman felt hand any one pockets cried where game began all again when game played great many times couple young ladies called see young gentleman one whom named bet other nancy wore good deal hair neatly turned behind rather untidy shoes stockings exactly pretty perhaps great deal colour faces looked quite stout hearty remarkably free agreeable manners oliver thought nice girls indeed there doubt visitors stopped long time spirits produced consequence one young ladies complaining coldness inside conversation took convivial improving turn length charley bates expressed opinion time pad hoof occurred oliver must french going directly afterwards dodger charley two young ladies went away together kindly furnished amiable old jew money spend there dear said fagin pleasant life isn gone day work sir inquired oliver yes said jew unless unexpectedly come across any when won neglect dear depend upon make em models dear make em models tapping fire shovel hearth add force words everything bid take advice all matters especially dodger dear ll great man himself make one take pattern handkerchief hanging pocket dear said jew stopping short yes sir said oliver see take without feeling saw when play morning oliver held bottom pocket one hand seen dodger hold drew handkerchief lightly other gone cried jew here sir said oliver showing hand re clever boy dear said playful old gentleman patting oliver head approvingly never saw sharper lad here shilling go way ll greatest man time now come here ll show how take marks handkerchiefs oliver wondered what picking old gentleman pocket play chances great man thinking jew much senior must know best followed quietly table soon deeply involved new study chapter oliver becomes better acquainted characters new associates purchases experience high price short important chapter history many days oliver remained jew room picking marks pocket handkerchief which great number brought home sometimes taking part game already described which two boys jew played regularly every morning length began languish fresh air took many occasions earnestly entreating old gentleman allow go work two companions oliver rendered more anxious actively employed what seen stern morality old gentleman character whenever dodger charley bates came home night empty handed expatiate great vehemence misery idle lazy habits enforce upon necessity active life sending supperless bed one occasion indeed even went far knock both flight stairs carrying virtuous precepts unusual extent length one morning oliver obtained permission eagerly sought there handkerchiefs work upon two three days dinners rather meagre perhaps reasons old gentleman giving assent whether told oliver go placed joint guardianship charley bates friend dodger three boys sallied dodger coat sleeves tucked hat cocked usual master bates sauntering along hands pockets oliver between wondering where going what branch manufacture instructed first pace which went lazy ill looking saunter oliver soon began think companions going deceive old gentleman going work all dodger vicious propensity pulling caps heads small boys tossing areas while charley bates exhibited some loose notions concerning rights property pilfering divers apples onions stalls kennel sides thrusting pockets which surprisingly capacious seemed undermine whole suit clothes every direction things looked bad oliver point declaring intention seeking way back best way when thoughts suddenly directed another channel mysterious change behaviour part dodger just emerging narrow court far open square clerkenwell which yet called some strange perversion terms green when dodger made sudden stop laying finger lip drew companions back again greatest caution circumspection what matter demanded oliver hush replied dodger see old cove book stall old gentleman way said oliver yes see ll said dodger prime plant observed master charley bates oliver looked one other greatest surprise permitted make any inquiries two boys walked stealthily across road slunk close behind old gentleman towards whom attention directed oliver walked few paces after knowing whether advance retire stood looking silent amazement old gentleman respectable looking personage powdered head gold spectacles dressed bottle green coat black velvet collar wore white trousers carried smart bamboo cane arm taken book stall there stood reading away hard elbow chair own study possible fancied himself there indeed plain abstraction saw book stall nor street nor boys nor short anything book itself which reading straight through turning leaf when got bottom page beginning top line next one going regularly greatest interest eagerness what oliver horror alarm stood few paces looking eyelids wide open possibly go see dodger plunge hand old gentleman pocket draw thence handkerchief see hand same charley bates finally behold both running away round corner full speed instant whole mystery hankerchiefs watches jewels jew rushed upon boy mind stood moment blood tingling through all veins terror felt burning fire confused frightened took heels knowing what made fast lay feet ground all minute space instant when oliver began run old gentleman putting hand pocket missing handkerchief turned sharp round seeing boy scudding away rapid pace naturally concluded depredator shouting stop thief all made after book hand old gentleman only person who raised hue cry dodger master bates unwilling attract public attention running open street merely retired first doorway round corner sooner heard cry saw oliver running guessing exactly how matter stood issued forth great promptitude shouting stop thief joined pursuit like good citizens although oliver brought philosophers theoretically acquainted beautiful axiom self preservation first law nature perhaps prepared prepared however alarmed more away went like wind old gentleman two boys roaring shouting behind stop thief stop thief there magic sound tradesman leaves counter car man waggon butcher throws tray baker basket milkman pail errand boy parcels school boy marbles paviour pickaxe child battledore away run pell mell helter skelter slap dash tearing yelling screaming knocking passengers turn corners rousing dogs astonishing fowls streets squares courts re echo sound stop thief stop thief cry taken hundred voices crowd accumulate every turning away fly splashing through mud rattling along pavements go windows run people onward bear mob whole audience desert punch thickest plot joining rushing throng swell shout lend fresh vigour cry stop thief stop thief stop thief stop thief there passion hunting something deeply implanted human breast one wretched breathless child panting exhaustion terror looks agony eyes large drops perspiration streaming face strains every nerve make head upon pursuers follow track gain upon every instant hail decreasing strength joy stop thief ay stop god sake only mercy stopped last clever blow upon pavement crowd eagerly gather round each new comer jostling struggling others catch glimpse stand aside give little air nonsense don deserve where gentleman here coming street make room there gentleman boy sir yes oliver lay covered mud dust bleeding mouth looking wildly round upon heap faces surrounded when old gentleman officiously dragged pushed circle foremost pursuers yes said gentleman am afraid boy afraid murmured crowd good un poor fellow said gentleman hurt himself sir said great lubberly fellow stepping forward preciously cut knuckle agin mouth stopped sir fellow touched hat grin expecting something pains old gentleman eyeing expression dislike look anxiously round contemplated running away himself which possible attempted thus afforded another chase police officer who generally last person arrive cases moment made way through crowd seized oliver collar come get said man roughly wasn indeed sir indeed indeed two other boys said oliver clasping hands passionately looking round here somewhere oh ain said officer meant ironical true besides dodger charley bates filed first convenient court came come get don hurt said old gentleman compassionately oh won hurt replied officer tearing jacket half back proof thereof come know won stand upon legs young devil oliver who hardly stand made shift raise himself feet once lugged along streets jacket collar rapid pace gentleman walked officer side many crowd achieve feat got little ahead stared back oliver time time boys shouted triumph went chapter xi treats mr fang police magistrate furnishes slight specimen mode administering justice offence committed within district indeed immediate neighborhood notorious metropolitan police office crowd only satisfaction accompanying oliver through two three streets place called mutton hill when led beneath low archway dirty court dispensary summary justice back way small paved yard which turned here encountered stout man bunch whiskers face bunch keys hand what matter now said man carelessly young fogle hunter replied man who oliver charge party robbed sir inquired man keys yes am replied old gentleman am sure boy actually took handkerchief rather press case must go before magistrate now sir replied man worship disengaged half minute now young gallows invitation oliver enter through door which unlocked spoke which led stone cell here searched nothing found upon locked cell shape size something like area cellar only light most intolerably dirty monday morning tenanted six drunken people who locked elsewhere since saturday night little station houses men women every night confined most trivial charges word worth noting dungeons compared which newgate occupied most atrocious felons tried found guilty sentence death palaces let any one who doubts compare two old gentleman looked almost rueful oliver when key grated lock turned sigh book which innocent cause all disturbance there something boy face said old gentleman himself walked slowly away tapping chin cover book thoughtful manner something touches interests innocent looked like bye bye exclaimed old gentleman halting abruptly staring sky bless soul where seen something like look before after musing some minutes old gentleman walked same meditative face back anteroom opening yard there retiring corner called before mind eye vast amphitheatre faces which dusky curtain hung many years said old gentleman shaking head must imagination wandered again called view easy replace shroud long concealed there faces friends foes many almost strangers peering intrusively crowd there faces young blooming girls now old women there faces grave changed closed upon which mind superior power still dressed old freshness beauty calling back lustre eyes brightness smile beaming soul through mask clay whispering beauty beyond tomb changed heightened taken earth only set light shed soft gentle glow upon path heaven old gentleman recall one countenance which oliver features bore trace heaved sigh recollections awakened happily himself absent old gentleman buried again pages musty book roused touch shoulder request man keys follow office closed book hastily once ushered imposing presence renowned mr fang office front parlour panelled wall mr fang sat behind bar upper end one side door sort wooden pen which poor little oliver already deposited trembling much awfulness scene mr fang lean long backed stiff necked middle sized man great quantity hair what growing back sides head face stern much flushed really habit drinking rather more exactly good brought action against countenance libel recovered heavy damages old gentleman bowed respectfully advancing magistrate desk said suiting action word name address sir withdrew pace two another polite gentlemanly inclination head waited questioned now happened mr fang moment perusing leading article newspaper morning adverting some recent decision commending three hundred fiftieth time special particular notice secretary state home department temper looked angry scowl who said mr fang old gentleman pointed some surprise card officer said mr fang tossing card contemptuously away newspaper who fellow name sir said old gentleman speaking like gentleman name sir brownlow permit inquire name magistrate who offers gratuitous unprovoked insult respectable person protection bench saying mr brownlow looked around office search some person who afford required information officer said mr fang throwing paper one side what fellow charged charged all worship replied officer appears against boy worship worship knew perfectly well good annoyance safe one appears against boy said mr fang surveying mr brownlow contemptuously head foot swear before am sworn must beg say one word said mr brownlow really never without actual experience believed hold tongue sir said mr fang peremptorily sir replied old gentleman hold tongue instant ll turned office said mr fang re insolent impertinent fellow how dare bully magistrate what exclaimed old gentleman reddening swear person said fang clerk ll hear another word swear mr brownlow indignation greatly roused reflecting perhaps only injure boy giving vent suppressed feelings submitted sworn once now said fang what charge against boy what got say sir standing bookstall mr brownlow began hold tongue sir said mr fang policeman where policeman here swear policeman now policeman what policeman becoming humility related how taken charge how searched oliver found nothing person how all knew there any witnesses inquired mr fang none worship replied policeman mr fang sat silent some minutes turning round prosecutor said towering passion mean state what complaint against boy man sworn now stand there refusing give evidence ll punish disrespect bench what whom nobody knows clerk jailor coughed loud just right moment former dropped heavy book upon floor thus preventing word heard accidently course many interruptions repeated insults mr brownlow contrived state case observing surprise moment run after boy because seen running away expressing hope magistrate believe although actually thief connected thieves deal leniently justice allow hurt already said old gentleman conclusion fear added great energy looking towards bar really fear ill oh yes dare say said mr fang sneer come none tricks here young vagabond won what name oliver tried reply tongue failed deadly pale whole place seemed turning round round what name hardened scoundrel demanded mr fang officer what name addressed bluff old fellow striped waistcoat who standing bar bent oliver repeated inquiry finding really incapable understanding question knowing replying only infuriate magistrate more add severity sentence hazarded guess says name tom white worship said kind hearted thief taker oh won speak won said fang well well where live where worship replied officer again pretending receive oliver answer any parents inquired mr fang says died infancy worship replied officer hazarding usual reply point inquiry oliver raised head looking round imploring eyes murmured feeble prayer draught water stuff nonsense said mr fang don try make fool think really ill worship remonstrated officer know better said mr fang take care officer said old gentleman raising hands instinctively ll fall stand away officer cried fang let likes oliver availed himself kind permission fell floor fainting fit men office looked each other one dared stir knew shamming said fang incontestable proof fact let lie there ll soon tired how propose deal case sir inquired clerk low voice summarily replied mr fang stands committed three months hard labour course clear office door opened purpose couple men preparing carry insensible boy cell when elderly man decent poor appearance clad old suit black rushed hastily office advanced towards bench stop stop don take away heaven sake stop moment cried new comer breathless haste although presiding genii office exercise summary arbitrary power liberties good name character almost lives majesty subjects especially poorer class although within walls enough fantastic tricks daily played make angels blind weeping closed public save through medium daily press mr fang consequently little indignant see unbidden guest enter irreverent disorder what who turn man clear office cried mr fang speak cried man turned saw all keep book stall demand sworn put mr fang must hear must refuse sir man right manner determined matter growing rather serious hushed swear man growled mr fang ill grace now man what got say said man saw three boys two others prisoner here loitering opposite side way when gentleman reading robbery committed another boy saw saw boy perfectly amazed stupified time recovered little breath worthy book stall keeper proceeded relate more coherent manner exact circumstances robbery why didn come here before said fang after pause hadn soul mind shop replied man everybody who helped joined pursuit get nobody till five minutes ago ve run here all way prosecutor reading inquired fang after another pause yes replied man book hand oh book eh said fang paid replied man smile dear forgot all exclaimed absent old gentleman innocently nice person prefer charge against poor boy said fang comical effort look humane consider sir obtained possession book suspicious disreputable circumstances think yourself fortunate owner property declines prosecute let lesson man law overtake yet boy discharged clear office cried old gentleman bursting rage kept long ll clear office said magistrate officers hear clear office mandate obeyed indignant mr brownlow conveyed book one hand bamboo cane other perfect phrenzy rage defiance reached yard passion vanished moment little oliver twist lay back pavement shirt unbuttoned temples bathed water face deadly white cold tremble convulsing whole frame poor boy poor boy said mr brownlow bending call coach somebody pray directly coach obtained oliver carefully laid seat old gentleman got sat himself other accompany said book stall keeper looking bless yes dear sir said mr brownlow quickly forgot dear dear unhappy book still jump poor fellow there time lose book stall keeper got coach away drove chapter xii which oliver taken better care ever before which narrative reverts merry old gentleman youthful friends coach rattled away nearly same ground which oliver traversed when first entered london company dodger turning different way when reached angel islington stopped length before neat house quiet shady street near pentonville here bed prepared without loss time which mr brownlow saw young charge carefully comfortably deposited here tended kindness solicitude knew bounds many days oliver remained insensible all goodness new friends sun rose sank rose sank again many times after still boy lay stretched uneasy bed dwindling away beneath dry wasting heat fever worm work more surely dead body slow creeping fire upon living frame weak thin pallid awoke last what seemed long troubled dream feebly raising himself bed head resting trembling arm looked anxiously around what room where brought said oliver place went sleep uttered words feeble voice faint weak overheard once curtain bed head hastily drawn back motherly old lady neatly precisely dressed rose undrew arm chair close which sitting needle work hush dear said old lady softly must quiet ill again bad bad bad pretty nigh lie again there dear words old lady gently placed oliver head upon pillow smoothing back hair forehead looked kindly loving face help placing little withered hand hers drawing round neck save us said old lady tears eyes what grateful little dear pretty creetur what mother feel sat see now perhaps see whispered oliver folding hands together perhaps sat almost feel fever dear said old lady mildly suppose replied oliver because heaven long way happy there come bedside poor boy knew ill must pitied even there ill herself before died know anything though added oliver after moment silence seen hurt made sorrowful face always looked sweet happy when dreamed old lady made reply wiping eyes first spectacles which lay counterpane afterwards part parcel features brought some cool stuff oliver drink patting cheek told must lie quiet ill again oliver kept still partly because anxious obey kind old lady all things partly tell truth because completely exhausted what already said soon fell gentle doze which awakened light candle which brought near bed showed gentleman large loud ticking gold watch hand who felt pulse said great deal better great deal better dear said gentleman yes thank sir replied oliver yes know said gentleman re hungry sir answered oliver hem said gentleman know re hungry mrs bedwin said gentleman looking wise old lady made respectful inclination head which seemed say thought doctor clever man doctor appeared much same opinion himself feel sleepy don dear said doctor sir replied oliver said doctor shrewd satisfied look re sleepy nor thirsty yes sir rather thirsty answered oliver just expected mrs bedwin said doctor natural thirsty give little tea ma am some dry toast without any butter don keep warm ma am careful don let cold goodness old lady dropped curtsey doctor after tasting cool stuff expressing qualified approval hurried away boots creaking important wealthy manner went downstairs oliver dozed again soon after when awoke nearly twelve clock old lady tenderly bade good night shortly afterwards left charge fat old woman who just come bringing little bundle small prayer book large nightcap putting latter head former table old woman after telling oliver come sit drew chair close fire went series short naps chequered frequent intervals sundry tumblings forward divers moans chokings however worse effect causing rub nose hard fall asleep again thus night crept slowly oliver lay awake some time counting little circles light which reflection rushlight shade threw upon ceiling tracing languid eyes intricate pattern paper wall darkness deep stillness room solemn brought boy mind thought death hovering there many days nights yet fill gloom dread awful presence turned face upon pillow fervently prayed heaven gradually fell deep tranquil sleep which ease recent suffering alone imparts calm peaceful rest which pain wake who death roused again all struggles turmoils life all cares present anxieties future more all weary recollections past bright day hours when oliver opened eyes felt cheerful happy crisis disease safely past belonged world again three days time able sit easy chair well propped pillows still weak walk mrs bedwin carried downstairs little housekeeper room which belonged set here fire side good old lady sat herself state considerable delight seeing much better forthwith began cry most violently never mind dear said old lady only regular good cry there all now quite comfortable re kind ma am said oliver well never mind dear said old lady got nothing broth full time doctor says mr brownlow come see morning must get best looks because better look more ll pleased old lady applied herself warming little saucepan basin full broth strong enough oliver thought furnish ample dinner when reduced regulation strength three hundred fifty paupers lowest computation fond pictures dear inquired old lady seeing oliver fixed eyes most intently portrait which hung against wall just opposite chair don quite know ma am said oliver without taking eyes canvas seen few hardly know what beautiful mild face lady ah said old lady painters always make ladies prettier wouldn get any custom child man invented machine taking likenesses known never succeed deal honest deal said old lady laughing heartily own acuteness likeness ma am said oliver yes said old lady looking moment broth portrait whose ma am asked oliver why really dear don know answered old lady good humoured manner likeness anybody know expect seems strike fancy dear pretty replied oliver why sure re afraid said old lady observing great surprise look awe which child regarded painting oh returned oliver quickly eyes look sorrowful where sit seem fixed upon makes heart beat added oliver low voice alive wanted speak couldn lord save us exclaimed old lady starting don talk way child re weak nervous after illness let wheel chair round other side won see there said old lady suiting action word don see now all events oliver see mind eye distinctly altered position thought better worry kind old lady smiled gently when looked mrs bedwin satisfied felt more comfortable salted broke bits toasted bread broth all bustle befitting solemn preparation oliver got through extraordinary expedition scarcely swallowed last spoonful when there came soft rap door come said old lady walked mr brownlow now old gentleman came brisk need sooner raised spectacles forehead thrust hands behind skirts dressing gown take good long look oliver countenance underwent great variety odd contortions oliver looked worn shadowy sickness made ineffectual attempt stand respect benefactor which terminated sinking back chair again fact truth must told mr brownlow heart large enough any six ordinary old gentlemen humane disposition forced supply tears eyes some hydraulic process which sufficiently philosophical condition explain poor boy poor boy said mr brownlow clearing throat rather hoarse morning mrs bedwin afraid caught cold hope sir said mrs bedwin everything well aired sir don know bedwin don know said mr brownlow rather think damp napkin dinner time yesterday never mind how feel dear happy sir replied oliver grateful indeed sir goodness good boy said mr brownlow stoutly given any nourishment bedwin any slops eh just basin beautiful strong broth sir replied mrs bedwin drawing herself slightly laying strong emphasis last word intimate between slops broth well compounded there existed affinity connection whatsoever ugh said mr brownlow slight shudder couple glasses port wine great deal more good wouldn tom white eh name oliver sir replied little invalid look great astonishment oliver said mr brownlow oliver what oliver white eh sir twist oliver twist queer name said old gentleman what made tell magistrate name white never told sir returned oliver amazement sounded like falsehood old gentleman looked somewhat sternly oliver face impossible doubt there truth every one thin sharpened lineaments some mistake said mr brownlow although motive looking steadily oliver longer existed old idea resemblance between features some familiar face came upon strongly withdraw gaze hope angry sir said oliver raising eyes beseechingly replied old gentleman why what bedwin look there spoke pointed hastily picture oliver head boy face there living copy eyes head mouth every feature same expression instant precisely alike minutest line seemed copied startling accuracy oliver knew cause sudden exclamation strong enough bear start gave fainted away weakness part which affords narrative opportunity relieving reader suspense behalf two young pupils merry old gentleman recording when dodger accomplished friend master bates joined hue cry which raised oliver heels consequence executing illegal conveyance mr brownlow personal property already described actuated laudable becoming regard themselves forasmuch freedom subject liberty individual among first proudest boasts true hearted englishman need hardly beg reader observe action tend exalt opinion all public patriotic men almost great degree strong proof anxiety own preservation safety goes corroborate confirm little code laws which certain profound sound judging philosophers laid main springs all nature deeds actions said philosophers wisely reducing good lady proceedings matters maxim theory neat pretty compliment exalted wisdom understanding putting entirely sight any considerations heart generous impulse feeling matters totally beneath female who acknowledged universal admission far above numerous little foibles weaknesses sex wanted any further proof strictly philosophical nature conduct young gentlemen delicate predicament once find fact also recorded foregoing part narrative quitting pursuit when general attention fixed upon oliver making immediately home shortest possible cut although mean assert usually practice renowned learned sages shorten road any great conclusion course indeed rather lengthen distance various circumlocutions discursive staggerings like unto which drunken men pressure mighty flow ideas prone indulge still mean say say distinctly invariable practice many mighty philosophers carrying theories evince great wisdom foresight providing against every possible contingency which supposed all likely affect themselves thus great right little wrong take any means which end attained justify amount right amount wrong indeed distinction between two left entirely philosopher concerned settled determined clear comprehensive impartial view own particular case until two boys scoured great rapidity through most intricate maze narrow streets courts ventured halt beneath low dark archway remained silent here just long enough recover breath speak master bates uttered exclamation amusement delight bursting uncontrollable fit laughter flung himself upon doorstep rolled thereon transport mirth what matter inquired dodger ha ha ha roared charley bates hold noise remonstrated dodger looking cautiously round want grabbed stupid help said charley help see splitting away pace cutting round corners knocking again posts starting again made iron well wipe pocket singing arter oh eye vivid imagination master bates presented scene before strong colours arrived apostrophe again rolled upon door step laughed louder before what ll fagin say inquired dodger taking advantage next interval breathlessness part friend propound question what repeated charley bates ah what said dodger why what say inquired charley stopping rather suddenly merriment dodger manner impressive what say mr dawkins whistled couple minutes taking hat scratched head nodded thrice what mean said charley toor rul lol loo gammon spinnage frog wouldn high cockolorum said dodger slight sneer intellectual countenance explanatory satisfactory master bates felt again said what mean dodger made reply putting hat again gathering skirts long tailed coat arm thrust tongue cheek slapped bridge nose some half dozen times familiar expressive manner turning heel slunk court master bates followed thoughtful countenance noise footsteps creaking stairs few minutes after occurrence conversation roused merry old gentleman sat fire saveloy small loaf hand pocket knife right pewter pot trivet there rascally smile white face turned round looking sharply thick red eyebrows bent ear towards door listened why how muttered jew changing countenance only two em where third got trouble hark footsteps approached nearer reached landing door slowly opened dodger charley bates entered closing behind chapter xiii some new acquaintances introduced intelligent reader connected whom various pleasant matters related appertaining history where oliver said jew rising menacing look where boy young thieves eyed preceptor alarmed violence looked uneasily each other made reply what become boy said jew seizing dodger tightly collar threatening horrid imprecations speak ll throttle mr fagin looked much earnest charley bates who deemed prudent all cases safe side who conceived means improbable turn throttled second dropped upon knees raised loud well sustained continuous roar something between mad bull speaking trumpet speak thundered jew shaking dodger much keeping big coat all seemed perfectly miraculous why traps got all said dodger sullenly come let go swinging himself one jerk clean big coat which left jew hands dodger snatched toasting fork made pass merry old gentleman waistcoat which taken effect let little more merriment easily replaced jew stepped back emergency more agility anticipated man apparent decrepitude seizing pot prepared hurl assailant head charley bates moment calling attention perfectly terrific howl suddenly altered destination flung full young gentleman why what blazes wind now growled deep voice who pitched ere well beer pot hit settled somebody know nobody infernal rich plundering thundering old jew afford throw away any drink water unless river company every quarter wot all fagin neck handkercher lined beer come sneaking warmint wot stopping outside ashamed master come man who growled words stoutly built fellow five thirty black velveteen coat soiled drab breeches lace half boots grey cotton stockings which inclosed bulky pair legs large swelling calves kind legs which costume always look unfinished incomplete state without set fetters garnish brown hat head dirty belcher handkerchief round neck long frayed ends which smeared beer face spoke disclosed when broad heavy countenance beard three days growth two scowling eyes one which displayed various parti coloured symptoms recently damaged blow come ye hear growled engaging ruffian white shaggy dog face scratched torn twenty different places skulked room why didn come afore said man re getting proud own afore company lie command accompanied kick which sent animal other end room appeared well used however coiled himself corner quietly without uttering sound winking ill looking eyes twenty times minute appeared occupy himself taking survey apartment what ill treating boys covetous avaricious sa ti ble old fence said man seating himself deliberately wonder don murder prentice long ago couldn sold afterwards re fit nothing keeping curiousity ugliness glass bottle suppose don blow glass bottles large enough hush hush mr sikes said jew trembling don speak loud none mistering replied ruffian always mean mischief when come know name shan disgrace when time comes well well bill sikes said jew abject humility seem humour bill perhaps am replied sikes think rather sorts unless mean little harm when throw pewter pots when blab mad said jew catching man sleeve pointing towards boys mr sikes contented himself tying imaginary knot left ear jerking head right shoulder piece dumb show which jew appeared understand perfectly cant terms which whole conversation plentifully besprinkled which quite unintelligible recorded here demanded glass liquor mind don poison said mr sikes laying hat upon table said jest speaker seen evil leer which jew bit pale lip turned round cupboard thought caution wholly unnecessary wish all events improve upon distiller ingenuity far old gentleman merry heart after swallowing two three glasses spirits mr sikes condescended take some notice young gentlemen which gracious act led conversation which cause manner oliver capture circumstantially detailed alterations improvements truth dodger appeared most advisable circumstances afraid said jew say something which get us trouble likely returned sikes malicious grin re blowed upon fagin afraid see added jew speaking noticed interruption regarding other closely afraid game us good many more come rather worse dear man started turned round upon jew old gentleman shoulders shrugged ears eyes vacantly staring opposite wall there long pause every member respectable coterie appeared plunged own reflections excepting dog who certain malicious licking lips seemed meditating attack upon legs first gentleman lady encounter streets when went somebody must find wot office said mr sikes much lower tone taken since came jew nodded assent hasn peached committed there fear till comes again said mr sikes must taken care must get hold somehow again jew nodded prudence line action indeed obvious unfortunately there one strong objection adopted dodger charley bates fagin mr william sikes happened one all entertain violent deeply rooted antipathy going near police office any ground pretext whatever how long sat looked each other state uncertainty most pleasant kind difficult guess necessary make any guesses subject however sudden entrance two young ladies whom oliver seen former occasion caused conversation flow afresh thing said jew bet go won dear wheres inquired young lady only just office dear said jew coaxingly due young lady say positively affirm merely expressed emphatic earnest desire blessed polite delicate evasion request which shows young lady possessed natural good breeding which cannot bear inflict upon fellow creature pain direct pointed refusal jew countenance fell turned young lady who gaily say gorgeously attired red gown green boots yellow curl papers other female nancy dear said jew soothing manner what say won use trying fagin replied nancy what mean said mr sikes looking surly manner what say bill replied lady collectedly why re just person reasoned mr sikes nobody here knows anything don want em neither replied nancy same composed manner rather more yes bill ll go fagin said sikes won fagin said nancy yes fagin said sikes mr sikes right dint alternate threats promises bribes lady question ultimately prevailed upon undertake commission indeed withheld same considerations agreeable friend recently removed neighborhood field lane remote genteel suburb ratcliffe same apprehension recognised any numerous acquaintances accordingly clean white apron tied gown curl papers tucked straw bonnet both articles dress provided jew inexhaustible stock miss nancy prepared issue forth errand stop minute dear said jew producing little covered basket carry one hand looks more respectable dear give door key carry other one fagin said sikes looks real genivine like yes yes dear said jew hanging large street door key forefinger young lady right hand there good good indeed dear said jew rubbing hands oh brother poor dear sweet innocent little brother exclaimed nancy bursting tears wringing little basket street door key agony distress what become where taken oh pity tell what dear boy gentlemen gentlemen please gentlemen uttered words most lamentable heart broken tone immeasurable delight hearers miss nancy paused winked company nodded smilingly round disappeared ah clever girl dears said jew turning round young friends shaking head gravely mute admonition follow bright example just beheld honour sex said mr sikes filling glass smiting table enormous fist here health wishing all like while many other encomiums passed accomplished nancy young lady made best way police office whither notwithstanding little natural timidity consequent upon walking through streets alone unprotected arrived perfect safety shortly afterwards entering back way tapped softly key one cell doors listened there sound within coughed listened again still there reply spoke nolly dear murmured nancy gentle voice nolly there nobody inside miserable shoeless criminal who taken playing flute who offence against society clearly proved properly committed mr fang house correction one month appropriate amusing remark since much breath spare more wholesomely expended treadmill musical instrument made answer occupied mentally bewailing loss flute which confiscated use county nancy passed next cell knocked there well cried faint feeble voice there little boy here inquired nancy preliminary sob replied voice god forbid vagrant sixty five who going prison playing flute other words begging streets doing nothing livelihood next cell another man who going same prison hawking tin saucepans without license thereby doing something living defiance stamp office neither criminals answered name oliver knew anything nancy made straight bluff officer striped waistcoat most piteous wailings lamentations rendered more piteous prompt efficient use street door key little basket demanded own dear brother haven got dear said old man where screamed nancy distracted manner why gentleman got replied officer what gentleman oh gracious heavens what gentleman exclaimed nancy reply incoherent questioning old man informed deeply affected sister oliver taken ill office discharged consequence witness proved robbery committed another boy custody prosecutor carried away insensible condition own residence concerning which all informant knew somewhere pentonville heard word mentioned directions coachman dreadful state doubt uncertainty agonised young woman staggered gate exchanging faltering walk swift run returned most devious complicated route think domicile jew mr bill sikes sooner heard account expedition delivered hastily called white dog putting hat expeditiously departed without devoting any time formality wishing company good morning must know where dears must found said jew greatly excited charley nothing skulk till bring home some news nancy dear must found trust dear artful everything stay stay added jew unlocking drawer shaking hand there money dears shall shut shop tonight ll know where find don stop here minute instant dears words pushed room carefully double locking barring door behind drew place concealment box which unintentionally disclosed oliver hastily proceeded dispose watches jewellery beneath clothing rap door startled occupation who there cried shrill tone replied voice dodger through key hole what now cried jew impatiently kidnapped other ken nancy says inquired dodger yes replied jew wherever lays hands find find all shall know what next never fear boy murmured reply intelligence hurried downstairs after companions peached far said jew pursued occupation means blab us among new friends stop mouth yet chapter xiv comprising further particulars oliver stay mr brownlow remarkable prediction which one mr grimwig uttered concerning when went errand oliver soon recovering fainting fit which mr brownlow abrupt exclamation thrown subject picture carefully avoided both old gentleman mrs bedwin conversation ensued which indeed bore reference oliver history prospects confined topics amuse without exciting still weak get breakfast when came housekeeper room next day first act cast eager glance wall hope again looking face beautiful lady expectations disappointed however picture removed ah said housekeeper watching direction oliver eyes gone see see ma am replied oliver why taken away taken child because mr brownlow said seemed worry perhaps prevent getting well know rejoined old lady oh indeed didn worry ma am said oliver liked see quite loved well well said old lady good humouredly get well fast ever dear shall hung again there promise now let us talk something all information oliver obtain picture time old lady kind illness endeavoured think more subject just listened attentively great many stories told amiable handsome daughter hers who married amiable handsome man lived country son who clerk merchant west indies who also good young man wrote dutiful letters home four times year brought tears eyes talk when old lady expatiated long time excellences children merits kind good husband besides who dead gone poor dear soul just six twenty years time tea after tea began teach oliver cribbage which learnt quickly teach which game played great interest gravity until time invalid some warm wine water slice dry toast go cosily bed happy days oliver recovery everything quiet neat orderly everybody kind gentle after noise turbulence midst which always lived seemed like heaven itself sooner strong enough put clothes properly mr brownlow caused complete new suit new cap new pair shoes provided oliver told what liked old clothes gave servant who kind asked sell jew keep money herself readily oliver looked parlour window saw jew roll bag walk away felt quite delighted think safely gone there now possible danger ever able wear again sad rags tell truth oliver never new suit before one evening week after affair picture sitting talking mrs bedwin there came message mr brownlow oliver twist felt pretty well like see study talk little while bless us save us wash hands let part hair nicely child said mrs bedwin dear heart alive known asked put clean collar made smart sixpence oliver old lady bade although lamented grievously meanwhile there even time crimp little frill bordered shirt collar looked delicate handsome despite important personal advantage went far say looking great complacency head foot really didn think possible longest notice made much difference better thus encouraged oliver tapped study door mr brownlow calling come found himself little back room quite full books window looking some pleasant little gardens there table drawn before window which mr brownlow seated reading when saw oliver pushed book away told come near table sit oliver complied marvelling where people found read great number books seemed written make world wiser which still marvel more experienced people oliver twist every day lives there good many books there boy said mr brownlow observing curiosity which oliver surveyed shelves reached floor ceiling great number sir replied oliver never saw many shall read behave well said old gentleman kindly like better looking outsides some cases because there books which backs covers far best parts suppose heavy ones sir said oliver pointing some large quartos good deal gilding binding always said old gentleman patting oliver head smiling there other equally heavy ones though much smaller size how like grow clever man write books eh think rather read sir replied oliver what wouldn like book writer said old gentleman oliver considered little while last said think much better thing book seller upon which old gentleman laughed heartily declared said good thing which oliver felt glad though means knew what well well said old gentleman composing features don afraid won make author while there honest trade learnt brick making turn thank sir said oliver earnest manner reply old gentleman laughed again said something curious instinct which oliver understanding paid great attention now said mr brownlow speaking possible kinder same time much more serious manner oliver ever known assume yet want pay great attention boy what am going say shall talk without any reserve because am sure well able understand many older persons oh don tell going send away sir pray exclaimed oliver alarmed serious tone old gentleman commencement don turn doors wander streets again let stay here servant don send back wretched place came mercy upon poor boy sir dear child said old gentleman moved warmth oliver sudden appeal need afraid deserting unless give cause never never sir interposed oliver hope rejoined old gentleman think ever deceived before objects whom endeavoured benefit feel strongly disposed trust nevertheless am more interested behalf well account even myself persons whom bestowed dearest love lie deep graves although happiness delight life lie buried there made coffin heart sealed forever best affections deep affliction strengthened refined old gentleman said low voice more himself companion remained silent short time afterwards oliver sat quite still well well said old gentleman length more cheerful tone only say because young heart knowing suffered great pain sorrow more careful perhaps wound again say orphan without friend world all inquiries able make confirm statement let hear story where come who brought how got company which found speak truth shall friendless while live oliver sobs checked utterance some minutes when point beginning relate how brought farm carried workhouse mr bumble peculiarly impatient little double knock heard street door servant running upstairs announced mr grimwig coming inquired mr brownlow yes sir replied servant asked there any muffins house when told yes said come tea mr brownlow smiled turning oliver said mr grimwig old friend must mind little rough manners worthy creature bottom reason know shall go downstairs sir inquired oliver replied mr brownlow rather remained here moment there walked room supporting himself thick stick stout old gentleman rather lame one leg who dressed blue coat striped waistcoat nankeen breeches gaiters broad brimmed white hat sides turned green small plaited shirt frill stuck waistcoat long steel watch chain nothing key end dangled loosely below ends white neckerchief twisted ball size orange variety shapes which countenance twisted defy description manner screwing head one side when spoke looking corners eyes same time which irresistibly reminded beholder parrot attitude fixed himself moment made appearance holding small piece orange peel arm length exclaimed growling discontented voice look here see isn most wonderful extraordinary thing call man house find piece poor surgeon friend staircase ve lamed orange peel once know orange peel death ll content eat own head sir handsome offer which mr grimwig backed confirmed nearly every assertion made more singular case because even admitting sake argument possibility scientific improvements brought pass which enable gentleman eat own head event disposed mr grimwig head particularly large one most sanguine man alive hardly entertain hope able get through sitting put entirely question thick coating powder ll eat head sir repeated mr grimwig striking stick upon ground hallo what looking oliver retreating pace two young oliver twist whom speaking said mr brownlow oliver bowed don mean say boy who fever hope said mr grimwig recoiling little more wait minute don speak stop continued mr grimwig abruptly losing all dread fever triumph discovery boy who orange boy sir who orange threw bit peel upon staircase ll eat head one said mr brownlow laughing come put hat speak young friend feel strongly subject sir said irritable old gentleman drawing gloves there always more less orange peel pavement street know put there surgeon boy corner young woman stumbled bit last night fell against garden railings directly got saw look towards infernal red lamp pantomime light don go called window assassin man trap here irascible old gentleman gave great knock ground stick which always understood friends imply customary offer whenever expressed words still keeping stick hand sat opening double eye glass which wore attached broad black riband took view oliver who seeing object inspection coloured bowed again boy said mr grimwig length boy replied mr brownlow how boy said mr grimwig great deal better thank sir replied oliver mr brownlow seeming apprehend singular friend say something disagreeable asked oliver step downstairs tell mrs bedwin ready tea which half like visitor manner happy nice looking boy inquired mr brownlow don know replied mr grimwig pettishly don know don know never see any difference boys only knew two sort boys mealy boys beef faced boys which oliver mealy know friend who beef faced boy fine boy call round head red cheeks glaring eyes horrid boy body limbs appear swelling seams blue clothes voice pilot appetite wolf know wretch come said mr brownlow characteristics young oliver twist needn excite wrath replied mr grimwig worse here mr brownlow coughed impatiently which appeared afford mr grimwig most exquisite delight worse say repeated mr grimwig where come who what fever what fevers peculiar good people bad people fevers sometimes haven eh knew man who hung jamaica murdering master fever six times wasn recommended mercy account pooh nonsense now fact inmost recesses own heart mr grimwig strongly disposed admit oliver appearance manner unusually prepossessing strong appetite contradiction sharpened occasion finding orange peel inwardly determining man dictate whether boy well looking resolved first oppose friend when mr brownlow admitted one point inquiry yet return satisfactory answer postponed any investigation oliver previous history until thought boy strong enough hear mr grimwig chuckled maliciously demanded sneer whether housekeeper habit counting plate night because didn find table spoon two missing some sunshiny morning why content forth all mr brownlow although himself somewhat impetuous gentleman knowing friend peculiarities bore great good humour mr grimwig tea graciously pleased express entire approval muffins matters went smoothly oliver who made one party began feel more ease yet fierce old gentleman presence when going hear full true particular account life adventures oliver twist asked grimwig mr brownlow conclusion meal looking sideways oliver resumed subject tomorrow morning replied mr brownlow rather alone time come tomorrow morning ten clock dear yes sir replied oliver answered some hesitation because confused mr grimwig looking hard ll tell what whispered gentleman mr brownlow won come tomorrow morning saw hesitate deceiving good friend ll swear replied mr brownlow warmly said mr grimwig ll went stick ll answer boy truth life said mr brownlow knocking table falsehood head rejoined mr grimwig knocking table also shall see said mr brownlow checking rising anger replied mr grimwig provoking smile fate mrs bedwin chanced bring moment small parcel books which mr brownlow morning purchased identical bookstall keeper who already figured history laid table prepared leave room stop boy mrs bedwin said mr brownlow there something go back gone sir replied mrs bedwin call after said mr brownlow particular poor man paid there some books taken back street door opened oliver ran one way girl ran another mrs bedwin stood step screamed boy there boy sight oliver girl returned breathless state report there tidings dear am sorry exclaimed mr brownlow particularly wished books returned tonight send oliver said mr grimwig ironical smile sure deliver safely know yes let take please sir said oliver ll run all way sir old gentleman just going say oliver go any account when most malicious cough mr grimwig determined prompt discharge commission prove injustice suspicions head least once shall go dear said old gentleman books chair table fetch oliver delighted use brought books arm great bustle waited cap hand hear what message take say said mr brownlow glancing steadily grimwig say brought books back come pay four pound ten owe five pound note bring back ten shillings change won ten minutes sir said oliver eagerly buttoned bank note jacket pocket placed books carefully arm made respectful bow left room mrs bedwin followed street door giving many directions nearest way name bookseller name street all which oliver said clearly understood superadded many injunctions sure take cold old lady length permitted depart bless sweet face said old lady looking after bear somehow let go sight moment oliver looked gaily round nodded before turned corner old lady smilingly returned salutation closing door went back own room let see ll back twenty minutes longest said mr brownlow pulling watch placing table dark time oh really expect come back inquired mr grimwig don asked mr brownlow smiling spirit contradiction strong mr grimwig breast moment rendered stronger friend confident smile said smiting table fist boy new suit clothes back set valuable books arm five pound note pocket ll join old friends thieves laugh ever boy returns house sir ll eat head words drew chair closer table there two friends sat silent expectation watch between worthy remark illustrating importance attach own judgments pride which put forth most rash hasty conclusions although mr grimwig any means bad hearted man though unfeignedly sorry see respected friend duped deceived really most earnestly strongly hope moment oliver twist come back grew dark figures dial plate scarcely discernible there two old gentlemen continued sit silence watch between chapter xv showing how fond oliver twist merry old jew miss nancy obscure parlour low public house filthiest part little saffron hill dark gloomy den where flaring gas light burnt all day winter time where ray sun ever shone summer there sat brooding little pewter measure small glass strongly impregnated smell liquor man velveteen coat drab shorts half boots stockings whom even dim light experienced agent police hesitated recognise mr william sikes feet sat white coated red eyed dog who occupied himself alternately winking master both eyes same time licking large fresh cut one side mouth which appeared result some recent conflict keep quiet warmint keep quiet said mr sikes suddenly breaking silence whether meditations intense disturbed dog winking whether feelings wrought upon reflections required all relief derivable kicking unoffending animal allay matter argument consideration whatever cause effect kick curse bestowed upon dog simultaneously dogs generally apt revenge injuries inflicted upon masters mr sikes dog faults temper common owner labouring perhaps moment powerful sense injury made more ado once fixed teeth one half boots given hearty shake retired growling form just escaping pewter measure which mr sikes levelled head said sikes seizing poker one hand deliberately opening other large clasp knife which drew pocket come here born devil come here ye hear dog doubt heard because mr sikes spoke harshest key harsh voice appearing entertain some unaccountable objection throat cut remained where growled more fiercely before same time grasping end poker between teeth biting like wild beast resistance only infuriated mr sikes more who dropping knees began assail animal most furiously dog jumped right left left right snapping growling barking man thrust swore struck blasphemed struggle reaching most critical point one other when door suddenly opening dog darted leaving bill sikes poker clasp knife hands there must always two parties quarrel says old adage mr sikes disappointed dog participation once transferred share quarrel new comer what devil come between dog said sikes fierce gesture didn know dear didn know replied fagin humbly jew new comer didn know white livered thief growled sikes couldn hear noise sound living man bill replied jew oh hear nothing don retorted sikes fierce sneer sneaking nobody hears how come go wish dog fagin half minute ago why inquired jew forced smile cause government cares lives men haven half pluck curs lets man kill dog how likes replied sikes shutting knife expressive look why jew rubbed hands sitting table affected laugh pleasantry friend obviously ill ease however grin away said sikes replacing poker surveying savage contempt grin away ll never laugh though unless behind nightcap ve got upper hand fagin ll keep there go go take care well well dear said jew know all mutual interest bill mutual interest humph said sikes thought interest lay rather more jew side well what got say all passed safe through melting pot replied fagin share rather more ought dear know ll good turn another time stow gammon interposed robber impatiently where hand yes yes bill give time give time replied jew soothingly here all safe spoke drew forth old cotton handkerchief breast untying large knot one corner produced small brown paper packet sikes snatching hastily opened proceeded count sovereigns contained all inquired sikes all replied jew haven opened parcel swallowed one two come along inquired sikes suspiciously don put injured look question ve many time jerk tinkler words plain english conveyed injunction ring bell answered another jew younger fagin nearly vile repulsive appearance bill sikes merely pointed empty measure jew perfectly understanding hint retired fill previously exchanging remarkable look fagin who raised eyes instant expectation shook head reply slightly action almost imperceptible observant third person lost upon sikes who stooping moment tie boot lace which dog torn possibly observed brief interchange signals thought boded good anybody here barney inquired fagin speaking now sikes looking without raising eyes ground dot shoul replied barney whose words whether came heart made way through nose nobody inquired fagin tone surprise which perhaps mean barney liberty tell truth dobody biss dadsy replied barney nancy exclaimed sikes where strike blind don honour ere girl native talents bid havid plate boiled beef id bar replied barney send here said sikes pouring glass liquor send here barney looked timidly fagin permission jew remaining silent lifting eyes ground retired presently returned ushering nancy who decorated bonnet apron basket street door key complete scent nancy inquired sikes proffering glass yes am bill replied young lady disposing contents tired enough am young brat ill confined crib ah nancy dear said fagin looking now whether peculiar contraction jew red eye brows half closing deeply set eyes warned miss nancy disposed communicative matter much importance fact all need care here fact suddenly checked herself several gracious smiles upon mr sikes turned conversation other matters ten minutes time mr fagin seized fit coughing upon which nancy pulled shawl shoulders declared time go mr sikes finding walking short part way himself expressed intention accompanying went away together followed little distant dog who slunk back yard soon master sight jew thrust head room door when sikes left looked after walked dark passage shook clenched fist muttered deep curse horrible grin reseated himself table where soon deeply absorbed interesting pages hue cry meanwhile oliver twist little dreaming within short distance merry old gentleman way book stall when got clerkenwell accidently turned street which exactly way discovering mistake until got half way knowing must lead right direction think worth while turn back marched quickly books arm walking along thinking how happy contented ought feel how much give only one look poor little dick who starved beaten weeping bitterly moment when startled young woman screaming loud oh dear brother hardly looked see what matter when stopped pair arms thrown tight round neck don cried oliver struggling let go who what stopping only reply great number loud lamentations young woman who embraced who little basket street door key hand oh gracious said young woman found oh oliver oliver oh naughty boy make suffer distress account come home dear come oh ve found thank gracious goodness heavins ve found incoherent exclamations young woman burst another fit crying got dreadfully hysterical couple women who came moment asked butcher boy shiny head hair anointed suet who also looking whether didn think better run doctor which butcher boy who appeared lounging say indolent disposition replied thought oh never mind said young woman grasping oliver hand better now come home directly cruel boy come oh ma am replied young woman ran away near month ago parents who hard working respectable people went joined set thieves bad characters almost broke mother heart young wretch said one woman go home little brute said other am replied oliver greatly alarmed don know haven any sister father mother either orphan live pentonville only hear how braves cried young woman why nancy exclaimed oliver who now saw face first time started back irrepressible astonishment see knows cried nancy appealing bystanders help himself make come home there good people ll kill dear mother father break heart what devil said man bursting beer shop white dog heels young oliver come home poor mother young dog come home directly don belong don know help help cried oliver struggling man powerful grasp help repeated man yes ll help young rascal what books ve stealing em give em here words man tore volumes grasp struck head right cried looker garret window only way bringing senses sure cried sleepy faced carpenter casting approving look garret window ll good said two women shall rejoined man administering another blow seizing oliver collar come young villain here bull eye mind boy mind weak recent illness stupified blows suddenness attack terrified fierce growling dog brutality man overpowered conviction bystanders really hardened little wretch described what one poor child darkness set low neighborhood help near resistance useless another moment dragged labyrinth dark narrow courts forced along pace which rendered few cries dared give utterance unintelligible little moment indeed whether intelligible there nobody care ever plain gas lamps lighted mrs bedwin waiting anxiously open door servant run street twenty times see there any traces oliver still two old gentlemen sat perseveringly dark parlour watch between chapter xvi relates what became oliver twist after claimed nancy narrow streets courts length terminated large open space scattered which pens beasts other indications cattle market sikes slackened pace when reached spot girl quite unable support any longer rapid rate which hitherto walked turning oliver roughly commanded take hold nancy hand hear growled sikes oliver hesitated looked round dark corner quite track passengers oliver saw plainly resistance avail held hand which nancy clasped tight hers give other said sikes seizing oliver unoccupied hand here bull eye dog looked growled see here boy said sikes putting other hand oliver throat speaks ever soft word hold ye mind dog growled again licking lips eyed oliver anxious attach himself windpipe without delay willing christian strike blind isn said sikes regarding animal kind grim ferocious approval now know what ve got expect master call away quick like dog soon stop game get young un bull eye wagged tail acknowledgment unusually endearing form speech giving vent another admonitory growl benefit oliver led way onward smithfield crossing although grosvenor square anything oliver knew contrary night dark foggy lights shops scarecely struggle through heavy mist which thickened every moment shrouded streets houses gloom rendering strange place still stranger oliver eyes making uncertainty more dismal depressing hurried few paces when deep church bell struck hour first stroke two conductors stopped turned heads direction whence sound proceeded eight clock bill said nancy when bell ceased what good telling hear replied sikes wonder whether hear said nancy course replied sikes bartlemy time when shopped there warn penny trumpet fair couldn hear squeaking arter locked night row din outside made thundering old jail silent almost beat brains against iron plates door poor fellow said nancy who still face turned towards quarter which bell sounded oh bill fine young chaps yes all women think answered sikes fine young chaps well re good dead don much matter consolation mr sikes appeared repress rising tendency jealousy clasping oliver wrist more firmly told step again wait minute said girl wouldn hurry coming hung next time eight clock struck bill walk round round place till dropped snow ground hadn shawl cover what good inquired unsentimental mr sikes unless pitch file twenty yards good stout rope well walking fifty mile walking all all good come don stand preaching there girl burst laugh drew shawl more closely round walked away oliver felt hand tremble looking face passed gas lamp saw turned deadly white walked little frequented dirty ways full half hour meeting few people appearing looks hold much same position society mr sikes himself length turned filthy narrow street nearly full old clothes shops dog running forward conscious there further occasion keeping guard stopped before door shop closed apparently untenanted house ruinous condition door nailed board intimating let which looked hung there many years all right cried sikes glancing cautiously nancy stooped below shutters oliver heard sound bell crossed opposite side street stood few moments lamp noise sash window gently raised heard soon afterwards door softly opened mr sikes seized terrified boy collar little ceremony all three quickly inside house passage perfectly dark waited while person who let chained barred door anybody here inquired sikes replied voice which oliver thought heard before old un here asked robber yes replied voice precious mouth won glad see oh style reply well voice which delivered seemed familiar oliver ears impossible distinguish even form speaker darkness let glim said sikes shall go breaking necks treading dog look after legs stand still moment ll get one replied voice receding footsteps speaker heard another minute form mr john dawkins otherwise artful dodger appeared bore right hand tallow candle stuck end cleft stick young gentleman stop bestow any other mark recognition upon oliver humourous grin turning away beckoned visitors follow flight stairs crossed empty kitchen opening door low earthy smelling room which seemed built small back yard received shout laughter oh wig wig cried master charles bates whose lungs laughter proceeded here oh cry here oh fagin look fagin look bear jolly game bear hold somebody while laugh irrepressible ebullition mirth master bates laid himself flat floor kicked convulsively five minutes ectasy facetious joy jumping feet snatched cleft stick dodger advancing oliver viewed round round while jew taking nightcap made great number low bows bewildered boy artful meantime who rather saturnine disposition seldom gave way merriment when interfered business rifled oliver pockets steady assiduity look togs fagin said charley putting light close new jacket nearly set fire look togs superfine cloth heavy swell cut oh eye what game books nothing gentleman fagin delighted see looking well dear said jew bowing mock humility artful shall give another suit dear fear spoil sunday one why didn write dear say coming got something warm supper master bates roared again loud fagin himself relaxed even dodger smiled artful drew forth five pound note instant doubtful whether sally discovery awakened merriment hallo what inquired sikes stepping forward jew seized note mine fagin dear said jew mine bill mine shall books ain mine said bill sikes putting hat determined air mine nancy ll take boy back again jew started oliver started though different cause hoped dispute really end taken back come hand said sikes hardly fair bill hardly fair nancy inquired jew fair fair retorted sikes hand tell think nancy got nothing precious time spend scouting arter kidnapping every young boy gets grabbed through give here avaricious old skeleton give here gentle remonstrance mr sikes plucked note between jew finger thumb looking old man coolly face folded small tied neckerchief share trouble said sikes half enough neither keep books re fond reading ain sell em re pretty said charley bates who sundry grimaces affecting read one volumes question beautiful writing isn oliver sight dismayed look which oliver regarded tormentors master bates who blessed lively sense ludicrous fell another ectasy more boisterous first belong old gentleman said oliver wringing hands good kind old gentleman who took house nursed when near dying fever oh pray send back send back books money keep here all life long pray pray send back ll think stole old lady all who kind think stole oh mercy upon send back words which uttered all energy passionate grief oliver fell upon knees jew feet beat hands together perfect desperation boy right remarked fagin looking covertly round knitting shaggy eyebrows hard knot re right oliver re right think stolen em ha ha chuckled jew rubbing hands couldn happened better chosen time course couldn replied sikes know directly see coming through clerkenwell books arm all right enough re soft hearted psalm singers wouldn taken all ll ask questions after fear obliged prosecute get lagged safe enough oliver looked one other while words spoken bewildered scarecely understand what passed when bill sikes concluded jumped suddenly feet tore wildly room uttering shrieks help which made bare old house echo roof keep back dog bill cried nancy springing before door closing jew two pupils darted pursuit keep back dog ll tear boy pieces serve right cried sikes struggling disengage himself girl grasp stand ll split head against wall don care bill don care screamed girl struggling violently man child shan torn dog unless kill first shan said sikes setting teeth ll soon don keep housebreaker flung girl further end room just jew two boys returned dragging oliver among what matter here said fagin looking round girl gone mad think replied sikes savagely hasn said nancy pale breathless scuffle hasn fagin don think keep quiet said jew threatening look won neither replied nancy speaking loud come what think mr fagin sufficiently well acquainted manners customs particular species humanity which nancy belonged feel tolerably certain rather unsafe prolong any conversation present view diverting attention company turned oliver wanted get away dear said jew taking jagged knotted club which lay corner fireplace eh oliver made reply watched jew motions breathed quickly wanted get assistance called police sneered jew catching boy arm ll cure young master jew inflicted smart blow oliver shoulders club raising second when girl rushing forward wrested hand flung fire force brought some glowing coals whirling room won stand see fagin cried girl ve got boy what more let let shall put mark some bring gallows before time girl stamped foot violently floor vented threat lips compressed hands clenched looked alternately jew other robber face quite colourless passion rage which gradually worked herself why nancy said jew soothing tone after pause during which mr sikes stared one another disconcerted manner re more clever ever tonight ha ha dear acting beautifully am said girl take care don overdo worse fagin tell good time keep clear there something roused woman especially add all other strong passions fierce impulses recklessness despair which few men like provoke jew saw hopeless affect any further mistake regarding reality miss nancy rage shrinking involuntarily back few paces cast glance half imploring half cowardly sikes hint fittest person pursue dialogue mr sikes thus mutely appealed possibly feeling personal pride influence interested immediate reduction miss nancy reason gave utterance couple score curses threats rapid production which reflected great credit fertility invention produced visible effect object against whom discharged however resorted more tangible arguments what mean said sikes backing inquiry common imprecation concerning most beautiful human features which heard above only once every fifty thousand times uttered below render blindness common disorder measles what mean burn body know who what oh yes know all replied girl laughing hysterically shaking head side side poor assumption indifference well keep quiet rejoined sikes growl like accustomed use when addressing dog ll quiet good long time come girl laughed again even less composedly before darting hasty look sikes turned face aside bit lip till blood came re nice one added sikes surveyed contemptuous air take humane gen teel side pretty subject child call make friend god almighty help am cried girl passionately wish struck dead street changed places passed near tonight before lent hand bringing here thief liar devil all bad night forth isn enough old wretch without blows come come sikes said jew appealing remonstratory tone motioning towards boys who eagerly attentive all passed must civil words civil words bill civil words cried girl whose passion frightful see civil words villain yes deserve em thieved when child half old pointing oliver same trade same service twelve years since don know speak don know well well replied jew attempt pacification living aye returned girl speaking pouring words one continuous vehement scream living cold wet dirty streets home re wretch drove long ago ll keep there day night day night till die shall mischief interposed jew goaded reproaches mischief worse say much more girl said nothing more tearing hair dress transport passion made rush jew probably left signal marks revenge upon wrists seized sikes right moment upon which made few ineffectual struggles fainted all right now said sikes laying corner uncommon strong arms when way jew wiped forehead smiled relief disturbance neither nor sikes nor dog nor boys seemed consider any other light common occurance incidental business worst women said jew replacing club re clever get line without em charley show oliver bed suppose better wear best clothes tomorrow fagin inquired charley bates certainly replied jew reciprocating grin which charley put question master bates apparently much delighted commission took cleft stick led oliver adjacent kitchen where there two three beds which slept before here many uncontrollable bursts laughter produced identical old suit clothes which oliver much congratulated himself upon leaving mr brownlow accidental display which fagin jew who purchased first clue received whereabout put smart ones said charley ll give em fagin take care what fun poor oliver unwillingly complied master bates rolling new clothes arm departed room leaving oliver dark locking door behind noise charley laughter voice miss betsy who opportunely arrived throw water friend perform other feminine offices promotion recovery kept many people awake more happy circumstances which oliver placed sick weary soon fell sound asleep chapter xvii oliver destiny continuing unpropitious brings great man london injure reputation custom stage all good murderous melodramas present tragic comic scenes regular alternation layers red white side streaky bacon hero sinks upon straw bed weighed fetters misfortunes next scene faithful unconscious squire regales audience comic song behold throbbing bosoms heroine grasp proud ruthless baron virtue life alike danger drawing forth dagger preserve one cost other just expectations wrought highest pitch whistle heard straightway transported great hall castle where grey headed seneschal sings funny chorus funnier body vassals who free all sorts places church vaults palaces roam company carolling perpetually changes appear absurd unnatural seem first sight transitions real life well spread boards death beds mourning weeds holiday garments whit less startling only there busy actors instead passive lookers which makes vast difference actors mimic life theatre blind violent transitions abrupt impulses passion feeling which presented before eyes mere spectators once condemned outrageous preposterous sudden shiftings scene rapid changes time place only sanctioned books long usage many considered great art authorship author skill craft critics chiefly estimated relation dilemmas which leaves characters end every chapter brief introduction present one perhaps deemed unnecessary let considered delicate intimation part historian going back town which oliver twist born reader taking granted there good substantial reasons making journey invited proceed upon expedition mr bumble emerged early morning workhouse gate walked portly carriage commanding steps high street full bloom pride beadlehood cocked hat coat dazzling morning sun clutched cane vigorous tenacity health power mr bumble always carried head high morning higher usual there abstraction eye elevation air which warned observant stranger thoughts passing beadle mind great utterance mr bumble stopped converse small shopkeepers others who spoke deferentially passed along merely returned salutations wave hand relaxed dignified pace until reached farm where mrs mann tended infant paupers parochial care drat beadle said mrs mann hearing well known shaking garden gate isn time morning lauk mr bumble only think well dear pleasure come parlour sir please first sentence addressed susan exclamations delight uttered mr bumble good lady unlocked garden gate showed great attention respect house mrs mann said mr bumble sitting upon dropping himself seat any common jackanapes letting himself gradually slowly chair mrs mann ma am good morning well good morning sir replied mrs mann many smiles hoping find yourself well sir mrs mann replied beadle porochial life bed roses mrs mann ah isn indeed mr bumble rejoined lady all infant paupers chorussed rejoinder great propriety heard porochial life ma am continued mr bumble striking table cane life worrit vexation hardihood all public characters say must suffer prosecution mrs mann well knowing what beadle meant raised hands look sympathy sighed ah well sigh mrs mann said beadle finding right mrs mann sighed again evidently satisfaction public character who repressing complacent smile looking sternly cocked hat said mrs mann am going london lauk mr bumble cried mrs mann starting back london ma am resumed inflexible beadle coach two paupers mrs mann legal action coming settlement board appointed mrs mann dispose matter before quarter sessions clerkinwell much question added mr bumble drawing himself whether clerkinwell sessions find themselves wrong box before oh mustn hard upon sir said mrs mann coaxingly clerkinwell sessions brought upon themselves ma am replied mr bumble clerkinwell sessions find come rather worse expected clerkinwell sessions only themselves thank there much determination depth purpose menacing manner which mr bumble delivered himself words mrs mann appeared quite awed length said re going coach sir thought always usual send paupers carts when re ill mrs mann said beadle put sick paupers open carts rainy weather prevent taking cold oh said mrs mann opposition coach contracts two takes cheap said mr bumble both low state find come two pound cheaper move em bury em throw em upon another parish which think shall able don die upon road spite us ha ha ha when mr bumble laughed little while eyes again encountered cocked hat became grave forgetting business ma am said beadle here porochial stipend month mr bumble produced some silver money rolled paper pocket book requested receipt which mrs mann wrote much blotted sir said farmer infants formal enough dare say thank mr bumble sir am much obliged sure mr bumble nodded blandly acknowledgment mrs mann curtsey inquired how children bless dear little hearts said mrs mann emotion re well dears course except two died last week little dick isn boy better inquired mr bumble mrs mann shook head ill conditioned wicious bad disposed porochial child said mr bumble angrily where ll bring one minute sir replied mrs mann here dick after some calling dick discovered face put pump dried upon mrs mann gown led awful presence mr bumble beadle child pale thin cheeks sunken eyes large bright scanty parish dress livery misery hung loosely feeble body young limbs wasted away like old man little who stood trembling beneath mr bumble glance daring lift eyes floor dreading even hear beadle voice look gentleman obstinate boy said mrs mann child meekly raised eyes encountered mr bumble what matter porochial dick inquired mr bumble well timed jocularity nothing sir replied child faintly think said mrs mann who course laughed much mr bumble humour want nothing sure like faltered child hey day interposed mrs mann suppose re going say want something now why little wretch stop mrs mann stop said beadle raising hand show authority like what sir eh like faltered child somebody write put few words piece paper fold seal keep after am laid ground why what boy mean exclaimed mr bumble whom earnest manner wan aspect child made some impression accustomed things what mean sir like said child leave dear love poor oliver twist let know how often sat myself cried think wandering dark nights nobody help like tell said child pressing small hands together speaking great fervour glad die when young perhaps lived man grown old little sister who heaven forget unlike much happier both children there together mr bumble surveyed little speaker head foot indescribable astonishment turning companion said re all one story mrs mann dacious oliver demogalized all couldn believed sir said mrs mann holding hands looking malignantly dick never see hardened little wretch take away ma am said mr bumble imperiously must stated board mrs mann hope gentleman understand isn fault sir said mrs mann whimpering pathetically shall understand ma am shall acquainted true state case said mr bumble there take away bear sight dick immediately taken away locked coal cellar mr bumble shortly afterwards took himself prepare journey six clock next morning mr bumble exchanged cocked hat round one encased person blue great coat cape took place outside coach accompanied criminals whose settlement disputed whom due course time arrived london experienced other crosses way which originated perverse behaviour two paupers who persisted shivering complaining cold manner which mr bumble declared caused teeth chatter head made feel quite uncomfortable although great coat disposed evil minded persons night mr bumble sat himself house which coach stopped took temperate dinner steaks oyster sauce porter putting glass hot gin water chimney piece drew chair fire sundry moral reflections prevalent sin discontent complaining composed himself read paper first paragraph upon which mr bumble eye rested following advertisement five guineas reward whereas young boy named oliver twist absconded enticed thursday evening last home pentonville since heard above reward paid any person who give information lead discovery said oliver twist tend throw any light upon previous history which advertiser many reasons warmly interested followed full description oliver dress person appearance disappearance name address mr brownlow full length mr bumble opened eyes read advertisement slowly carefully three several times something more five minutes way pentonville actually excitement left glass hot gin water untasted mr brownlow home inquired mr bumble girl who opened door inquiry girl returned uncommon rather evasive reply don know where come mr bumble sooner uttered oliver name explanation errand mrs bedwin who listening parlour door hastened passage breathless state come come said old lady knew hear poor dear knew certain bless heart said all along said worthy old lady hurried back parlour again seating herself sofa burst tears girl who quite susceptible run upstairs meanwhile now returned request mr bumble follow immediately which shown little back study where sat mr brownlow friend mr grimwig decanters glasses before latter gentleman once burst exclamation beadle parish beadle ll eat head pray don interrupt just now said mr brownlow take seat mr bumble sat himself quite confounded oddity mr grimwig manner mr brownlow moved lamp obtain uninterrupted view beadle countenance said little impatience now sir come consequence seen advertisement yes sir said mr bumble beadle inquired mr grimwig am porochial beadle gentlemen rejoined mr bumble proudly course observed mr grimwig aside friend knew beadle all mr brownlow gently shook head impose silence friend resumed know where poor boy now more nobody replied mr bumble well what know inquired old gentleman speak friend anything say what know don happen know any good said mr grimwig caustically after attentive perusal mr bumble features mr bumble catching inquiry quickly shook head portentous solemnity see said mr grimwig looking triumphantly mr brownlow mr brownlow looked apprehensively mr bumble pursed countenance requested communicate what knew regarding oliver few words possible mr bumble put hat unbuttoned coat folded arms inclined head retrospective manner after few moments reflection commenced story tedious given beadle words occupying some twenty minutes telling sum substance oliver foundling born low vicious parents birth displayed better qualities treachery ingratitude malice terminated brief career place birth making sanguinary cowardly attack unoffending lad running away night time master house proof really person represented himself mr bumble laid upon table papers brought town folding arms again awaited mr brownlow observations fear all true said old gentleman sorrowfully after looking papers much intelligence gladly given treble money favourable boy improbable mr bumble possessed information earlier period interview imparted different colouring little history late now however shook head gravely pocketing five guineas withdrew mr brownlow paced room fro some minutes evidently much disturbed beadle tale even mr grimwig forbore vex further length stopped rang bell violently mrs bedwin said mr brownlow when housekeeper appeared boy oliver imposter sir cannot said old lady energetically tell retorted old gentleman what mean just heard full account birth thorough paced little villain all life never believe sir replied old lady firmly never old women never believe anything quack doctors lying story books growled mr grimwig knew all along why didn take advice beginning hadn fever suppose eh interesting wasn interesting bah mr grimwig poked fire flourish dear grateful gentle child sir retorted mrs bedwin indignantly know what children sir forty years people who say same shouldn say anything opinion hard hit mr grimwig who bachelor extorted nothing gentleman smile old lady tossed head smoothed apron preparatory another speech when stopped mr brownlow silence said old gentleman feigning anger far feeling never let hear boy name again rang tell never never any pretence mind leave room mrs bedwin remember am earnest there sad hearts mr brownlow night oliver heart sank within when thought good friends well know what heard broken outright chapter xviii how oliver passed time improving society reputable friends noon next day when dodger master bates gone pursue customary avocations mr fagin took opportunity reading oliver long lecture crying sin ingratitude which clearly demonstrated guilty ordinary extent wilfully absenting himself society anxious friends still more endeavouring escape after much trouble expense incurred recovery mr fagin laid great stress fact taken oliver cherished when without timely aid perished hunger related dismal affecting history young lad whom philanthropy succoured parallel circumstances who proving unworthy confidence evincing desire communicate police unfortunately come hanged old bailey one morning mr fagin seek conceal share catastrophe lamented tears eyes wrong headed treacherous behaviour young person question rendered necessary become victim certain evidence crown which precisely true indispensably necessary safety mr fagin few select friends mr fagin concluded drawing rather disagreeable picture discomforts hanging great friendliness politeness manner expressed anxious hopes never obliged submit oliver twist unpleasant operation little oliver blood ran cold listened jew words imperfectly comprehended dark threats conveyed possible even justice itself confound innocent guilty when accidental companionship knew already deeply laid plans destruction inconveniently knowing communicative persons really devised carried jew more occasions one thought means unlikely when recollected general nature altercations between gentleman mr sikes which seemed bear reference some foregone conspiracy kind glanced timidly met jew searching look felt pale face trembling limbs neither unnoticed nor unrelished wary old gentleman jew smiling hideously patted oliver head said kept himself quiet applied himself business saw good friends yet taking hat covering himself old patched great coat went locked room door behind oliver remained all day greater part many subsequent days seeing nobody between early morning midnight left during long hours commune own thoughts which never failing revert kind friends opinion must long ago formed sad indeed after lapse week jew left room door unlocked liberty wander house dirty place rooms upstairs great high wooden chimney pieces large doors panelled walls cornices ceiling which although black neglect dust ornamented various ways all tokens oliver concluded long time ago before old jew born belonged better people perhaps quite gay handsome dismal dreary looked now spiders built webs angles walls ceilings sometimes when oliver walked softly room mice scamper across floor run back terrified holes exceptions there neither sight nor sound any living thing often when grew dark tired wandering room room crouch corner passage street door near living people remain there listening counting hours until jew boys returned all rooms mouldering shutters fast closed bars which held screwed tight wood only light which admitted stealing way through round holes top which made rooms more gloomy filled strange shadows there back garret window rusty bars outside which shutter oliver often gazed melancholy face hours together nothing descried confused crowded mass housetops blackened chimneys gable ends sometimes indeed grizzly head seen peering parapet wall distant house quickly withdrawn again window oliver observatory nailed dimmed rain smoke years much make forms different objects beyond without making any attempt seen heard which much chance lived inside ball st paul cathedral one afternoon dodger master bates engaged evening first named young gentleman took head evince some anxiety regarding decoration person justice means habitual weakness end aim condescendingly commanded oliver assist toilet straightway oliver glad make himself useful happy some faces however bad look upon desirous conciliate when honestly throw any objection way proposal once expressed readiness kneeling floor while dodger sat upon table take foot laps applied himself process which mr dawkins designated japanning trotter cases phrase rendered plain english signifieth cleaning boots whether sense freedom independence which rational animal supposed feel when sits table easy attitude smoking pipe swinging one leg carelessly fro boots cleaned all time without even past trouble taken prospective misery putting disturb reflections whether goodness tobacco soothed feelings dodger mildness beer mollified thoughts evidently tinctured nonce spice romance enthusiasm foreign general nature looked oliver thoughtful countenance brief space raising head heaving gentle sigh said half abstraction half master bates what pity isn prig ah said master charles bates don know what good dodger sighed again resumed pipe charley bates both smoked some seconds silence suppose don even know what prig said dodger mournfully think know replied oliver looking re one inquired oliver checking himself am replied dodger scorn anything mr dawkins gave hat ferocious cock after delivering sentiment looked master bates denote feel obliged saying anything contrary am repeated dodger charley fagin sikes nancy bet all dog downiest one lot least given peaching added charley bates wouldn much bark witness box fear committing himself tied one left there without wittles fortnight said dodger bit observed charley rum dog don look fierce any strange cove laughs sings when company pursued dodger won growl all when hears fiddle playing don hate other dogs ain breed oh christian said charley merely intended tribute animal abilities appropriate remark another sense master bates only known there good many ladies gentlemen claiming christians between whom mr sikes dog there exist strong singular points resemblance well well said dodger recurring point which strayed mindfulness profession which influenced all proceedings hasn got anything young green here more said charley why don put yourself fagin oliver make fortun hand added dodger grin able retire property gen teel mean next leap year four ever comes forty second tuesday trinity week said charley bates don like rejoined oliver timidly wish let go rather go fagin rather rejoined charley oliver knew well thinking dangerous express feelings more openly only sighed went boot cleaning go exclaimed dodger why where spirit don take any pride yourself go dependent friends oh blow said master bates drawing two three silk handkerchiefs pocket tossing cupboard mean couldn said dodger air haughty disgust leave friends though said oliver half smile let punished what rejoined dodger wave pipe all consideration fagin cause traps know work together got trouble hadn made lucky move wasn charley master bates nodded assent spoken recollection oliver flight came suddenly upon smoke inhaling got entangled laugh went head throat brought fit coughing stamping five minutes long look here said dodger drawing forth handful shillings halfpence here jolly life what odds where comes here catch hold there plenty more where took won won oh precious flat naughty ain oliver inquired charley bates ll come scragged won don know what means replied oliver something way old feller said charley said master bates caught end neckerchief holding erect air dropped head shoulder jerked curious sound through teeth thereby indicating lively pantomimic representation scragging hanging one same thing what means said charley look how stares jack never see prime company ere boy ll death know master charley bates laughed heartily again resumed pipe tears eyes ve brought bad said dodger surveying boots much satisfaction when oliver polished fagin make something though ll first ever turned unprofitable better begin once ll come trade long before think re only losing time oliver master bates backed advice sundry moral admonitions own which exhausted friend mr dawkins launched glowing description numerous pleasures incidental life led interspersed variety hints oliver best thing secure fagin favour without more delay means which themselves employed gain always put pipe nolly said dodger jew heard unlocking door above don take fogels tickers what good talking way interposed master bates don know what mean don take pocket handkechers watches said dodger reducing conversation level oliver capacity some other cove coves lose em all worse ll all worse nobody half ha orth better except chaps wot gets ve just good right sure sure said jew who entered unseen oliver all lies nutshell dear nutshell take dodger word ha ha ha understands catechism trade old man rubbed hands gleefully together corroborated dodger reasoning terms chuckled delight pupil proficiency conversation proceeded farther time jew returned home accompanied miss betsy gentleman whom oliver never seen before who accosted dodger tom chitling who lingered stairs exchange few gallantries lady now made appearance mr chitling older years dodger perhaps numbered eighteen winters there degree deference deportment towards young gentleman which seemed indicate felt himself conscious slight inferiority point genius professional aquirements small twinkling eyes pock marked face wore fur cap dark corduroy jacket greasy fustian trousers apron wardrobe truth rather repair excused himself company stating time only hour before consequence worn regimentals six weeks past able bestow any attention private clothes mr chitling added strong marks irritation new way fumigating clothes yonder infernal unconstitutional burnt holes there remedy against county same remark considered apply regulation mode cutting hair which held decidedly unlawful mr chitling wound observations stating touched drop anything forty two moral long hard working days wished busted warn dry lime basket where think gentleman come oliver inquired jew grin other boys put bottle spirits table don know sir replied oliver who inquired tom chitling casting contemptuous look oliver young friend mine dear replied jew luck said young man meaning look fagin never mind where came young un ll find way there soon enough ll bet crown sally boys laughed after some more jokes same subject exchanged few short whispers fagin withdrew after some words apart between last comer fagin drew chairs towards fire jew telling oliver come sit led conversation topics most calculated interest hearers great advantages trade proficiency dodger amiability charley bates liberality jew himself length subjects displayed signs thoroughly exhausted mr chitling same house correction becomes fatiguing after week two miss betsy accordingly withdrew left party repose day oliver seldom left alone placed almost constant communication two boys who played old game jew every day whether own improvement oliver mr fagin best knew other times old man tell stories robberies committed younger days mixed much droll curious oliver help laughing heartily showing amused spite all better feelings short wily old jew boy toils prepared mind solitude gloom prefer any society companionship own sad thoughts dreary place now slowly instilling soul poison which hoped blacken change hue ever chapter xix which notable plan discussed determined chill damp windy night when jew buttoning great coat tight round shrivelled body pulling collar ears completely obscure lower part face emerged den paused step door locked chained behind listened while boys made all secure until retreating footsteps longer audible slunk street quickly house which oliver conveyed neighborhood whitechapel jew stopped instant corner street glancing suspiciously round crossed road struck direction spitalfields mud lay thick upon stones black mist hung streets rain fell sluggishly everything felt cold clammy touch seemed just night when befitted jew abroad glided stealthily along creeping beneath shelter walls doorways hideous old man seemed like some loathsome reptile engendered slime darkness through which moved crawling forth night search some rich offal meal kept course through many winding narrow ways until reached bethnal green turning suddenly left soon became involved maze mean dirty streets which abound close densely populated quarter jew evidently familiar ground traversed all bewildered either darkness night intricacies way hurried through several alleys streets length turned one lighted only single lamp farther end door house street knocked exchanged few muttered words person who opened walked upstairs dog growled touched handle room door man voice demanded who there only bill only dear said jew looking bring body said sikes lie stupid brute don know devil when got great coat apparently dog somewhat deceived mr fagin outer garment jew unbuttoned threw back chair retired corner which risen wagging tail went show well satisfied nature well said sikes well dear replied jew ah nancy latter recognition uttered just enough embarrassment imply doubt reception mr fagin young friend met since interfered behalf oliver all doubts upon subject any speedily removed young lady behaviour took feet fender pushed back chair bade fagin draw without saying more cold night mistake cold nancy dear said jew warmed skinny hands fire seems go right through one added old man touching side must piercer finds way through heart said mr sikes give something drink nancy burn body make haste enough turn man ill see lean old carcase shivering way like ugly ghost just rose grave nancy quickly brought bottle cupboard which there many which judge diversity appearance filled several kinds liquids sikes pouring glass brandy bade jew drink quite enough quite thankye bill replied jew putting glass after just setting lips what re afraid getting better inquired sikes fixing eyes jew ugh hoarse grunt contempt mr sikes seized glass threw remainder contents ashes preparatory ceremony filling again himself which once jew glanced round room companion tossed second glassful curiousity seen often before restless suspicious manner habitual meanly furnished apartment nothing contents closet induce belief occupier anything working man more suspicious articles displayed view two three heavy bludgeons which stood corner life preserver hung chimney piece there said sikes smacking lips now ready business inquired jew business replied sikes say what ve got say crib chertsey bill said jew drawing chair forward speaking low voice yes wot inquired sikes ah know what mean dear said jew knows what mean nancy don don sneered mr sikes won same thing speak call things right names don sit there winking blinking talking hints warn first thought robbery wot ye mean hush bill hush said jew who vain attempted stop burst indignation somebody hear us dear somebody hear us let em hear said sikes don care mr sikes care reflection dropped voice said words grew calmer there there said jew coaxingly only caution nothing more now dear crib chertsey when bill eh when plate dear plate said jew rubbing hands elevating eyebrows rapture anticipation all replied sikes coldly all echoed jew leaning back chair all rejoined sikes least put job expected hasn properly gone said jew turning pale anger don tell tell retorted sikes who told tell toby crackit hanging place fortnight get one servants line mean tell bill said jew softening other grew heated neither two men house got yes mean tell replied sikes old lady em twenty years give em five hundred pound wouldn mean say dear remonstrated jew women got bit replied sikes flash toby crackit said jew incredulously think what women bill even flash toby crackit replied sikes says worn sham whiskers canary waistcoat whole blessed time loitering there all use tried mustachios pair military trousers dear said jew rejoined sikes warn more use other plant jew looked blank information after ruminating some minutes chin sunk breast raised head said deep sigh flash toby crackit reported aright feared game yet said old man dropping hands knees sad thing dear lose much when set hearts upon said mr sikes worse luck long silence ensued during which jew plunged deep thought face wrinkled expression villainy perfectly demoniacal sikes eyed furtively time time nancy apparently fearful irritating housebreaker sat eyes fixed upon fire deaf all passed fagin said sikes abruptly breaking stillness prevailed worth fifty shiners extra safely outside yes said jew suddenly rousing himself bargain inquired sikes yes dear yes rejoined jew eyes glistening every muscle face working excitement inquiry awakened said sikes thrusting aside jew hand some disdain let come soon like toby garden wall night afore last sounding panels door shutters crib barred night like jail there one part crack safe softly which bill asked jew eagerly why whispered sikes cross lawn yes said jew bending head forward eyes almost starting umph cried sikes stopping short girl scarcely moving head looked suddenly round pointed instant jew face never mind which part without know best safe side when one deals like dear like replied jew there help wanted toby none said sikes cept centre bit boy first ve both got second must find us boy exclaimed jew oh panel eh never mind wot replied sikes want boy musn big un lord said mr sikes reflectively only got young boy ned chimbley sweeper kept small purpose let job father gets lagged juvenile delinquent society comes takes boy away trade where earning money teaches read write time makes prentice go said mr sikes wrath rising recollection wrongs go got money enough which providence haven shouldn half dozen boys left whole trade year two more acquiesced jew who considering during speech only caught last sentence bill what now inquired sikes jew nodded head towards nancy who still gazing fire intimated sign told leave room sikes shrugged shoulders impatiently thought precaution unnecessary complied nevertheless requesting miss nancy fetch jug beer don want any beer said nancy folding arms retaining seat composedly tell replied sikes nonsense rejoined girl coolly go fagin know what going say bill needn mind jew still hesitated sikes looked one other some surprise why don mind old girl fagin asked length ve known long enough trust devil ain one blab nancy think replied young lady drawing chair table putting elbows upon dear know re said jew again old man paused wot inquired sikes didn know whether mightn aps sorts know dear other night replied jew confession miss nancy burst loud laugh swallowing glass brandy shook head air defiance burst sundry exclamations keep game going never say die like seemed effect re assuring both gentlemen jew nodded head satisfied air resumed seat mr sikes likewise now fagin said nancy laugh tell bill once oliver ha re clever one dear sharpest girl ever saw said jew patting neck oliver going speak sure enough ha ha ha what demanded sikes boy dear replied jew hoarse whisper laying finger side nose grinning frightfully exclaimed sikes bill said nancy place mayn much any others what want only open door depend upon safe one bill know rejoined fagin good training last few weeks time began work bread besides others all big well just size want said mr sikes ruminating everything want bill dear interposed jew help himself frighten enough frighten echoed sikes ll sham frightening mind there anything queer when once get work penny pound won see alive again fagin think before send mark words said robber poising crowbar which drawn bedstead ve thought all said jew energy ve ve eye upon dears close close once let feel one us once fill mind idea thief life oho couldn come better old man crossed arms upon breast drawing head shoulders heap literally hugged himself joy said sikes mean perhaps dear said jew shrill chuckle mine like bill wot said sikes scowling fiercely agreeable friend wot makes take much pains one chalk faced kid when know there fifty boys snoozing common garden every night pick choose because re use dear replied jew some confusion worth taking looks convict em when get trouble lose em all boy properly managed dears what couldn twenty besides said jew recovering self possession us now only give us leg bail again must same boat us never mind how came there quite enough power robbery all want now how much better obliged put poor leetle boy way which dangerous lose besides when asked nancy stopping some turbulent exclamation part mr sikes expressive disgust which received fagin affectation humanity ah sure said jew when bill planned toby night arter tomorrow rejoined sikes surly voice heerd nothing contrairy good said jew there moon rejoined sikes all arranged bringing swag asked jew sikes nodded oh ah all planned rejoined sikes interrupting never mind particulars better bring boy here tomorrow night shall get stone hour arter daybreak hold tongue keep melting pot ready all ll after some discussion which all three took active part decided nancy repair jew next evening when night set bring oliver away fagin craftily observing evinced any disinclination task more willing accompany girl who recently interfered behalf anybody also solemnly arranged poor oliver purposes contemplated expedition unreservedly consigned care custody mr william sikes further said sikes deal thought fit held responsible jew any mischance evil necessary visit understood render compact respect binding any representations made mr sikes return required confirmed corroborated all important particulars testimony flash toby crackit preliminaries adjusted mr sikes proceeded drink brandy furious rate flourish crowbar alarming manner yelling forth same time most unmusical snatches song mingled wild execrations length fit professional enthusiasm insisted upon producing box housebreaking tools which sooner stumbled opened purpose explaining nature properties various implements contained peculiar beauties construction fell box upon floor went sleep where fell good night nancy said jew muffling himself before good night eyes met jew scrutinised narrowly there flinching girl true earnest matter toby crackit himself jew again bade good night bestowing sly kick upon prostrate form mr sikes while back turned groped downstairs always way muttered jew himself turned homeward worst women little thing serves call some long forgotten feeling best never lasts ha ha man against child bag gold beguiling time pleasant reflections mr fagin wended way through mud mire gloomy abode where dodger sitting impatiently awaiting return oliver bed want speak first remark descended stairs hours ago replied dodger throwing open door here boy lying fast asleep rude bed upon floor pale anxiety sadness closeness prison looked like death death shows shroud coffin guise wears when life just departed when young gentle spirit instant fled heaven gross air world time breathe upon changing dust hallowed now said jew turning softly away tomorrow tomorrow chapter xx wherein oliver delivered mr william sikes when oliver awoke morning good deal surprised find new pair shoes strong thick soles placed bedside old shoes removed first pleased discovery hoping forerunner release thoughts quickly dispelled sitting breakfast along jew who told tone manner which increased alarm taken residence bill sikes night stop there sir asked oliver anxiously dear stop there replied jew shouldn like lose don afraid oliver shall come back us again ha ha ha won cruel send away dear oh old man who stooping fire toasting piece bread looked round bantered oliver thus chuckled show knew still glad get away suppose said jew fixing eyes oliver want know what re going bill eh dear oliver coloured involuntarily find old thief reading thoughts boldly said yes want know why think inquired fagin parrying question indeed don know sir replied oliver bah said jew turning away disappointed countenance close perusal boy face wait till bill tells jew seemed much vexed oliver expressing any greater curiosity subject truth although oliver felt anxious much confused earnest cunning fagin looks own speculations make any further inquiries just other opportunity jew remained surly silent till night when prepared go abroad burn candle said jew putting one upon table here book read till come fetch good night good night replied oliver softly jew walked door looking shoulder boy went suddenly stopping called name oliver looked jew pointing candle motioned light placed candlestick upon table saw jew gazing fixedly lowering contracted brows dark end room take heed oliver take heed said old man shaking right hand before warning manner rough man thinks nothing blood when own whatever falls say nothing what bids mind placing strong emphasis last word suffered features gradually resolve themselves ghastly grin nodding head left room oliver leaned head upon hand when old man disappeared pondered trembling heart words just heard more thought jew admonition more loss divine real purpose meaning think bad object attained sending sikes which equally well answered remaining fagin after meditating long time concluded selected perform some ordinary menial offices housebreaker until another boy better suited purpose engaged well accustomed suffering suffered much where bewail prospect change severely remained lost thought some minutes heavy sigh snuffed candle taking book which jew left began read turned leaves carelessly first lighting passage which attracted attention soon became intent upon volume history lives trials great criminals pages soiled thumbed use here read dreadful crimes made blood run cold secret murders committed lonely wayside bodies hidden eye man deep pits wells which keep deep yielded last after many years maddened murderers sight horror confessed guilt yelled gibbet end agony here read men who lying beds dead night tempted said led own bad thoughts dreadful bloodshed made flesh creep limbs quail think terrible descriptions real vivid sallow pages seemed turn red gore words upon sounded ears whispered hollow murmurs spirits dead paroxysm fear boy closed book thrust falling upon knees prayed heaven spare deeds rather die once reserved crimes fearful appalling degrees grew more calm besought low broken voice rescued present dangers any aid raised poor outcast boy who never known love friends kindred come now when desolate deserted stood alone midst wickedness guilt concluded prayer still remained head buried hands when rustling noise aroused what cried starting catching sight figure standing door who there only replied tremulous voice oliver raised candle above head looked towards door nancy put light said girl turning away head hurts eyes oliver saw pale gently inquired ill girl threw herself chair back towards wrung hands made reply god forgive cried after while never thought anything happened asked oliver help indeed rocked herself fro caught throat uttering gurgling sound gasped breath nancy cried oliver what girl beat hands upon knees feet upon ground suddenly stopping drew shawl close round shivered cold oliver stirred fire drawing chair close sat there little time without speaking length raised head looked round don know what comes sometimes said affecting busy herself arranging dress damp dirty room think now nolly dear ready am go asked oliver yes come bill replied girl go what asked oliver recoiling what echoed girl raising eyes averting again moment encountered boy face oh harm don believe said oliver who watched closely own way rejoined girl affecting laugh good oliver see some power girl better feelings instant thought appealing compassion helpless state thought darted across mind barely eleven clock many people still streets whom surely some found give credence tale reflection occured stepped forward said somewhat hastily ready neither brief consideration nor purport lost companion eyed narrowly while spoke cast upon look intelligence which sufficiently showed guessed what passing thoughts hush said girl stooping pointing door looked cautiously round help yourself tried hard all purpose hedged round round ever get loose here time struck energy manner oliver looked face great surprise seemed speak truth countenance white agitated trembled earnestness saved ill used once again now continued girl aloud who fetched far more rough promised quiet silent only harm yourself perhaps death see here borne all already true god sees show pointed hastily some livid bruises neck arms continued great rapidity remember don let suffer more just now help power don mean harm whatever make fault hush every word blow give hand make haste hand caught hand which oliver instinctively placed hers blowing light drew after stairs door opened quickly some one shrouded darkness quickly closed when passed hackney cabriolet waiting same vehemence which exhibited addressing oliver girl pulled drew curtains close driver wanted directions lashed horse full speed without delay instant girl still held oliver fast hand continued pour ear warnings assurances already imparted all quick hurried scarcely time recollect where how came there when carriage stopped house which jew steps directed previous evening one brief moment oliver cast hurried glance along empty street cry help hung upon lips girl voice ear beseeching tones agony remember heart utter while hesitated opportunity gone already house door shut way said girl releasing hold first time bill hallo replied sikes appearing head stairs candle oh time day come strong expression approbation uncommonly hearty welcome person mr sikes temperament nancy appearing much gratified thereby saluted cordially bull eye gone home tom observed sikes lighted way right rejoined nancy ve got kid said sikes when all reached room closing door spoke yes here replied nancy come quiet inquired sikes like lamb rejoined nancy glad hear said sikes looking grimly oliver sake young carcase otherways suffered come here young un let read lectur which well got once thus addressing new pupil mr sikes pulled oliver cap threw corner taking shoulder sat himself table stood boy front now first know wot inquired sikes taking pocket pistol which lay table oliver replied affirmative well look here continued sikes powder ere bullet little bit old hat waddin oliver murmured comprehension different bodies referred mr sikes proceeded load pistol great nicety deliberation now loaded said mr sikes when finished yes see sir replied oliver well said robber grasping oliver wrist putting barrel close temple touched which moment boy repress start speak word when re doors except when speak loading head without notice make mind speak without leave say prayers first bestowed scowl upon object warning increase effect mr sikes continued near know there isn anybody asking partickler arter disposed needn take devil all trouble explain matters warn own good ye hear short long what mean said nancy speaking emphatically slightly frowning oliver bespeak serious attention words re crossed job hand ll prevent ever telling tales afterwards shooting through head take chance swinging great many other things way business every month life observed mr sikes approvingly women always put things fewest words except when blowing lengthens now thoroughly let some supper get snooze before starting pursuance request nancy quickly laid cloth disappearing few minutes presently returned pot porter dish sheep heads which gave occasion several pleasant witticisms part mr sikes founded upon singular coincidence jemmies name common also ingenious implement much used profession indeed worthy gentleman stimulated perhaps immediate prospect active service great spirits good humour proof whereof here remarked humourously drank all beer draught utter rough calculation more four score oaths during whole progress meal supper ended easily conceived oliver great appetite mr sikes disposed couple glasses spirits water threw himself bed ordering nancy many imprecations case failure call five precisely oliver stretched himself clothes command same authority mattress upon floor girl mending fire sat before readiness rouse appointed time long time oliver lay awake thinking impossible nancy seek opportunity whispering some further advice girl sat brooding fire without moving save now trim light weary watching anxiety length fell asleep when awoke table covered tea things sikes thrusting various articles pockets great coat which hung back chair nancy busily engaged preparing breakfast yet daylight candle still burning quite dark outside sharp rain beating against window panes sky looked black cloudy now growled sikes oliver started half past five look sharp ll get breakfast late oliver long making toilet taken some breakfast replied surly inquiry sikes saying quite ready nancy scarcely looking boy threw handkerchief tie round throat sikes gave large rough cape button shoulders thus attired gave hand robber who merely pausing show menacing gesture same pistol side pocket great coat clasped firmly exchanging farewell nancy led away oliver turned instant when reached door hope meeting look girl resumed old seat front fire sat perfectly motionless before chapter xxi expedition cheerless morning when got street blowing raining hard clouds looking dull stormy night wet large pools water collected road kennels overflowing there faint glimmering coming day sky rather aggravated relieved gloom scene sombre light only serving pale which street lamps afforded without shedding any warmer brighter tints upon wet house tops dreary streets there appeared nobody stirring quarter town windows houses all closely shut streets through which passed noiseless empty time turned bethnal green road day fairly begun break many lamps already extinguished few country waggons slowly toiling towards london now stage coach covered mud rattled briskly driver bestowing passed admonitory lash upon heavy waggoner who keeping wrong side road endangered arriving office quarter minute after time public houses gas lights burning inside already open degrees other shops began unclosed few scattered people met came straggling groups labourers going work men women fish baskets heads donkey carts laden vegetables chaise carts filled live stock whole carcasses meat milk women pails unbroken concourse people trudging various supplies eastern suburbs town approached city noise traffic gradually increased when threaded streets between shoreditch smithfield swelled roar sound bustle light likely till night came again busy morning half london population begun turning sun street crown street crossing finsbury square mr sikes struck way chiswell street barbican thence long lane smithfield which latter place arose tumult discordant sounds filled oliver twist amazement market morning ground covered nearly ankle deep filth mire thick steam perpetually rising reeking bodies cattle mingling fog which seemed rest upon chimney tops hung heavily above all pens centre large area many temporary pens crowded vacant space filled sheep tied posts gutter side long lines beasts oxen three four deep countrymen butchers drovers hawkers boys thieves idlers vagabonds every low grade mingled together mass whistling drovers barking dogs bellowing plunging oxen bleating sheep grunting squeaking pigs cries hawkers shouts oaths quarrelling all sides ringing bells roar voices issued every public house crowding pushing driving beating whooping yelling hideous discordant dim resounded every corner market unwashed unshaven squalid dirty figures constantly running fro bursting throng rendered stunning bewildering scene which quite confounded senses mr sikes dragging oliver after elbowed way through thickest crowd bestowed little attention numerous sights sounds which astonished boy nodded twice thrice passing friend resisting many invitations take morning dram pressed steadily onward until clear turmoil made way through hosier lane holborn now young un said sikes looking clock st andrew church hard upon seven must step come don lag behind already lazy legs mr sikes accompanied speech jerk little companion wrist oliver quickening pace kind trot between fast walk run kept rapid strides house breaker well held course rate until passed hyde park corner way kensington when sikes relaxed pace until empty cart which some little distance behind came seeing hounslow written asked driver much civility assume give lift far isleworth jump said man boy yes boy replied sikes looking hard oliver putting hand abstractedly pocket where pistol father walks rather quick don man inquired driver seeing oliver breath bit replied sikes interposing used here take hold hand ned thus addressing oliver helped cart driver pointing heap sacks told lie there rest himself passed different mile stones oliver wondered more more where companion meant take kensington hammersmith chiswick kew bridge brentford all passed yet went steadily only just begun journey length came public house called coach horses little way beyond which another road appeared run here cart stopped sikes dismounted great precipitation holding oliver hand all while lifting directly bestowed furious look upon rapped side pocket fist significant manner good bye boy said man sulky replied sikes giving shake sulky young dog don mind rejoined other getting cart fine day after all drove away sikes waited until fairly gone telling oliver look wanted once again led onward journey turned round left short way past public house taking right hand road walked long time passing many large gardens gentlemen houses both sides way stopping nothing little beer until reached town here against wall house oliver saw written pretty large letters hampton lingered fields some hours length came back town turning old public house defaced sign board ordered some dinner kitchen fire kitchen old low roofed room great beam across middle ceiling benches high backs fire which seated several rough men smock frocks drinking smoking took notice oliver little sikes sikes took little notice young comrade sat corner themselves without much troubled company some cold meat dinner sat long after while mr sikes indulged himself three four pipes oliver began feel quite certain going any further much tired walk getting early dozed little first quite overpowered fatigue fumes tobacco fell asleep quite dark when awakened push sikes rousing himself sufficiently sit look found worthy close fellowship communication labouring man pint ale re going lower halliford inquired sikes yes am replied man who seemed little worse better case drinking slow neither horse hasn got load behind going back coming mornin won long doing here luck ecod good un give boy lift far there demanded sikes pushing ale towards new friend re going directly replied man looking pot going halliford going shepperton replied sikes man far go replied other all paid becky yes other gentleman paid replied girl say said man tipsy gravity won know why rejoined sikes re going accommodate us wot prevent standing treat pint return stranger reflected upon argument profound face seized sikes hand declared real good fellow which mr sikes replied joking sober there strong reason suppose after exchange few more compliments bade company good night went girl gathering pots glasses lounging door hands full see party start horse whose health drunk absence standing outside ready harnessed cart oliver sikes got without any further ceremony man whom belonged lingered minute two bear defy hostler world produce equal mounted also hostler told give horse head head given made unpleasant use tossing air great disdain running parlour windows way after performing feats supporting himself short time hind legs started great speed rattled town right gallantly night dark damp mist rose river marshy ground spread itself dreary fields piercing cold all gloomy black word spoken driver grown sleepy sikes mood lead conversation oliver sat huddled together corner cart bewildered alarm apprehension figuring strange objects gaunt trees whose branches waved grimly fro some fantastic joy desolation scene passed sunbury church clock struck seven there light ferry house window opposite which streamed across road threw more sombre shadow dark yew tree graves beneath there dull sound falling water far leaves old tree stirred gently night wind seemed like quiet music repose dead sunbury passed through came again lonely road two three miles more cart stopped sikes alighted took oliver hand once again walked turned house shepperton weary boy expected still kept walking mud darkness through gloomy lanes cold open wastes until came within sight lights town great distance looking intently forward oliver saw water just below coming foot bridge sikes kept straight until close upon bridge turned suddenly bank upon left water thought oliver turning sick fear brought lonely place murder throw himself ground make one struggle young life when saw stood before solitary house all ruinous decayed there window each side dilapidated entrance one story above light visible house dark dismantled all appearance uninhabited sikes oliver hand still softly approached low porch raised latch door yielded pressure passed together chapter xxii burglary hallo cried loud hoarse voice soon set foot passage don make row said sikes bolting door show glim toby aha pal cried same voice glim barney glim show gentleman barney wake first convenient speaker appeared throw boot jack some article person addressed rouse slumbers noise wooden body falling violently heard indistinct muttering man between sleep awake hear cried same voice there bill sikes passage nobody civil sleeping there took laudanum meals nothing stronger any fresher now want iron candlestick wake thoroughly pair slipshod feet shuffled hastily across bare floor room interrogatory put there issued door right hand first feeble candle next form same individual who heretofore described labouring infirmity speaking through nose officiating waiter public house saffron hill bister sikes exclaimed barney real counterfeit joy cub id sir cub id here get first said sikes putting oliver front quicker shall tread upon heels muttering curse upon tardiness sikes pushed oliver before entered low dark room smoky fire two three broken chairs table old couch which legs much higher head man reposing full length smoking long clay pipe dressed smartly cut snuff coloured coat large brass buttons orange neckerchief coarse staring shawl pattern waistcoat drab breeches mr crackit great quantity hair either upon head face what reddish dye tortured long corkscrew curls through which occasionally thrust some dirty fingers ornamented large common rings trifle above middle size apparently rather weak legs circumstance means detracted own admiration top boots which contemplated elevated situation lively satisfaction bill boy said figure turning head towards door glad see almost afraid given which case made personal wentur hallo uttering exclamation tone great surprise eyes rested oliver mr toby crackit brought himself sitting posture demanded who boy only boy replied sikes drawing chair towards fire wud bister fagid lads exclaimed barney grin fagin eh exclaimed toby looking oliver wot inwalable boy ll make old ladies pockets chapels mug fortin there there enough interposed sikes impatiently stooping recumbant friend whispered few words ear which mr crackit laughed immensely honoured oliver long stare astonishment now said sikes resumed seat ll give us something eat drink while re waiting ll put some heart us all events sit fire younker rest yourself ll go us again tonight though far oliver looked sikes mute timid wonder drawing stool fire sat aching head upon hands scarcely knowing where what passing around here said toby young jew placed some fragments food bottle upon table success crack rose honour toast carefully depositing empty pipe corner advanced table filled glass spirits drank contents mr sikes same drain boy said toby half filling wine glass innocence indeed said oliver looking piteously man face indeed echoed toby think don know what good tell drink bill better said sikes clapping hand upon pocket burn body isn more trouble whole family dodgers drink perwerse imp drink frightened menacing gestures two men oliver hastily swallowed contents glass immediately fell violent fit coughing which delighted toby crackit barney even drew smile surly mr sikes sikes satisfied appetite oliver eat nothing small crust bread which made swallow two men laid themselves chairs short nap oliver retained stool fire barney wrapped blanket stretched himself floor close outside fender slept appeared sleep some time nobody stirring barney who rose once twice throw coals fire oliver fell heavy doze imagining himself straying along gloomy lanes wandering dark churchyard retracing some one other scenes past day when roused toby crackit jumping declaring half past one instant other two legs all actively engaged busy preparation sikes companion enveloped necks chins large dark shawls drew great coats barney opening cupboard brought forth several articles which hastily crammed pockets barkers barney said toby crackit here replied barney producing pair pistols loaded yourself all right replied toby stowing away persuaders ve got em replied sikes crape keys centre bits darkies nothing forgotten inquired toby fastening small crowbar loop inside skirt coat all right rejoined companion bring bits timber barney time day words took thick stick barney hands who delivered another toby busied himself fastening oliver cape now said sikes holding hand oliver who completely stupified unwonted exercise air drink which forced upon put hand mechanically which sikes extended purpose take other hand toby said sikes look barney man went door returned announce all quiet two robbers issued forth oliver between barney made all fast rolled himself before soon asleep again now intensely dark fog much heavier early part night atmosphere damp although rain fell oliver hair eyebrows within few minutes after leaving house become stiff half frozen moisture floating crossed bridge kept towards lights which seen before great distance walked pretty briskly soon arrived chertsey slap through town whispered sikes there ll nobody way tonight see us toby acquiesced hurried through main street little town which late hour wholly deserted dim light shone intervals some bed room window hoarse barking dogs occasionally broke silence night there nobody abroad cleared town church bell struck two quickening pace turned road upon left hand after walking quarter mile stopped before detached house surrounded wall top which toby crackit scarcely pausing take breath climbed twinkling boy next said toby hoist ll catch hold before oliver time look round sikes caught arms three four seconds toby lying grass other side sikes followed directly stole cautiously towards house now first time oliver well nigh mad grief terror saw housebreaking robbery murder objects expedition clasped hands together involuntarily uttered subdued exclamation horror mist came before eyes cold sweat stood upon ashy face limbs failed sank upon knees get murmured sikes trembling rage drawing pistol pocket get ll strew brains upon grass oh god sake let go cried oliver let run away die fields never come near london never never oh pray mercy make steal love all bright angels rest heaven mercy upon man whom appeal made swore dreadful oath cocked pistol when toby striking grasp placed hand upon boy mouth dragged house hush cried man won answer here say another word ll business myself crack head makes noise quite certain more genteel here bill wrench shutter open game enough now ll engage ve seen older hands age took same way minute two cold night sikes invoking terrific imprecations upon fagin head sending oliver errand plied crowbar vigorously little noise after some delay some assistance toby shutter which referred swung open hinges little lattice window five feet half above ground back house which belonged scullery small brewing place end passage aperture small inmates probably thought worth while defend more securely large enough admit boy oliver size nevertheless brief exercise mr sikes art sufficed overcome fastening lattice soon stood wide open also now listen young limb whispered sikes drawing dark lantern pocket throwing glare full oliver face going put through there take light go softly steps straight afore along little hall street door unfasten let us there bolt top won able reach interposed toby stand upon one hall chairs there three there bill jolly large blue unicorn gold pitchfork em which old lady arms keep quiet replied sikes threatening look room door open wide replied toby after peeping satisfy himself game always leave open catch dog who got bed here walk passage when feels wakeful ha ha barney ticed away tonight neat although mr crackit spoke scarcely audible whisper laughed without noise sikes imperiously commanded silent get work toby complied first producing lantern placing ground planting himself firmly head against wall beneath window hands upon knees make step back sooner sikes mounting upon put oliver gently through window feet first without leaving hold collar planted safely floor inside take lantern said sikes looking room see stairs afore oliver more dead alive gasped yes sikes pointing street door pistol barrel briefly advised take notice within shot all way faltered fall dead instant minute said sikes same low whisper directly leave go work hark what whispered other man listened intently nothing said sikes releasing hold oliver now short time collect senses boy firmly resolved whether died attempt make one effort dart upstairs hall alarm family filled idea advanced once stealthily come back suddenly cried sikes aloud back back scared sudden breaking dead stillness place loud cry which followed oliver let lantern fall knew whether advance fly cry repeated light appeared vision two terrified half dressed men top stairs swam before eyes flash loud noise smoke crash somewhere where knew staggered back sikes disappeared instant again collar before smoke cleared away fired own pistol after men who already retreating dragged boy clasp arm tighter said sikes drew through window give shawl here ve hit quick how boy bleeds came loud ringing bell mingled noise fire arms shouts men sensation carried uneven ground rapid pace noises grew confused distance cold deadly feeling crept boy heart saw heard more chapter xxiii which contains substance pleasant conversation between mr bumble lady shows even beadle susceptible some points night bitter cold snow lay ground frozen hard thick crust only heaps drifted byways corners affected sharp wind howled abroad which expending increased fury prey found caught savagely clouds whirling thousand misty eddies scattered air bleak dark piercing cold night well housed fed draw round bright fire thank god home homeless starving wretch lay die many hunger worn outcasts close eyes bare streets times who let crimes what hardly open more bitter world aspect doors affairs when mrs corney matron workhouse which readers already introduced birthplace oliver twist sat herself before cheerful fire own little room glanced small degree complacency small round table which stood tray corresponding size furnished all necessary materials most grateful meal matrons enjoy fact mrs corney solace herself cup tea glanced table fireplace where smallest all possible kettles singing small song small voice inward satisfaction evidently increased much indeed mrs corney smiled well said matron leaning elbow table looking reflectively fire sure all us great deal grateful great deal know ah mrs corney shook head mournfully deploring mental blindness paupers who know thrusting silver spoon private property inmost recesses two ounce tin tea caddy proceeded make tea how slight thing disturb equanimity frail minds black teapot small easily filled ran while mrs corney moralising water slightly scalded mrs corney hand drat pot said worthy matron setting hastily hob little stupid thing only holds couple cups what use anybody except said mrs corney pausing except poor desolate creature like oh dear words matron dropped chair once more resting elbow table thought solitary fate small teapot single cup awakened mind sad recollections mr corney who dead more five twenty years overpowered shall never get another said mrs corney pettishly shall never get another like whether remark bore reference husband teapot uncertain latter mrs corney looked spoke took afterwards just tasted first cup when disturbed soft tap room door oh come said mrs corney sharply some old women dying suppose always die when meals don stand there letting cold air don what amiss now eh nothing ma am nothing replied man voice dear exclaimed matron much sweeter tone mr bumble service ma am said mr bumble who stopping outside rub shoes clean shake snow coat who now made appearance bearing cocked hat one hand bundle other shall shut door ma am lady modestly hesitated reply lest there any impropriety holding interview mr bumble closed doors mr bumble taking advantage hesitation cold himself shut without permission hard weather mr bumble said matron hard indeed ma am replied beadle anti porochial weather ma am given away mrs corney given away matter twenty quartern loaves cheese half blessed afternoon yet paupers contented course when mr bumble said matron sipping tea when indeed ma am rejoined mr bumble why here one man consideration wife large family quartern loaf good pound cheese full weight grateful ma am grateful copper farthing worth what ma am ask few coals only pocket handkerchief full says coals what coals toast cheese em come back more way people ma am give em apron full coals today ll come back another day after tomorrow brazen alabaster matron expressed entire concurrence intelligible simile beadle went never said mr bumble see anything like pitch got day afore yesterday man married woman ma am mention man hardly rag upon back here mrs corney looked floor goes overseer door when got company coming dinner says must relieved mrs corney wouldn go away shocked company much overseer sent pound potatoes half pint oatmeal heart says ungrateful villain what use well give pair iron spectacles good says overseer taking em away again won get anything here ll die streets says vagrant oh won says overseer ha ha good like mr grannett wasn interposed matron well mr bumble well ma am rejoined beadle went away die streets there obstinate pauper beats anything believed observed matron emphatically don think door relief bad thing any way mr bumble re gentleman experience ought know come mrs corney said beadle smiling men smile who conscious superior information door relief properly managed properly managed ma am porochial safeguard great principle door relief give paupers exactly what don want get tired coming dear exclaimed mrs corney well good one yes betwixt ma am returned mr bumble great principle reason why look any cases get owdacious newspapers ll always observe sick families relieved slices cheese rule now mrs corney all country however said beadle stopping unpack bundle official secrets ma am spoken except say among porochial officers ourselves port wine ma am board ordered infirmary real fresh genuine port wine only cask forenoon clear bell sediment held first bottle light shaken well test excellence mr bumble placed both top chest drawers folded handkerchief which wrapped put carefully pocket took hat go ll cold walk mr bumble said matron blows ma am replied mr bumble turning coat collar enough cut one ears matron looked little kettle beadle who moving towards door beadle coughed preparatory bidding good night bashfully inquired whether whether wouldn take cup tea mr bumble instantaneously turned back collar again laid hat stick upon chair drew another chair table slowly seated himself looked lady fixed eyes upon little teapot mr bumble coughed again slightly smiled mrs corney rose get another cup saucer closet sat eyes once again encountered gallant beadle coloured applied herself task making tea again mr bumble coughed louder time coughed yet sweet mr bumble inquired matron taking sugar basin sweet indeed ma am replied mr bumble fixed eyes mrs corney said ever beadle looked tender mr bumble beadle moment tea made handed silence mr bumble spread handkerchief knees prevent crumbs sullying splendour shorts began eat drink varying amusements occasionally fetching deep sigh which however injurious effect upon appetite contrary rather seemed facilitate operations tea toast department cat ma am see said mr bumble glancing one who centre family basking before fire kittens declare am fond mr bumble think replied matron re happy frolicsome cheerful quite companions nice animals ma am replied mr bumble approvingly domestic oh yes rejoined matron enthusiasm fond home quite pleasure sure mrs corney ma am said mr bumble slowly marking time teaspoon mean say ma am any cat kitten live ma am fond home must ass ma am oh mr bumble remonstrated mrs corney use disguising facts ma am said mr bumble slowly flourishing teaspoon kind amorous dignity which made doubly impressive drown myself pleasure re cruel man said matron vivaciously held hand beadle cup hard hearted man besides hard hearted ma am said mr bumble hard mr bumble resigned cup without another word squeezed mrs corney little finger took inflicting two open handed slaps upon laced waistcoat gave mighty sigh hitched chair little morsel farther fire round table mrs corney mr bumble sitting opposite each other great space between fronting fire seen mr bumble receding fire still keeping table increased distance between himself mrs corney which proceeding some prudent readers doubtless disposed admire consider act great heroism mr bumble part some sort tempted time place opportunity give utterance certain soft nothings which however well become lips light thoughtless seem immeasurably beneath dignity judges land members parliament ministers state lord mayors other great public functionaries more particularly beneath stateliness gravity beadle who well known sternest most inflexible among all whatever mr bumble intentions however doubt best unfortunately happened twice before remarked table round one consequently mr bumble moving chair little little soon began diminish distance between himself matron continuing travel round outer edge circle brought chair time close which matron seated indeed two chairs touched when mr bumble stopped now matron moved chair right scorched fire left must fallen mr bumble arms discreet matron doubt foreseeing consequences glance remained where handed mr bumble another cup tea hard hearted mrs corney said mr bumble stirring tea looking matron face hard hearted mrs corney dear exclaimed matron what curious question single man what want know mr bumble beadle drank tea last drop finished piece toast whisked crumbs knees wiped lips deliberately kissed matron mr bumble cried discreet lady whisper fright great quite lost voice mr bumble shall scream mr bumble made reply slow dignified manner put arm round matron waist lady stated intention screaming course screamed additional boldness exertion rendered unnecessary hasty knocking door which sooner heard mr bumble darted much agility wine bottles began dusting great violence while matron sharply demanded who there worthy remark curious physical instance efficacy sudden surprise counteracting effects extreme fear voice quite recovered all official asperity please mistress said withered old female pauper hideously ugly putting head door old sally going fast well what angrily demanded matron keep alive mistress replied old woman nobody far beyond reach help ve seen many people die little babes great strong men know when death coming well enough troubled mind when fits often dying hard says got something tell which must hear ll never die quiet till come mistress intelligence worthy mrs corney muttered variety invectives against old women who couldn even die without purposely annoying betters muffling herself thick shawl which hastily caught briefly requested mr bumble stay till came back lest anything particular occur bidding messenger walk fast all night hobbling stairs followed room ill grace scolding all way mr bumble conduct left himself rather inexplicable opened closet counted teaspoons weighed sugar tongs closely inspected silver milk pot ascertain genuine metal satisfied curiosity points put cocked hat corner wise danced much gravity four distinct times round table gone through extraordinary performance took cocked hat again spreading himself before fire back towards seemed mentally engaged taking exact inventory furniture chapter xxiv treats poor subject short one found importance history unfit messenger death who disturbed quiet matron room body bent age limbs trembled palsy face distorted mumbling leer resembled more grotesque shaping some wild pencil work nature hand alas how few nature faces left alone gladden us beauty cares sorrows hungerings world change change hearts only when passions sleep lost hold ever troubled clouds pass leave heaven surface clear common thing countenances dead even fixed rigid state subside long forgotten expression sleeping infancy settle look early life calm peaceful grow again who knew happy childhood kneel coffin side awe see angel even upon earth old crone tottered along passages stairs muttering some indistinct answers chidings companion length compelled pause breath gave light hand remained behind follow while more nimble superior made way room where sick woman lay bare garret room dim light burning farther end there another old woman watching bed parish apothecary apprentice standing fire making toothpick quill cold night mrs corney said young gentleman matron entered cold indeed sir replied mistress most civil tones dropping curtsey spoke get better coals contractors said apothecary deputy breaking lump top fire rusty poker all sort thing cold night re board choosing sir returned matron least keep us pretty warm places hard enough conversation here interrupted moan sick woman oh said young man turning face towards bed previously quite forgotten patient all there mrs corney sir asked matron lasts couple hours shall surprised said apothecary apprentice intent upon toothpick point break system altogether dozing old lady attendant stooped bed ascertain nodded affirmative perhaps ll go way don make row said young man put light floor won see there attendant told shaking head meanwhile intimate woman die easily resumed seat side other nurse who time returned mistress expression impatience wrapped herself shawl sat foot bed apothecary apprentice completed manufacture toothpick planted himself front fire made good use ten minutes when apparently growing rather dull wished mrs corney joy job took himself tiptoe when sat silence some time two old women rose bed crouching fire held withered hands catch heat flame threw ghastly light shrivelled faces made ugliness appear terrible position began converse low voice say any more anny dear while gone inquired messenger word replied other plucked tore arms little time held hands soon dropped hasn much strength easily kept quiet ain weak old woman although am parish allowance drink hot wine doctor said demanded first tried get rejoined other teeth tight set clenched mug hard much get back again drank good looking cautiously round ascertain overheard two hags cowered nearer fire chuckled heartily mind time said first speaker when same made rare fun afterwards ay rejoined other merry heart many many beautiful corpses laid nice neat waxwork old eyes seen ay old hands touched helped scores times stretching forth trembling fingers spoke old creature shook exultingly before face fumbling pocket brought old time discoloured tin snuff box which shook few grains outstretched palm companion few more own while thus employed matron who impatiently watching until dying woman awaken stupor joined fire sharply asked how long wait long mistress replied second woman looking face none us long wait death patience patience ll here soon enough us all hold tongue doting idiot said matron sternly martha tell way before often answered first woman never again added second one ll never wake again once mind mistress won long long short said matron snappishly won find here when wake take care both how worry again nothing part duty see all old women house die won more mind impudent old harridans make fool again ll soon cure warrant bouncing away when cry two women who turned towards bed caused look round patient raised herself upright stretching arms towards who cried hollow voice hush hush said one women stooping lie lie ll never lie again alive said woman struggling tell come here nearer let whisper ear clutched matron arm forcing chair bedside speak when looking round caught sight two old women bending forward attitude eager listeners turn away said woman drowsily make haste make haste two old crones chiming together began pouring many piteous lamentations poor dear far gone know best friends uttering sundry protestations never leave when superior pushed room closed door returned bedside excluded old ladies changed tone cried through keyhole old sally drunk which indeed unlikely since addition moderate dose opium prescribed apothecary labouring effects final taste gin water which privily administered openness hearts worthy old ladies themselves now listen said dying woman aloud making great effort revive one latent spark energy room bed once nursed pretty young creetur brought house feet cut bruised walking all soiled dust blood gave birth boy died let think what year again never mind year said impatient auditor what ay murmured sick woman relapsing former drowsy state what what know cried jumping fiercely face flushed eyes starting head robbed wasn cold tell wasn cold when stole stole what god sake cried matron gesture call help replied woman laying hand other mouth only thing wanted clothes keep warm food eat kept safe bosom gold tell rich gold saved life gold echoed matron bending eagerly woman fell back go go yes what who mother when charged keep safe replied woman groan trusted only woman stole heart when first showed hanging round neck child death perhaps besides treated better known all known what asked other speak boy grew like mother said woman rambling heeding question never forget when saw face poor girl poor girl young gentle lamb wait there more tell told all replied matron inclining head catch words came more faintly dying woman quick late mother said woman making more violent effort before mother when pains death first came upon whispered ear baby born alive thrived day come when feel much disgraced hear poor young mother named oh kind heaven said folding thin hands together whether boy girl raise some friends troubled world take pity upon lonely desolate child abandoned mercy boy name demanded matron called oliver replied woman feebly gold stole yes yes what cried other bending eagerly woman hear reply drew back instinctively once again rose slowly stiffly sitting posture clutching coverlid both hands muttered some indistinct sounds throat fell lifeless bed stone dead said one old women hurrying soon door opened nothing tell after all rejoined matron walking carelessly away two crones all appearance busily occupied preparations dreadful duties make any reply left alone hovering body chapter xxv wherein history reverts mr fagin company while things passing country workhouse mr fagin sat old den same which oliver removed girl brooding dull smoky fire held pair bellows upon knee which apparently endeavouring rouse more cheerful action fallen deep thought arms folded chin resting thumbs fixed eyes abstractedly rusty bars table behind sat artful dodger master charles bates mr chitling all intent upon game whist artful taking dummy against master bates mr chitling countenance first named gentleman peculiarly intelligent all times acquired great additional interest close observance game attentive perusal mr chitling hand upon which time time occasion served bestowed variety earnest glances wisely regulating own play result observations upon neighbour cards cold night dodger wore hat indeed often custom within doors also sustained clay pipe between teeth which only removed brief space when deemed necessary apply refreshment quart pot upon table which stood ready filled gin water accommodation company master bates also attentive play more excitable nature accomplished friend observable more frequently applied himself gin water moreover indulged many jests irrelevant remarks all highly unbecoming scientific rubber indeed artful presuming upon close attachment more once took occasion reason gravely companion upon improprieties all which remonstrances master bates received extremely good part merely requesting friend blowed insert head sack replying some other neatly turned witticism similar kind happy application which excited considerable admiration mind mr chitling remarkable latter gentleman partner invariably lost circumstance far angering master bates appeared afford highest amusement inasmuch laughed most uproariously end every deal protested never seen jolly game all born days two doubles rub said mr chitling long face drew half crown waistcoat pocket never see feller jack win everything even when ve good cards charley make nothing em either matter manner remark which made ruefully delighted charley bates much consequent shout laughter roused jew reverie induced inquire what matter matter fagin cried charley wish watched play tommy chitling hasn won point went partners against artful dumb ay ay said jew grin which sufficiently demonstrated loss understand reason try em again tom try em again more thank ee fagin replied mr chitling ve enough ere dodger run luck there standing again ha ha dear replied jew must get early morning win against dodger morning said charley bates must put boots night telescope each eye opera glass between shoulders want come mr dawkins received handsome compliments much philosophy offered cut any gentleman company first picture card shilling time nobody accepting challenge pipe time smoked proceeded amuse himself sketching ground plan newgate table piece chalk which served lieu counters whistling meantime peculiar shrillness how precious dull tommy said dodger stopping short when there long silence addressing mr chitling what think thinking fagin how know dear replied jew looking round plied bellows losses maybe little retirement country just left eh ha ha dear bit replied dodger stopping subject discourse mr chitling reply what say charley say replied master bates grin uncommon sweet upon betsy see how blushing oh eye here merry go rounder tommy chitling love oh fagin fagin what spree thoroughly overpowered notion mr chitling victim tender passion master bates threw himself back chair violence lost balance pitched upon floor where accident abating nothing merriment lay full length until laugh when resumed former position began another laugh never mind dear said jew winking mr dawkins giving master bates reproving tap nozzle bellows betsy fine girl stick tom stick what mean say fagin replied mr chitling red face isn anything anybody here more replied jew charley talk don mind dear don mind betsy fine girl bids tom make fortune bids replied mr chitling shouldn milled hadn advice turned good job didn fagin what six weeks must come some time another why winter time when don want go walking much eh fagin ah sure dear replied jew wouldn mind again tom asked dodger winking upon charley jew bet all right mean say shouldn replied tom angrily there now ah who ll say much like know eh fagin nobody dear replied jew soul tom don know one em besides one em dear got clear split upon mightn fagin angrily pursued poor half witted dupe word wouldn fagin sure dear replied jew didn blab fagin demanded tom pouring question upon question great volubility sure replied jew stout hearted deal stout dear perhaps rejoined tom looking round what laugh eh fagin jew perceiving mr chitling considerably roused hastened assure nobody laughing prove gravity company appealed master bates principal offender unfortunately charley opening mouth reply never more serious life unable prevent escape violent roar abused mr chitling without any preliminary ceremonies rushed across room aimed blow offender who skilful evading pursuit ducked avoid chose time well lighted chest merry old gentleman caused stagger wall where stood panting breath while mr chitling looked intense dismay hark cried dodger moment heard tinkler catching light crept softly upstairs bell rung again some impatience while party darkness after short pause dodger reappeared whispered fagin mysteriously what cried jew alone dodger nodded affirmative shading flame candle hand gave charley bates private intimation dumb show better funny just performed friendly office fixed eyes jew face awaited directions old man bit yellow fingers meditated some seconds face working agitation while dreaded something feared know worst length raised head where asked dodger pointed floor above made gesture leave room yes said jew answering mute inquiry bring hush quiet charley gently tom scarce scarce brief direction charley bates recent antagonist softly immediately obeyed there sound whereabout when dodger descended stairs bearing light hand followed man coarse smock frock who after casting hurried glance round room pulled large wrapper which concealed lower portion face disclosed all haggard unwashed unshorn features flash toby crackit how faguey said worthy nodding jew pop shawl away castor dodger know where find when cut time day ll fine young cracksman afore old file now words pulled smock frock winding round middle drew chair fire placed feet upon hob see there faguey said pointing disconsolately top boots drop day martin since know when bubble blacking jove don look way man all good time talk business till ve eat drank produce sustainance let quiet fill first time three days jew motioned dodger place what eatables there upon table seating himself opposite housebreaker waited leisure judge appearances toby means hurry open conversation first jew contented himself patiently watching countenance gain expression some clue intelligence brought vain looked tired worn there same complacent repose upon features always wore through dirt beard whisker there still shone unimpaired self satisfied smirk flash toby crackit jew agony impatience watched every morsel put mouth pacing room meanwhile irrepressible excitement all use toby continued eat utmost outward indifference until eat more ordering dodger closed door mixed glass spirits water composed himself talking first foremost faguey said toby yes yes interposed jew drawing chair mr crackit stopped take draught spirits water declare gin excellent placing feet against low mantelpiece bring boots level eye quietly resumed first foremost faguey said housebreaker how bill what screamed jew starting seat why don mean say began toby turning pale mean cried jew stamping furiously ground where sikes boy where where where hiding why here crack failed said toby faintly know replied jew tearing newspaper pocket pointing what more fired hit boy cut fields back between us straight crow flies through hedge ditch gave chase damme whole country awake dogs upon us boy bill back scudded like wind stopped take between us head hung cold close upon heels every man himself each gallows parted company left youngster lying ditch alive dead all know jew stopped hear more uttering loud yell twining hands hair rushed room house chapter xxvi which mysterious character appears upon scene many things inseparable history performed old man gained street corner before began recover effect toby crackit intelligence relaxed nothing unusual speed still pressing onward same wild disordered manner when sudden dashing past carriage boisterous cry foot passengers who saw danger drove back upon pavement avoiding much possible all main streets skulking only through ways alleys length emerged snow hill here walked even faster before nor linger until again turned court when conscious now proper element fell usual shuffling pace seemed breathe more freely near spot which snow hill holborn hill meet opens upon right hand come city narrow dismal alley leading saffron hill filthy shops exposed sale huge bunches second hand silk handkerchiefs all sizes patterns here reside traders who purchase pick pockets hundreds handkerchiefs hang dangling pegs outside windows flaunting door posts shelves within piled confined limits field lane barber coffee shop beer shop fried fish warehouse commercial colony itself emporium petty larceny visited early morning setting dusk silent merchants who traffic dark back parlours who go strangely come here clothesman shoe vamper rag merchant display goods sign boards petty thief here stores old iron bones heaps mildewy fragments woollen stuff linen rust rot grimy cellars place jew turned well known sallow denizens lane look buy sell nodded familiarly passed along replied salutations same way bestowed closer recognition until reached further end alley when stopped address salesman small stature who squeezed much person child chair chair hold smoking pipe warehouse door why sight mr fagin cure hoptalmy said respectable trader acknowledgment jew inquiry after health neighbourhood little hot lively said fagin elevating eyebrows crossing hands upon shoulders well ve heerd complaint once twice before replied trader soon cools again don find fagin nodded affirmative pointing direction saffron hill inquired whether any one yonder tonight cripples inquired man jew nodded let see pursued merchant reflecting yes there some half dozen em gone knows don think friend there sikes suppose inquired jew disappointed countenance non istwentus lawyers say replied little man shaking head looking amazingly sly got anything line tonight nothing tonight said jew turning away going cripples fagin cried little man calling after stop don mind drop there jew looking back waved hand intimate preferred alone moreover little man easily disengage himself chair sign cripples time bereft advantage mr lively presence time got upon legs jew disappeared mr lively after ineffectually standing tiptoe hope catching sight again forced himself little chair exchanging shake head lady opposite shop which doubt mistrust plainly mingled resumed pipe grave demeanour three cripples rather cripples which sign which establishment familiarly known patrons public house which mr sikes dog already figured merely making sign man bar fagin walked straight upstairs opening door room softly insinuating himself chamber looked anxiously shading eyes hand search some particular person room illuminated two gas lights glare which prevented barred shutters closely drawn curtains faded red visible outside ceiling blackened prevent colour injured flaring lamps place full dense tobacco smoke first scarcely possible discern anything more degrees however some cleared away through open door assemblage heads confused noises greeted ear made eye grew more accustomed scene spectator gradually became aware presence numerous company male female crowded round long table upper end which sat chairman hammer office hand while professional gentleman bluish nose face tied benefit toothache presided jingling piano remote corner fagin stepped softly professional gentleman running keys way prelude occasioned general cry order song which subsided young lady proceeded entertain company ballad four verses between each which accompanyist played melody all through loud when chairman gave sentiment after which professional gentleman chairman right left volunteered duet sang great applause curious observe some faces which stood prominently among group there chairman himself landlord house coarse rough heavy built fellow who while songs proceeding rolled eyes hither thither seeming give himself joviality eye everything ear everything said sharp ones near singers receiving professional indifference compliments company applying themselves turn dozen proffered glasses spirits water tendered more boisterous admirers whose countenances expressive almost every vice almost every grade irresistibly attracted attention repulsiveness cunning ferocity drunkeness all stages there strongest aspect women some last lingering tinge early freshness almost fading looked others every mark stamp sex utterly beaten presenting one loathsome blank profligacy crime some mere girls others young women none past prime life formed darkest saddest portion dreary picture fagin troubled grave emotions looked eagerly face face while proceedings progress apparently without meeting which search succeeding length catching eye man who occupied chair beckoned slightly left room quietly entered what mr fagin inquired man followed landing won join us ll delighted every one em jew shook head impatiently said whisper here replied man news barney inquired fagin none replied landlord cripples won stir till all safe depend re scent there moved blow upon thing once all right enough barney heard ll pound barney managing properly let alone here tonight asked jew laying same emphasis pronoun before monks mean inquired landlord hesitating hush said jew yes certain replied man drawing gold watch fob expected here before now ll wait ten minutes ll said jew hastily though however desirous see person question nevertheless relieved absence tell came here see must come tonight say tomorrow here tomorrow time enough good said man nothing more word now said jew descending stairs say said other looking rails speaking hoarse whisper what time sell ve got phil barker here drunk boy take ah phil barker time said jew looking phil something more before afford part go back company dear tell lead merry lives while last ha ha ha landlord reciprocated old man laugh returned guests jew sooner alone countenance resumed former expression anxiety thought after brief reflection called hack cabriolet bade man drive towards bethnal green dismissed within some quarter mile mr sikes residence performed short remainder distance foot now muttered jew knocked door there any deep play here shall girl cunning room woman said fagin crept softly upstairs entered without any previous ceremony girl alone lying head upon table hair straggling drinking thought jew cooly perhaps only miserable old man turned close door made reflection noise thus occasioned roused girl eyed crafty face narrowly inquired recital toby crackit story when concluded sank former attitude spoke word pushed candle impatiently away once twice feverishly changed position shuffled feet upon ground all during silence jew looked restlessly room assure himself there appearances sikes covertly returned apparently satisfied inspection coughed twice thrice made many efforts open conversation girl heeded more made stone length made another attempt rubbing hands together said most conciliatory tone where think bill now dear girl moaned some half intelligible reply tell seemed smothered noise escaped crying boy said jew straining eyes catch glimpse face poor leetle child left ditch nance only think child said girl suddenly looking better where among us harm comes bill hope lies dead ditch young bones rot there what cried jew amazement ay returned girl meeting gaze shall glad away eyes know worst bear sight turns against myself all pooh said jew scornfully re drunk am cried girl bitterly fault am never anything except now humour doesn suit doesn rejoined jew furiously change responded girl laugh change exclaimed jew exasperated beyond all bounds companion unexpected obstinacy vexation night change listen drab listen who six words strangle sikes surely bull throat between fingers now comes back leaves boy behind gets free dead alive fails restore murder yourself escape jack ketch moment sets foot room mind late what all cried girl involuntarily what pursued fagin mad rage when boy worth hundreds pounds am lose what chance threw way getting safely through whims drunken gang whistle away lives bound born devil only wants power panting breath old man stammered word instant checked torrent wrath changed whole demeanour moment before clenched hands grasped air eyes dilated face grown livid passion now shrunk chair cowering together trembled apprehension himself disclosed some hidden villainy after short silence ventured look round companion appeared somewhat reassured beholding same listless attitude which first roused nancy dear croaked jew usual voice mind dear don worry now fagin replied girl raising head languidly bill time another many good job many more when when won more regarding boy dear said jew rubbing palms hands nervously together boy must take chance rest interrupted nancy hastily say again hope dead harm way bill comes harm toby got clear bill pretty sure safe bill worth two toby any time what saying dear observed jew keeping glistening eye steadily upon must say all again anything want rejoined nancy better wait till tomorrow put minute now stupid again fagin put several other questions all same drift ascertaining whether girl profited unguarded hints answered readily withal utterly unmoved searching looks original impression more trifle liquor confirmed nancy indeed exempt failing which common among jew female pupils which tenderer years rather encouraged checked disordered appearance wholesale perfume geneva which pervaded apartment afforded strong confirmatory evidence justice jew supposition when after indulging temporary display violence above described subsided first dullness afterwards compound feelings influence which shed tears one minute next gave utterance various exclamations never say die divers calculations what amount odds long lady gentleman happy mr fagin who considerable experience matters time saw great satisfaction far gone indeed eased mind discovery accomplished twofold object imparting girl what night heard ascertaining own eyes sikes returned mr fagin again turned face homeward leaving young friend asleep head upon table within hour midnight weather dark piercing cold great temptation loiter sharp wind scoured streets seemed cleared passengers dust mud few people abroad all appearance hastening fast home blew right quarter jew however straight before went trembling shivering every fresh gust drove rudely way reached corner own street already fumbling pocket door key when dark figure emerged projecting entrance which lay deep shadow crossing road glided unperceived fagin whispered voice close ear ah said jew turning quickly round yes interrupted stranger lingering here two hours where devil business dear replied jew glancing uneasily companion slackening pace spoke business all night oh course said stranger sneer well what come nothing good said jew nothing bad hope said stranger stopping short turning startled look companion jew shook head reply when stranger interrupting motioned house before which time arrived remarking better say what got say cover blood chilled standing long wind blew through fagin looked willingly excused himself taking home visitor unseasonable hour indeed muttered something fire companion repeating request peremptory manner unlocked door requested close softly while got light dark grave said man groping forward few steps make haste shut door whispered fagin end passage spoke closed loud noise wasn doing said other man feeling way wind blew shut own accord one other look sharp light shall knock brains against something confounded hole fagin stealthily descended kitchen stairs after short absence returned lighted candle intelligence toby crackit asleep back room below boys front one beckoning man follow led way upstairs say few words ve got say here dear said jew throwing open door first floor there holes shutters never show lights neighbours ll set candle stairs there words jew stooping placed candle upper flight stairs exactly opposite room door led way apartment which destitute all movables save broken arm chair old couch sofa without covering which stood behind door upon piece furniture stranger sat himself air weary man jew drawing arm chair opposite sat face face quite dark door partially open candle outside threw feeble reflection opposite wall conversed some time whispers though nothing conversation distinguishable beyond few disjointed words here there listener easily perceived fagin appeared defending himself against some remarks stranger latter state considerable irritation talking thus quarter hour more when monks which name jew designated strange man several times course colloquy said raising voice little tell again badly planned why kept here among rest made sneaking snivelling pickpocket once only hear exclaimed jew shrugging shoulders why mean say couldn chosen demanded monks sternly haven other boys scores times patience twelvemonth most couldn got convicted sent safely kingdom perhaps life whose turn served dear inquired jew humbly mine replied monks mine said jew submissively become use when there two parties bargain only reasonable interests both consulted good friend what demanded monks saw easy train business replied jew like other boys same circumstances curse muttered man thief long ago hold upon make worse pursued jew anxiously watching countenance companion hand nothing frighten which always must beginning labour vain what send dodger charley enough first dear trembled us all doing observed monks dear renewed jew don quarrel now because never happened never clapped eyes boy notice led discovery looking well got back means girl begins favour throttle girl said monks impatiently why afford just now dear replied jew smiling besides sort thing way one days glad know what girls monks well soon boy begins harden ll care more block wood want made thief alive make one time said jew drawing nearer other likely mind worst comes worst dead fault mine interposed other man look terror clasping jew arm trembling hands mind fagin hand anything death told first won shed blood always found haunts man besides shot dead cause hear fire infernal den what what cried jew grasping coward round body both arms sprung feet where yonder replied man glaring opposite wall shadow saw shadow woman cloak bonnet pass along wainscot like breath jew released hold rushed tumultuously room candle wasted draught standing where placed showed only empty staircase own white faces listened intently profound silence reigned throughout house fancy said jew taking light turning companion ll swear saw replied monks trembling bending forward when saw first when spoke darted away jew glanced contemptuously pale face associate telling follow pleased ascended stairs looked all rooms cold bare empty descended passage thence cellars below green damp hung upon low walls tracks snail slug glistened light candle all still death what think now said jew when regained passage besides ourselves there creature house except toby boys re safe enough see here proof fact jew drew forth two keys pocket explained when first went downstairs locked prevent any intrusion conference accumulated testimony effectually staggered mr monks protestations gradually become less less vehement proceeded search without making any discovery now gave vent several grim laughs confessed only excited imagination declined any renewal conversation however night suddenly remembering past one clock amiable couple parted chapter xxvii atones unpoliteness former chapter which deserted lady most unceremoniously means seemly humble author keep mighty personage beadle waiting back fire skirts coat gathered arms until time suit pleasure relieve still less become station gallantry involve same neglect lady whom beadle looked eye tenderness affection whose ear whispered sweet words which coming quarter well thrill bosom maid matron whatsoever degree historian whose pen traces words trusting knows place entertains becoming reverence upon earth whom high important authority delegated hastens pay respect which position demands treat all duteous ceremony which exalted rank consequence great virtues imperatively claim hands towards end indeed purposed introduce place dissertation touching divine right beadles elucidative position beadle wrong which fail both pleasurable profitable right minded reader which unfortunately compelled want time space postpone some more convenient fitting opportunity arrival which prepared show beadle properly constituted say parochial beadle attached parochial workhouse attending official capacity parochial church right virtue office possessed all excellences best qualities humanity none excellences mere companies beadles court law beadles even chapel ease beadles save last lowly inferior degree lay remotest sustainable claim mr bumble re counted teaspoons re weighed sugar tongs made closer inspection milk pot ascertained nicety exact condition furniture horse hair seats chairs repeated each process full half dozen times before began think time mrs corney return thinking begets thinking there sounds mrs corney approach occured mr bumble innocent virtuous way spending time further allay curiousity cursory glance interior mrs corney chest drawers listened keyhole assure himself nobody approaching chamber mr bumble beginning bottom proceeded make himself acquainted contents three long drawers which filled various garments good fashion texture carefully preserved between two layers old newspapers speckled dried lavender seemed yield exceeding satisfaction arriving course time right hand corner drawer which key beholding therein small padlocked box which shaken gave forth pleasant sound chinking coin mr bumble returned stately walk fireplace resuming old attitude said grave determined air ll followed remarkable declaration shaking head waggish manner ten minutes though remonstrating himself pleasant dog took view legs profile much seeming pleasure interest still placidly engaged latter survey when mrs corney hurrying room threw herself breathless state chair fireside covering eyes one hand placed other heart gasped breath mrs corney said mr bumble stooping matron what ma am anything happened ma am pray answer mr bumble alarm immediately think word tenterhooks said broken bottles oh mr bumble cried lady dreadfully put put ma am exclaimed mr bumble who dared know said mr bumble checking himself native majesty wicious paupers dreadful think said lady shuddering don think ma am rejoined mr bumble help whimpered lady take something ma am said mr bumble soothingly little wine world replied mrs corney couldn oh top shelf right hand corner oh uttering words good lady pointed distractedly cupboard underwent convulsion internal spasms mr bumble rushed closet snatching pint green glass bottle shelf thus incoherently indicated filled tea cup contents held lady lips better now said mrs corney falling back after drinking half mr bumble raised eyes piously ceiling thankfulness bringing again brim cup lifted nose peppermint exclaimed mrs corney faint voice smiling gently beadle spoke try there little little something mr bumble tasted medicine doubtful look smacked lips took another taste put cup empty comforting said mrs corney much indeed ma am said beadle spoke drew chair beside matron tenderly inquired what happened distress nothing replied mrs corney am foolish excitable weak creetur weak ma am retorted mr bumble drawing chair little closer weak creetur mrs corney all weak creeturs said mrs corney laying general principle said beadle nothing said either side minute two afterwards expiration time mr bumble illustrated position removing left arm back mrs corney chair where previously rested mrs corney apron string round which gradually became entwined all weak creeturs said mr bumble mrs corney sighed don sigh mrs corney said mr bumble help said mrs corney sighed again comfortable room ma am said mr bumble looking round another room ma am complete thing much one murmured lady two ma am rejoined mr bumble soft accents eh mrs corney mrs corney drooped head when beadle said beadle drooped get view mrs corney face mrs corney great propriety turned head away released hand get pocket handkerchief insensibly replaced mr bumble board allows coals don mrs corney inquired beadle affectionately pressing hand candles replied mrs corney slightly returning pressure coals candles house rent free said mr bumble oh mrs corney what angel lady proof against burst feeling sank mr bumble arms gentleman agitation imprinted passionate kiss upon chaste nose porochial perfection exclaimed mr bumble rapturously know mr slout worse tonight fascinator yes replied mrs corney bashfully live week doctor says pursued mr bumble master establishment death cause wacancy wacancy must filled oh mrs corney what prospect opens what opportunity jining hearts housekeepings mrs corney sobbed little word said mr bumble bending bashful beauty one little little little word blessed corney ye ye yes sighed matron one more pursued beadle compose darling feelings only one more when come mrs corney twice essayed speak twice failed length summoning courage threw arms around mr bumble neck said soon ever pleased irresistible duck matters thus amicably satisfactorily arranged contract solemnly ratified another teacupful peppermint mixture which rendered more necessary flutter agitation lady spirits while disposed acquainted mr bumble old woman decease good said gentleman sipping peppermint ll call sowerberry go home tell send tomorrow morning frightened love wasn anything particular dear said lady evasively must something love urged mr bumble won tell own now rejoined lady one days after re married dear after re married exclaimed mr bumble wasn any impudence any male paupers love interposed lady hastily thought continued mr bumble thought any one em dared lift wulgar eyes lovely countenance wouldn dared love responded lady better said mr bumble clenching fist let see any man porochial extra porochial presume tell wouldn second time unembellished any violence gesticulation seemed high compliment lady charms mr bumble accompanied threat many warlike gestures much touched proof devotion protested great admiration indeed dove dove turned coat collar put cocked hat exchanged long affectionate embrace future partner once again braved cold wind night merely pausing few minutes male paupers ward abuse little view satisfying himself fill office workhouse master needful acerbity assured qualifications mr bumble left building light heart bright visions future promotion which served occupy mind until reached shop undertaker now mr mrs sowerberry gone tea supper noah claypole any time disposed take upon himself greater amount physical exertion necessary convenient performance two functions eating drinking shop closed although past usual hour shutting mr bumble tapped cane counter several times attracting attention beholding light shining through glass window little parlour back shop made bold peep see what going forward when saw what going forward little surprised cloth laid supper table covered bread butter plates glasses porter pot wine bottle upper end table mr noah claypole lolled negligently easy chair legs thrown one arms open clasp knife one hand mass buttered bread other close beside stood charlotte opening oysters barrel which mr claypole condescended swallow remarkable avidity more ordinary redness region young gentleman nose kind fixed wink right eye denoted slight degree intoxicated symptoms confirmed intense relish which took oysters which nothing strong appreciation cooling properties cases internal fever sufficiently accounted here delicious fat one noah dear said charlotte try only one what delicious thing oyster remarked mr claypole after swallowed what pity number em ever make feel uncomfortable isn charlotte quite cruelty said charlotte acquiesced mr claypole yer fond oysters overmuch replied charlotte like see eat em noah dear better eating em myself lor said noah reflectively how queer another said charlotte here one beautiful delicate beard manage any more said noah sorry come here charlotte ll kiss yer what said mr bumble bursting room say again sir charlotte uttered scream hid face apron mr claypole without making any further change position suffering legs reach ground gazed beadle drunken terror say again wile owdacious fellow said mr bumble how dare mention thing sir how dare encourage insolent minx kiss exclaimed mr bumble strong indignation faugh didn mean said noah blubbering always kissing whether like oh noah cried charlotte reproachfully yer yer know yer retorted noah always doin mr bumble sir chucks chin please sir makes all manner love silence cried mr bumble sternly take yourself downstairs ma am noah shut shop say another word till master comes home peril when come home tell mr bumble said send old woman shell after breakfast tomorrow morning hear sir kissing cried mr bumble holding hands sin wickedness lower orders porochial district frightful parliament don take abominable courses consideration country ruined character peasantry gone ever words beadle strode lofty gloomy air undertaker premises now accompanied far road home made all necessary preparations old woman funeral let us set foot few inquires after young oliver twist ascertain whether still lying ditch where toby crackit left chapter xxviii looks after oliver proceeds adventures wolves tear throats muttered sikes grinding teeth wish among some howl hoarser sikes growled forth imprecation most desperate ferocity desperate nature capable rested body wounded boy across bended knee turned head instant look back pursuers there little made mist darkness loud shouting men vibrated through air barking neighbouring dogs roused sound alarm bell resounded every direction stop white livered hound cried robber shouting after toby crackit who making best use long legs already ahead stop repetition word brought toby dead stand still quite satisfied beyond range pistol shot sikes mood played bear hand boy cried sikes beckoning furiously confederate come back toby made show returning ventured low voice broken want breath intimate considerable reluctance came slowly along quicker cried sikes laying boy dry ditch feet drawing pistol pocket don play booty moment noise grew louder sikes again looking round discern men who given chase already climbing gate field which stood couple dogs some paces advance all bill cried toby drop kid show em heels parting advice mr crackit preferring chance shot friend certainty taken enemies fairly turned tail darted full speed sikes clenched teeth took one look around threw prostrate form oliver cape which hurriedly muffled ran along front hedge distract attention behind spot where boy lay paused second before another hedge which met right angles whirling pistol high air cleared bound gone ho ho there cried tremulous voice rear pincher neptune come here come here dogs who common masters seemed particular relish sport which engaged readily answered command three men who time advanced some distance field stopped take counsel together advice leastways say orders said fattest man party mediately go home again am agreeable anything which agreeable mr giles said shorter man who means slim figure who pale face polite frightened men frequently shouldn wish appear ill mannered gentlemen said third who called dogs back mr giles ought know certainly replied shorter man whatever mr giles says isn place contradict know sitiwation thank stars know sitiwation tell truth little man seem know situation know perfectly well means desirable one teeth chattered head spoke afraid brittles said mr giles said brittles said giles re falsehood mr giles said brittles re lie brittles said mr giles now four retorts arose mr giles taunt mr giles taunt arisen indignation responsibility going home again imposed upon himself cover compliment third man brought dispute close most philosophically ll tell what gentlemen said re all afraid speak yourself sir said mr giles who palest party replied man natural proper afraid circumstances am am said brittles only there call tell man bounceably frank admissions softened mr giles who once owned afraid upon which all three faced ran back again completest unanimity until mr giles who shortest wind party encumbered pitchfork most handsomely insisted stopping make apology hastiness speech wonderful said mr giles when explained what man when blood committed murder know caught one rascals other two impressed similar presentiment blood like all gone again some speculation ensued upon cause sudden change temperament know what said mr giles gate shouldn wonder exclaimed brittles catching idea depend upon said giles gate stopped flow excitement felt all mine suddenly going away climbing remarkable coincidence other two visited same unpleasant sensation precise moment quite obvious therefore gate especially there doubt regarding time which change taken place because all three remembered come sight robbers instant occurance dialogue held between two men who surprised burglars travelling tinker who sleeping outhouse who roused together two mongrel curs join pursuit mr giles acted double capacity butler steward old lady mansion brittles lad all work who entered service mere child treated promising young boy still though something past thirty encouraging each other converse keeping close together notwithstanding looking apprehensively round whenever fresh gust rattled through boughs three men hurried back tree behind which left lantern lest light inform thieves what direction fire catching light made best way home good round trot long after dusky forms ceased discernible light seen twinkling dancing distance like some exhalation damp gloomy atmosphere through which swiftly borne air grew colder day came slowly mist rolled along ground like dense cloud smoke grass wet pathways low places all mire water damp breath unwholesome wind went languidly hollow moaning still oliver lay motionless insensible spot where sikes left morning drew apace air became more sharp piercing first dull hue death night rather birth day glimmered faintly sky objects which looked dim terrible darkness grew more more defined gradually resolved familiar shapes rain came thick fast pattered noisily among leafless bushes oliver felt beat against still lay stretched helpless unconscious bed clay length low cry pain broke stillness prevailed uttering boy awoke left arm rudely bandaged shawl hung heavy useless side bandage saturated blood weak scarcely raise himself sitting posture when looked feebly round help groaned pain trembling every joint cold exhaustion made effort stand upright shuddering head foot fell prostrate ground after short return stupor which long plunged oliver urged creeping sickness heart which seemed warn lay there must surely die got upon feet essayed walk head dizzy staggered fro like drunken man kept nevertheless head drooping languidly breast went stumbling onward knew whither now hosts bewildering confused ideas came crowding mind seemed still walking between sikes crackit who angrily disputing words said sounded ears when caught own attention making some violent effort save himself falling found talking alone sikes plodding previous day shadowy people passed felt robber grasp upon wrist suddenly started back report firearms there rose air loud cries shouts lights gleamed before eyes all noise tumult some unseen hand bore hurriedly away through all rapid visions there ran undefined uneasy consciousness pain which wearied tormented incessantly thus staggered creeping almost mechanically between bars gates through hedge gaps came way until reached road here rain began fall heavily roused looked saw great distance there house which perhaps reach pitying condition compassion better thought die near human beings lonely open fields summoned all strength one last trial bent faltering steps towards drew nearer house feeling come seen before remembered nothing details shape aspect building seemed familiar garden wall grass inside fallen knees last night prayed two men mercy house attempted rob oliver felt fear come when recognised place instant forgot agony wound thought only flight flight scarcely stand full possession all best powers slight youthful frame whither fly pushed against garden gate unlocked swung open hinges tottered across lawn climbed steps knocked faintly door whole strength failing sunk against one pillars little portico happened time mr giles brittles tinker recruiting themselves after fatigues terrors night tea sundries kitchen mr giles habit admit great familiarity humbler servants towards whom rather wont deport himself lofty affability which while gratified fail remind superior position society death fires burglary make all men equals mr giles sat legs stretched before kitchen fender leaning left arm table while right illustrated circumstantial minute account robbery which hearers especially cook housemaid who party listened breathless interest half past two said mr giles wouldn swear mightn little nearer three when woke turning round bed here mr giles turned round chair pulled corner table cloth imitate bed clothes fancied heerd noise point narrative cook turned pale asked housemaid shut door who asked brittles who asked tinker who pretended hear heerd noise continued mr giles says first illusion composing myself sleep when heerd noise again distinct what sort noise asked cook kind busting noise replied mr giles looking round more like noise powdering iron bar nutmeg grater suggested brittles when heerd sir rejoined mr giles time busting sound turned clothes continued giles rolling back table cloth sat bed listened cook housemaid simultaneously ejaculated lor drew chairs closer together heerd now quite apparent resumed mr giles somebody says forcing door window what ll call poor lad brittles save murdered bed throat says cut right ear left without ever knowing here all eyes turned upon brittles who fixed upon speaker stared mouth wide open face expressive most unmitigated horror tossed clothes said giles throwing away table cloth looking hard cook housemaid got softly bed drew pair ladies present mr giles murmured tinker shoes sir said giles turning upon laying great emphasis word seized loaded pistol always goes upstairs plate basket walked tiptoes room brittles says when woke don frightened observed brittles low voice re dead men think brittles says continued giles don frightened frightened asked cook bit replied mr giles firm ah pretty near firm died once sure observed housemaid re woman retorted brittles plucking little brittles right said mr giles nodding head approvingly woman nothing expected men took dark lantern standing brittle hob groped way downstairs pitch dark mr giles risen seat taken two steps eyes shut accompany description appropriate action when started violently common rest company hurried back chair cook housemaid screamed knock said mr giles assuming perfect serenity open door somebody nobody moved seems strange sort thing knock coming time morning said mr giles surveying pale faces which surrounded looking blank himself door must opened hear somebody mr giles spoke looked brittles young man naturally modest probably considered himself nobody held inquiry any application all events tendered reply mr giles directed appealing glance tinker suddenly fallen asleep women question brittles rather open door presence witnesses said mr giles after short silence am ready make one am said tinker waking suddenly fallen asleep brittles capitulated terms party somewhat re assured discovery made throwing open shutters now broad day took way upstairs dogs front two women who afraid stay below brought rear advice mr giles all talked loud warn any evil disposed person outside strong numbers master stoke policy originating brain same ingenious gentleman dogs tails well pinched hall make bark savagely precautions taken mr giles held fast tinker arm prevent running away pleasantly said gave word command open door brittles obeyed group peeping timorously each other shoulders beheld more formidable object poor little oliver twist speechless exhausted who raised heavy eyes mutely solicited compassion boy exclaimed mr giles valiantly pushing tinker background what matter eh why brittles look here don know brittles who got behind door open sooner saw oliver uttered loud cry mr giles seizing boy one leg one arm fortunately broken limb lugged straight hall deposited full length floor thereof here bawled giles calling state great excitement staircase here one thieves ma am here thief miss wounded miss shot miss brittles held light lantern miss cried brittles applying one hand side mouth voice travel better two women servants ran upstairs carry intelligence mr giles captured robber tinker busied himself endeavouring restore oliver lest die before hanged midst all noise commotion there heard sweet female voice which quelled instant giles whispered voice stair head here miss replied mr giles don frightened miss ain much injured didn make desperate resistance miss soon many hush replied young lady frighten aunt much thieves poor creature much hurt wounded desperate miss replied giles indescribable complacency looks going miss bawled brittles same manner before wouldn like come look miss case hush pray there good man rejoined lady wait quietly only one instant while speak aunt footstep soft gentle voice speaker tripped away soon returned direction wounded person carried carefully upstairs mr giles room brittles saddle pony betake himself instantly chertsey which place despatch all speed constable doctor won take one look first miss asked mr giles much pride oliver some bird rare plumage skilfully brought one little peep miss now world replied young lady poor fellow oh treat kindly giles sake old servant looked speaker turned away glance proud admiring own child bending oliver helped carry upstairs care solicitude woman chapter xxix introductory account inmates house which oliver resorted handsome room though furniture rather air old fashioned comfort modern elegance there sat two ladies well spread breakfast table mr giles dressed scrupulous care full suit black attendance upon taken station some half way between side board breakfast table body drawn full height head thrown back inclined merest trifle one side left leg advanced right hand thrust waist coat while left hung side grasping waiter looked like one who laboured agreeable sense own merits importance two ladies one well advanced years high backed oaken chair which sat more upright dressed utmost nicety precision quaint mixture gone costume some slight concessions prevailing taste which rather served point old style pleasantly impair effect sat stately manner hands folded table before eyes age dimmed little brightness attentively upon young companion younger lady lovely bloom spring time womanhood age when ever angels god good purposes enthroned mortal forms without impiety supposed abide hers past seventeen cast slight exquisite mould mild gentle pure beautiful earth seemed element nor rough creatures fit companions intelligence shone deep blue eye stamped upon noble head seemed scarcely age world yet changing expression sweetness good humour thousand lights played face left shadow there above all smile cheerful happy smile made home fireside peace happiness busily engaged little offices table chancing raise eyes elder lady regarding playfully put back hair which simply braided forehead threw beaming look expression affection artless loveliness blessed spirits smiled look upon brittles gone upwards hour asked old lady after pause hour twelve minutes ma am replied mr giles referring silver watch which drew forth black ribbon always slow remarked old lady brittles always slow boy ma am replied attendant seeing bye brittles slow boy upwards thirty years there appeared great probability ever fast one gets worse instead better think said elder lady inexcusable stops play any other boys said young lady smiling mr giles apparently considering propriety indulging respectful smile himself when gig drove garden gate which there jumped fat gentleman who ran straight door who getting quickly house some mysterious process burst room nearly overturned mr giles breakfast table together never heard thing exclaimed fat gentleman dear mrs maylie bless soul silence night never heard thing expressions condolence fat gentleman shook hands both ladies drawing chair inquired how found themselves ought dead positively dead fright said fat gentleman why didn send bless man come minute assistant delighted anybody sure circumstances dear dear unexpected silence night doctor seemed especially troubled fact robbery unexpected attempted night time established custom gentlemen housebreaking way transact business noon make appointment post day two previous miss rose said doctor turning young lady oh much indeed said rose interrupting there poor creature upstairs whom aunt wishes see ah sure replied doctor there handiwork giles understand mr giles who feverishly putting tea cups rights blushed red said honour honour eh said doctor well don know perhaps honourable hit thief back kitchen hit man twelve paces fancy fired air ve fought duel giles mr giles who thought light treatment matter unjust attempt diminishing glory answered respectfully like judge rather thought joke opposite party gad true said doctor where show way ll look again come mrs maylie little window got eh well couldn believed talking all way followed mr giles upstairs while going upstairs reader informed mr losberne surgeon neighbourhood known through circuit ten miles round doctor grown fat more good humour good living kind hearty withal eccentric old bachelor found five times space any explorer alive doctor absent much longer either ladies anticipated large flat box fetched gig bedroom bell rung often servants ran stairs perpetually which tokens justly concluded something important going above length returned reply anxious inquiry after patient looked mysterious closed door carefully extraordinary thing mrs maylie said doctor standing back door keep shut danger hope said old lady why extraordinary thing circumstances replied doctor though don think seen thief rejoined old lady nor heard anything beg pardon ma am interposed mr giles going tell when doctor losberne came fact mr giles first able bring mind avowal only shot boy commendations bestowed upon bravery life help postponing explanation few delicious minutes during which flourished zenith brief reputation undaunted courage rose wished see man said mrs maylie wouldn hear humph rejoined doctor there nothing alarming appearance any objection see presence necessary replied old lady certainly think necessary said doctor all events am quite sure deeply regret postponed perfectly quiet comfortable now allow miss rose permit slightest fear pledge honour chapter xxx relates what oliver new visitors thought many loquacious assurances agreeably surprised aspect criminal doctor drew young lady arm through one offering disengaged hand mrs maylie led much ceremony stateliness upstairs now said doctor whisper softly turned handle bedroom door let us hear what think shaved recently don look all ferocious notwithstanding stop though let first see visiting order stepping before looked room motioning advance closed door when entered gently drew back curtains bed upon lieu dogged black visaged ruffian expected behold there lay mere child worn pain exhaustion sunk deep sleep wounded arm bound splintered crossed upon breast head reclined upon other arm which half hidden long hair streamed pillow honest gentleman held curtain hand looked minute silence whilst watching patient thus younger lady glided softly past seating herself chair bedside gathered oliver hair face stooped tears fell upon forehead boy stirred smiled sleep though marks pity compassion awakened some pleasant dream love affection never known thus strain gentle music rippling water silent place odour flower mention familiar word sometimes call sudden dim remembrances scenes never life which vanish like breath which some brief memory happier existence long gone seem awakened which voluntary exertion mind ever recall what mean exclaimed elder lady poor child never pupil robbers vice said surgeon replacing curtain takes abode many temples who say fair outside shall enshrine early age urged rose dear young lady rejoined surgeon mournfully shaking head crime like death confined old withered alone youngest fairest often chosen victims oh really believe delicate boy voluntary associate worst outcasts society said rose surgeon shook head manner which intimated feared possible observing disturb patient led way adjoining apartment even wicked pursued rose think how young think never known mother love comfort home ill usage blows want bread driven herd men who forced guilt aunt dear aunt mercy sake think before let drag sick child prison which any case must grave all chances amendment oh love know never felt want parents goodness affection equally helpless unprotected poor child pity upon before late dear love said elder lady folded weeping girl bosom think harm hair head oh replied rose eagerly surely said old lady days drawing close mercy shown show others what save sir let think ma am said doctor let think mr losberne thrust hands pockets took several turns room often stopping balancing himself toes frowning frightfully after various exclamations ve got now haven many renewals walking frowning length made dead halt spoke follows think give full unlimited commission bully giles little boy brittles manage giles faithful fellow old servant know make thousand ways reward good shot besides don object unless there some other way preserving child replied mrs maylie there other said doctor other take word aunt invests full power said rose smiling through tears pray don harder upon poor fellows indispensably necessary seem think retorted doctor everybody disposed hard hearted today except yourself miss rose only hope sake rising male sex generally found vulnerable soft hearted mood first eligible young fellow who appeals compassion wish young fellow avail myself spot favourable opportunity doing present great boy poor brittles himself returned rose blushing well said doctor laughing heartily difficult matter return boy great point agreement yet come wake hour dare say although told thick headed constable fellow downstairs musn moved spoken peril life think converse without danger now make stipulation shall examine presence what says judge show satisfaction cool reason real thorough bad one which more possible shall left fate without any farther interference part all events oh aunt entreated rose oh yes aunt said doctor bargain cannot hardened vice said rose impossible good retorted doctor much more reason acceding proposition finally treaty entered parties thereunto sat wait some impatience until oliver awake patience two ladies destined undergo longer trial mr losberne led expect hour after hour passed still oliver slumbered heavily evening indeed before kind hearted doctor brought intelligence length sufficiently restored spoken boy ill said weak loss blood mind troubled anxiety disclose something deemed better give opportunity insist upon remaining quiet until next morning which otherwise conference long one oliver told all simple history often compelled stop pain want strength solemn thing hear darkened room feeble voice sick child recounting weary catalogue evils calamities which hard men brought upon oh when oppress grind fellow creatures bestowed one thought dark evidences human error which like dense heavy clouds rising slowly true less surely heaven pour after vengeance heads heard one instant imagination deep testimony dead men voices which power stifle pride shut where injury injustice suffering misery cruelty wrong each day life brings oliver pillow smoothed gentle hands night loveliness virtue watched slept felt calm happy died without murmur momentous interview sooner concluded oliver composed rest again doctor after wiping eyes condemning weak all once betook himself downstairs open upon mr giles finding nobody parlours occurred perhaps originate proceedings better effect kitchen kitchen went there assembled lower house domestic parliament women servants mr brittles mr giles tinker who received special invitation regale himself remainder day consideration services constable latter gentleman large staff large head large features large half boots looked taking proportionate allowance ale indeed adventures previous night still discussion mr giles expatiating upon presence mind when doctor entered mr brittles mug ale hand corroborating everything before superior said sit still said doctor waving hand thank sir said mr giles misses wished some ale given sir felt ways inclined own little room sir disposed company am taking mine among em here brittles headed low murmur which ladies gentlemen generally understood express gratification derived mr giles condescension mr giles looked round patronising air much say long behaved properly never desert how patient tonight sir asked giles returned doctor am afraid got yourself scrape there mr giles hope don mean say sir said mr giles trembling going die thought never happy again wouldn cut boy even brittles here all plate county sir point said doctor mysteriously mr giles protestant yes sir hope faltered mr giles who turned pale what boy said doctor turning sharply upon brittles lord bless sir replied brittles starting violently same mr giles sir tell said doctor both both going take upon yourselves swear boy upstairs boy put through little window last night come prepared doctor who universally considered one best tempered creatures earth made demand dreadful tone anger giles brittles who considerably muddled ale excitement stared each other state stupefaction pay attention reply constable said doctor shaking forefinger great solemnity manner tapping bridge nose bespeak exercise worthy utmost acuteness something come before long constable looked wise took staff office which reclining indolently chimney corner simple question identity observe said doctor what sir replied constable coughing great violence finished ale hurry some gone wrong way here house broken said doctor couple men catch one moment glimpse boy midst gunpowder smoke all distraction alarm darkness here boy comes same house next morning because happens arm tied men lay violent hands upon doing which place life great danger swear thief now question whether men justified fact what situation place themselves constable nodded profoundly said wasn law glad know what ask again thundered doctor solemn oaths able identify boy brittles looked doubtfully mr giles mr giles looked doubtfully brittles constable put hand behind ear catch reply two women tinker leaned forward listen doctor glanced keenly round when ring heard gate same moment sound wheels runners cried brittles all appearance much relieved what exclaimed doctor aghast turn bow street officers sir replied brittles taking candle mr giles sent em morning what cried doctor yes replied brittles sent message coachman only wonder weren here before sir confound slow coaches here all said doctor walking away chapter xxxi involves critical position who inquired brittles opening door little way chain peeping shading candle hand open door replied man outside officers bow street sent today much comforted assurance brittles opened door full width confronted portly man great coat who walked without saying anything more wiped shoes mat coolly lived there just send somebody relieve mate young man said officer gig minding prad got coach us here put five ten minutes brittles replying affirmative pointing building portly man stepped back garden gate helped companion put gig while brittles lighted state great admiration returned house shown parlour took great coats hats showed like what man who knocked door stout personage middle height aged fifty shiny black hair cropped pretty close half whiskers round face sharp eyes other red headed bony man top boots rather ill favoured countenance turned sinister looking nose tell governor blathers duff here said stouter man smoothing hair laying pair handcuffs table oh good evening master word two private please addressed mr losberne who now made appearance gentleman motioning brittles retire brought two ladies shut door lady house said mr losberne motioning towards mrs maylie mr blathers made bow desired sit put hat floor taking chair motioned duff same latter gentleman who appear quite much accustomed good society quite much ease one two seated himself after undergoing several muscular affections limbs head stick mouth some embarrassment now regard here robbery master said blathers what circumstances mr losberne who appeared desirous gaining time recounted great length much circumlocution messrs blathers duff looked knowing meanwhile occasionally exchanged nod say certain till see work course said blathers opinion once don mind committing myself extent wasn yokel eh duff certainly replied duff translating word yokel benefit ladies apprehend meaning attempt made countryman said mr losberne smile master replied blathers all robbery all replied doctor now what here boy servants talking said blathers nothing all replied doctor one frightened servants chose take head something attempt break house nonsense sheer absurdity wery easy disposed remarked duff what says quite correct observed blathers nodding head confirmatory way playing carelessly handcuffs pair castanets who boy what account give himself where come didn drop clouds master course replied doctor nervous glance two ladies know whole history talk presently like first see place where thieves made attempt suppose certainly rejoined mr blathers better inspect premises first examine servants afterwards usual way doing business lights procured messrs blathers duff attended native constable brittles giles everybody short went little room end passage looked window afterwards went round way lawn looked window after candle handed inspect shutter after lantern trace footsteps after pitchfork poke bushes amidst breathless interest all beholders came again mr giles brittles put through melodramatic representation share previous night adventures which performed some six times contradicting each other more one important respect first time more dozen last consummation arrived blathers duff cleared room held long council together compared which secrecy solemnity consultation great doctors knottiest point medicine mere child play meanwhile doctor walked next room uneasy state mrs maylie rose looked anxious faces upon word said making halt after great number rapid turns hardly know what surely said rose poor child story faithfully repeated men sufficient exonerate doubt dear young lady said doctor shaking head don think exonerate either legal functionaries higher grade what after all say runaway judged mere worldly considerations probabilities story doubtful one believe surely interrupted rose believe strange perhaps old fool doing rejoined doctor don think exactly tale practical police officer nevertheless why demanded rose because pretty cross examiner replied doctor because viewed eyes there many ugly points only prove parts look ill none look well confound fellows why wherefore take nothing granted own showing see companion thieves some time past carried police officer charge picking gentleman pocket taken away forcibly gentleman house place which cannot describe point situation which remotest idea brought chertsey men who seem taken violent fancy whether put through window rob house just moment when going alarm inmates thing set all rights there rushes way blundering dog half bred butler shoots purpose prevent doing any good himself don see all see course replied rose smiling doctor impetuosity still see anything criminate poor child replied doctor course bless bright eyes sex never see whether good bad more one side any question always one which first presents itself given vent result experience doctor put hands pockets walked room even greater rapidity before more think said doctor more see occasion endless trouble difficulty put men possession boy real story am certain believed even nothing end still dragging forward giving publicity all doubts cast upon must interfere materially benevolent plan rescuing misery oh what cried rose dear dear why send people why indeed exclaimed mrs maylie here world all know said mr losberne last sitting kind desperate calmness must try carry bold face object good one must excuse boy strong symptoms fever upon condition talked any more one comfort must make best bad best fault come well master said blathers entering room followed colleague making door fast before said any more warn put thing what devil put thing demanded doctor impatiently call put robbery ladies said blathers turning pitied ignorance contempt doctor when servants nobody suspected case said mrs maylie wery likely ma am replied blathers all more likely wery account said duff find town hand said blathers continuing report style work first rate wery pretty indeed remarked duff undertone there two em continued blathers boy em plain size window all said present ll see lad ve got upstairs once please perhaps take something drink first mrs maylie said doctor face brightening some new thought occurred oh sure exclaimed rose eagerly shall immediately why thank miss said blathers drawing coat sleeve across mouth dry work sort duty anythink handy miss don put yourself way accounts what shall asked doctor following young lady sideboard little drop spirits master all same replied blathers cold ride london ma am always find spirits comes home warmer feelings interesting communication addressed mrs maylie who received graciously while conveyed doctor slipped room ah said mr blathers holding wine glass stem grasping bottom between thumb forefinger left hand placing front chest seen good many pieces business like time ladies crack back lane edmonton blathers said mr duff assisting colleague memory something way warn rejoined mr blathers conkey chickweed always gave replied duff family pet tell conkey hadn any more get retorted mr blathers know better mind time when conkey robbed money though what start better any novel book ever see what inquired rose anxious encourage any symptoms good humour unwelcome visitors robbery miss hardly anybody upon said blathers here conkey chickweed conkey means nosey ma am interposed duff course lady knows don demanded mr blathers always interrupting partner here conkey chickweed miss kept public house battlebridge way cellar where good many young lords went see cock fighting badger drawing wery intellectual manner sports conducted ve seen em en warn one family time one night robbed three hundred twenty seven guineas canvas bag stole bedroom dead night tall man black patch eye who concealed himself bed after committing robbery jumped slap window which only story high wery quick conkey quick fired blunderbuss arter roused neighbourhood set hue cry directly when came look em found conkey hit robber there traces blood all way some palings good distance there lost em however made blunt consequently name mr chickweed licensed witler appeared gazette among other bankrupts all manner benefits subscriptions don know what all got poor man who wery low state mind loss went streets three four days pulling hair desperate manner many people afraid going make away himself one day came office all hurry private interview magistrate who after deal talk rings bell orders jem spyers jem active officer tells go assist mr chickweed apprehending man robbed house see spyers said chickweed pass house yesterday morning why didn collar says spyers struck all heap fractured skull toothpick says poor man re sure between ten eleven clock night passed again spyers sooner heard put some clean linen comb pocket case stop day two away goes sets himself one public house windows behind little red curtain hat all ready bolt moment notice smoking pipe here late night when all sudden chickweed roars here stop thief murder jem spyers dashes there sees chickweed tearing street full cry away goes spyers goes chickweed round turns people everybody roars thieves chickweed himself keeps shouting all time like mad spyers loses sight minute turns corner shoots round sees little crowd dives which man says chickweed ve lost again remarkable occurrence warn seen nowhere went back public house next morning spyers took old place looked behind curtain tall man black patch eye till own two eyes ached again last couldn help shutting em ease em minute moment hears chickweed roaring here starts once more chickweed half way street ahead after twice long run yesterday one man lost again once twice more till one half neighbours gave mr chickweed robbed devil who playing tricks arterwards other half poor mr chickweed gone mad grief what jem spyers say inquired doctor who returned room shortly after commencement story jem spyers resumed officer long time said nothing all listened everything without seeming which showed understood business one morning walked bar taking snuffbox says chickweed ve found who here robbery said chickweed oh dear spyers only let wengeance shall die contented oh dear spyers where villain come said spyers offering pinch snuff none gammon yourself good bit money made nobody never found hadn precious anxious keep appearances said mr blathers putting wine glass clinking handcuffs together curious indeed observed doctor now please walk upstairs please sir returned mr blathers closely following mr losberne two officers ascended oliver bedroom mr giles preceding party lighted candle oliver dozing looked worse more feverish appeared yet assisted doctor managed sit bed minute looked strangers without all understanding what going forward fact without seeming recollect where what passing said mr losberne speaking softly great vehemence notwithstanding lad who accidently wounded spring gun some boyish trespass mr what ye call grounds back here comes house assistance morning immediately laid hold maltreated ingenious gentleman candle hand who placed life considerable danger professionally certify messrs blathers duff looked mr giles thus recommended notice bewildered butler gazed towards oliver oliver towards mr losberne most ludicrous mixture fear perplexity don mean deny suppose said doctor laying oliver gently again all best sir answered giles am sure thought boy wouldn meddled am inhuman disposition sir thought what boy inquired senior officer housebreaker boy sir replied giles certainly boy well think now inquired blathers think what now replied giles looking vacantly questioner think same boy stupid head rejoined blathers impatiently don know really don know said giles rueful countenance couldn swear what think asked mr blathers don know what think replied poor giles don think boy indeed almost certain isn know man drinking sir inquired blathers turning doctor what precious muddle headed chap said duff addressing mr giles supreme contempt mr losberne feeling patient pulse during short dialogue now rose chair bedside remarked officers any doubts upon subject perhaps like step next room brittles before acting upon suggestion adjourned neighbouring apartment where mr brittles called involved himself respected superior wonderful maze fresh contradictions impossibilities tended throw particular light anything fact own strong mystification except indeed declarations shouldn know real boy put before instant only taken oliver because mr giles said mr giles five minutes previously admitted kitchen began much afraid little hasty among other ingenious surmises question raised whether mr giles really hit anybody upon examination fellow pistol which fired turned more destructive loading gunpowder brown paper discovery which made considerable impression everybody doctor who drawn ball ten minutes before upon one however make greater impression mr giles himself who after labouring some hours fear mortally wounded fellow creature eagerly caught new idea favoured utmost finally officers without troubling themselves much oliver left chertsey constable house took rest night town promising return next morning next morning there came rumour two men boy cage kingston who apprehended night suspicious circumstances kingston messrs blathers duff journeyed accordingly suspicious circumstances however resolving themselves investigation one fact discovered sleeping haystack which although great crime only punishable imprisonment merciful eye english law comprehensive love all king subjects held satisfactory proof absence all other evidence sleeper sleepers committed burglary accompanied violence therefore rendered themselves liable punishment death messrs blathers duff came back again wise went short after some more examination great deal more conversation neighbouring magistrate readily induced take joint bail mrs maylie mr losberne oliver appearance ever called upon blathers duff rewarded couple guineas returned town divided opinions subject expedition latter gentleman mature consideration all circumstances inclining belief burglarious attempt originated family pet former equally disposed concede full merit great mr conkey chickweed meanwhile oliver gradually throve prospered united care mrs maylie rose kind hearted mr losberne fervent prayers gushing hearts overcharged gratitude heard heaven what prayers blessings which orphan child called upon sunk souls diffusing peace happiness chapter xxxii happy life oliver began lead kind friends oliver ailings neither slight nor few addition pain delay attendant broken limb exposure wet cold brought fever ague which hung many weeks reduced sadly length began slow degrees get better able say sometimes few tearful words how deeply felt goodness two sweet ladies how ardently hoped when grew strong well again something show gratitude only something which let see love duty which breast full something however slight which prove gentle kindness cast away poor boy whom charity rescued misery death eager serve whole heart soul poor fellow said rose when oliver one day feebly endeavouring utter words thankfulness rose pale lips shall many opportunities serving us going country aunt intends shall accompany us quiet place pure air all pleasure beauties spring restore few days employ hundred ways when bear trouble trouble cried oliver oh dear lady work only give pleasure watering flowers watching birds running whole day long make happy what give shall give nothing all said miss maylie smiling told before shall employ hundred ways only take half trouble please us promise now make happy indeed happy ma am cried oliver how kind say make happier tell replied young lady think dear good aunt means rescuing any one sad misery described us unspeakable pleasure know object goodness compassion sincerely grateful attached consequence delight more well imagine understand inquired watching oliver thoughtful face oh yes ma am yes replied oliver eagerly thinking am ungrateful now whom inquired young lady kind gentleman dear old nurse who took much care before rejoined oliver knew how happy am pleased am sure am sure rejoined oliver benefactress mr losberne already kind enough promise when well enough bear journey carry see ma am cried oliver face brightening pleasure don know what shall joy when see kind faces once again short time oliver sufficiently recovered undergo fatigue expedition one morning mr losberne set accordingly little carriage which belonged mrs maylie when came chertsey bridge oliver turned pale uttered loud exclamation what matter boy cried doctor usual all bustle see anything hear anything feel anything eh sir cried oliver pointing carriage window house yes well what stop coachman pull here cried doctor what house man eh thieves house took whispered oliver devil cried doctor hallo there let before coachman dismount box tumbled coach some means other running deserted tenement began kicking door like madman halloa said little ugly hump backed man opening door suddenly doctor impetus last kick nearly fell forward passage what matter here matter exclaimed other collaring without moment reflection good deal robbery matter there ll murder matter replied hump backed man coolly don take hands hear hear said doctor giving captive hearty shake where confound fellow what rascally name sikes where sikes thief hump backed man stared excess amazement indignation twisting himself dexterously doctor grasp growled forth volley horrid oaths retired house before shut door however doctor passed parlour without word parley looked anxiously round article furniture vestige anything animate inanimate even position cupboards answered oliver description now said hump backed man who watched keenly what mean coming house violent way want rob murder which ever know man come either chariot pair ridiculous old vampire said irritable doctor what want demanded hunchback take yourself before mischief curse soon think proper said mr losberne looking other parlour which like first bore resemblance whatever oliver account shall find some day friend sneered ill favoured cripple ever want here haven lived here mad all alone five twenty years scared shall pay shall pay saying mis shapen little demon set yell danced upon ground wild rage stupid enough muttered doctor himself boy must made mistake here put pocket shut yourself again words flung hunchback piece money returned carriage man followed chariot door uttering wildest imprecations curses all way mr losberne turned speak driver looked carriage eyed oliver instant glance sharp fierce same time furious vindictive waking sleeping forget months afterwards continued utter most fearful imprecations until driver resumed seat when once more way see some distance behind beating feet upon ground tearing hair transports real pretended rage am ass said doctor after long silence know before oliver sir don forget another time ass said doctor again after further silence some minutes even right place right fellows there what single handed assistance see good except leading own exposure unavoidable statement manner which hushed business served right though am always involving myself some scrape other acting impulse good now fact excellent doctor never acted upon anything impulse all through life bad compliment nature impulses which governed far involved any peculiar troubles misfortunes warmest respect esteem all who knew truth must told little temper minute two disappointed procuring corroborative evidence oliver story first occasion which chance obtaining any soon came round again however finding oliver replies questions still straightforward consistent still delivered much apparent sincerity truth ever made mind attach full credence time forth oliver knew name street which mr brownlow resided enabled drive straight thither when coach turned heart beat violently scarcely draw breath now boy which house inquired mr losberne replied oliver pointing eagerly window white house oh make haste pray make haste feel die makes tremble come come said good doctor patting shoulder see directly overjoyed find safe well oh hope cried oliver good good coach rolled stopped wrong house next door went few paces stopped again oliver looked windows tears happy expectation coursing face alas white house empty there bill window let knock next door cried mr losberne taking oliver arm what become mr brownlow who used live adjoining house know servant know go inquire presently returned said mr brownlow sold goods gone west indies six weeks before oliver clasped hands sank feebly backward housekeeper gone inquired mr losberne after moment pause yes sir replied servant old gentleman housekeeper gentleman who friend mr brownlow all went together turn towards home again said mr losberne driver don stop bait horses till get confounded london book stall keeper sir said oliver know way there see pray sir see poor boy disappointment enough one day said doctor quite enough both us go book stall keeper shall certainly find dead set house fire run away home again straight obedience doctor impulse home went bitter disappointment caused oliver much sorrow grief even midst happiness pleased himself many times during illness thinking all mr brownlow mrs bedwin say what delight tell how many long days nights passed reflecting what bewailing cruel separation hope eventually clearing himself explaining how forced away buoyed sustained many recent trials now idea gone far carried belief impostor robber belief which remain uncontradicted dying day almost more bear circumstance occasioned alteration however behaviour benefactors after another fortnight when fine warm weather fairly begun every tree flower putting forth young leaves rich blossoms made preparations quitting house chertsey some months sending plate which excited fagin cupidity banker leaving giles another servant care house departed cottage some distance country took oliver who describe pleasure delight peace mind soft tranquillity sickly boy felt balmy air among green hills rich woods inland village who tell how scenes peace quietude sink minds pain worn dwellers close noisy places carry own freshness deep jaded hearts men who lived crowded pent streets through lives toil who never wished change men whom custom indeed second nature who come almost love each brick stone formed narrow boundaries daily walks even hand death upon known yearn last one short glimpse nature face carried far scenes old pains pleasures seemed pass once new state crawling forth day day some green sunny spot memories wakened within sight sky hill plain glistening water foretaste heaven itself soothed quick decline sunk tombs peacefully sun whose setting watched lonely chamber window few hours before faded dim feeble sight memories which peaceful country scenes call world nor thoughts hopes gentle influence teach us how weave fresh garlands graves loved purify thoughts bear before old enmity hatred beneath all there lingers least reflective mind vague half formed consciousness held feelings long before some remote distant time which calls solemn thoughts distant times come bends pride worldliness beneath lovely spot which repaired oliver whose days spent among squalid crowds midst noise brawling seemed enter new existence there rose honeysuckle clung cottage walls ivy crept round trunks trees garden flowers perfumed air delicious odours hard little churchyard crowded tall unsightly gravestones full humble mounds covered fresh turf moss beneath which old people village lay rest oliver often wandered here thinking wretched grave which mother lay sometimes sit sob unseen when raised eyes deep sky overhead cease think lying ground weep sadly without pain happy time days peaceful serene nights brought neither fear nor care languishing wretched prison associating wretched men nothing pleasant happy thoughts every morning went white headed old gentleman who lived near little church who taught read better write who spoke kindly took pains oliver never try enough please walk mrs maylie rose hear talk books perhaps sit near some shady place listen whilst young lady read which until grew dark see letters own lesson next day prepare work hard little room which looked garden till evening came slowly when ladies walk again listening pleasure all said happy wanted flower climb reach forgotten anything run fetch never quick enough when became quite dark returned home young lady sit piano play some pleasant air sing low gentle voice some old song which pleased aunt hear there candles lighted times oliver sit one windows listening sweet music perfect rapture when sunday came how differently day spent any way which ever spent yet how happily like all other days most happy time there little church morning green leaves fluttering windows birds singing without sweet smelling air stealing low porch filling homely building fragrance poor people neat clean knelt reverently prayer seemed pleasure tedious duty assembling there together though singing rude real sounded more musical oliver ears least any ever heard church before there walks usual many calls clean houses labouring men night oliver read chapter two bible which studying all week performance which duty felt more proud pleased clergyman himself morning oliver foot six clock roaming fields plundering hedges far wide nosegays wild flowers which return laden home which took great care consideration arrange best advantage embellishment breakfast table there fresh groundsel miss maylie birds which oliver who studying subject able tuition village clerk decorate cages most approved taste when birds made all spruce smart day there usually some little commission charity execute village failing there rare cricket playing sometimes green failing there always something garden plants which oliver who studied science also same master who gardener trade applied himself hearty good until miss rose made appearance when there thousand commendations bestowed all three months glided away three months which life most blessed favoured mortals unmingled happiness which oliver true felicity purest most amiable generosity one side truest warmest soul felt gratitude other wonder end short time oliver twist become completely domesticated old lady niece fervent attachment young sensitive heart repaid pride attachment himself chapter xxxiii wherein happiness oliver friends experiences sudden check spring flew swiftly summer came village beautiful first now full glow luxuriance richness great trees which looked shrunken bare earlier months now burst strong life health stretching forth green arms thirsty ground converted open naked spots choice nooks where deep pleasant shade which look upon wide prospect steeped sunshine which lay stretched beyond earth donned mantle brightest green shed richest perfumes abroad prime vigour year all things glad flourishing still same quiet life went little cottage same cheerful serenity prevailed among inmates oliver long since grown stout healthy health sickness made difference warm feelings great many people still same gentle attached affectionate creature when pain suffering wasted strength when dependent every slight attention comfort who tended one beautiful night when taken longer walk customary day unusually warm there brilliant moon light wind sprung which unusually refreshing rose high spirits walked merry conversation until far exceeded ordinary bounds mrs maylie fatigued returned more slowly home young lady merely throwing simple bonnet sat piano usual after running abstractedly keys few minutes fell low solemn air played heard sound weeping rose dear said elder lady rose made reply played little quicker though words roused some painful thoughts rose love cried mrs maylie rising hastily bending what tears dear child what distresses nothing aunt nothing replied young lady don know what describe feel ill love interposed mrs maylie oh ill replied rose shuddering though some deadly chillness passing while spoke shall better presently close window pray oliver hastened comply request young lady making effort recover cheerfulness strove play some livelier tune fingers dropped powerless keys covering face hands sank upon sofa gave vent tears which now unable repress child said elderly lady folding arms never saw before alarm avoid rejoined rose indeed tried hard cannot help fear am ill aunt indeed when candles brought saw short time which elapsed since return home hue countenance changed marble whiteness expression lost nothing beauty changed there anxious haggard look gentle face which never worn before another minute suffused crimson flush heavy wildness came soft blue eye again disappeared like shadow thrown passing cloud once more deadly pale oliver who watched old lady anxiously observed alarmed appearances truth seeing affected make light endeavoured same far succeeded when rose persuaded aunt retire night better spirits appeared even better health assuring felt certain rise morning quite well hope said oliver when mrs maylie returned nothing matter don look well tonight old lady motioned speak sitting herself dark corner room remained silent some time length said trembling voice hope oliver happy some years happy perhaps time meet some misfortune hope what inquired oliver heavy blow said old lady losing dear girl who long comfort happiness oh god forbid exclaimed oliver hastily amen child said old lady wringing hands surely there danger anything dreadful said oliver two hours ago quite well ill now rejoined mrs maylie worse am sure dear dear rose oh what shall without gave way great grief oliver suppressing own emotion ventured remonstrate beg earnestly sake dear young lady herself more calm consider ma am said oliver tears forced themselves eyes despite efforts contrary oh consider how young good what pleasure comfort gives all am sure certain quite certain sake who good yourself own sake all makes happy die heaven never let die young hush said mrs maylie laying hand oliver head think like child poor boy teach duty notwithstanding forgotten moment oliver hope pardoned am old seen enough illness death know agony separation objects love seen enough know always youngest best who spared love give us comfort sorrow heaven just things teach us impressively there brighter world passage speedy god love knows how well oliver surprised see mrs maylie said words checked lamentations though one effort drawing herself spoke became composed firm still more astonished find firmness lasted all care watching which ensued mrs maylie ever ready collected performing all duties which devolved upon steadily all external appearances even cheerfully young know what strong minds capable trying circumstances how when possessors seldom know themselves anxious night ensued when morning came mrs maylie predictions well verified rose first stage high dangerous fever must active oliver give way useless grief said mrs maylie laying finger lip looked steadily face letter must sent all possible expedition mr losberne must carried market town which more four miles footpath across field thence dispatched express horseback straight chertsey people inn undertake trust see know oliver make reply looked anxiety gone once here another letter said mrs maylie pausing reflect whether send now wait until see how rose goes scarcely know forward unless feared worst chertsey ma am inquired oliver impatient execute commission holding trembling hand letter replied old lady giving mechanically oliver glanced saw directed harry maylie esquire some great lord house country where make shall go ma am asked oliver looking impatiently think replied mrs maylie taking back wait until tomorrow words gave oliver purse started without more delay greatest speed muster swiftly ran across fields little lanes which sometimes divided now almost hidden high corn either side now emerging open field where mowers haymakers busy work nor stop once save now few seconds recover breath until came great heat covered dust little market place market town here paused looked inn there white bank red brewery yellow town hall one corner there large house all wood painted green before which sign george hastened soon caught eye spoke postboy who dozing gateway who after hearing what wanted referred ostler who after hearing all say again referred landlord who tall gentleman blue neckcloth white hat drab breeches boots tops match leaning against pump stable door picking teeth silver toothpick gentleman walked much deliberation bar make bill which took long time making after ready paid horse saddled man dressed which took ten good minutes more meanwhile oliver desperate state impatience anxiety felt jumped upon horse himself galloped away full tear next stage length all ready little parcel handed many injunctions entreaties speedy delivery man set spurs horse rattling uneven paving market place town galloping along turnpike road couple minutes something feel certain assistance sent time lost oliver hurried inn yard somewhat lighter heart turning gateway when accidently stumbled against tall man wrapped cloak who moment coming inn door hah cried man fixing eyes oliver suddenly recoiling what devil beg pardon sir said oliver great hurry get home didn see coming death muttered man himself glaring boy large dark eyes who thought grind ashes start stone coffin come way am sorry stammered oliver confused strange man wild look hope hurt rot murmured man horrible passion between clenched teeth only courage say word free night curses head black death heart imp what doing here man shook fist uttered words incoherently advanced towards oliver intention aiming blow fell violently ground writhing foaming fit oliver gazed moment struggles madman supposed darted house help seen safely carried hotel turned face homewards running fast make lost time recalling great deal astonishment some fear extraordinary behaviour person whom just parted circumstance dwell recollection long however when reached cottage there enough occupy mind drive all considerations self completely memory rose maylie rapidly grown worse before mid night delirious medical practitioner who resided spot constant attendance upon after first seeing patient taken mrs maylie aside pronounced disorder one most alarming nature fact said little short miracle recovered how often oliver start bed night stealing noiseless footstep staircase listen slightest sound sick chamber how often tremble shake frame cold drops terror start upon brow when sudden trampling feet caused fear something dreadful think even occurred what fervency all prayers ever muttered compared poured forth now agony passion supplication life health gentle creature who tottering deep grave verge oh suspense fearful acute suspense standing idly while life one dearly love trembling balance oh racking thoughts crowd upon mind make heart beat violently breath come thick force images conjure before desperate anxiety doing something relieve pain lessen danger which power alleviate sinking soul spirit which sad remembrance helplessness produces what tortures equal what reflections endeavours full tide fever time allay morning came little cottage lonely still people spoke whispers anxious faces appeared gate time time women children went away tears all livelong day hours after grown dark oliver paced softly garden raising eyes every instant sick chamber shuddering see darkened window looking death lay stretched inside late night mr losberne arrived hard said good doctor turning away spoke young much beloved there little hope another morning sun shone brightly brightly looked upon misery care every leaf flower full bloom life health sounds sights joy surrounding every side fair young creature lay wasting fast oliver crept away old churchyard sitting one green mounds wept prayed silence there peace beauty scene much brightness mirth sunny landscape blithesome music songs summer birds freedom rapid flight rook careering overhead much life joyousness all when boy raised aching eyes looked thought instinctively occurred time death rose surely never die when humbler things all glad gay graves cold cheerless winter sunlight fragrance almost thought shrouds old shrunken never wrapped young graceful form ghastly folds knell church bell broke harshly youthful thoughts another again tolling funeral service group humble mourners entered gate wearing white favours corpse young stood uncovered grave there mother mother once among weeping train sun shone brightly birds sang oliver turned homeward thinking many kindnesses received young lady wishing time come again never cease showing how grateful attached cause self reproach score neglect want thought devoted service yet hundred little occasions rose before which fancied more zealous more earnest wished need careful how deal us when every death carries some small circle survivors thoughts much omitted little many things forgotten many more which repaired there remorse deep which unavailing spared tortures let us remember time when reached home mrs maylie sitting little parlour oliver heart sank sight never left bedside niece trembled think what change driven away learnt fallen deep sleep which waken either recovery life bid farewell die sat listening afraid speak hours untasted meal removed looks which showed thoughts elsewhere watched sun sank lower lower length cast sky earth brilliant hues which herald departure quick ears caught sound approaching footstep both involuntarily darted door mr losberne entered what rose cried old lady tell once bear anything suspense oh tell name heaven must compose yourself said doctor supporting calm dear ma am pray let go god name dear child dead dying cried doctor passionately good merciful live bless us all years come lady fell upon knees tried fold hands together energy which supported long fled heaven first thanksgiving sank friendly arms which extended receive chapter xxxiv contains some introductory particulars relative young gentleman who now arrives upon scene new adventure which happened oliver almost much happiness bear oliver felt stunned stupefied unexpected intelligence weep speak rest scarcely power understanding anything passed until after long ramble quiet evening air burst tears came relief seemed awaken all once full sense joyful change occurred almost insupportable load anguish which taken breast night fast closing when returned homeward laden flowers which culled peculiar care adornment sick chamber walked briskly along road heard behind noise some vehicle approaching furious pace looking round saw post chaise driven great speed horses galloping road narrow stood leaning against gate until passed dashed oliver caught glimpse man white nightcap whose face seemed familiar although view brief identify person another second two nightcap thrust chaise window stentorian voice bellowed driver stop which soon pull horses nightcap once again appeared same voice called oliver name here cried voice oliver what news miss rose master li ver giles cried oliver running chaise door giles popped nightcap again preparatory making some reply when suddenly pulled back young gentleman who occupied other corner chaise who eagerly demanded what news word cried gentleman better worse better much better replied oliver hastily thank heaven exclaimed gentleman sure quite sir replied oliver change took place only few hours ago mr losberne says all danger end gentleman said another word opening chaise door leaped taking oliver hurriedly arm led aside quite certain there possibility any mistake part boy there demanded gentleman tremulous voice deceive awakening hopes fulfilled world sir replied oliver indeed believe mr losberne words live bless us all many years come heard say tears stood oliver eyes recalled scene which beginning much happiness gentleman turned face away remained silent some minutes oliver thought heard sob more once feared interrupt any fresh remark well guess what feelings stood apart feigning occupied nosegay all time mr giles white nightcap sitting steps chaise supporting elbow each knee wiping eyes blue cotton pocket handkerchief dotted white spots honest fellow feigning emotion abundantly demonstrated red eyes which regarded young gentleman when turned round addressed think better go mother chaise giles said rather walk slowly gain little time before see say am coming beg pardon mr harry said giles giving final polish ruffled countenance handkerchief leave postboy say much obliged wouldn proper maids see state sir never any more authority well rejoined harry maylie smiling like let go luggage wish follow us only first exchange nightcap some more appropriate covering shall taken madmen mr giles reminded unbecoming costume snatched pocketed nightcap substituted hat grave sober shape which took chaise postboy drove giles mr maylie oliver followed leisure walked along oliver glanced time time much interest curiosity new comer seemed five twenty years age middle height countenance frank handsome demeanor easy prepossessing notwithstanding difference between youth age bore strong likeness old lady oliver great difficulty imagining relationship already spoken mother mrs maylie anxiously waiting receive son when reached cottage meeting take place without great emotion both sides mother whispered young man why write before replied mrs maylie reflection determined keep back letter until heard mr losberne opinion why said young man why run chance occurring which nearly happened rose cannot utter word now illness terminated differently how ever forgiven yourself how ever know happiness again case harry said mrs maylie fear happiness effectually blighted arrival here day sooner day later little import who wonder mother rejoined young man why say know mother must know know deserves best purest love heart man offer said mrs maylie know devotion affection nature require ordinary return one shall deep lasting feel know besides changed behaviour one loved break heart feel task difficult performance encounter many struggles own bosom when take what seems strict line duty unkind mother said harry still suppose am boy ignorant own mind mistaking impulses own soul think dear son returned mrs maylie laying hand upon shoulder youth many generous impulses which last among some which gratified become only more fleeting above all think said lady fixing eyes son face enthusiastic ardent ambitious man marry wife whose name there stain which though originate fault hers visited cold sordid people upon upon children also exact proportion success world cast teeth made subject sneers against matter how generous good nature one day repent connection formed early life pain knowing mother said young man impatiently selfish brute unworthy alike name man woman describe who acted thus think now harry replied mother ever said young man mental agony suffered during last two days wrings avowal passion which well know one yesterday nor one lightly formed rose sweet gentle girl heart set firmly ever heart man set woman thought view hope life beyond oppose great stake take peace happiness hands cast wind mother think better disregard happiness which seem think little harry said mrs maylie because think much warm sensitive hearts spare wounded said enough more enough matter just now let rest rose interposed harry press overstrained opinions far throw any obstacle way rejoined mrs maylie consider considered impatient reply mother considered years years considered ever since capable serious reflection feelings remain unchanged ever why suffer pain delay giving vent which productive earthly good before leave place rose shall hear shall said mrs maylie there something manner which almost imply hear coldly mother said young man coldly rejoined old lady far how urged young man formed other attachment indeed replied mother mistake strong hold affections already what say resumed old lady stopping son speak before stake all chance before suffer yourself carried highest point hope reflect few moments dear child rose history consider what effect knowledge doubtful birth decision devoted us all intensity noble mind perfect sacrifice self which all matters great trifling always characteristic what mean leave discover replied mrs maylie must go back god bless shall see again tonight said young man eagerly replied lady when leave rose tell am here said harry course replied mrs maylie say how anxious how much suffered how long see refuse mother said old lady tell all pressing son hand affectionately hastened room mr losberne oliver remained another end apartment while hurried conversation proceeding former now held hand harry maylie hearty salutations exchanged between doctor communicated reply multifarious questions young friend precise account patient situation which quite consolatory full promise oliver statement encouraged hope whole which mr giles who affected busy luggage listened greedy ears shot anything particular lately giles inquired doctor when concluded nothing particular sir replied mr giles colouring eyes nor catching any thieves nor identifying any house breakers said doctor none all sir replied mr giles much gravity well said doctor am sorry hear because sort thing admirably pray how brittles boy well sir said mr giles recovering usual tone patronage sends respectful duty sir well said doctor seeing here reminds mr giles day before which called away hurriedly executed request good mistress small commission favour just step corner moment mr giles walked corner much importance some wonder honoured short whispering conference doctor termination which made great many bows retired steps unusual stateliness subject matter conference disclosed parlour kitchen speedily enlightened concerning mr giles walked straight thither called mug ale announced air majesty which highly effective pleased mistress consideration gallant behaviour occasion attempted robbery deposit local savings bank sum five twenty pounds sole use benefit two women servants lifted hands eyes supposed mr giles pulling shirt frill replied observed all haughty inferiors thank tell made great many other remarks less illustrative humility which received equal favour applause withal original much purpose remarks great men commonly above stairs remainder evening passed cheerfully away doctor high spirits however fatigued thoughtful harry maylie first proof against worthy gentleman good humour which displayed itself great variety sallies professional recollections abundance small jokes which struck oliver drollest things ever heard caused laugh proportionately evident satisfaction doctor who laughed immoderately himself made harry laugh almost heartily force sympathy pleasant party circumstances well late before retired light thankful hearts take rest which after doubt suspense recently undergone stood much need oliver rose next morning better heart went usual occupations more hope pleasure known many days birds once more hung sing old places sweetest wild flowers found once more gathered gladden rose beauty melancholy which seemed sad eyes anxious boy hang days past every object beautiful all dispelled magic dew seemed sparkle more brightly green leaves air rustle among sweeter music sky itself look more blue bright influence which condition own thoughts exercise even appearance external objects men who look nature fellow men cry all dark gloomy right sombre colours reflections own jaundiced eyes hearts real hues delicate need clearer vision worthy remark oliver fail note time morning expeditions longer made alone harry maylie after first morning when met oliver coming laden home seized passion flowers displayed taste arrangement left young companion far behind oliver behindhand respects knew where best found morning after morning scoured country together brought home fairest blossomed window young lady chamber opened now loved feel rich summer air stream revive freshness there always stood water just inside lattice one particular little bunch which made great care every morning oliver help noticing withered flowers never thrown away although little vase regularly replenished nor help observing whenever doctor came garden invariably cast eyes particular corner nodded head most expressively set forth morning walk pending observations days flying rose rapidly recovering nor oliver time hang heavy hands although young lady yet left chamber there evening walks save now short distance mrs maylie applied himself redoubled assiduity instructions white headed old gentleman laboured hard quick progress surprised even himself while engaged pursuit greatly startled distressed most unexpected occurrence little room which accustomed sit when busy books ground floor back house quite cottage room lattice window around which clusters jessamine honeysuckle crept casement filled place delicious perfume looked garden whence wicket gate opened small paddock all beyond fine meadow land wood there other dwelling near direction prospect commanded extensive one beautiful evening when first shades twilight beginning settle upon earth oliver sat window intent upon books poring some time day uncommonly sultry exerted himself great deal disparagement authors whoever say gradually slow degrees fell asleep there kind sleep steals upon us sometimes which while holds body prisoner free mind sense things enable ramble pleasure far overpowering heaviness prostration strength utter inability control thoughts power motion called sleep yet consciousness all going us dream time words which really spoken sounds which really exist moment accommodate themselves surprising readiness visions until reality imagination become strangely blended afterwards almost matter impossibility separate two nor most striking phenomenon incidental state undoubted fact although senses touch sight time dead yet sleeping thoughts visionary scenes pass before us influenced materially influenced mere silent presence some external object which near us when closed eyes whose vicinity waking consciousness oliver knew perfectly well own little room books lying table before sweet air stirring among creeping plants outside yet asleep suddenly scene changed air became close confined thought glow terror jew house again there sat hideous old man accustomed corner pointing whispering another man face averted who sat beside hush dear thought heard jew say sure enough come away other man seemed answer mistake think crowd ghosts put themselves exact shape stood amongst there something tell how point buried fifty feet deep took across grave fancy know there wasn mark above lay buried there man seemed say dreadful hatred oliver awoke fear started good heaven what which sent blood tingling heart deprived voice power move there there window close before close almost touched before started back eyes peering room meeting there stood jew beside white rage fear both scowling features man who accosted inn yard instant glance flash before eyes gone recognised look firmly impressed upon memory deeply carved stone set before birth stood transfixed moment leaping window garden called loudly help chapter xxxv containing unsatisfactory result oliver adventure conversation some importance between harry maylie rose when inmates house attracted oliver cries hurried spot which proceeded found pale agitated pointing direction meadows behind house scarcely able articulate words jew jew mr giles loss comprehend what outcry meant harry maylie whose perceptions something quicker who heard oliver history mother understood once what direction take asked catching heavy stick which standing corner replied oliver pointing course man taken missed instant ditch said harry follow keep near saying sprang hedge darted speed which rendered matter exceeding difficulty others keep near giles followed well oliver followed course minute two mr losberne who walking just returned tumbled hedge after picking himself more agility supposed possess struck same course contemptible speed shouting all while most prodigiously know what matter all went nor stopped once breathe until leader striking angle field indicated oliver began search narrowly ditch hedge adjoining which afforded time remainder party come oliver communicate mr losberne circumstances led vigorous pursuit search all vain there even traces recent footsteps seen stood now summit little hill commanding open fields every direction three four miles there village hollow left order gain after pursuing track oliver pointed men must made circuit open ground which impossible accomplished short time thick wood skirted meadow land another direction gained covert same reason must dream oliver said harry maylie oh indeed sir replied oliver shuddering recollection old wretch countenance saw plainly saw both plainly see now who other inquired harry mr losberne together same man told who came suddenly upon inn said oliver eyes fixed full upon each other swear took way demanded harry sure am men window replied oliver pointing spoke hedge which divided cottage garden meadow tall man leaped just there jew running few paces right crept through gap two gentlemen watched oliver earnest face spoke looking each other seemed feel satisfied accuracy what said still direction there any appearances trampling men hurried flight grass long trodden nowhere save where own feet crushed sides brinks ditches damp clay one place discern print men shoes slightest mark which indicate any feet pressed ground hours before strange said harry strange echoed doctor blathers duff themselves make nothing notwithstanding evidently useless nature search desist until coming night rendered further prosecution hopeless even gave reluctance giles dispatched different ale houses village furnished best description oliver give appearance dress strangers jew all events sufficiently remarkable remembered supposing seen drinking loitering giles returned without any intelligence calculated dispel lessen mystery next day fresh search made inquiries renewed better success day following oliver mr maylie repaired market town hope seeing hearing something men there effort equally fruitless after few days affair began forgotten most affairs when wonder fresh food support dies away itself meanwhile rose rapidly recovering left room able go mixing once more family carried joy hearts all although happy change visible effect little circle although cheerful voices merry laughter once more heard cottage there times unwonted restraint upon some there even upon rose herself which oliver fail remark mrs maylie son often closeted together long time more once rose appeared traces tears upon face after mr losberne fixed day departure chertsey symptoms increased became evident something progress which affected peace young lady somebody besides length one morning when rose alone breakfast parlour harry maylie entered some hesitation begged permission speak few moments few few suffice rose said young man drawing chair towards what shall say already presented itself mind most cherished hopes heart unknown though lips heard stated rose pale moment entrance effect recent illness merely bowed bending some plants stood near waited silence proceed ought left here before said harry indeed replied rose forgive saying wish brought here most dreadful agonising all apprehensions said young man fear losing one dear whom every wish hope fixed dying trembling between earth heaven know when young beautiful good visited sickness pure spirits insensibly turn towards bright home lasting rest know heaven help us best fairest kind often fade blooming there tears eyes gentle girl words spoken when one fell upon flower which bent glistened brightly cup making more beautiful seemed though outpouring fresh young heart claimed kindred naturally loveliest things nature creature continued young man passionately creature fair innocent guile one god own angels fluttered between life death oh who hope when distant world which akin half opened view return sorrow calamity rose rose know passing away like some soft shadow which light above casts upon earth hope spared who linger here hardly know reason why feel belonged bright sphere whither many fairest best winged early flight yet pray amid all consolations restored who loved distractions almost great bear mine day night came rushing torrent fears apprehensions selfish regrets lest die never know how devotedly loved almost bore sense reason course recovered day day almost hour hour some drop health came back mingling spent feeble stream life which circulated languidly within swelled again high rushing tide watched change almost death life eyes turned blind eagerness deep affection tell wish lost softened heart all mankind mean said rose weeping only wish left here turned high noble pursuits again pursuits well worthy there pursuit more worthy more worthy highest nature exists struggle win heart said young man taking hand rose own dear rose years years loved hoping win way fame come proudly home tell pursued only share thinking daydreams how remind happy moment many silent tokens given boy attachment claim hand redemption some old mute contract sealed between us time arrived here fame won young vision realised offer heart long own stake all upon words which greet offer behaviour ever kind noble said rose mastering emotions which agitated believe am insensible ungrateful hear answer endeavour deserve dear rose replied rose must endeavour forget old dearly attached companion wound deeply object love look world think how many hearts proud gain there confide some other passion truest warmest most faithful friend there pause during which rose who covered face one hand gave free vent tears harry still retained other reasons rose said length low voice reasons decision right know rejoined rose say nothing alter resolution duty must perform owe alike others myself yourself yes harry owe myself friendless portionless girl blight upon name give friends reason suspect sordidly yielded first passion fastened myself clog all hopes projects owe prevent opposing warmth generous nature great obstacle progress world inclinations chime sense duty harry began replied rose colouring deeply return love said harry say dear rose say soften bitterness hard disappointment without doing heavy wrong loved rejoined rose received declaration differently said harry conceal least rose said rose stay added disengaging hand why prolong painful interview most painful yet productive lasting happiness notwithstanding happiness know once held high place regard which now occupy every triumph achieve life animate new fortitude firmness farewell harry met today meet more other relations which conversation placed us long happily entwined every blessing prayers true earnest heart call source all truth sincerity cheer prosper another word rose said harry reason own words own lips let hear prospect before answered rose firmly brilliant one all honours which great talents powerful connections help men public life store connections proud neither mingle hold scorn mother who gave life nor bring disgrace failure son who well supplied mother place word said young lady turning away temporary firmness forsook there stain upon name which world visits innocent heads carry blood own reproach shall rest alone one word more rose dearest rose one more cried harry throwing himself before less less fortunate world call some obscure peaceful life destiny poor sick helpless turned probable advancement riches honour given scruple birth press reply answered rose question arise never unfair almost unkind urge answer what almost dare hope retorted harry shed gleam happiness upon lonely way light path before idle thing much utterance few brief words one who loves beyond all oh rose name ardent enduring attachment name all suffered all doom undergo answer one question lot differently cast rejoined rose even little far above help comfort any humble scene peace retirement blot drawback ambitious distinguished crowds spared trial every reason happy happy now harry own happier busy recollections old hopes cherished girl long ago crowded mind rose while making avowal brought tears old hopes when come back withered relieved cannot help weakness makes purpose stronger said rose extending hand must leave now indeed ask one promise said harry once only once more say within year much sooner speak again subject last time press alter right determination replied rose melancholy smile useless said harry hear repeat finally repeat lay feet whatever station fortune possess still adhere present resolution seek word act change let rejoined rose one pang more time enabled bear better extended hand again young man caught bosom imprinting one kiss beautiful forehead hurried room chapter xxxvi short one appear great importance place read notwithstanding sequel last key one follow when time arrives resolved travelling companion morning eh said doctor harry maylie joined oliver breakfast table why same mind intention two half hours together tell different tale one days said harry colouring without any perceptible reason hope good cause replied mr losberne though confess don think shall yesterday morning made mind great hurry stay here accompany mother like dutiful son sea side before noon announce going honour accompanying far go road london night urge great mystery start before ladies stirring consequence which young oliver here pinned breakfast when ought ranging meadows after botanical phenomena all kinds bad isn oliver sorry home when mr maylie went away sir rejoined oliver fine fellow said doctor shall come see when return speak seriously harry any communication great nobs produced sudden anxiety part gone great nobs replied harry which designation presume include most stately uncle communicated all since here nor time year likely anything occur render necessary immediate attendance among well said doctor queer fellow course get parliament election before christmas sudden shiftings changes bad preparation political life there something good training always desirable whether race place cup sweepstakes harry maylie looked followed short dialogue one two remarks staggered doctor little contented himself saying shall see pursued subject farther post chaise drove door shortly afterwards giles coming luggage good doctor bustled see packed oliver said harry maylie low voice let speak word oliver walked window recess which mr maylie beckoned much surprised mixture sadness boisterous spirits which whole behaviour displayed write well now said harry laying hand upon arm hope sir replied oliver shall home again perhaps some time wish write say once fort night every alternate monday general post office london oh certainly sir shall proud exclaimed oliver greatly delighted commission like know how how mother miss maylie said young man fill sheet telling what walks take what talk whether mean seem happy quite well understand oh quite sir quite replied oliver rather mention said harry hurrying words because make mother anxious write oftener trouble worry let secret between mind tell everything depend upon oliver quite elated honoured sense importance faithfully promised secret explicit communications mr maylie took leave many assurances regard protection doctor chaise giles who arranged left behind held door open hand women servants garden looking harry cast one slight glance latticed window jumped carriage drive cried hard fast full gallop nothing short flying keep pace today halloa cried doctor letting front glass great hurry shouting postillion something short flying keep pace hear jingling clattering till distance rendered noise inaudible rapid progress only perceptible eye vehicle wound way along road almost hidden cloud dust now wholly disappearing now becoming visible again intervening objects intricacies way permitted until even dusty cloud longer seen gazers dispersed there one looker who remained eyes fixed upon spot where carriage disappeared long after many miles away behind white curtain which shrouded view when harry raised eyes towards window sat rose herself seems high spirits happy said length feared time otherwise mistaken am glad tears signs gladness well grief which coursed rose face sat pensively window still gazing same direction seemed tell more sorrow joy chapter xxxvii which reader perceive contrast uncommon matrimonial cases mr bumble sat workhouse parlour eyes moodily fixed cheerless grate whence summer time brighter gleam proceeded reflection certain sickly rays sun which sent back cold shining surface paper fly cage dangled ceiling which occasionally raised eyes gloomy thought heedless insects hovered round gaudy net work mr bumble heave deep sigh while more gloomy shadow overspread countenance mr bumble meditating insects brought mind some painful passage own past life nor mr bumble gloom only thing calculated awaken pleasing melancholy bosom spectator there wanting other appearances closely connected own person which announced great change taken place position affairs laced coat cocked hat where still wore knee breeches dark cotton stockings nether limbs breeches coat wide skirted respect like coat oh how different mighty cocked hat replaced modest round one mr bumble longer beadle there some promotions life which independent more substantial rewards offer require peculiar value dignity coats waistcoats connected field marshal uniform bishop silk apron counsellor silk gown beadle cocked hat strip bishop apron beadle hat lace what men mere men dignity even holiness sometimes more questions coat waistcoat some people imagine mr bumble married mrs corney master workhouse another beadle come power cocked hat gold laced coat staff all three descended tomorrow two months said mr bumble sigh seems age mr bumble meant concentrated whole existence happiness short space eight weeks sigh there vast deal meaning sigh sold myself said mr bumble pursuing same train reflection six teaspoons pair sugar tongs milk pot small quantity second hand furniture twenty pound money went reasonable cheap dirt cheap cheap cried shrill voice mr bumble ear dear any price dear enough paid lord above knows mr bumble turned encountered face interesting consort who imperfectly comprehending few words overheard complaint hazarded foregoing remark venture mrs bumble ma am said mr bumble sentimental sternness well cried lady goodness look said mr bumble fixing eyes upon stands eye said mr bumble himself stand anything eye never knew fail paupers fails power gone whether exceedingly small expansion eye sufficient quell paupers who lightly fed high condition whether late mrs corney particularly proof against eagle glances matters opinion matter fact matron way overpowered mr bumble scowl contrary treated great disdain even raised laugh thereat which sounded though genuine hearing most unexpected sound mr bumble looked first incredulous afterwards amazed relapsed former state nor rouse himself until attention again awakened voice partner going sit snoring there all day inquired mrs bumble am going sit here long think proper ma am rejoined mr bumble although snoring shall snore gape sneeze laugh cry humour strikes prerogative prerogative sneered mrs bumble ineffable contempt said word ma am said mr bumble prerogative man command what prerogative woman name goodness cried relict mr corney deceased obey ma am thundered mr bumble late unfortunate husband taught perhaps alive now wish poor man mrs bumble seeing glance decisive moment now arrived blow struck mastership one side other must necessarily final conclusive sooner heard allusion dead gone dropped chair loud scream mr bumble hard hearted brute fell paroxysm tears tears things find way mr bumble soul heart waterproof like washable beaver hats improve rain nerves rendered stouter more vigorous showers tears which tokens weakness far tacit admissions own power pleased exalted eyed good lady looks great satisfaction begged encouraging manner cry hardest exercise looked upon faculty strongly conducive health opens lungs washes countenance exercises eyes softens temper said mr bumble cry away discharged himself pleasantry mr bumble took hat peg putting rather rakishly one side man who felt asserted superiority becoming manner thrust hands pockets sauntered towards door much ease waggishness depicted whole appearance now mrs corney tried tears because less troublesome manual assault quite prepared make trial latter mode proceeding mr bumble long discovering first proof experienced fact conveyed hollow sound immediately succeeded sudden flying hat opposite end room preliminary proceeding laying bare head expert lady clasping tightly round throat one hand inflicted shower blows dealt singular vigour dexterity upon other created little variety scratching face tearing hair time inflicted much punishment deemed necessary offence pushed chair which luckily well situated purpose defied talk prerogative again dared get said mrs bumble voice command take yourself away here unless want something desperate mr bumble rose rueful countenance wondering much what something desperate picking hat looked towards door going demanded mrs bumble certainly dear certainly rejoined mr bumble making quicker motion towards door didn intend going dear violent really instant mrs bumble stepped hastily forward replace carpet which kicked scuffle mr bumble immediately darted room without bestowing another thought unfinished sentence leaving late mrs corney full possession field mr bumble fairly taken surprise fairly beaten decided propensity bullying derived inconsiderable pleasure exercise petty cruelty consequently needless say coward means disparagement character many official personages who held high respect admiration victims similar infirmities remark made indeed rather favour otherwise view impressing reader just sense qualifications office measure degradation yet full after making tour house thinking first time poor laws really hard people men who ran away wives leaving chargeable parish ought justice visited punishment all rather rewarded meritorious individuals who suffered much mr bumble came room where some female paupers usually employed washing parish linen when sound voices conversation now proceeded hem said mr bumble summoning all native dignity women least shall continue respect prerogative hallo hallo there what mean noise hussies words mr bumble opened door walked fierce angry manner which once exchanged most humiliated cowering air eyes unexpectedly rested form lady wife dear said mr bumble didn know here didn know here repeated mrs bumble what here thought talking rather much doing work properly dear replied mr bumble glancing distractedly couple old women wash tub who comparing notes admiration workhouse master humility thought talking much said mrs bumble what business why dear urged mr bumble submissively what business demanded mrs bumble again true re matron here dear submitted mr bumble thought mightn way just ll tell what mr bumble returned lady don want any interference re great deal fond poking nose things don concern making everybody house laugh moment back turned making yourself look like fool every hour day come mr bumble seeing excruciating feelings delight two old paupers who tittering together most rapturously hesitated instant mrs bumble whose patience brooked delay caught bowl soap suds motioning towards door ordered instantly depart pain receiving contents upon portly person what mr bumble looked dejectedly round slunk away reached door titterings paupers broke shrill chuckle irrepressible delight wanted degraded eyes lost caste station before paupers fallen all height pomp beadleship lowest depth most snubbed hen peckery all two months said mr bumble filled dismal thoughts two months more two months ago only own master everybody far porochial workhouse concerned now much mr bumble boxed ears boy who opened gate reached portal reverie walked distractedly street walked one street another until exercise abated first passion grief revulsion feeling made thirsty passed great many public houses length paused before one way whose parlour gathered hasty peep blinds deserted save one solitary customer began rain heavily moment determined mr bumble stepped ordering something drink passed bar entered apartment which looked street man who seated there tall dark wore large cloak air stranger seemed certain haggardness look well dusty soils dress travelled some distance eyed bumble askance entered scarcely deigned nod head acknowledgment salutation mr bumble quite dignity enough two supposing even stranger more familiar drank gin water silence read paper great show pomp circumstance happened however happen often when men fall company circumstances mr bumble felt every now powerful inducement which resist steal look stranger whenever withdrew eyes some confusion find stranger moment stealing look mr bumble awkwardness enhanced remarkable expression stranger eye which keen bright shadowed scowl distrust suspicion unlike anything ever observed before repulsive behold when encountered each other glance several times way stranger harsh deep voice broke silence looking said when peered window am aware unless re mr here mr bumble stopped short curious know stranger name thought impatience supply blank see said stranger expression quiet sarcasm playing mouth known name don know recommend ask meant harm young man observed mr bumble majestically none said stranger another silence succeeded short dialogue which again broken stranger seen before think said differently dressed time only passed street know again beadle here once said mr bumble some surprise porochial beadle just rejoined other nodding head character saw what now master workhouse rejoined mr bumble slowly impressively check any undue familiarity stranger otherwise assume master workhouse young man same eye own interest always doubt resumed stranger looking keenly mr bumble eyes raised astonishment question don scruple answer freely man know pretty well see suppose married man replied mr bumble shading eyes hand surveying stranger head foot evident perplexity more averse turning honest penny when single one porochial officers well paid afford refuse any little extra fee when comes civil proper manner stranger smiled nodded head again much say mistaken man rang bell fill glass again said handing mr bumble empty tumbler landlord let strong hot like suppose strong replied mr bumble delicate cough understand what means landlord said stranger drily host smiled disappeared shortly afterwards returned steaming jorum which first gulp brought water mr bumble eyes now listen said stranger after closing door window came place today find one chances which devil throws way friends sometimes walked room sitting while uppermost mind want some information don ask give nothing slight put begin spoke pushed couple sovereigns across table companion carefully though unwilling chinking money heard without when mr bumble scrupulously examined coins see genuine put much satisfaction waistcoat pocket went carry memory back let see twelve years last winter long time said mr bumble good ve scene workhouse good time night yes place crazy hole wherever which miserable drabs brought forth life health often denied themselves gave birth puling children parish rear hid shame rot em grave lying room suppose said mr bumble quite following stranger excited description yes said stranger boy born there many boys observed mr bumble shaking head despondingly murrain young devils cried stranger speak one meek looking pale faced boy who apprenticed here coffin maker wish made coffin screwed body who afterwards ran away london supposed why mean oliver young twist said mr bumble remember course there wasn obstinater young rascal want hear ve heard enough said stranger stopping mr bumble outset tirade subject poor oliver vices woman hag nursed mother where where said mr bumble whom gin water rendered facetious hard tell there midwifery there whichever place gone suppose employment anyway what mean demanded stranger sternly died last winter rejoined mr bumble man looked fixedly when given information although withdraw eyes some time afterwards gaze gradually became vacant abstracted seemed lost thought some time appeared doubtful whether ought relieved disappointed intelligence length breathed more freely withdrawing eyes observed great matter rose depart mr bumble cunning enough once saw opportunity opened lucrative disposal some secret possession better half well remembered night old sally death which occurrences day given good reason recollect occasion which proposed mrs corney although lady never confided disclosure which solitary witness heard enough know related something occurred old woman attendance workhouse nurse upon young mother oliver twist hastily calling circumstance mind informed stranger air mystery one woman closeted old harridan shortly before died reason believe throw some light subject inquiry how find said stranger thrown guard plainly showing all fears whatever aroused afresh intelligence only through rejoined mr bumble when cried stranger hastily tomorrow rejoined bumble nine evening said stranger producing scrap paper writing upon obscure address water side characters betrayed agitation nine evening bring there needn tell secret interest words led way door after stopping pay liquor drunk shortly remarking roads different departed without more ceremony emphatic repetition hour appointment following night glancing address parochial functionary observed contained name stranger gone far made after ask what want cried man turning quickly round bumble touched arm following only ask question said other pointing scrap paper what name am ask monks rejoined man strode hastily away chapter xxxviii containing account what passed between mr mrs bumble mr monks nocturnal interview dull close overcast summer evening clouds which threatening all day spread dense sluggish mass vapour already yielded large drops rain seemed presage violent thunder storm when mr mrs bumble turning main street town directed course towards scattered little colony ruinous houses distant some mile half thereabouts erected low unwholesome swamp bordering upon river both wrapped old shabby outer garments which perhaps serve double purpose protecting persons rain sheltering observation husband carried lantern which however light yet shone trudged few paces front though way dirty give wife benefit treading heavy footprints went profound silence every now mr bumble relaxed pace turned head make sure helpmate following discovering close heels mended rate walking proceeded considerable increase speed towards place destination far place doubtful character long known residence none low ruffians who various pretences living labour subsisted chiefly plunder crime collection mere hovels some hastily built loose bricks others old worm eaten ship timber jumbled together without any attempt order arrangement planted most part within few feet river bank few leaky boats drawn mud made fast dwarf wall which skirted here there oar coil rope appeared first indicate inhabitants miserable cottages pursued some avocation river glance shattered useless condition articles thus displayed led passer without much difficulty conjecture disposed there rather preservation appearances any view actually employed heart cluster huts skirting river which upper stories overhung stood large building formerly used manufactory some kind day probably furnished employment inhabitants surrounding tenements long since gone ruin rat worm action damp weakened rotted piles which stood considerable portion building already sunk water while remainder tottering bending dark stream seemed wait favourable opportunity following old companion involving itself same fate before ruinous building worthy couple paused first peal distant thunder reverberated air rain commenced pouring violently place somewhere here said bumble consulting scrap paper held hand halloa there cried voice above following sound mr bumble raised head descried man looking door breast high second story stand still minute cried voice ll directly which head disappeared door closed man asked mr bumble good lady mr bumble nodded affirmative mind what told said matron careful say little ll betray us once mr bumble who eyed building rueful looks apparently express some doubts relative advisability proceeding any further enterprise just when prevented appearance monks who opened small door near which stood beckoned inwards come cried impatiently stamping foot upon ground don keep here woman who hesitated first walked boldly without any other invitation mr bumble who ashamed afraid lag behind followed obviously ill ease scarcely any remarkable dignity which usually chief characteristic what devil made stand lingering there wet said monks turning round addressing bumble after bolted door behind only cooling ourselves stammered bumble looking apprehensively cooling yourselves retorted monks all rain ever fell ever fall put much hell fire man carry won cool yourself easily don think agreeable speech monks turned short upon matron bent gaze upon till even who easily cowed fain withdraw eyes turn towards ground woman demanded monks hem woman replied mr bumble mindful wife caution think women never keep secrets suppose said matron interposing returning spoke searching look monks know always keep one till found said monks what asked matron loss own good name replied monks same rule woman party secret hang transport afraid telling anybody understand mistress rejoined matron slightly colouring spoke course don said monks how bestowing something half way between smile frown upon two companions again beckoning follow man hastened across apartment which considerable extent low roof preparing ascend steep staircase rather ladder leading another floor warehouses above when bright flash lightning streamed aperture peal thunder followed which shook crazy building centre hear cried shrinking back hear rolling crashing echoed through thousand caverns where devils hiding hate sound remained silent few moments removing hands suddenly face showed unspeakable discomposure mr bumble much distorted discoloured fits come now said monks observing alarm thunder sometimes brings don mind now all once thus speaking led way ladder hastily closing window shutter room which led lowered lantern which hung end rope pulley passed through one heavy beams ceiling which cast dim light upon old table three chairs placed beneath now said monks when all three seated themselves sooner come business better all woman know what question addressed bumble wife anticipated reply intimating perfectly acquainted right saying hag night died told something mother boy named replied matron interrupting yes first question what nature communication said monks second observed woman much deliberation first what communication worth who devil tell without knowing what kind asked monks nobody better am persuaded answered mrs bumble who want spirit yoke fellow abundantly testify humph said monks significantly look eager inquiry there money worth get eh perhaps there composed reply something taken said monks something wore something better bid interrupted mrs bumble heard enough already assure man ought talk mr bumble who yet admitted better half any greater share secret originally possessed listened dialogue outstretched neck distended eyes which directed towards wife monks turns undisguised astonishment increased possible when latter sternly demanded what sum required disclosure what worth asked woman collectedly before nothing twenty pounds replied monks speak let know which add five pounds sum named give five twenty pounds gold said woman ll tell all know before five twenty pounds exclaimed monks drawing back spoke plainly replied mrs bumble large sum either large sum paltry secret nothing when told cried monks impatiently which lying dead twelve years past more matters keep well like good wine often double value course time answered matron still preserving resolute indifference assumed lying dead there who lie dead twelve thousand years come twelve million anything know who tell strange tales last what pay nothing asked monks hesitating easily take away again replied matron am woman alone here unprotected alone dear nor unprotected neither submitted mr bumble voice tremulous fear am here dear besides said mr bumble teeth chattering spoke mr monks much gentleman attempt any violence porochial persons mr monks aware am young man dear also am little run seed say heerd say doubt mr monks heerd dear am determined officer uncommon strength once roused only want little rousing all mr bumble spoke made melancholy feint grasping lantern fierce determination plainly showed alarmed expression every feature want little rousing little prior making any warlike demonstration unless indeed against paupers other person persons trained purpose fool said mrs bumble reply better hold tongue better cut before came speak lower tone said monks grimly husband eh husband tittered matron parrying question thought much when came rejoined monks marking angry glance which lady darted spouse spoke much better less hesitation dealing two people when find there only one between earnest see here thrust hand side pocket producing canvas bag told twenty five sovereigns table pushed woman now said gather when cursed peal thunder which feel coming break house top gone let hear story thunder which seemed fact much nearer shiver break almost heads subsided monks raising face table bent forward listen what woman say faces three nearly touched two men leant small table eagerness hear woman also leant forward render whisper audible sickly rays suspended lantern falling directly upon aggravated paleness anxiety countenances which encircled deepest gloom darkness looked ghastly extreme when woman called old sally died matron began alone there one asked monks same hollow whisper sick wretch idiot some other bed one who hear possibility understand soul replied woman alone stood alone beside body when death came good said monks regarding attentively go spoke young creature resumed matron who brought child world some years before merely same room same bed which lay dying ay said monks quivering lip glancing shoulder blood how things come child one named last night said matron nodding carelessly towards husband mother nurse robbed life asked monks death replied woman something like shudder stole corpse when hardly turned one which dead mother prayed last breath keep infant sake sold cried monks desperate eagerness sell where when whom how long before told great difficulty said matron fell back died without saying more cried monks voice which suppression seemed only more furious lie ll played said more ll tear life both ll know what didn utter another word said woman all appearance unmoved mr bumble far strange man violence clutched gown violently one hand which partly closed when saw dead removed hand force found clasped scrap dirty paper which contained interposed monks stretching forward nothing replied woman pawnbroker duplicate what demanded monks good time ll tell said woman judge kept trinket some time hope turning better account pawned saved scraped together money pay pawnbroker interest year year prevent running anything came still redeemed nothing come tell died scrap paper all worn tattered hand time two days thought something one day come redeemed pledge where now asked monks quickly there replied woman glad relieved hastily threw upon table small kid bag scarcely large enough french watch which monks pouncing upon tore open trembling hands contained little gold locket which two locks hair plain gold wedding ring word agnes engraved inside said woman there blank left surname follows date which within year before child born found all said monks after close eager scrutiny contents little packet all replied woman mr bumble drew long breath glad find story mention made taking five twenty pounds back again now took courage wipe perspiration which trickling nose unchecked during whole previous dialogue know nothing story beyond what guess said wife addressing monks after short silence want know nothing safer ask two questions ask said monks some show surprise whether answer another question which makes three observed mr bumble essaying stroke facetiousness what expected get demanded matron replied monks other question what propose used against never rejoined monks nor against either see here don move step forward life worth bulrush words suddenly wheeled table aside pulling iron ring boarding threw back large trap door which opened close mr bumble feet caused gentleman retire several paces backward great precipitation look said monks lowering lantern gulf don fear let quietly enough when seated game thus encouraged matron drew near brink even mr bumble himself impelled curiousity ventured same turbid water swollen heavy rain rushing rapidly below all other sounds lost noise plashing eddying against green slimy piles there once water mill beneath tide foaming chafing round few rotten stakes fragments machinery yet remained seemed dart onward new impulse when freed obstacles which unavailingly attempted stem headlong course flung man body there where tomorrow morning said monks swinging lantern fro dark well twelve miles river cut pieces besides replied bumble recoiling thought monks drew little packet breast where hurriedly thrust tying leaden weight which formed part some pulley lying floor dropped stream fell straight true die clove water scarcely audible splash gone three looking each other faces seemed breathe more freely there said monks closing trap door which fell heavily back former position sea ever gives dead books say keep gold silver itself trash among nothing more say break pleasant party all means observed mr bumble great alacrity ll keep quiet tongue head said monks threatening look am afraid wife depend upon young man answered mr bumble bowing himself gradually towards ladder excessive politeness everybody account young man own know mr monks am glad sake hear remarked monks light lantern get away here fast fortunate conversation terminated point mr bumble who bowed himself within six inches ladder infallibly pitched headlong room below lighted lantern which monks detached rope now carried hand making effort prolong discourse descended silence followed wife monks brought rear after pausing steps satisfy himself there other sounds heard beating rain without rushing water traversed lower room slowly caution monks started every shadow mr bumble holding lantern foot above ground walked only remarkable care marvellously light step gentleman figure looking nervously hidden trap doors gate which entered softly unfastened opened monks merely exchanging nod mysterious acquaintance married couple emerged wet darkness outside sooner gone monks who appeared entertain invincible repugnance left alone called boy who hidden somewhere below bidding go first bear light returned chamber just quitted chapter xxxix introduces some respectable characters whom reader already acquainted shows how monks jew laid worthy heads together evening following upon which three worthies mentioned last chapter disposed little matter business therein narrated mr william sikes awakening nap drowsily growled forth inquiry what time night room which mr sikes propounded question one tenanted previous chertsey expedition although same quarter town situated great distance former lodgings appearance desirable habitation old quarters mean badly furnished apartment limited size lighted only one small window shelving roof abutting close dirty lane nor there wanting other indications good gentleman gone world late great scarcity furniture total absence comfort together disappearance all small moveables spare clothes linen bespoke state extreme poverty while meagre attenuated condition mr sikes himself fully confirmed symptoms stood any need corroboration housebreaker lying bed wrapped white great coat way dressing gown displaying set features degree improved cadaverous hue illness addition soiled nightcap stiff black beard week growth dog sat bedside now eyeing master wistful look now pricking ears uttering low growl some noise street lower part house attracted attention seated window busily engaged patching old waistcoat which formed portion robber ordinary dress female pale reduced watching privation there considerable difficulty recognising same nancy who already figured tale voice which replied mr sikes question long gone seven said girl how feel tonight bill weak water replied mr sikes imprecation eyes limbs here lend us hand let get thundering bed anyhow illness improved mr sikes temper girl raised led chair muttered various curses awkwardness struck whining said sikes come don stand snivelling there anything better cut altogether ye hear hear replied girl turning face aside forcing laugh what fancy got head now oh ve thought better growled sikes marking tear which trembled eye all better why don mean say hard upon tonight bill said girl laying hand upon shoulder cried mr sikes why number nights said girl touch woman tenderness which communicated something like sweetness tone even voice number nights ve patient nursing caring child first ve seen like yourself wouldn served just now thought come come say wouldn well rejoined mr sikes wouldn why damme now girls whining again nothing said girl throwing herself chair don seem mind ll soon what ll demanded mr sikes savage voice what foolery now again get bustle don come woman nonsense any other time remonstrance tone which delivered desired effect girl really weak exhausted dropped head back chair fainted before mr sikes get few appropriate oaths which similar occasions accustomed garnish threats knowing well what uncommon emergency miss nancy hysterics usually violent kind which patient fights struggles without much assistance mr sikes tried little blasphemy finding mode treatment wholly ineffectual called assistance what matter here dear said fagin looking lend hand girl replied sikes impatiently don stand chattering grinning exclamation surprise fagin hastened girl assistance while mr john dawkins otherwise artful dodger who followed venerable friend room hastily deposited floor bundle which laden snatching bottle grasp master charles bates who came close heels uncorked twinkling teeth poured portion contents patient throat previously taking taste himself prevent mistakes give whiff fresh air bellows charley said mr dawkins slap hands fagin while bill undoes petticuts united restoratives administered great energy especially department consigned master bates who appeared consider share proceedings piece unexampled pleasantry long producing desired effect girl gradually recovered senses staggering chair bedside hid face upon pillow leaving mr sikes confront new comers some astonishment unlooked appearance why what evil wind blowed here asked fagin evil wind all dear evil winds blow nobody any good ve brought something good ll glad see dodger dear open bundle give bill little trifles spent all money morning compliance mr fagin request artful untied bundle which large size formed old table cloth handed articles contained one one charley bates who placed table various encomiums rarity excellence sitch rabbit pie bill exclaimed young gentleman disclosing view huge pasty sitch delicate creeturs sitch tender limbs bill wery bones melt mouth there occasion pick em half pound seven six penny green precious strong mix biling water ll go nigh blow lid tea pot pound half moist sugar niggers didn work all afore got sitch pitch goodness oh two half quartern brans pound best fresh piece double glo ster wind all some richest sort ever lushed uttering last panegyric master bates produced one extensive pockets full sized wine bottle carefully corked while mr dawkins same instant poured wine glassful raw spirits bottle carried which invalid tossed throat without moment hesitation ah said fagin rubbing hands great satisfaction ll bill ll now exclaimed mr sikes twenty times afore anything help what mean leaving man state three weeks more false hearted wagabond only hear boys said fagin shrugging shoulders us come bring all beau ti ful things things well enough way observed mr sikes little soothed glanced table what got say yourself why leave here mouth health blunt everything take more notice all mortal time ere dog drive charley never see jolly dog cried master bates doing desired smelling grub like old lady going market make fortun stage dog rewive drayma besides hold din cried sikes dog retreated bed still growling angrily what got say yourself withered old fence eh away london week more dear plant replied jew what other fortnight demanded sikes what other fortnight ve left lying here like sick rat hole couldn help bill go long explanation before company couldn help upon honour upon what growled sikes excessive disgust here cut piece pie one boys take taste mouth ll choke dead don temper dear urged fagin submissively never forgot bill never once ll pound han replied sikes bitter grin ve scheming plotting away every hour laid shivering burning here bill bill bill all dirt cheap soon got well quite poor enough work hadn girl died there now bill remonstrated fagin eagerly catching word hadn girl who poor ould fagin means handy girl says true enough there said nancy coming hastily forward let let nancy appearance gave new turn conversation boys receiving sly wink wary old jew began ply liquor which however took sparingly while fagin assuming unusual flow spirits gradually brought mr sikes better temper affecting regard threats little pleasant banter moreover laughing heartily one two rough jokes which after repeated applications spirit bottle condescended make all well said mr sikes must some blunt tonight haven piece coin replied jew ve got lots home retorted sikes must some there lots cried fagin holding hands haven much don know how much ve got dare say hardly know yourself take pretty long time count said sikes must some tonight flat well well said fagin sigh ll send artful round presently won nothing kind rejoined mr sikes artful deal artful forget come lose way get dodged traps perwented anything excuse put nancy shall go ken fetch make all sure ll lie snooze while gone after great deal haggling squabbling fagin beat amount required advance five pounds three pounds four sixpence protesting many solemn asseverations only leave eighteen pence keep house mr sikes sullenly remarking couldn get any more must accompany home dodger master bates put eatables cupboard jew taking leave affectionate friend returned homeward attended nancy boys mr sikes meanwhile flinging himself bed composing himself sleep away time until young lady return due course arrived fagin abode where found toby crackit mr chitling intent upon fifteenth game cribbage which scarcely necessary say latter gentleman lost fifteenth last sixpence much amusement young friends mr crackit apparently somewhat ashamed found relaxing himself gentleman much inferior station mental endowments yawned inquiring after sikes took hat go nobody toby asked fagin living leg answered mr crackit pulling collar dull swipes ought stand something handsome fagin recompense keeping house long damme flat juryman gone sleep fast newgate hadn good natur amuse youngster horrid dull blessed other ejaculations same kind mr toby crackit swept winnings crammed waistcoat pocket haughty air though small pieces silver wholly beneath consideration man figure swaggered room much elegance gentility mr chitling bestowing numerous admiring glances legs boots till sight assured company considered acquaintance cheap fifteen sixpences interview didn value losses snap little finger wot rum chap tom said master bates highly amused declaration bit replied mr chitling am fagin clever fellow dear said fagin patting shoulder winking other pupils mr crackit heavy swell fagin asked tom doubt all dear creditable thing acquaintance fagin pursued tom much indeed dear re only jealous tom because won give ah cried tom triumphantly where cleaned go earn some more when like fagin sure sooner go better tom make loss once don lose any more time dodger charley time lay come near ten nothing yet obedience hint boys nodding nancy took hats left room dodger vivacious friend indulging went many witticisms expense mr chitling whose conduct justice say there nothing conspicuous peculiar inasmuch there great number spirited young bloods upon town who pay much higher price mr chitling seen good society great number fine gentlemen composing good society aforesaid who established reputation upon much same footing flash toby crackit now said fagin when left room ll go get cash nancy only key little cupboard where keep few odd things boys get dear never lock money ve got none lock dear ha ha ha none lock poor trade nancy thanks fond seeing young people bear all bear all hush said hastily concealing key breast who listen girl who sitting table arms folded appeared way interested arrival care whether person whoever came went until murmur man voice reached ears instant caught sound tore bonnet shawl rapidity lightning thrust table jew turning round immediately afterwards muttered complaint heat tone languor contrasted remarkably extreme haste violence action which however unobserved fagin who back towards time bah whispered though nettled interruption man expected before coming downstairs word money while here nance won stop long ten minutes dear laying skinny forefinger upon lip jew carried candle door man step heard upon stairs without reached same moment visitor who coming hastily room close upon girl before observed monks only one young people said fagin observing monks drew back beholding stranger don move nancy girl drew closer table glancing monks air careless levity withdrew eyes turned towards fagin stole another look keen searching full purpose there any bystander observe change hardly believed two looks proceeded same person any news inquired fagin great good asked fagin hesitating though feared vex other man sanguine bad any way replied monks smile prompt enough time let word girl drew closer table made offer leave room although see monks pointing jew perhaps fearing say something aloud money endeavoured get rid pointed upward took monks room infernal hole before hear man say went upstairs fagin laughed making some reply which reach seemed creaking boards lead companion second story before sound footsteps ceased echo through house girl slipped shoes drawing gown loosely head muffling arms stood door listening breathless interest moment noise ceased glided room ascended stairs incredible softness silence lost gloom above room remained deserted quarter hour more girl glided back same unearthly tread immediately afterwards two men heard descending monks went once street jew crawled upstairs again money when returned girl adjusting shawl bonnet preparing gone why nance exclaimed jew starting back put candle how pale pale echoed girl shading eyes hands look steadily quite horrible what doing yourself nothing know except sitting close place don know how long all replied girl carelessly come let get back dear sigh every piece money fagin told amount hand parted without more conversation merely interchanging good night when girl got open street sat upon doorstep seemed few moments wholly bewildered unable pursue way suddenly arose hurrying direction quite opposite which sikes awaiting return quickened pace until gradually resolved violent run after completely exhausting herself stopped take breath suddenly recollecting herself deploring inability something bent upon wrung hands burst tears tears relieved felt full hopelessness condition turned back hurrying nearly great rapidity contrary direction partly recover lost time partly keep pace violent current own thoughts soon reached dwelling where left housebreaker betrayed any agitation when presented herself mr sikes observe merely inquiring brought money receiving reply affirmative uttered growl satisfaction replacing head upon pillow resumed slumbers which arrival interrupted fortunate possession money occasioned much employment next day way eating drinking withal beneficial effect smoothing asperities temper neither time nor inclination critical upon behaviour deportment all abstracted nervous manner one who eve some bold hazardous step which required common struggle resolve upon obvious lynx eyed fagin who most probably taken alarm once mr sikes lacking niceties discrimination troubled more subtle misgivings which resolve themselves dogged roughness behaviour towards everybody furthermore unusually amiable condition already observed saw nothing unusual demeanor indeed troubled himself little agitation far more perceptible unlikely awakened suspicions day closed girl excitement increased when night came sat watching until housebreaker drink himself asleep there unusual paleness cheek fire eye even sikes observed astonishment mr sikes weak fever lying bed taking hot water gin render less inflammatory pushed glass towards nancy replenished third fourth time when symptoms first struck why burn body said man raising himself hands stared girl face look like corpse come life again what matter matter replied girl nothing what look hard what foolery demanded sikes grasping arm shaking roughly what what mean what thinking many things bill replied girl shivering pressing hands upon eyes lord what odds tone forced gaiety which last words spoken seemed produce deeper impression sikes wild rigid look which preceded tell wot said sikes haven caught fever got comin now there something more usual wind something dangerous re going damme wouldn what asked girl there ain said sikes fixing eyes upon muttering words himself there ain stauncher hearted gal going cut throat three months ago got fever coming fortifying himself assurance sikes drained glass bottom many grumbling oaths called physic girl jumped great alacrity poured quickly back towards held vessel lips while drank contents now said robber come sit aside put own face ll alter won know agin when want girl obeyed sikes locking hand fell back upon pillow turning eyes upon face closed opened again closed once more again opened shifted position restlessly after dozing again again two three minutes often springing look terror gazing vacantly suddenly stricken while attitude rising deep heavy sleep grasp hand relaxed upraised arm fell languidly side lay like one profound trance laudanum taken effect last murmured girl rose bedside late even now hastily dressed herself bonnet shawl looking fearfully round time time despite sleeping draught expected every moment feel pressure sikes heavy hand upon shoulder stooping softly bed kissed robber lips opening closing room door noiseless touch hurried house watchman crying half past nine dark passage through which pass gaining main thoroughfare long gone half hour asked girl ll strike hour another quarter said man raising lantern face cannot get there less hour more muttered nancy brushing swiftly past gliding rapidly street many shops already closing back lanes avenues through which tracked way making spitalfields towards west end london clock struck ten increasing impatience tore along narrow pavement elbowing passengers side side darting almost horses heads crossed crowded streets where clusters persons eagerly watching opportunity like woman mad said people turning look after rushed away when reached more wealthy quarter town streets comparatively deserted here headlong progress excited still greater curiosity stragglers whom hurried past some quickened pace behind though see whither hastening unusual rate few made head upon looked back surprised undiminished speed fell one one when neared place destination alone family hotel quiet handsome street near hyde park brilliant light lamp which burnt before door guided spot clock struck eleven loitered few paces though irresolute making mind advance sound determined stepped hall porter seat vacant looked round air incertitude advanced towards stairs now young woman said smartly dressed female looking door behind who want here lady who stopping house answered girl lady reply accompanied scornful look what lady miss maylie said nancy young woman who time noted appearance replied only look virtuous disdain summoned man answer nancy repeated request what name am say asked waiter use saying any replied nancy nor business said man nor neither rejoined girl must see lady come said man pushing towards door none take yourself shall carried go said girl violently make job two won like isn there anybody here said looking round see simple message carried poor wretch like appeal produced effect good tempered faced man cook who some other servants looking who stepped forward interfere take joe said person what good replied man don suppose young lady see allusion nancy doubtful character raised vast quantity chaste wrath bosoms four housemaids who remarked great fervour creature disgrace sex strongly advocated thrown ruthlessly kennel what like said girl turning men again what ask first ask give message god almighty sake soft hearted cook added intercession result man who first appeared undertook delivery what said man one foot stairs young woman earnestly asks speak miss maylie alone said nancy lady only hear first word say know whether hear business turned doors impostor say said man re coming strong give message said girl firmly let hear answer man ran upstairs nancy remained pale almost breathless listening quivering lip audible expressions scorn which chaste housemaids prolific which became still more when man returned said young woman walk upstairs good proper world said first housemaid brass better gold what stood fire said second third contented herself wondering what ladies made fourth took first quartette shameful which dianas concluded regardless all weightier matters heart nancy followed man trembling limbs small ante chamber lighted lamp ceiling here left retired chapter xl strange interview which sequel last chamber girl life squandered streets among most noisome stews dens london there something woman original nature left still when heard light step approaching door opposite which entered thought wide contrast which small room another moment contain felt burdened sense own deep shame shrunk though scarcely bear presence whom sought interview struggling better feelings pride vice lowest most debased creatures less high self assured miserable companion thieves ruffians fallen outcast low haunts associate scourings jails hulks living within shadow gallows itself even degraded felt proud betray feeble gleam womanly feeling which thought weakness which alone connected humanity which wasting life obliterated many many traces when child raised eyes sufficiently observe figure which presented itself slight beautiful girl bending ground tossed head affected carelessness said hard matter get see lady taken offence gone away many sorry one day without reason either am sorry any one behaved harshly replied rose think tell why wished see am person inquired kind tone answer sweet voice gentle manner absence any accent haughtiness displeasure took girl completely surprise burst tears oh lady lady said clasping hands passionately before face there more like there fewer like there there sit said rose earnestly poverty affliction shall truly glad relieve shall indeed sit let stand lady said girl still weeping speak kindly till know better growing late door shut yes said rose recoiling few steps nearer assistance case require why because said girl am put life lives others hands am girl dragged little oliver back old fagin night went house pentonville said rose maylie lady replied girl am infamous creature heard lives among thieves never first moment recollect eyes senses opening london streets known any better life kinder words given help god mind shrinking openly lady am younger think look am well used poorest women fall back make way along crowded pavement what dreadful things said rose involuntarily falling strange companion thank heaven upon knees dear lady cried girl friends care keep childhood never midst cold hunger riot drunkenness something worse all cradle use word alley gutter mine deathbed pity said rose broken voice wrings heart hear heaven bless goodness rejoined girl knew what am sometimes pity indeed stolen away who surely murder knew here tell what overheard know man named monks said rose knows replied girl knew here hearing tell place found never heard name said rose goes some other amongst us rejoined girl which more thought before some time ago soon after oliver put house night robbery suspecting man listened conversation held between fagin dark found what heard monks man asked know yes said rose understand monks pursued girl seen accidently two boys day first lost known directly same child watching though couldn make why bargain struck fagin oliver got back certain sum more making thief which monks wanted some purpose own what purpose asked rose caught sight shadow wall listened hope finding said girl there many people besides got way time escape discovery saw more till last night what occurred ll tell lady last night came again again went upstairs wrapping myself shadow betray again listened door first words heard monks say only proofs boy identity lie bottom river old hag received mother rotting coffin laughed talked success doing monks talking boy getting wild said though got young devil money safely now rather other way what game brought boast father driving through every jail town hauling some capital felony which fagin easily manage after made good profit besides what all said rose truth lady though comes lips replied girl said oaths common enough ears strange gratify hatred taking boy life without bringing own neck danger couldn upon watch meet every turn life took advantage birth history harm yet short fagin says jew never laid snares ll contrive young brother oliver brother exclaimed rose words said nancy glancing uneasily round scarcely ceased since began speak vision sikes haunted perpetually more when spoke other lady said seemed contrived heaven devil against oliver come hands laughed said there some comfort how many thousands hundreds thousands pounds give know who two legged spaniel mean said rose turning pale tell said earnest spoke hard angry earnest man ever replied girl shaking head earnest man when hatred know many who worse things rather listen all dozen times monks once growing late reach home without suspicion errand must get back quickly what said rose what use turn communication without back why wish return companions paint terrible colors repeat information gentleman whom summon instant next room consigned some place safety without half hour delay wish go back said girl must go back because how tell things innocent lady like because among men told there one most desperate among all leave even saved life am leading now interfered dear boy behalf before said rose coming here great risk tell what heard manner which convinces truth what say evident contrition sense shame all lead believe yet reclaimed oh said earnest girl folding hands tears coursed face turn deaf ear entreaties one own sex first first believe who ever appealed voice pity compassion hear words let save yet better things lady cried girl sinking knees dear sweet angel lady first ever blessed words heard years ago turned life sin sorrow late late never late said rose penitence atonement cried girl writhing agony mind cannot leave now death why asked rose nothing save cried girl told others what told led taken sure die boldest cruel possible cried rose man resign every future hope certainty immediate rescue madness don know what answered girl only know alone hundreds others bad wretched myself must go back whether god wrath wrong know am drawn back through every suffering ill usage believe knew die hand last what am said rose let depart thus lady know rejoined girl rising stop going because trusted goodness forced promise what use communication made said rose mystery must investigated how disclosure benefit oliver whom anxious serve must some kind gentleman hear secret advise what rejoined girl where find again when necessary asked rose seek know where dreadful people live where walking passing any settled period time promise secret strictly kept come alone only other person knows shall watched followed asked girl promise solemnly answered rose every sunday night eleven until clock strikes twelve said girl without hesitation walk london bridge am alive stay another moment interposed rose girl moved hurriedly towards door think once again own condition opportunity escaping claim only voluntary bearer intelligence woman lost almost beyond redemption return gang robbers man when word save what fascination take back make cling wickedness misery oh there chord heart touch there nothing left which appeal against terrible infatuation when ladies young good beautiful replied girl steadily give away hearts love carry all lengths even who home friends other admirers everything fill when who certain roof coffinlid friend sickness death hospital nurse set rotten hearts any man let fill place blank through all wretched lives who hope cure us pity us lady pity us only one feeling woman left turned heavy judgment comfort pride new means violence suffering said rose after pause take some money which enable live without dishonesty all events until meet again penny replied girl waving hand close heart against all efforts help said rose stepping gently forward wish serve indeed serve best lady replied girl wringing hands take life once felt more grief think what am tonight ever before something die hell which lived god bless sweet lady send much happiness head brought shame mine thus speaking sobbing aloud unhappy creature turned away while rose maylie overpowered extraordinary interview which more semblance rapid dream actual occurrence sank chair endeavoured collect wandering thoughts chapter xli containing fresh discoveries showing suprises like misfortunes seldom come alone situation indeed one common trial difficulty while felt most eager burning desire penetrate mystery which oliver history enveloped hold sacred confidence which miserable woman whom just conversed reposed young guileless girl words manner touched rose maylie heart mingled love young charge scarcely less intense truth fervour fond wish win outcast back repentance hope purposed remaining london only three days prior departing some weeks distant part coast now midnight first day what course action determine upon which adopted eight forty hours how postpone journey without exciting suspicion mr losberne next two days rose well acquainted excellent gentleman impetuosity foresaw clearly wrath which first explosion indignation regard instrument oliver recapture trust secret when representations girl behalf seconded experienced person all reasons greatest caution most circumspect behaviour communicating mrs maylie whose first impulse infallibly hold conference worthy doctor subject resorting any legal adviser even known how scarcely thought same reason once thought occurred seeking assistance harry awakened recollection last parting seemed unworthy call back when tears rose eyes pursued train reflection time learnt forget happier away disturbed different reflections inclining now one course another again recoiling all each successive consideration presented itself mind rose passed sleepless anxious night after more communing herself next day arrived desperate conclusion consulting harry painful thought come back here how painful perhaps come write come himself studiously abstain meeting when went away hardly thought better us both here rose dropped pen turned away though paper which messenger see weep taken same pen laid again fifty times considered reconsidered first line letter without writing first word when oliver who walking streets mr giles body guard entered room breathless haste violent agitation seemed betoken some new cause alarm what makes look flurried asked rose advancing meet hardly know how feel choked replied boy oh dear think see last able know told truth never thought told us anything truth said rose soothing what whom speak seen gentleman replied oliver scarcely able articulate gentleman who good mr brownlow often talked where asked rose getting coach replied oliver shedding tears delight going house didn speak couldn speak didn see trembled able go giles asked whether lived there said look here said oliver opening scrap paper here here where lives going there directly oh dear dear what shall when come see hear speak again attention little distracted great many other incoherent exclamations joy rose read address which craven street strand soon determined upon turning discovery account quick said tell fetch hackney coach ready go take there directly without minute loss time only tell aunt going hour ready soon oliver needed prompting despatch little more five minutes way craven street when arrived there rose left oliver coach pretence preparing old gentleman receive sending card servant requested see mr brownlow pressing business servant soon returned beg walk upstairs following upper room miss maylie presented elderly gentleman benevolent appearance bottle green coat great distance whom seated another old gentleman nankeen breeches gaiters who look particularly benevolent who sitting hands clasped top thick stick chin propped thereupon dear said gentleman bottle green coat hastily rising great politeness beg pardon young lady imagined some importunate person who beg excuse seated pray mr brownlow believe sir said rose glancing other gentleman one who spoken name said old gentleman friend mr grimwig grimwig leave us few minutes believe interposed miss maylie period interview need give gentleman trouble going away am correctly informed cognizant business which wish speak mr brownlow inclined head mr grimwig who made one stiff bow risen chair made another stiff bow dropped again shall surprise much doubt said rose naturally embarrassed once showed great benevolence goodness dear young friend mine am sure take interest hearing again indeed said mr brownlow oliver twist knew replied rose words sooner escaped lips mr grimwig who affecting dip large book lay table upset great crash falling back chair discharged features every expression one unmitigated wonder indulged prolonged vacant stare ashamed betrayed much emotion jerked himself convulsion former attitude looking straight before emitted long deep whistle which seemed last discharged empty air die away innermost recesses stomach mr browlow less surprised although astonishment expressed same eccentric manner drew chair nearer miss maylie said favour dear young lady leave entirely question goodness benevolence which speak which nobody knows anything power produce any evidence which alter unfavourable opinion once induced entertain poor child heaven name put possession bad one ll eat head bad one growled mr grimwig speaking some ventriloquial power without moving muscle face child noble nature warm heart said rose colouring power which thought fit try beyond years planted breast affections feelings which honour many who numbered days six times only sixty one said mr grimwig same rigid face devil oliver twelve years old least don see application remark heed friend miss maylie said mr brownlow mean what says yes growled mr grimwig said mr brownlow obviously rising wrath spoke ll eat head doesn growled mr grimwig deserve knocked said mr brownlow uncommonly like see any man offer responded mr grimwig knocking stick upon floor gone thus far two old gentlemen severally took snuff afterwards shook hands according invariable custom now miss maylie said mr brownlow return subject which humanity much interested let know what intelligence poor child allowing promise exhausted every means power discovering since absent country first impression imposed upon persuaded former associates rob considerably shaken rose who time collect thoughts once related few natural words all befallen oliver since left mr brownlow house reserving nancy information gentleman private ear concluding assurance only sorrow some months past able meet former benefactor friend thank god said old gentleman great happiness great happiness told where now miss maylie must pardon finding fault why brought waiting coach door replied rose door cried old gentleman which hurried room stairs coachsteps coach without another word when room door closed behind mr grimwig lifted head converting one hind legs chair pivot described three distinct circles assistance stick table sitting all time after performing evolution rose limped fast room least dozen times stopping suddenly before rose kissed without slightest preface hush said young lady rose some alarm unusual proceeding don afraid old enough grandfather re sweet girl like here fact threw himself one dexterous dive former seat mr brownlow returned accompanied oliver whom mr grimwig received graciously gratification moment only reward all anxiety care oliver behalf rose maylie well repaid there somebody who forgotten bye said mr brownlow ringing bell send mrs bedwin here please old housekeeper answered summons all dispatch dropping curtsey door waited orders why get blinder every day bedwin said mr brownlow rather testily well sir replied old lady people eyes time life don improve age sir told rejoined mr brownlow put glasses see find what wanted old lady began rummage pocket spectacles oliver patience proof against new trial yielding first impulse sprang arms god good cried old lady embracing innocent boy dear old nurse cried oliver come back knew said old lady holding arms how well looks how like gentleman son dressed again where long long while ah same sweet face pale same soft eye sad never forgotten quiet smile seen every day side side own dear children dead gone since lightsome young creature running thus now holding oliver mark how grown now clasping passing fingers fondly through hair good soul laughed wept upon neck turns leaving oliver compare notes leisure mr brownlow led way another room there heard rose full narration interview nancy which occasioned little surprise perplexity rose also explained reasons confiding friend mr losberne first instance old gentleman considered acted prudently readily undertook hold solemn conference worthy doctor himself afford early opportunity execution design arranged call hotel eight clock evening meantime mrs maylie cautiously informed all occurred preliminaries adjusted rose oliver returned home rose means overrated measure good doctor wrath nancy history sooner unfolded poured forth shower mingled threats execrations threatened make first victim combined ingenuity messrs blathers duff actually put hat preparatory sallying forth obtain assistance worthies doubtless first outbreak carried intention effect without moment consideration consequences restrained part corresponding violence side mr brownlow who himself irascible temperament partly arguments representations seemed best calculated dissuade hotbrained purpose what devil said impetuous doctor when rejoined two ladies pass vote thanks all vagabonds male female beg accept hundred pounds apiece trifling mark esteem some slight acknowledgment kindness oliver exactly rejoined mr brownlow laughing must proceed gently great care gentleness care exclaimed doctor send one all never mind where interposed mr brownlow reflect whether sending anywhere likely attain object view what object asked doctor simply discovery oliver parentage regaining inheritance which story true fraudulently deprived ah said mr losberne cooling himself pocket handkerchief almost forgot see pursued mr brownlow placing poor girl entirely question supposing possible bring scoundrels justice without compromising safety what good bring hanging few least all probability suggested doctor transporting rest good replied mr brownlow smiling doubt bring themselves fulness time step forestall seems shall performing quixotic act direct opposition own interest least oliver which same thing how inquired doctor thus quite clear shall extreme difficulty getting bottom mystery unless bring man monks upon knees only stratagem catching when surrounded people suppose apprehended proof against even far know facts appear us concerned gang any robberies discharged unlikely receive any further punishment committed prison rogue vagabond course ever afterwards mouth obstinately closed well purposes deaf dumb blind idiot said doctor impetuously put again whether think reasonable promise girl considered binding promise made best kindest intentions really discuss point dear young lady pray said mr brownlow interrupting rose speak promise shall kept don think slightest degree interfere proceedings before resolve upon any precise course action necessary see girl ascertain whether point monks understanding dealt us law cannot procure account haunts description person enable us identify cannot seen until next sunday night tuesday suggest meantime remain perfectly quiet keep matters secret even oliver himself although mr losberne received many wry faces proposal involving delay five whole days fain admit better course occurred just both rose mrs maylie sided strongly mr brownlow gentleman proposition carried unanimously like said call aid friend grimwig strange creature shrewd one prove material assistance us say bred lawyer quitted bar disgust because only one brief motion course twenty years though whether recommendation must determine yourselves objection calling friend call mine said doctor must put vote replied mr brownlow who lady son young lady old friend said doctor motioning towards mrs maylie concluding expressive glance niece rose blushed deeply make any audible objection motion possibly felt hopeless minority harry maylie mr grimwig accordingly added committee stay town course said mrs maylie while there remains slightest prospect prosecuting inquiry chance success spare neither trouble nor expense behalf object which all deeply interested am content remain here twelve months long assure any hope remains good rejoined mr brownlow see faces disposition inquire how happened way corroborate oliver tale suddenly left kingdom let stipulate shall asked questions until time deem expedient forestall telling own story believe make request good reason otherwise excite hopes destined never realised only increase difficulties disappointments already quite numerous enough come supper announced young oliver who all alone next room begun think time wearied company entered some dark conspiracy thrust forth upon world words old gentleman gave hand mrs maylie escorted supper room mr losberne followed leading rose council present effectually broken chapter xlii old acquaintance oliver exhibiting decided marks genius becomes public character metropolis upon night when nancy lulled mr sikes sleep hurried self imposed mission rose maylie there advanced towards london great north road two persons upon whom expedient history bestow some attention man woman perhaps better described male female former one long limbed knock kneed shambling bony people whom difficult assign any precise age looking when yet boys like undergrown men when almost men like overgrown boys woman young robust hardy make need bear weight heavy bundle which strapped back companion encumbered much luggage there merely dangled stick which carried shoulder small parcel wrapped common handkerchief apparently light enough circumstance added length legs which unusual extent enabled much ease keep some half dozen paces advance companion whom occasionally turned impatient jerk head reproaching tardiness urging greater exertion thus toiled along dusty road taking little heed any object within sight save when stepped aside allow wider passage mail coaches which whirling town until passed through highgate archway when foremost traveller stopped called impatiently companion come yer what lazybones yer charlotte heavy load tell said female coming almost breathless fatigue heavy what yer talking what yer made rejoined male traveller changing own little bundle spoke other shoulder oh there yer resting again well yer ain enough tire anybody patience don know what much farther asked woman resting herself against bank looking perspiration streaming face much farther yer good there said long legged tramper pointing before look there lights london re good two mile least said woman despondingly never mind whether re two mile twenty said noah claypole get come ll kick yer give yer notice noah red nose grew redder anger crossed road while speaking fully prepared put threat execution woman rose without any further remark trudged onward side where mean stop night noah asked after walked few hundred yards how know replied noah whose temper considerably impaired walking near hope said charlotte near replied mr claypole there near don think why when tell yer don mean thing enough without any why because either replied mr claypole dignity well needn cross said companion pretty thing wouldn go stop first public house outside town sowerberry come after us poke old nose us taken back cart handcuffs said mr claypole jeering tone shall go lose myself among narrowest streets find stop till come wayest house set eyes cod yer thanks yer stars ve got head hadn gone first wrong road purpose come back across country yer locked hard fast week ago lady serve yer right fool know ain cunning replied charlotte don put all blame say locked any way yer took money till yer know yer said mr claypole took noah dear rejoined charlotte keep asked mr claypole trusted let carry like dear said lady chucking chin drawing arm through indeed case mr claypole habit repose blind foolish confidence anybody observed justice gentleman trusted charlotte extent order pursued money found which leave opportunity asserting innocence any theft greatly facilitate chances escape course entered juncture explanation motives walked lovingly together pursuance cautious plan mr claypole went without halting until arrived angel islington where wisely judged crowd passengers numbers vehicles london began earnest just pausing observe which appeared most crowded streets consequently most avoided crossed saint john road soon deep obscurity intricate dirty ways which lying between gray inn lane smithfield render part town one lowest worst improvement left midst london through streets noah claypole walked dragging charlotte after now stepping kennel embrace glance whole external character some small public house now jogging again some fancied appearance induced believe public purpose length stopped front one more humble appearance more dirty any yet seen crossed surveyed opposite pavement graciously announced intention putting there night give us bundle said noah unstrapping woman shoulders slinging own don yer speak except when yer spoke what name house three what cripples said charlotte three cripples repeated noah good sign now keep close heels come along injunctions pushed rattling door shoulder entered house followed companion there nobody bar young jew who two elbows counter reading dirty newspaper stared hard noah noah stared hard noah attired charity boy dress there some reason jew opening eyes wide discarded coat badge wore short smock frock leathers there seemed particular reason appearance exciting much attention public house three cripples asked noah dabe ouse replied jew gentleman met road coming country recommended us here said noah nudging charlotte perhaps call attention most ingenious device attracting respect perhaps warn betray surprise want sleep here tonight dot certaid cad said barney who attendant sprite ll idquire show us tap give us bit cold meat drop beer while yer inquiring yer said noah barney complied ushering small back room setting required viands before which informed travellers lodged night left amiable couple refreshment now back room immediately behind bar some steps lower any person connected house undrawing small curtain which concealed single pane glass fixed wall last named apartment five feet flooring only look upon any guests back room without any great hazard observed glass dark angle wall between which large upright beam observer thrust himself applying ear partition ascertain tolerable distinctness subject conversation landlord house withdrawn eye place espial five minutes barney only just returned making communication above related when fagin course evening business came bar inquire after some young pupils hush said barney stradegers id next roob strangers repeated old man whisper ah ad rub uds added barney frob cuttry subthig way bistaked fagin appeared receive communication great interest mounting stool cautiously applied eye pane glass which secret post see mr claypole taking cold beef dish porter pot administering homeopathic doses both charlotte who sat patiently eating drinking pleasure aha whispered looking round barney like fellow looks use us knows how train girl already don make much noise mouse dear let hear em talk let hear em again applied eye glass turning ear partition listened attentively subtle eager look upon face appertained some old goblin mean gentleman said mr claypole kicking legs continuing conversation commencement which fagin arrived late hear more jolly old coffins charlotte gentleman life yer like yer shall lady like well enough dear replied charlotte tills ain emptied every day people get clear after tills blowed said mr claypole there more things besides tills emptied what mean asked companion pockets women ridicules houses mail coaches banks said mr claypole rising porter all dear said charlotte shall look get company replied noah ll able make us useful some way another why yourself worth fifty women never see precious sly deceitful creetur yer when let yer lor how nice hear yer say exclaimed charlotte imprinting kiss upon ugly face there ll don yer affectionate case cross yer said noah disengaging himself great gravity like captain some band whopping em follering em unbeknown themselves suit there good profit only get some gentleman sort say cheap twenty pound note ve got especially don well know how get rid ourselves after expressing opinion mr claypole looked porter pot aspect deep wisdom well shaken contents nodded condescendingly charlotte took draught wherewith appeared greatly refreshed meditating another when sudden opening door appearance stranger interrupted stranger mr fagin amiable looked low bow made advanced setting himself nearest table ordered something drink grinning barney pleasant night sir cool time year said fagin rubbing hands country see sir how yer see asked noah claypole much dust london replied fagin pointing noah shoes companion two bundles yer sharp feller said noah ha ha only hear charlotte why one need sharp town dear replied jew sinking voice confidential whisper truth fagin followed remark striking side nose right forefinger gesture which noah attempted imitate though complete success consequence own nose large enough purpose however mr fagin seemed interpret endeavour expressing perfect coincidence opinion put liquor which barney reappeared friendly manner good stuff observed mr claypole smacking lips dear said fagin man need always emptying till pocket woman reticule house mail coach bank drinks regularly mr claypole sooner heard extract own remarks fell back chair looked jew charlotte countenance ashy paleness excessive terror don mind dear said fagin drawing chair closer ha ha lucky only heard chance lucky only didn take stammered noah longer stretching legs like independent gentleman coiling well chair all doing yer ve got now charlotte yer know yer matter who got who dear replied fagin glancing nevertheless hawk eye girl two bundles way myself like what way asked mr claypole little recovering way business rejoined fagin people house ve hit right nail upon head safe here there safer place all town cripples when like make taken fancy young woman ve said word make minds easy noah claypole mind ease after assurance body certainly shuffled writhed various uncouth positions eyeing new friend meanwhile mingled fear suspicion ll tell more said fagin after reassured girl dint friendly nods muttered encouragements got friend think gratify darling wish put right way where take whatever department business think suit best first taught all others yer speak yer earnest replied noah what advantage anything inquired fagin shrugging shoulders here let word outside there occasion trouble ourselves move said noah getting legs gradual degrees abroad again ll take luggage upstairs while charlotte see bundles mandate which delivered great majesty obeyed without slightest demur charlotte made best way packages while noah held door open watched kept tolerably well ain asked resumed seat tone keeper who tamed some wild animal quite perfect rejoined fagin clapping shoulder re genius dear why suppose wasn shouldn here replied noah say ll back yer lose time now what think said fagin like friend better join good way business where responded noah winking one little eyes top tree employs power hands best society profession regular town maders asked mr claypole countryman among em don think take even recommendation didn run rather short assistants just now replied fagin hand said noah slapping breeches pocket couldn possibly without replied fagin most decided manner twenty pound though lot money when note get rid retorted fagin number date taken suppose payment stopped bank ah worth much ll go abroad couldn sell great deal market when see asked noah doubtfully tomorrow morning where here um said noah what wages live like gentleman board lodging pipes spirits free half all earn half all young woman earns replied mr fagin whether noah claypole whose rapacity none least comprehensive acceded even glowing terms perfectly free agent doubtful recollected event refusal power new acquaintance give justice immediately more unlikely things come pass gradually relented said thought suit yer see observed noah able good deal like take something light little fancy work suggested fagin ah something sort replied noah what think suit now something trying strength dangerous know sort thing heard talk something spy way upon others dear said fagin friend wants somebody who well much why mention shouldn mind turning hand sometimes rejoined mr claypole slowly wouldn pay itself know true observed jew ruminating pretending ruminate what think asked noah anxiously regarding something sneaking way where pretty sure work much more risk home what think old ladies asked fagin there good deal money made snatching bags parcels running round corner don holler good deal scratch sometimes asked noah shaking head don think answer purpose ain there any other line open stop said fagin laying hand noah knee kinchin lay what demanded mr claypole kinchins dear said fagin young children sent errands mothers sixpences shillings lay just take money away ve always got ready hands knock em kennel walk slow there nothing matter child fallen hurt itself ha ha ha ha ha roared mr claypole kicking legs ecstasy lord thing sure replied fagin few good beats chalked camden town battle bridge neighborhoods like where re always going errands upset many kinchins want any hour day ha ha ha fagin poked mr claypole side joined burst laughter both long loud well all right said noah when recovered himself charlotte returned what time tomorrow shall say ten asked fagin adding mr claypole nodded assent what name shall tell good friend mr bolter replied noah who prepared himself emergency mr morris bolter mrs bolter mrs bolter humble servant said fagin bowing grotesque politeness hope shall know better shortly hear gentleman charlotte thundered mr claypole yes noah dear replied mrs bolter extending hand calls noah sort fond way talking said mr morris bolter late claypole turning fagin understand oh yes understand perfectly replied fagin telling truth once good night good night many adieus good wishes mr fagin went way noah claypole bespeaking good lady attention proceeded enlighten relative arrangement made all haughtiness air superiority becoming only member sterner sex gentleman who appreciated dignity special appointment kinchin lay london vicinity chapter xliii wherein shown how artful dodger got trouble own friend asked mr claypole otherwise bolter when virtue compact entered between removed next day fagin house cod thought much last night every man own friend dear replied fagin most insinuating grin hasn good one himself anywhere except sometimes replied morris bolter assuming air man world some people nobody enemies own yer know don believe said fagin when man own enemy only because much own friend because careful everybody himself pooh pooh there ain thing nature there oughn there replied mr bolter stands reason some conjurers say number three magic number some say number seven neither friend neither number one ha ha cried mr bolter number one ever little community like dear said fagin who felt necessary qualify position general number one without considering same all other young people oh devil exclaimed mr bolter see pursued fagin affecting disregard interruption mixed together identified interests must instance object take care number one meaning yourself certainly replied mr bolter yer right there well take care yourself number one without taking care number one number two mean said mr bolter who largely endowed quality selfishness don retorted fagin same importance yourself say interrupted mr bolter yer nice man fond yer ain quite thick together all comes only think said fagin shrugging shoulders stretching hands only consider ve what pretty thing what love doing what same time put cravat round throat easily tied difficult unloose plain english halter mr bolter put hand neckerchief felt inconveniently tight murmured assent qualified tone substance gallows continued fagin gallows dear ugly finger post which points short sharp turning stopped many bold fellow career broad highway keep easy road keep distance object number one course replied mr bolter what yer talk things only show meaning clearly said jew raising eyebrows able depend upon keep little business all snug depend upon first number one second number one more value number one more careful must mine come last what told first regard number one holds us all together must unless all go pieces company true rejoined mr bolter thoughtfully oh yer cunning old codger mr fagin saw delight tribute powers mere compliment really impressed recruit sense wily genius which most important entertain outset acquaintance strengthen impression desirable useful followed blow acquainting some detail magnitude extent operations blending truth fiction together best served purpose bringing both bear much art mr bolter respect visibly increased became tempered same time degree wholesome fear which highly desirable awaken mutual trust each other consoles heavy losses said fagin best hand taken yesterday morning don mean say died cried mr bolter replied fagin bad quite bad what suppose wanted interposed fagin yes wanted particular inquired mr bolter replied fagin charged attempting pick pocket found silver snuff box own dear own took snuff himself fond remanded till today thought knew owner ah worth fifty boxes give price many back known dodger dear known dodger well shall know hope don yer think said mr bolter doubtful replied fagin sigh don get any fresh evidence ll only summary conviction shall back again after six weeks case lagging know what clever lad ll lifer ll make artful nothing less lifer what mean lagging lifer demanded mr bolter what good talking way why don yer speak understand yer fagin translate mysterious expressions vulgar tongue interpreted mr bolter informed represented combination words transportation life when dialogue cut short entry master bates hands breeches pockets face twisted look semi comical woe all fagin said charley when new companion made known each other what mean ve found gentleman owns box two three more coming dentify artful booked passage replied master bates must full suit mourning fagin hatband wisit afore sets upon travels think jack dawkins lummy jack dodger artful dodger going abroad common twopenny halfpenny sneeze box never thought gold watch chain seals lowest oh why didn rob some rich old gentleman all walables go gentleman like common prig without honour nor glory expression feeling unfortunate friend master bates sat himself nearest chair aspect chagrin despondency what talk neither honour nor glory exclaimed fagin darting angry look pupil wasn always top sawyer among all there one touch come near any scent eh one replied master bates voice rendered husky regret one what talk replied fagin angrily what blubbering cause isn rec ord said charley chafed perfect defiance venerable friend current regrets cause come dictment cause nobody never know half what how stand newgate calendar raps there all oh eye eye wot blow ha ha cried fagin extending right hand turning mr bolter fit chuckling which shook though palsy see what pride take profession dear ain beautiful mr bolter nodded assent fagin after contemplating grief charley bates some seconds evident satisfaction stepped young gentleman patted shoulder never mind charley said fagin soothingly ll come ll sure come ll all know what clever fellow ll show himself disgrace old pals teachers think how young what distinction charley lagged time life well honour said charley little consoled shall all wants continued jew shall kept stone jug charley like gentleman like gentleman beer every day money pocket pitch toss spend shall though cried charley bates ay shall replied fagin ll big wig charley one got greatest gift gab carry defence shall make speech himself likes ll read all papers artful dodger shrieks laughter here court convulsed eh charley eh ha ha laughed master bates what lark wouldn fagin say how artful bother em wouldn cried fagin shall ah sure repeated charley rubbing hands think see now cried jew bending eyes upon pupil cried charley bates ha ha ha see all afore upon soul fagin what game what regular game all big wigs trying look solemn jack dawkins addressing em intimate comfortable judge own son making speech arter dinner ha ha ha fact mr fagin well humoured young friend eccentric disposition master bates who first disposed consider imprisoned dodger rather light victim now looked upon chief actor scene most uncommon exquisite humour felt quite impatient arrival time when old companion favourable opportunity displaying abilities must know how gets today some handy means other said fagin let think shall go asked charley world replied fagin mad dear stark mad walk place where charley one enough lose time don mean go yourself suppose said charley humorous leer wouldn quite fit replied fagin shaking head why don send new cove asked master bates laying hand noah arm nobody knows why didn mind observed fagin mind interposed charley what mind really nothing dear said fagin turning mr bolter really nothing oh dare say yer know observed noah backing towards door shaking head kind sober alarm none department ain wot department got fagin inquired master bates surveying noah lank form much disgust cutting away when there anything wrong eating all wittles when there everything right branch never mind retorted mr bolter don yer take liberties yer superiors little boy yer ll find yerself wrong shop master bates laughed vehemently magnificent threat some time before fagin interpose represent mr bolter incurred possible danger visiting police office inasmuch account little affair which engaged nor any description person yet forwarded metropolis probable even suspected resorted shelter properly disguised safe spot visit any london inasmuch all places last which supposed likely resort own free persuaded part representations overborne much greater degree fear fagin mr bolter length consented bad grace undertake expedition fagin directions immediately substituted own attire waggoner frock velveteen breeches leather leggings all which articles jew hand likewise furnished felt hat well garnished turnpike tickets carter whip thus equipped saunter office some country fellow covent garden market supposed gratification curiousity awkward ungainly raw boned fellow need mr fagin fear look part perfection arrangements completed informed necessary signs tokens which recognise artful dodger conveyed master bates through dark winding ways within short distance bow street described precise situation office accompanied copious directions how walk straight passage when got side pull hat went room charley bates bade hurry alone promised bide return spot parting noah claypole morris bolter reader pleases punctually followed directions received which master bates pretty well acquainted locality exact enabled gain magisterial presence without asking any question meeting any interruption way found himself jostled among crowd people chiefly women who huddled together dirty frowsy room upper end which raised platform railed rest dock prisoners left hand against wall box witnesses middle desk magistrates right awful locality last named screened partition which concealed bench common gaze left vulgar imagine full majesty justice there only couple women dock who nodding admiring friends while clerk read some depositions couple policemen man plain clothes who leant table jailer stood reclining against dock rail tapping nose listlessly large key except when repressed undue tendency conversation among idlers proclaiming silence looked sternly bid some woman take baby when gravity justice disturbed feeble cries half smothered mother shawl some meagre infant room smelt close unwholesome walls dirt discoloured ceiling blackened there old smoky bust mantel shelf dusty clock above dock only thing present seemed go ought depravity poverty habitual acquaintance both left taint all animate matter hardly less unpleasant thick greasy scum every inanimate object frowned upon noah looked eagerly dodger although there several women who well distinguished character mother sister more one man who supposed bear strong resemblance father nobody all answering description given mr dawkins seen waited state much suspense uncertainty until women committed trial went flaunting quickly relieved appearance another prisoner who felt once other object visit indeed mr dawkins who shuffling office big coat sleeves tucked usual left hand pocket hat right hand preceded jailer rolling gait altogether indescribable taking place dock requested audible voice know what placed ere disgraceful sitivation hold tongue said jailer englishman ain rejoined dodger where priwileges ll get privileges soon enough retorted jailer pepper em ll see wot secretary state home affairs got say beaks don replied mr dawkins now wot here business shall thank madg strates dispose here little affair keep while read paper ve got appointment genelman city am man word wery punctual business matters ll go away ain there time pr aps ther won action damage against kep away oh certainly point dodger show particular view proceedings thereafter desired jailer communicate names two files bench which tickled spectators laughed almost heartily master bates heard request silence there cried jailer what inquired one magistrates pick pocketing case worship boy ever here before ought many times replied jailer pretty well everywhere know well worship oh know cried artful making note statement wery good case deformation character any way here there another laugh another cry silence now where witnesses said clerk ah right added dodger where like see em wish immediately gratified policeman stepped forward who seen prisoner attempt pocket unknown gentleman crowd indeed take handkerchief therefrom which old one deliberately put back again after trying own countenance reason took dodger custody soon get near said dodger searched upon person silver snuff box owner name engraved upon lid gentleman discovered reference court guide there present swore snuff box missed previous day moment disengaged himself crowd before referred also remarked young gentleman throng particularly active making way young gentleman prisoner before anything ask witness boy said magistrate wouldn abase myself descending hold conversation replied dodger anything say all hear worship ask ve anything say inquired jailer nudging silent dodger elbow beg pardon said dodger looking air abstraction redress yourself man never see young wagabond worship observed officer grin mean say anything young shaver replied dodger here ain shop justice besides which attorney breakfasting morning wice president house commons shall something say elsewhere wery numerous spectable circle acquaintance ll make beaks wish never born got footmen hang em own hat pegs afore let em come morning try upon ll there fully committed interposed clerk take away come said jailer oh ah ll come replied dodger brushing hat palm hand ah bench use looking frightened won show mercy ha porth ll pay fine fellers wouldn something wouldn go free now fall knees ask here carry prison take away last words dodger suffered himself led collar threatening till got yard make parliamentary business grinning officer face great glee self approval seen locked himself little cell noah made best way back where left master bates after waiting here some time joined young gentleman who prudently abstained showing himself until looked carefully abroad snug retreat ascertained new friend followed any impertinent person two hastened back together bear mr fagin animating news dodger doing full justice bringing establishing himself glorious reputation chapter xliv time arrives nancy redeem pledge rose maylie fails adept all arts cunning dissimulation girl nancy wholly conceal effect which knowledge step taken wrought upon mind remembered both crafty jew brutal sikes confided schemes which hidden all others full confidence trustworthy beyond reach suspicion vile schemes desperate originators bitter feelings towards fagin who led step step deeper deeper abyss crime misery whence escape still there times when even towards felt some relenting lest disclosure bring within iron grasp long eluded fall last richly merited fate hand mere wanderings mind unable wholly detach itself old companions associations though enabled fix itself steadily one object resolved turned aside any consideration fears sikes more powerful inducements recoil while there yet time stipulated secret rigidly kept dropped clue which lead discovery refused even sake refuge all guilt wretchedness encompasses what more resolved though all mental struggles terminated conclusion forced themselves upon again again left traces grew pale thin even within few days times took heed what passing before part conversations where once loudest other times laughed without merriment noisy without moment afterwards sat silent dejected brooding head upon hands while effort which roused herself told more forcibly even indications ill ease thoughts occupied matters different distant course discussion companions sunday night bell nearest church struck hour sikes jew talking paused listen girl looked low seat which crouched listened eleven hour side midnight said sikes raising blind look returning seat dark heavy good night business ah replied fagin what pity bill dear there none quite ready re right once replied sikes gruffly pity humour fagin sighed shook head despondingly must make lost time when ve got things good train all know said sikes way talk dear replied fagin venturing pat shoulder good hear good cried sikes well ha ha ha laughed fagin relieved even concession re like yourself tonight bill quite like yourself don feel like myself when lay withered old claw shoulder take away said sikes casting jew hand make nervous bill reminds nabbed said fagin determined offended reminds nabbed devil returned sikes there never another man face unless father suppose singeing grizzled red beard time unless came straight old un without any father all betwixt which shouldn wonder bit fagin offered reply compliment pulling sikes sleeve pointed finger towards nancy who taken advantage foregoing conversation put bonnet now leaving room hallo cried sikes nance where gal going time night far what answer retorted sikes hear don know where replied girl said sikes more spirit obstinacy because any real objection girl going where listed nowhere sit well told before rejoined girl want breath air put head winder replied sikes there enough there said girl want street won replied sikes which assurance rose locked door took key pulling bonnet head flung top old press there said robber now stop quietly where matter bonnet keep said girl turning pale what mean bill know what re doing know what oh cried sikes turning fagin senses know daren talk way ll drive something desperate muttered girl placing both hands upon breast though keep force some violent outbreak let go minute instant said sikes tell let go fagin better ll better hear cried nancy stamping foot upon ground hear repeated sikes turning round chair confront aye hear half minute longer dog shall grip throat ll tear some screaming voice wot come jade wot let go said girl great earnestness sitting herself floor before door said bill let go don know what doing don indeed only one hour cut limbs one one cried sikes seizing roughly arm don think gal stark raving mad get till let go till let go never never screamed girl sikes looked minute watching opportunity suddenly pinioning hands dragged struggling wrestling way small room adjoining where sat himself bench thrusting chair held force struggled implored turns until twelve clock struck wearied exhausted ceased contest point any further caution backed many oaths make more efforts go night sikes left recover leisure rejoined fagin whew said housebreaker wiping perspiration face wot precious strange gal say bill replied fagin thoughtfully say wot take head go tonight think asked sikes come know better wot mean obstinacy woman obstinacy suppose dear well suppose growled sikes thought tamed bad ever worse said fagin thoughtfully never knew like little cause nor said sikes think got touch fever blood yet won come eh like enough ll let little blood without troubling doctor took way again said sikes fagin nodded expressive approval mode treatment hanging all day night when stretched back like blackhearted wolf kept yourself aloof said sikes poor all time think one way other worried fretted shut here long made restless eh dear replied jew whisper hush uttered words girl herself appeared resumed former seat eyes swollen red rocked herself fro tossed head after little time burst laughing why now other tack exclaimed sikes turning look excessive surprise companion fagin nodded take further notice just few minutes girl subsided accustomed demeanour whispering sikes there fear relapsing fagin took hat bade good night paused when reached room door looking round asked somebody light dark stairs light said sikes who filling pipe pity break neck himself disappoint sight seers show light nancy followed old man downstairs candle when reached passage laid finger lip drawing close girl said whisper what nancy dear what mean replied girl same tone reason all replied fagin pointed skinny fore finger stairs hard brute nance brute beast why don well said girl fagin paused mouth almost touching ear eyes looking hers matter just now ll talk again friend nance staunch friend means hand quiet close want revenge treat like dog like dog worse dog humours sometimes come say come mere hound day know old nance know well replied girl without manifesting least emotion good night shrank back fagin offered lay hand hers said good night again steady voice answering parting look nod intelligence closed door between fagin walked towards home intent upon thoughts working within brain conceived idea what just passed though tended confirm slowly degrees nancy wearied housebreaker brutality conceived attachment some new friend altered manner repeated absences home alone comparative indifference interests gang which once zealous added desperate impatience leave home night particular hour all favoured supposition rendered least almost matter certainty object new liking among myrmidons valuable acquisition assistant nancy must thus fagin argued secured without delay there another darker object gained sikes knew much ruffian taunts galled fagin less because wounds hidden girl must know well shook never safe fury surely wreaked maiming limbs perhaps loss life object more recent fancy little persuasion thought fagin what more likely consent poison women things worse secure same object before now there dangerous villain man hate gone another secured place influence girl knowledge crime back unlimited things passed through mind fagin during short time sat alone housebreaker room uppermost thoughts taken opportunity afterwards afforded sounding girl broken hints threw parting there expression surprise assumption inability understand meaning girl clearly comprehended glance parting showed perhaps recoil plot take life sikes one chief ends attained how thought fagin crept homeward increase influence what new power acquire brains fertile expedients without extracting confession herself laid watch discovered object altered regard threatened reveal whole history sikes whom stood common fear unless entered designs secure compliance said fagin almost aloud durst refuse life life all means ready shall set work shall yet cast back dark look threatening motion hand towards spot where left bolder villain went way busying bony hands folds tattered garment which wrenched tightly grasp though there hated enemy crushed every motion fingers chapter xlv noah claypole employed fagin secret mission old man betimes next morning waited impatiently appearance new associate who after delay seemed interminable length presented himself commenced voracious assault breakfast bolter said fagin drawing chair seating himself opposite morris bolter well here am returned noah what matter don yer ask anything till eating great fault place yer never get time enough yer meals talk eat said fagin cursing dear young friend greediness bottom heart oh yes talk get better when talk said noah cutting monstrous slice bread where charlotte said fagin sent morning other young woman because wanted us alone oh said noah wish yer ordered make some buttered toast first well talk away yer won interrupt there seemed indeed great fear anything interrupting evidently sat determination great deal business well yesterday dear said fagin beautiful six shillings ninepence halfpenny first day kinchin lay fortune don forget add three pint pots milk said mr bolter dear pint pots great strokes genius milk perfect masterpiece pretty well think beginner remarked mr bolter complacently pots took airy railings milk standing itself outside public house thought get rusty rain catch cold yer know eh ha ha ha fagin affected laugh heartily mr bolter laugh took series large bites which finished first hunk bread butter assisted himself second want bolter said fagin leaning table piece work dear needs great care caution say rejoined bolter don yer go shoving danger sending any more yer police offices don suit don tell yer smallest danger smallest said jew only dodge woman old woman demanded mr bolter young one replied fagin pretty well know said bolter regular cunning sneak when school what am dodge anything tell where goes who sees possible what says remember street street house house bring back all information what ll yer give asked noah setting cup looking employer eagerly face well pound dear one pound said fagin wishing interest scent much possible what never gave yet any job work where there wasn valuable consideration gained who inquired noah one us oh lor cried noah curling nose yer doubtful yer found some new friends dear must know who replied fagin see said noah just pleasure knowing re respectable people eh ha ha ha man knew cried fagin elated success proposal course course replied noah where where am wait where am go all dear shall hear ll point proper time said fagin keep ready leave rest night next next again spy sat booted equipped carter dress ready turn word fagin six nights passed six long weary nights each fagin came home disappointed face briefly intimated yet time seventh returned earlier exultation conceal sunday goes abroad tonight said fagin right errand sure alone all day man afraid back much before daybreak come quick noah started without saying word jew state intense excitement infected left house stealthily hurrying through labyrinth streets arrived length before public house which noah recognised same which slept night arrival london past eleven clock door closed opened softly hinges fagin gave low whistle entered without noise door closed behind scarcely venturing whisper substituting dumb show words fagin young jew who admitted pointed pane glass noah signed climb observe person adjoining room woman asked scarcely above breath fagin nodded yes see face well whispered noah looking candle behind stay there whispered fagin signed barney who withdrew instant lad entered room adjoining pretence snuffing candle moved required position speaking girl caused raise face see now cried spy plainly know among thousand hastily descended room door opened girl came fagin drew behind small partition which curtained held breaths passed within few feet place concealment emerged door which entered hist cried lad who held door dow noah exchanged look fagin darted left whispered lad take left keep od other side light lamps saw girl retreating figure already some distance before advanced near considered prudent kept opposite side street better observe motions looked nervously round twice thrice once stopped let two men who following close behind pass seemed gather courage advanced walk steadier firmer step spy preserved same relative distance between followed eye upon chapter xlvi appointment kept church clocks chimed three quarters past eleven two figures emerged london bridge one which advanced swift rapid step woman who looked eagerly though quest some expected object other figure man who slunk along deepest shadow find some distance accommodated pace hers stopping when stopped moved again creeping stealthily never allowing himself ardour pursuit gain upon footsteps thus crossed bridge middlesex surrey shore when woman apparently disappointed anxious scrutiny foot passengers turned back movement sudden who watched thrown guard shrinking one recesses which surmount piers bridge leaning parapet better conceal figure suffered pass opposite pavement when same distance advance before slipped quietly followed again nearly centre bridge stopped man stopped dark night day unfavourable hour place there few people stirring there hurried quickly past possibly without seeing certainly without noticing either woman man who kept view appearance calculated attract importunate regards london destitute population chanced take way bridge night search some cold arch doorless hovel wherein lay heads stood there silence neither speaking nor spoken any one who passed mist hung river deepening red glare fires burnt upon small craft moored different wharfs rendering darker more indistinct murky buildings banks old smoke stained storehouses either side rose heavy dull dense mass roofs gables frowned sternly upon water black reflect even lumbering shapes tower old saint saviour church spire saint magnus long giant warders ancient bridge visible gloom forest shipping below bridge thickly scattered spires churches above nearly all hidden sight girl taken few restless turns fro closely watched meanwhile hidden observer when heavy bell st paul tolled death another day midnight come upon crowded city palace night cellar jail madhouse chambers birth death health sickness rigid face corpse calm sleep child midnight upon all hour struck two minutes when young lady accompanied grey haired gentleman alighted hackney carriage within short distance bridge dismissed vehicle walked straight towards scarcely set foot upon pavement when girl started immediately made towards walked onward looking air persons who entertained some slight expectation which little chance realised when suddenly joined new associate halted exclamation surprise suppressed immediately man garments countryman came close brushed against indeed precise moment here said nancy hurriedly am afraid speak here come away public road steps yonder uttered words indicated hand direction which wished proceed countryman looked round roughly asking what took whole pavement passed steps which girl pointed which surrey bank same side bridge saint saviour church form landing stairs river spot man bearing appearance countryman hastened unobserved after moment survey place began descend stairs part bridge consist three flights just below end second going stone wall left terminates ornamental pilaster facing towards thames point lower steps widen person turning angle wall necessarily unseen any others stairs who chance above only step countryman looked hastily round when reached point there seemed better place concealment tide there plenty room slipped aside back pilaster there waited pretty certain come lower even hear what said follow again safety tardily stole time lonely place eager spy penetrate motives interview different what led expect more once gave matter lost persuaded himself either stopped far above resorted some entirely different spot hold mysterious conversation point emerging hiding place regaining road above when heard sound footsteps directly afterwards voices almost close ear drew himself straight upright against wall scarcely breathing listened attentively far enough said voice which evidently gentleman suffer young lady go any farther many people distrusted much come even far see am willing humour humour cried voice girl whom followed re considerate indeed sir humour well well matter why what said gentleman kinder tone what purpose brought us strange place why let speak above there where light there something stirring instead bringing us dark dismal hole told before replied nancy afraid speak there don know why said girl shuddering fear dread upon tonight hardly stand fear what asked gentleman who seemed pity scarcely know what replied girl wish horrible thoughts death shrouds blood upon fear made burn fire upon all day reading book tonight wile time away same things came print imagination said gentleman soothing imagination replied girl hoarse voice ll swear saw coffin written every page book large black letters aye carried one close streets tonight there nothing unusual said gentleman passed often real ones rejoined girl there something uncommon manner flesh concealed listener crept heard girl utter words blood chilled within never experienced greater relief hearing sweet voice young lady begged calm allow herself become prey fearful fancies speak kindly said young lady companion poor creature seems need haughty religious people held heads see am tonight preached flames vengeance cried girl oh dear lady why ar who claim god own folks gentle kind us poor wretches who youth beauty all lost little proud instead much humbler ah said gentleman turk turns face after washing well east when says prayers good people after giving faces rub against world take smiles turn less regularity darkest side heaven between mussulman pharisee commend first words appeared addressed young lady perhaps uttered view affording nancy time recover herself gentleman shortly afterwards addressed himself here last sunday night said couldn come replied nancy kept force whom told young lady before suspected holding any communication anybody subject which brought us here tonight hope asked old gentleman replied girl shaking head easy leave unless knows why couldn give drink laudanum before came away awake before returned inquired gentleman neither nor any suspect good said gentleman now listen am ready replied girl paused moment young lady gentleman began communicated some other friends who safely trusted what told nearly fortnight since confess doubts first whether implicitly relied upon now firmly believe am said girl earnestly repeat firmly believe prove am disposed trust tell without reserve propose extort secret whatever fear man monks said gentleman cannot secured secured cannot acted upon wish must deliver jew fagin cried girl recoiling man must delivered said gentleman never replied girl devil worse devil never said gentleman who seemed fully prepared answer never returned girl tell why one reason rejoined girl firmly one reason lady knows stand know promise other reason besides bad life led led bad life there many us who kept same courses together ll turn upon who any turned upon didn bad said gentleman quickly point aiming attain put monks hands leave deal what turns against others promise case truth forced there matter rest there must circumstances oliver little history which painful drag before public eye truth once elicited shall go scot free suggested girl pursued gentleman fagin shall brought justice without consent case show reasons think which induce yield lady promise asked girl replied rose true faithful pledge monks never learn how knew what said girl after short pause never replied gentleman intelligence brought bear upon never even guess liar among liars little child said girl after another interval silence take words after receiving assurance both safely proceeded voice low often difficult listener discover even purport what said describe name situation public house whence followed night manner which occasionally paused appeared gentleman making some hasty notes information communicated when thoroughly explained localities place best position which watch without exciting observation night hour which monks most habit frequenting seemed consider few moments purpose recalling features appearances more forcibly recollection tall said girl strongly made man stout lurking walk walks constantly looks shoulder first one side other don forget eyes sunk head much deeper any other man almost tell alone face dark like hair eyes although more six eight twenty withered haggard lips often discoloured disfigured marks teeth desperate fits sometimes even bites hands covers wounds why start said girl stopping suddenly gentleman replied hurried manner conscious begged proceed part said girl drawn other people house tell only seen twice both times covered large cloak think all give know stay though added upon throat high see part below neckerchief when turns face there broad red mark like burn scald cried gentleman how said girl know young lady uttered cry surprise few moments still listener distinctly hear breathe think said gentleman breaking silence description shall see many people singularly like each other same expressed himself effect assumed carelessness took step two nearer concealed spy latter tell distinctness which heard mutter must now said returning seemed sound spot where stood before given us most valuable assistance young woman wish better what serve nothing replied nancy persist saying rejoined gentleman voice emphasis kindness touched much harder more obdurate heart think now tell nothing sir rejoined girl weeping nothing help am past all hope indeed put yourself beyond pale said gentleman past dreary waste youthful energies mis spent priceless treasures lavished creator bestows once never grants again future hope say power offer peace heart mind must come seek quiet asylum either england fear remain here some foreign country only within compass ability most anxious wish secure before dawn morning before river wakes first glimpse day light shall placed entirely beyond reach former associates leave utter absence all trace behind disappear earth moment come go back exchange one word any old companion take one look any old haunt breathe air which pestilence death quit all while there time opportunity persuaded now cried young lady hesitates am sure fear dear said gentleman sir replied girl after short struggle am chained old life loathe hate now cannot leave must gone far turn back yet don know spoken some time ago laughed said looking hastily round fear comes again must go home home repeated young lady great stress upon word home lady rejoined girl home raised myself work whole life let us part shall watched seen go go any service all ask leave let go way alone useless said gentleman sigh compromise safety perhaps staying here detained longer expected already yes yes urged girl what cried young lady end poor creature life what repeated girl look before lady look dark water how many times read who spring tide leave living thing care bewail years hence only months shall come last speak thus pray returned young lady sobbing never reach ears dear lady god forbid horrors replied girl good night good night gentleman turned away purse cried young lady take sake some resource hour need trouble replied girl money let think yet give something worn like something ring gloves handkerchief anything keep belonged sweet lady there bless god bless good night good night violent agitation girl apprehension some discovery which subject ill usage violence seemed determine gentleman leave requested sound retreating footsteps audible voices ceased two figures young lady companion soon afterwards appeared upon bridge stopped summit stairs hark cried young lady listening call thought heard voice love replied mr brownlow looking sadly back moved till gone rose maylie lingered old gentleman drew arm through led gentle force away disappeared girl sunk nearly full length upon one stone stairs vented anguish heart bitter tears after time arose feeble tottering steps ascended street astonished listener remained motionless post some minutes afterwards ascertained many cautious glances round again alone crept slowly hiding place returned stealthily shade wall same manner descended peeping more once when reached top make sure unobserved noah claypole darted away utmost speed made jew house fast legs carry chapter xlvii fatal consequences nearly two hours before day break time which autumn year truly called dead night when streets silent deserted when even sounds appear slumber profligacy riot staggered home dream still silent hour fagin sat watching old lair face distorted pale eyes red blood shot looked less like man like some hideous phantom moist grave worried evil spirit sat crouching cold hearth wrapped old torn coverlet face turned towards wasting candle stood upon table side right hand raised lips absorbed thought bit long black nails disclosed among toothless gums few fangs dog rat stretched upon mattress floor lay noah claypole fast asleep towards old man sometimes directed eyes instant brought back again candle which long burnt wick drooping almost double hot grease falling clots upon table plainly showed thoughts busy elsewhere indeed mortification overthrow notable scheme hatred girl who dared palter strangers utter distrust sincerity refusal yield bitter disappointment loss revenge sikes fear detection ruin death fierce deadly rage kindled all passionate considerations which following close upon each other rapid ceaseless whirl shot through brain fagin every evil thought blackest purpose lay working heart sat without changing attitude least appearing take smallest heed time until quick ear seemed attracted footstep street last muttered wiping dry fevered mouth last bell rang gently spoke crept upstairs door presently returned accompanied man muffled chin who carried bundle one arm sitting throwing back outer coat man displayed burly frame sikes there said laying bundle table take care most trouble enough get thought here three hours ago fagin laid hand upon bundle locking cupboard sat again without speaking take eyes robber instant during action now sat against each other face face looked fixedly lips quivering violently face altered emotions which mastered housebreaker involuntarily drew back chair surveyed look real affright wot now cried sikes wot look man fagin raised right hand shook trembling forefinger air passion great power speech moment gone damme said sikes feeling breast look alarm gone mad must look myself here rejoined fagin finding voice re person bill ve fault find oh haven haven said sikes looking sternly ostentatiously passing pistol more convenient pocket lucky one us which one don matter ve got tell bill said fagin drawing chair nearer make worse aye returned robber incredulous air tell away look sharp nance think lost lost cried fagin pretty well settled own mind already sikes looked aspect great perplexity jew face reading satisfactory explanation riddle there clenched coat collar huge hand shook soundly speak said don shall want breath open mouth say wot ve got say plain words thundering old cur suppose lad laying there fagin began sikes turned round where noah sleeping previously observed well said resuming former position suppose lad pursued fagin peach blow upon us all first seeking right folks purpose meeting em street paint likenesses describe every mark know us crib where most easily taken suppose all besides blow upon plan ve all more less own fancy grabbed trapped tried earwigged parson brought bread water own fancy please own taste stealing nights find most interested against us peaching hear cried jew eyes flashing rage suppose all what what replied sikes tremendous oath left alive till came grind skull iron heel boot many grains there hairs upon head what cried fagin almost yell knows much hang many besides myself don know replied sikes clenching teeth turning white mere suggestion something jail ud get put irons tried along fall upon open court beat brains afore people strength muttered robber poising brawny arm smash head loaded waggon gone said housebreaker try charley dodger bet don care who replied sikes impatiently whoever serve same fagin looked hard robber motioning silent stooped bed upon floor shook sleeper rouse sikes leant forward chair looking hands upon knees wondering much what all questioning preparation end bolter bolter poor lad said fagin looking expression devilish anticipation speaking slowly marked emphasis tired tired watching long watching bill wot ye mean asked sikes drawing back fagin made answer bending sleeper again hauled sitting posture when assumed name repeated several times noah rubbed eyes giving heavy yawn looked sleepily tell again once again just hear said jew pointing sikes spoke tell yer what asked sleepy noah shaking himself pettishly nancy said fagin clutching sikes wrist prevent leaving house before heard enough followed yes london bridge yes where met two people gentleman lady gone own accord before who asked give all pals monks first which describe which tell what house meet go which where best watched which what time people went there which all told all every word without threat without murmur cried fagin half mad fury all right replied noah scratching head just what what say last sunday last sunday replied noah considering why told yer before again tell again cried fagin tightening grasp sikes brandishing other hand aloft foam flew lips asked said noah who grew more wakeful seemed dawning perception who sikes asked why didn come last sunday promised said couldn why why tell because forcibly kept home bill man told before replied noah what more cried fagin what more man told before tell tell why couldn easily get doors unless knew where going said noah first time went see lady ha ha ha made laugh when said gave drink laudanum hell fire cried sikes breaking fiercely jew let go flinging old man rushed room darted wildly furiously stairs bill bill cried fagin following hastily word only word word exchanged housebreaker unable open door which expending fruitless oaths violence when jew came panting let said sikes don speak safe let say hear speak word rejoined fagin laying hand upon lock won well replied other won violent bill day breaking there light enough men see each other faces exchanged one brief glance there fire eyes both which mistaken mean said fagin showing felt all disguise now useless violent safety crafty bill bold sikes made reply pulling open door which fagin turned lock dashed silent streets without one pause moment consideration without once turning head right left raising eyes sky lowering ground looking straight before savage resolution teeth tightly compressed strained jaw seemed starting through skin robber held headlong course nor muttered word nor relaxed muscle until reached own door opened softly key strode lightly stairs entering own room double locked door lifting heavy table against drew back curtain bed girl lying half dressed upon roused sleep raised herself hurried startled look get said man bill said girl expression pleasure return reply get there candle burning man hastily drew candlestick hurled grate seeing faint light early day without girl rose undraw curtain let said sikes thrusting hand before there enough light wot ve got bill said girl low voice alarm why look like robber sat regarding few seconds dilated nostrils heaving breast grasping head throat dragged middle room looking once towards door placed heavy hand upon mouth bill bill gasped girl wrestling strength mortal fear won scream cry once hear speak tell what know devil returned robber suppressing breath watched tonight every word said heard spare life love heaven spared rejoined girl clinging bill dear bill cannot heart kill oh think all given only one night shall time think save yourself crime loose hold cannot throw bill bill dear god sake own mine stop before spill blood true upon guilty soul man struggled violently release arms girl clasped round tear tear away bill cried girl striving lay head upon breast gentleman dear lady told tonight home some foreign country where end days solitude peace let see again beg knees show same mercy goodness let us both leave dreadful place far apart lead better lives forget how lived except prayers never see each other more never late repent told feel now must time little little time housebreaker freed one arm grasped pistol certainty immediate detection fired flashed across mind even midst fury beat twice all force summon upon upturned face almost touched own staggered fell nearly blinded blood rained deep gash forehead raising herself difficulty knees drew bosom white handkerchief rose maylie own holding folded hands high towards heaven feeble strength allow breathed one prayer mercy maker ghastly figure look upon murderer staggering backward wall shutting sight hand seized heavy club struck chapter xlviii flight sikes all bad deeds cover darkness committed within wide london bounds since night hung worst all horrors rose ill scent upon morning air foulest most cruel sun bright sun brings back light alone new life hope freshness man burst upon crowded city clear radiant glory through costly coloured glass paper mended window through cathedral dome rotten crevice shed equal ray lighted room where murdered woman lay tried shut stream sight ghastly one dull morning what now all brilliant light moved afraid stir there moan motion hand terror added rage struck struck again once threw rug worse fancy eyes imagine moving towards see glaring upward watching reflection pool gore quivered danced sunlight ceiling plucked again there body mere flesh blood more flesh much blood struck light kindled fire thrust club there hair upon end which blazed shrunk light cinder caught air whirled chimney even frightened sturdy held weapon till broke piled coals burn away smoulder ashes washed himself rubbed clothes there spots removed cut pieces burnt how stains dispersed room feet dog bloody all time never once turned back upon corpse moment preparations completed moved backward towards door dragging dog lest soil feet anew carry new evidence crime streets shut door softly locked took key left house crossed glanced window sure nothing visible outside there curtain still drawn which opened admit light never saw again lay nearly there knew god how sun poured upon spot glance instantaneous relief got free room whistled dog walked rapidly away went through islington strode hill highgate which stands stone honour whittington turned highgate hill unsteady purpose uncertain where go struck right again almost soon began descend taking foot path across fields skirted caen wood came hampstead heath traversing hollow vale heath mounted opposite bank crossing road which joins villages hampstead highgate made along remaining portion heath fields north end one which laid himself hedge slept soon again away far country back towards london high road back again another part same ground already traversed wandering fields lying ditches brinks rest starting make some other spot same ramble again where go near public get some meat drink hendon good place far most people way thither directed steps running sometimes sometimes strange perversity loitering snail pace stopping altogether idly breaking hedges stick when got there all people met children doors seemed view suspicion back turned again without courage purchase bit drop though tasted food many hours once more lingered heath uncertain where go wandered miles miles ground still came back old place morning noon passed day wane still rambled fro round round still lingered same spot last got away shaped course hatfield nine clock night when man quite tired dog limping lame unaccustomed exercise turned hill church quiet village plodding along little street crept small public house whose scanty light guided spot there fire tap room some country labourers drinking before made room stranger sat furthest corner ate drank alone rather dog whom cast morsel food time time conversation men assembled here turned upon neighbouring land farmers when topics exhausted upon age some old man who buried previous sunday young men present considering old old men present declaring quite young older one white haired grandfather said ten fifteen year life least taken care taken care there nothing attract attention excite alarm robber after paying reckoning sat silent unnoticed corner almost dropped asleep when half wakened noisy entrance new comer antic fellow half pedlar half mountebank who travelled country foot vend hones strops razors washballs harness paste medicine dogs horses cheap perfumery cosmetics like wares which carried case slung back entrance signal various homely jokes countrymen which slackened until made supper opened box treasures when ingeniously contrived unite business amusement what stoof good eat harry asked grinning countryman pointing some composition cakes one corner said fellow producing one infallible invaluable composition removing all sorts stain rust dirt mildew spick speck spot spatter silk satin linen cambric cloth crape stuff carpet merino muslin bombazeen woollen stuff wine stains fruit stains beer stains water stains paint stains pitch stains any stains all come one rub infallible invaluable composition lady stains honour only need swallow one cake cured once poison gentleman wants prove only need bolt one little square put beyond question quite satisfactory pistol bullet great deal nastier flavour consequently more credit taking one penny square all virtues one penny square there two buyers directly more listeners plainly hesitated vendor observing increased loquacity all bought fast made said fellow there fourteen water mills six steam engines galvanic battery always working upon make fast enough though men work hard die widows pensioned directly twenty pound year each children premium fifty twins one penny square two half pence all same four farthings received joy one penny square wine stains fruit stains beer stains water stains paint stains pitch stains mud stains blood stains here stain upon hat gentleman company ll take clean before order pint ale hah cried sikes starting give back ll take clean sir replied man winking company before come across room get gentlemen all observe dark stain upon gentleman hat wider shilling thicker half crown whether wine stain fruit stain beer stain water stain paint stain pitch stain mud stain blood stain man got further sikes hideous imprecation overthrew table tearing hat burst house same perversity feeling irresolution fastened upon despite himself all day murderer finding followed most probably considered some drunken sullen fellow turned back town getting glare lamps stage coach standing street walking past when recognised mail london saw standing little post office almost knew what come crossed listened guard standing door waiting letter bag man dressed like game keeper came moment handed basket which lay ready pavement people said guard now look alive there damn ere bag warn ready night afore last won know anything new town ben asked game keeper drawing back window shutters better admire horses nothing knows replied man pulling gloves corn little heerd talk murder spitalfields way don reckon much upon oh quite true said gentleman inside who looking window dreadful murder sir rejoined guard touching hat man woman pray sir woman replied gentleman supposed now ben replied coachman impatiently damn ere bag said guard gone sleep there coming cried office keeper running coming growled guard ah young ooman property going take fancy don know when here give hold all ri ight horn sounded few cheerful notes coach gone sikes remained standing street apparently unmoved what just heard agitated stronger feeling doubt where go length went back again took road which leads hatfield st albans went doggedly left town behind plunged solitude darkness road felt dread awe creeping upon which shook core every object before substance shadow still moving took semblance some fearful thing fears nothing compared sense haunted morning ghastly figure following heels trace shadow gloom supply smallest item outline note how stiff solemn seemed stalk along hear garments rustling leaves every breath wind came laden last low cry stopped same ran followed running relief like corpse endowed mere machinery life borne one slow melancholy wind never rose fell times turned desperate determination resolved beat phantom though look dead hair rose head blood stood still turned behind kept before morning behind now always leaned back against bank felt stood above visibly against cold night sky threw himself upon road back upon road head stood silent erect still living grave stone epitaph blood let man talk murderers escaping justice hint providence must sleep there twenty score violent deaths one long minute agony fear there shed field passed offered shelter night before door three tall poplar trees which made dark within wind moaned through dismal wail walk till daylight came again here stretched himself close wall undergo new torture now vision came before constant more terrible which escaped widely staring eyes lustreless glassy better borne see think upon appeared midst darkness light themselves giving light nothing there two everywhere shut sight there came room every well known object some indeed forgotten gone contents memory each accustomed place body place eyes saw when stole away got rushed field without figure behind re entered shed shrunk once more eyes there before laid himself along here remained terror none know trembling every limb cold sweat starting every pore when suddenly there arose upon night wind noise distant shouting roar voices mingled alarm wonder any sound men lonely place even though conveyed real cause alarm something regained strength energy prospect personal danger springing feet rushed open air broad sky seemed fire rising air showers sparks rolling one above other sheets flame lighting atmosphere miles round driving clouds smoke direction where stood shouts grew louder new voices swelled roar hear cry fire mingled ringing alarm bell fall heavy bodies crackling flames twined round some new obstacle shot aloft though refreshed food noise increased looked there people there men women light bustle like new life darted onward straight headlong dashing through brier brake leaping gate fence madly dog who careered loud sounding bark before came upon spot there half dressed figures tearing fro some endeavouring drag frightened horses stables others driving cattle yard houses others coming laden burning pile amidst shower falling sparks tumbling red hot beams apertures where doors windows stood hour ago disclosed mass raging fire walls rocked crumbled burning well molten lead iron poured white hot upon ground women children shrieked men encouraged each other noisy shouts cheers clanking engine pumps spirting hissing water fell upon blazing wood added tremendous roar shouted till hoarse flying memory himself plunged thickest throng hither thither dived night now working pumps now hurrying through smoke flame never ceasing engage himself wherever noise men thickest ladders upon roofs buildings floors quaked trembled weight lee falling bricks stones every part great fire bore charmed life neither scratch nor bruise nor weariness nor thought till morning dawned again only smoke blackened ruins remained mad excitement there returned ten fold force dreadful consciousness crime looked suspiciously men conversing groups feared subject talk dog obeyed significant beck finger drew stealthily together passed near engine where some men seated called share refreshment took some bread meat drank draught beer heard firemen who london talking murder gone birmingham say said one ll yet scouts tomorrow night there ll cry all through country hurried walked till almost dropped upon ground lay lane long broken uneasy sleep wandered again irresolute undecided oppressed fear another solitary night suddenly took desperate resolution going back london there somebody speak there all event thought good hiding place ll never expect nab there after country scent why lie week forcing blunt fagin get abroad france damme ll risk acted upon impulse without delay choosing least frequented roads began journey back resolved lie concealed within short distance metropolis entering dusk circuitous route proceed straight part which fixed destination dog though any description forgotten dog missing probably gone lead apprehension passed along streets resolved drown walked looking pond picking heavy stone tying handkerchief went animal looked master face while preparations making whether instinct apprehended something purpose robber sidelong look sterner ordinary skulked little farther rear usual cowered came more slowly along when master halted brink pool looked round call stopped outright hear call come here cried sikes animal came force habit sikes stooped attach handkerchief throat uttered low growl started back come back said robber dog wagged tail moved sikes made running noose called again dog advanced retreated paused instant scoured away hardest speed man whistled again again sat waited expectation return dog appeared length resumed journey chapter xlix monks mr brownlow length meet conversation intelligence interrupts twilight beginning close when mr brownlow alighted hackney coach own door knocked softly door opened sturdy man got coach stationed himself one side steps while another man who seated box dismounted stood upon other side sign mr brownlow helped third man taking between hurried house man monks walked same manner stairs without speaking mr brownlow preceding led way back room door apartment monks who ascended evident reluctance stopped two men looked old gentleman instructions knows alternative said mr browlow hesitates moves finger bid drag street call aid police impeach felon name how dare say asked monks how dare urge young man replied mr brownlow confronting steady look mad enough leave house unhand there sir free go follow warn all hold most solemn most sacred instant apprehended charge fraud robbery am resolute immoveable determined same blood upon own head what authority am kidnapped street brought here dogs asked monks looking one other men who stood beside mine replied mr brownlow persons indemnified complain deprived liberty power opportunity retrieve came along deemed advisable remain quiet say again throw yourself protection law appeal law when gone far recede sue leniency when power passed other hands say plunged gulf which rushed yourself monks plainly disconcerted alarmed besides hesitated decide quickly said mr brownlow perfect firmness composure wish prefer charges publicly consign punishment extent which although shudder foresee cannot control once more say know way appeal forbearance mercy deeply injured seat yourself without word chair waited two whole days monks muttered some unintelligible words wavered still prompt said mr brownlow word alternative gone ever still man hesitated inclination parley said mr brownlow advocate dearest interests others right there demanded monks faltering tongue there middle course none monks looked old gentleman anxious eye reading countenance nothing severity determination walked room shrugging shoulders sat lock door outside said mr brownlow attendants come when ring men obeyed two left alone together pretty treatment sir said monks throwing hat cloak father oldest friend because father oldest friend young man returned mr brownlow because hopes wishes young happy years bound fair creature blood kindred who rejoined god youth left here solitary lonely man because knelt beside only sisters death bed when yet boy morning heaven willed otherwise made young wife because seared heart clung time forth through all trials errors till died because old recollections associations filled heart even sight brings old thoughts because all things am moved treat gently now yes edward leeford even now blush unworthiness who bear name what name asked other after contemplating half silence half dogged wonder agitation companion what name nothing replied mr brownlow nothing hers even distance time brings back old man glow thrill which once felt only hear repeated stranger am glad changed all mighty fine said monks retain assumed designation after long silence during which jerked himself sullen defiance fro mr brownlow sat shading face hand what want brother said mr brownlow rousing himself brother whisper whose name ear when came behind street itself almost enough make accompany hither wonder alarm brother replied monks know only child why talk brothers know well attend what know said mr brownlow shall interest know wretched marriage which family pride most sordid narrowest all ambition forced unhappy father when mere boy sole most unnatural issue don care hard names interrupted monks jeering laugh know fact enough also know pursued old gentleman misery slow torture protracted anguish ill assorted union know how listlessly wearily each wretched pair dragged heavy chain through world poisoned both know how cold formalities succeeded open taunts how indifference gave place dislike dislike hate hate loathing until last wrenched clanking bond asunder retiring wide space apart carried each galling fragment which nothing death break rivets hide new society beneath gayest looks assume mother succeeded forgot soon rusted cankered father heart years well separated said monks what when separated some time returned mr brownlow mother wholly given continental frivolities utterly forgotten young husband ten good years junior who prospects blighted lingered home fell among new friends circumstance least know already said monks turning away eyes beating foot upon ground man who determined deny everything manner less actions assures never forgotten ceased think bitterness returned mr brownlow speak fifteen years ago when more eleven years old father one thirty repeat boy when father ordered marry must go back events which cast shade upon memory parent spare disclose truth nothing disclose rejoined monks must talk new friends said mr brownlow naval officer retired active service whose wife died some half year before left two children there more all family happily two survived both daughters one beautiful creature nineteen other mere child two three years old what asked monks resided said mr brownlow without seeming hear interruption part country which father wandering repaired where taken abode acquaintance intimacy friendship fast followed each other father gifted few men sister soul person old officer knew more more grew love ended there daughter same old gentleman paused monks biting lips eyes fixed upon floor seeing immediately resumed end year found contracted solemnly contracted daughter object first true ardent only passion guileless girl tale longest observed monks moving restlessly chair true tale grief trial sorrow young man returned mr brownlow tales usually one unmixed joy happiness brief length one rich relations strengthen whose interest importance father sacrificed others often uncommon case died repair misery instrumental occasioning left panacea all griefs money necessary immediately repair rome whither man sped health where died leaving affairs great confusion went seized mortal illness there followed moment intelligence reached paris mother who carried died day after arrival leaving whole property fell part recital monks held breath listened face intense eagerness though eyes directed towards speaker mr brownlow paused changed position air one who experienced sudden relief wiped hot face hands before went abroad passed through london way said mr brownlow slowly fixing eyes upon other face came never heard interrupted monks tone intended appear incredulous savouring more disagreeable surprise came left among some other things picture portrait painted himself likeness poor girl which wish leave behind carry forward hasty journey worn anxiety remorse almost shadow talked wild distracted way ruin dishonour worked himself confided intention convert whole property any loss money settled wife portion recent acquisition fly country guessed well fly alone never see more even old early friend whose strong attachment taken root earth covered one most dear both even withheld any more particular confession promising write tell all after see once again last time earth alas last time letter never saw more went said mr brownlow after short pause went when all scene use term world freely use worldly harshness favour now alike guilty love resolved fears realised erring child find one heart home shelter compassionate family left part week before called trifling debts outstanding discharged left place night why whither none tell monks drew breath yet more freely looked round smile triumph when brother said mr brownlow drawing nearer other chair when brother feeble ragged neglected child cast way stronger hand chance rescued life vice infamy what cried monks said mr brownlow told interest before long say see cunning associate suppressed name although aught knew quite strange ears when rescued lay recovering sickness house strong resemblance picture spoken struck astonishment even when first saw all dirt misery there lingering expression face came upon like glimpse some old friend flashing one vivid dream need tell snared away before knew history why asked monks hastily because know well denial vain replied mr brownlow shall show know more prove anything against stammered monks defy shall see returned old gentleman searching glance lost boy efforts mine recover mother dead knew alone solve mystery anybody when last heard own estate west indies whither well know retired upon mother death escape consequences vicious courses here made voyage left months before supposed london one tell where returned agents clue residence came went said strangely ever sometimes days together sometimes months keeping all appearance same low haunts mingling same infamous herd who associates when fierce ungovernable boy wearied new applications paced streets night day until two hours ago all efforts fruitless never saw instant now see said monks rising boldly what fraud robbery high sounding words justified think fancied resemblance some young imp idle daub dead man brother don even know child born maudlin pair don even know replied mr brownlow rising within last fortnight learnt all brother know there which mother destroyed leaving secret gain own death contained reference some child likely result sad connection which child born accidentally encountered when suspicions first awakened resemblance father repaired place birth there existed proofs proofs long suppressed birth parentage proofs destroyed now own words accomplice jew only proofs boy identity lie bottom river old hag received mother rotting coffin unworthy son coward liar who hold councils thieves murderers dark rooms night whose plots wiles brought violent death upon head one worth millions who cradle gall bitterness own father heart whom all evil passions vice profligacy festered till found vent hideous disease which made face index even mind edward leeford still brave returned coward overwhelmed accumulated charges every word cried gentleman every word passed between detested villain known shadows wall caught whispers brought ear sight persecuted child turned vice itself given courage almost attributes virtue murder which morally really party interposed monks knew nothing going inquire truth story when overtook didn know cause thought common quarrel partial disclosure secrets replied mr brownlow disclose whole yes set hand statement truth facts repeat before witnesses promise remain quietly here until document drawn proceed place deem most advisable purpose attesting insist upon ll also replied monks must more said mr brownlow make restitution innocent unoffending child although offspring guilty most miserable love forgotten provisions carry execution far brother concerned go where please world need meet more while monks pacing meditating dark evil looks proposal possibilities evading torn fears one hand hatred other door hurriedly unlocked gentleman mr losberne entered room violent agitation man taken cried taken tonight murderer asked mr brownlow yes yes replied other dog seen lurking some old haunt there seems little doubt master either there cover darkness spies hovering every direction spoken men who charged capture tell cannot escape reward hundred pounds proclaimed government tonight give fifty more said mr brownlow proclaim own lips upon spot reach where mr maylie harry soon seen friend here safe coach hurried where heard replied doctor mounting horse sallied forth join first party some place outskirts agreed upon between fagin said mr brownlow what when last heard taken time re sure made mind asked mr brownlow low voice monks yes replied secret remain here till return only hope safety left room door again locked what asked doctor whisper all hope even more coupling poor girl intelligence previous knowledge result good friend inquiries spot left loophole escape laid bare whole villainy which lights became plain day write appoint evening after tomorrow seven meeting shall there few hours before shall require rest especially young lady who greater need firmness either quite foresee just now blood boils avenge poor murdered creature which way taken drive straight office time replied mr losberne remain here two gentlemen hastily separated each fever excitement wholly uncontrollable chapter pursuit escape near part thames which church rotherhithe abuts where buildings banks dirtiest vessels river blackest dust colliers smoke close built low roofed houses there exists filthiest strangest most extraordinary many localities hidden london wholly unknown even name great mass inhabitants reach place visitor penetrate through maze close narrow muddy streets thronged roughest poorest waterside people devoted traffic supposed occasion cheapest least delicate provisions heaped shops coarsest commonest articles wearing apparel dangle salesman door stream house parapet windows jostling unemployed labourers lowest class ballast heavers coal whippers brazen women ragged children raff refuse river makes way difficulty along assailed offensive sights smells narrow alleys which branch right left deafened clash ponderous waggons bear great piles merchandise stacks warehouses rise every corner arriving length streets remoter less frequented through which passed walks beneath tottering house fronts projecting pavement dismantled walls seem totter passes chimneys half crushed half hesitating fall windows guarded rusty iron bars time dirt almost eaten away every imaginable sign desolation neglect neighborhood beyond dockhead borough southwark stands jacob island surrounded muddy ditch six eight feet deep fifteen twenty wide when tide once called mill pond known days story folly ditch creek inlet thames always filled high water opening sluices lead mills which took old name times stranger looking one wooden bridges thrown across mill lane see inhabitants houses either side lowering back doors windows buckets pails domestic utensils all kinds which haul water when eye turned operations houses themselves utmost astonishment excited scene before crazy wooden galleries common backs half dozen houses holes which look upon slime beneath windows broken patched poles thrust which dry linen never there rooms small filthy confined air seem tainted even dirt squalor which shelter wooden chambers thrusting themselves above mud threatening fall some dirt besmeared walls decaying foundations every repulsive lineament poverty every loathsome indication filth rot garbage all ornament banks folly ditch jacob island warehouses roofless empty walls crumbling windows windows more doors falling streets chimneys blackened yield smoke thirty forty years ago before losses chancery suits came upon thriving place now desolate island indeed houses owners broken open entered upon who courage there live there die must powerful motives secret residence reduced destitute condition indeed who seek refuge jacob island upper room one houses detached house fair size ruinous other respects strongly defended door window which house back commanded ditch manner already described there assembled three men who regarding each other every now looks expressive perplexity expectation sat some time profound gloomy silence one toby crackit another mr chitling third robber fifty years whose nose almost beaten some old scuffle whose face bore frightful scar which probably traced same occasion man returned transport name kags wish said toby turning mr chitling picked some other crib when two old ones got warm come here fine feller why didn blunder head said kags well thought little more glad see replied mr chitling melancholy air why look young gentleman said toby when man keeps himself ex clusive means snug house head nobody prying smelling rather startling thing honour wisit young gentleman however respectable pleasant person play cards conweniency circumstanced especially when exclusive young man got friend stopping arrived sooner expected foreign parts modest want presented judges return added mr kags there short silence after which toby crackit seeming abandon hopeless any further effort maintain usual devil care swagger turned chitling said when fagin took just dinner time two clock afternoon charley made lucky wash us chimney bolter got empty water butt head downwards legs precious long stuck top took bet poor bet went see body speak who replied chitling countenance falling more more went mad screaming raving beating head against boards put strait weskut took hospital there wot come young bates demanded kags hung come here afore dark ll here soon replied chitling there nowhere go now people cripples all custody bar ken went there see own eyes filled traps smash observed toby biting lips there more one go sessions said kags get inquest bolter turns king evidence course what said already prove fagin accessory before fact get trial friday ll swing six days heard people groan said chitling officers fought like devils torn away once made ring round fought way along seen how looked all muddy bleeding clung dearest friends see em now able stand upright pressing mob draggin along amongst em see people jumping one behind another snarling teeth making see blood upon hair beard hear cries which women worked themselves centre crowd street corner swore tear heart horror stricken witness scene pressed hands upon ears eyes closed got paced violently fro like one distracted while thus engaged two men sat silence eyes fixed upon floor pattering noise heard upon stairs sikes dog bounded room ran window downstairs street dog jumped open window made attempt follow nor master seen what meaning said toby when returned coming here hope coming here come dog said kags stooping examine animal who lay panting floor here give us some water run himself faint drunk all every drop said chitling after watching dog some time silence covered mud lame half blind must come long way where come exclaimed toby other kens course finding filled strangers come here where many time often where come first how comes here alone without other none called murderer old name made away himself what think said chitling toby shook head said kags dog ud want lead us away where think got country left dog behind must given slip somehow wouldn easy solution appearing most probable one adopted right dog creeping chair coiled himself sleep without more notice anybody now dark shutter closed candle lighted placed upon table terrible events last two days made deep impression all three increased danger uncertainty own position drew chairs closer together starting every sound spoke little whispers silent awe stricken remains murdered woman lay next room sat thus some time when suddenly heard hurried knocking door below young bates said kags looking angrily round check fear felt himself knocking came again wasn never knocked like crackit went window shaking all drew head there need tell who pale face enough dog alert instant ran whining door must let said taking candle isn there any help asked other man hoarse voice none must come don leave us dark said kags taking candle chimney piece lighting trembling hand knocking twice repeated before finished crackit went door returned followed man lower part face buried handkerchief another tied head hat drew slowly blanched face sunken eyes hollow cheeks beard three days growth wasted flesh short thick breath ghost sikes laid hand upon chair which stood middle room shuddering drop seeming glance shoulder dragged back close wall close go ground against sat word exchanged looked one another silence eye furtively raised met instantly averted when hollow voice broke silence all three started seemed never heard tones before how came dog here asked alone three hours ago tonight paper says fagin took true lie true silent again damn all said sikes passing hand across forehead nothing say there uneasy movement among nobody spoke keep house said sikes turning face crackit mean sell let lie here till hunt stop here think safe returned person addressed after some hesitation sikes carried eyes slowly wall behind rather trying turn head actually doing said body buried shook heads why isn retorted same glance behind wot keep ugly things above ground who knocking crackit intimated motion hand left room there nothing fear directly came back charley bates behind sikes sat opposite door moment boy entered room encountered figure toby said boy falling back sikes turned eyes towards why didn tell downstairs there something tremendous shrinking three wretched man willing propitiate even lad accordingly nodded made though shake hands let go some other room said boy retreating still farther charley said sikes stepping forward don don know don come nearer answered boy still retreating looking horror eyes upon murderer face monster man stopped half way looked each other sikes eyes sunk gradually ground witness three cried boy shaking clenched fist becoming more more excited spoke witness three afraid come here after ll give tell once kill likes dares am here ll give give boiled alive murder help there pluck man among three ll help murder help pouring cries accompanying violent gesticulation boy actually threw himself single handed upon strong man intensity energy suddenness surprise brought heavily ground three spectators seemed quite stupefied offered interference boy man rolled ground together former heedless blows showered upon wrenching hands tighter tighter garments murderer breast never ceasing call help all contest however unequal last long sikes knee throat when crackit pulled back look alarm pointed window there lights gleaming below voices loud earnest conversation tramp hurried footsteps endless seemed number crossing nearest wooden bridge one man horseback seemed among crowd there noise hoofs rattling uneven pavement gleam lights increased footsteps came more thickly noisily came loud knocking door hoarse murmur multitude angry voices made boldest quail help shrieked boy voice rent air here break door king name cried voices without hoarse cry arose again louder break door screamed boy tell ll never open run straight room where light break door strokes thick heavy rattled upon door lower window shutters ceased speak loud huzzah burst crowd giving listener first time some adequate idea immense extent open door some place where lock screeching hell babe cried sikes fiercely running fro dragging boy now easily empty sack door quick flung bolted turned key downstairs door fast double locked chained replied crackit who other two men still remained quite helpless bewildered panels strong lined sheet iron windows yes windows damn cried desperate ruffian throwing sash menacing crowd worst ll cheat yet all terrific yells ever fell mortal ears none exceed cry infuriated throng some shouted who nearest set house fire others roared officers shoot dead among all none showed fury man horseback who throwing himself saddle bursting through crowd parting water cried beneath window voice rose above all others twenty guineas man who brings ladder nearest voices took cry hundreds echoed some called ladders some sledge hammers some ran torches fro seek still came back roared again some spent breath impotent curses execrations some pressed forward ecstasy madmen thus impeded progress below some among boldest attempted climb water spout crevices wall all waved fro darkness beneath like field corn moved angry wind joined time time one loud furious roar tide cried murderer staggered back room shut faces tide came give rope long rope re all front drop folly ditch clear way give rope shall three more murders kill myself panic stricken men pointed where articles kept murderer hastily selecting longest strongest cord hurried house top all windows rear house long ago bricked except one small trap room where boy locked small even passage body aperture never ceased call without guard back thus when murderer emerged last house top door roof loud shout proclaimed fact front who immediately began pour round pressing upon each other unbroken stream planted board which carried purpose firmly against door must matter great difficulty open inside creeping tiles looked low parapet water ditch bed mud crowd hushed during few moments watching motions doubtful purpose instant perceived knew defeated raised cry triumphant execration which all previous shouting whispers again again rose who great distance know meaning took sound echoed re echoed seemed though whole city poured population curse pressed people front strong struggling current angry faces here there glaring torch lighten show all wrath passion houses opposite side ditch entered mob sashes thrown torn bodily there tiers tiers faces every window cluster upon cluster people clinging every house top each little bridge there three sight bent beneath weight crowd upon still current poured find some nook hole which vent shouts only instant see wretch now cried man nearest bridge hurrah crowd grew light uncovered heads again shout uprose give fifty pounds cried old gentleman same quarter man who takes alive remain here till come ask there another roar moment word passed among crowd door forced last who first called ladder mounted room stream abruptly turned intelligence ran mouth mouth people windows seeing upon bridges pouring back quitted stations running street joined concourse now thronged pell mell spot left each man crushing striving neighbor all panting impatience get near door look upon criminal officers brought cries shrieks who pressed almost suffocation trampled trodden foot confusion dreadful narrow ways completely blocked time between rush some regain space front house unavailing struggles others extricate themselves mass immediate attention distracted murderer although universal eagerness capture possible increased man shrunk thoroughly quelled ferocity crowd impossibility escape seeing sudden change less rapidity occurred sprang upon feet determined make one last effort life dropping ditch risk stifled endeavouring creep away darkness confusion roused new strength energy stimulated noise within house which announced entrance really effected set foot against stack chimneys fastened one end rope tightly firmly round other made strong running noose aid hands teeth almost second let himself cord within less distance ground own height knife ready hand cut drop instant when brought loop head previous slipping beneath arm pits when old gentleman before mentioned who clung tight railing bridge resist force crowd retain position earnestly warned man lower himself instant murderer looking behind roof threw arms above head uttered yell terror eyes again cried unearthly screech staggering struck lightning lost balance tumbled parapet noose neck ran weight tight bow string swift arrow speeds fell five thirty feet there sudden jerk terrific convulsion limbs there hung open knife clenched stiffening hand old chimney quivered shock stood bravely murderer swung lifeless against wall boy thrusting aside dangling body which obscured view called people come take god sake dog which lain concealed till now ran backwards forwards parapet dismal howl collecting himself spring jumped dead man shoulders missing aim fell ditch turning completely went striking head against stone dashed brains chapter li affording explanation more mysteries one comprehending proposal marriage word settlement pin money events narrated last chapter yet two days old when oliver found himself three clock afternoon travelling carriage rolling fast towards native town mrs maylie rose mrs bedwin good doctor mr brownlow followed post chaise accompanied one other person whose name mentioned talked much upon way oliver flutter agitation uncertainty which deprived power collecting thoughts almost speech appeared scarcely less effect companions who shared least equal degree two ladies carefully made acquainted mr brownlow nature admissions which forced monks although knew object present journey complete work which well begun still whole matter enveloped enough doubt mystery leave endurance most intense suspense same kind friend mr losberne assistance cautiously stopped all channels communication through which receive intelligence dreadful occurrences recently taken place quite true said must know before long better time present worse travelled silence each busied reflections object which brought together one disposed give utterance thoughts which crowded upon all oliver influences remained silent while journeyed towards birth place road never seen how whole current recollections ran back old times what crowd emotions wakened breast when turned which traversed foot poor houseless wandering boy without friend help roof shelter head see there there cried oliver eagerly clasping hand rose pointing carriage window stile came there hedges crept behind fear any one overtake force back yonder path across fields leading old house where little child oh dick dick dear old friend only see now see soon replied rose gently taking folded hands between own shall tell how happy how rich grown all happiness none great coming back make happy yes yes said oliver ll ll take away here clothed taught send some quiet country place where grow strong well shall rose nodded yes boy smiling through happy tears speak kind good every one said oliver make cry know hear what tell never mind never mind all smile again know think how changed same said god bless when ran away cried boy burst affectionate emotion say god bless now show how love approached town length drove through narrow streets became matter small difficulty restrain boy within reasonable bounds there sowerberry undertaker just used only smaller less imposing appearance remembered there all well known shops houses almost every one which some slight incident connected there gamfield cart cart used standing old public house door there workhouse dreary prison youthful days dismal windows frowning street there same lean porter standing gate sight whom oliver involuntarily shrunk back laughed himself foolish cried laughed again there scores faces doors windows knew quite well there nearly everything left yesterday all recent life happy dream pure earnest joyful reality drove straight door chief hotel which oliver used stare awe think mighty palace which somehow fallen grandeur size here mr grimwig all ready receive kissing young lady old one when got coach grandfather whole party all smiles kindness offering eat head once even when contradicted old postboy nearest road london maintained knew best though only come way once time fast asleep there dinner prepared there bedrooms ready everything arranged magic notwithstanding all when hurry first half hour same silence constraint prevailed marked journey mr brownlow join dinner remained separate room two other gentlemen hurried anxious faces during short intervals when present conversed apart once mrs maylie called away after absent nearly hour returned eyes swollen weeping all things made rose oliver who any new secrets nervous uncomfortable sat wondering silence exchanged few words spoke whispers afraid hear sound own voices length when nine clock come began think hear more night mr losberne mr grimwig entered room followed mr brownlow man whom oliver almost shrieked surprise see told brother same man met market town seen looking fagin window little room monks cast look hate which even dissemble astonished boy sat near door mr brownlow who papers hand walked table near which rose oliver seated painful task said declarations which signed london before many gentlemen must substance repeated here spared degradation must hear own lips before part know why go said person addressed turning away face quick almost enough think don keep here child said mr brownlow drawing oliver laying hand upon head half brother illegitimate son father dear friend edwin leeford poor young agnes fleming who died giving birth yes said monks scowling trembling boy beating whose heart heard bastard child term use said mr brownlow sternly reproach long since passed beyond feeble censure world reflects disgrace one living except who use let pass born town workhouse town sullen reply story there pointed impatiently papers spoke must here said mr brownlow looking round upon listeners listen returned monks father taken ill rome joined wife mother whom long separated who went paris took look after property what know great affection nor knew nothing us senses gone slumbered till next day when died among papers desk two dated night illness first came directed yourself addressed himself mr brownlow enclosed few short lines intimation cover package forwarded till after dead one papers letter girl agnes other what letter asked mr brownlow letter sheet paper crossed crossed again penitent confession prayers god help palmed tale girl some secret mystery explained one day prevented marrying just gone trusting patiently until trusted far lost what none ever give back time within few months confinement told all meant hide shame lived prayed died curse memory think consequences sin visited young child all guilt reminded day given little locket ring christian name engraved upon blank left which hoped one day bestowed upon prayed yet keep wear next heart before ran wildly same words again gone distracted believe said mr brownlow oliver tears fell fast monks silent said mr brownlow speaking same spirit letter talked miseries which wife brought upon rebellious disposition vice malice premature bad passions only son who trained hate left mother each annuity eight hundred pounds bulk property divided two equal portions one agnes fleming other child born alive ever come age girl inherit money unconditionally boy only stipulation minority never stained name any public act dishonour meanness cowardice wrong said mark confidence mother conviction only strengthened approaching death child share gentle heart noble nature disappointed expectation money come till when both children equal recognise prior claim upon purse who none upon heart infant repulsed coldness aversion mother said monks louder tone what woman burnt letter never reached destination other proofs kept case ever tried lie away blot girl father truth every aggravation violent hate love now add goaded shame dishonour fled children remote corner wales changing name friends never know retreat here great while afterwards found dead bed girl left home secret some weeks before searched foot every town village near night when returned home assured destroyed herself hide shame old heart broke there short silence here until mr brownlow took thread narrative years after said man edward leeford mother came left when only eighteen robbed jewels money gambled squandered forged fled london where two years associated lowest outcasts sinking painful incurable disease wished recover before died inquiries set foot strict searches made unavailing long time ultimately successful went back france there died said monks after lingering illness death bed bequeathed secrets together unquenchable deadly hatred all whom involved though need left inherited long before believe girl destroyed herself child filled impression male child born alive swore ever crossed path hunt never let rest pursue bitterest most unrelenting animosity vent upon hatred deeply felt spit upon empty vaunt insulting dragging gallows foot right came way last began well babbling drabs finished began villain folded arms tight together muttered curses himself impotence baffled malice mr brownlow turned terrified group beside explained jew who old accomplice confidant large reward keeping oliver ensnared which some part given event rescued dispute head led visit country house purpose identifying locket ring said mr brownlow turning monks bought man woman told who stole nurse who stole corpse answered monks without raising eyes know what became mr brownlow merely nodded mr grimwig who disappearing great alacrity shortly returned pushing mrs bumble dragging unwilling consort after hi deceive cried mr bumble ill feigned enthusiasm little oliver oh li ver know how ve grieving hold tongue fool murmured mrs bumble isn natur natur mrs bumble remonstrated workhouse master supposed feel brought porochially when see setting here among ladies gentlemen affablest description always loved boy own grandfather said mr bumble halting appropriate comparison master oliver dear remember blessed gentleman white waistcoat ah went heaven last week oak coffin plated handles oliver come sir said mr grimwig tartly suppress feelings endeavours sir replied mr bumble how sir hope well salutation addressed mr brownlow who stepped within short distance respectable couple inquired pointed monks know person replied mrs bumble flatly perhaps don said mr brownlow addressing spouse never saw all life said mr bumble nor sold anything perhaps replied mrs bumble never perhaps certain gold locket ring said mr brownlow certainly replied matron why brought here answer nonsense again mr brownlow nodded mr grimwig again gentleman limped away extraordinary readiness again return stout man wife time led two palsied women who shook tottered walked shut door night old sally died said foremost one raising shrivelled hand couldn shut sound nor stop chinks said other looking round wagging toothless jaws heard try tell what saw take paper hand watched next day pawnbroker shop said first yes added second locket gold ring found saw given oh know more resumed first told us often long ago young mother told feeling never get way time taken ill die near grave father child like see pawnbroker himself asked mr grimwig motion towards door replied woman pointed monks coward enough confess see sounded all hags till found right ones nothing more say sell re where ll never get what nothing replied mr brownlow except remains us take care neither employed situation trust again leave room hope said mr bumble looking great ruefulness mr grimwig disappeared two old women hope unfortunate little circumstance deprive porochial office indeed replied mr brownlow make mind think yourself well besides all mrs bumble urged mr bumble first looking round ascertain partner left room excuse replied mr brownlow present occasion destruction trinkets indeed more guilty two eye law law supposes wife acts direction law supposes said mr bumble squeezing hat emphatically both hands law ass idiot eye law law bachelor worst wish law eye opened experience experience laying great stress repetition two words mr bumble fixed hat tight putting hands pockets followed helpmate downstairs young lady said mr brownlow turning rose give hand tremble need fear hear few remaining words say know how any reference said rose pray let hear some other time strength spirits now nay returned old gentleman drawing arm through more fortitude am sure know young lady sir yes replied monks never saw before said rose faintly seen often returned monks father unhappy agnes two daughters said mr brownlow what fate other child child replied monks when father died strange place strange name without letter book scrap paper yielded faintest clue which friends relatives traced child taken some wretched cottagers who reared own go said mr brownlow signing mrs maylie approach go couldn find spot which people repaired said monks where friendship fails hatred often force way mother found after year cunning search ay found child took people poor began sicken least man fine humanity left giving small present money which last long promised more which never meant send didn quite rely however discontent poverty child unhappiness told history sister shame alterations suited bade take good heed child came bad blood told illegitimate sure go wrong one time other circumstances countenanced all people believed there child dragged existence miserable enough even satisfy us until widow lady residing chester saw girl chance pitied took home there some cursed spell think against us spite all efforts remained there happy lost sight two three years ago saw more until few months back see now yes leaning arm less niece cried mrs maylie folding fainting girl arms less dearest child lose now all treasures world sweet companion own dear girl only friend ever cried rose clinging kindest best friends heart burst cannot bear all borne more through all best gentlest creature ever shed happiness every one knew said mrs maylie embracing tenderly come come love remember who who waits clasp arms poor child see here look look dear aunt cried oliver throwing arms neck ll never call aunt sister own dear sister something taught heart love dearly first rose dear darling rose let tears which fell broken words which exchanged long close embrace between orphans sacred father sister mother gained lost one moment joy grief mingled cup there bitter tears even grief itself arose softened clothed sweet tender recollections became solemn pleasure lost all character pain long long time alone soft tap door length announced some one without oliver opened glided away gave place harry maylie know all said taking seat beside lovely girl dear rose know all am here accident added after lengthened silence nor heard all tonight knew yesterday only yesterday guess come remind promise stay said rose know all all gave leave any time within year renew subject last discourse press alter determination pursued young man hear repeat lay whatever station fortune possess feet still adhered former determination pledged myself word act seek change same reasons which influenced influence now said rose firmly ever owed strict rigid duty whose goodness saved life indigence suffering when ever feel tonight struggle said rose one am proud make pang one heart shall bear disclosure tonight harry began disclosure tonight replied rose softly leaves same position reference which stood before harden heart against rose urged lover oh harry harry said young lady bursting tears wish spare myself pain why inflict yourself said harry taking hand think dear rose think what heard tonight what heard what heard cried rose sense deep disgrace worked upon own father shunned all there said enough harry said enough yet yet said young man detaining rose hopes wishes prospects feeling every thought life except love undergone change offer now distinction among bustling crowd mingling world malice detraction where blood called honest cheeks aught real disgrace shame home heart home yes dearest rose alone all offer what mean faltered mean when left last left firm determination level all fancied barriers between yourself resolved world make mine pride birth curl lip turn who shrunk because shrunk proved far right power patronage relatives influence rank smiled upon look coldly now there smiling fields waving trees england richest county one village church mine rose own there stands rustic dwelling which make prouder all hopes renounced measured thousandfold rank station now here lay trying thing waiting supper lovers said mr grimwig waking pulling pocket handkerchief head truth tell supper waiting most unreasonable time neither mrs maylie nor harry nor rose who all came together offer word extenuation serious thoughts eating head tonight said mr grimwig began think get nothing ll take liberty ll allow saluting bride mr grimwig lost time carrying notice effect upon blushing girl example contagious followed both doctor mr brownlow some people affirm harry maylie observed set originally dark room adjoining best authorities consider downright scandal young clergyman oliver child said mrs maylie where why look sad there tears stealing face moment what matter world disappointment often hopes most cherish hopes nature greatest honour poor dick dead chapter lii fagin last night alive court paved floor roof human faces inquisitive eager eyes peered every inch space rail before dock away sharpest angle smallest corner galleries all looks fixed upon one man fagin before behind above below right left seemed stand surrounded firmament all bright gleaming eyes stood there all glare living light one hand resting wooden slab before other held ear head thrust forward enable catch greater distinctness every word fell presiding judge who delivering charge jury times turned eyes sharply upon observe effect slightest featherweight favour when points against stated terrible distinctness looked towards counsel mute appeal even urge something behalf beyond manifestations anxiety stirred hand foot scarcely moved since trial began now judge ceased speak still remained same strained attitude close attention gaze bent though listened still slight bustle court recalled himself looking round saw jurymen turned together consider verdict eyes wandered gallery see people rising above each other see face some hastily applying glasses eyes others whispering neighbours looks expressive abhorrence few there who seemed unmindful looked only jury impatient wonder how delay one face even among women whom there many there read faintest sympathy himself any feeling one all absorbing interest condemned saw all one bewildered glance deathlike stillness came again looking back saw jurymen turned towards judge hush only sought permission retire looked wistfully faces one one when passed though see which way greater number leant fruitless jailer touched shoulder followed mechanically end dock sat chair man pointed seen looked gallery again some people eating some fanning themselves handkerchiefs crowded place hot there one young man sketching face little note book wondered whether like looked when artist broke pencil point made another knife any idle spectator same way when turned eyes towards judge mind began busy itself fashion dress what cost how put there old fat gentleman bench who gone some half hour before now come back wondered within himself whether man get dinner what where pursued train careless thought until some new object caught eye roused another all time mind instant free one oppressive overwhelming sense grave opened feet ever present vague general way fix thoughts upon thus even while trembled turned burning hot idea speedy death fell counting iron spikes before wondering how head one broken whether mend leave thought all horrors gallows scaffold stopped watch man sprinkling floor cool went think again length there cry silence breathless look all towards door jury returned passed close glean nothing faces well stone perfect stillness ensued rustle breath guilty building rang tremendous shout another another echoed loud groans gathered strength swelled like angry thunder peal joy populace outside greeting news die monday noise subsided asked anything say why sentence death passed upon resumed listening attitude looked intently questioner while demand made twice repeated before seemed hear only muttered old man old man dropping whisper silent again judge assumed black cap prisoner still stood same air gesture woman gallery uttered some exclamation called forth dread solemnity looked hastily angry interruption bent forward yet more attentively address solemn impressive sentence fearful hear stood like marble figure without motion nerve haggard face still thrust forward jaw hanging eyes staring before when jailer put hand upon arm beckoned away gazed stupidly instant obeyed led through paved room court where some prisoners waiting till turns came others talking friends who crowded round grate which looked open yard there nobody there speak passed prisoners fell back render more visible people who clinging bars assailed opprobrious names screeched hissed shook fist spat upon conductors hurried through gloomy passage lighted few dim lamps interior prison here searched means anticipating law ceremony performed led one condemned cells left there alone sat stone bench opposite door which served seat bedstead casting blood shot eyes upon ground tried collect thoughts after awhile began remember few disjointed fragments what judge said though seemed time hear word gradually fell proper places degrees suggested more little time whole almost delivered hanged neck till dead end hanged neck till dead came dark began think all men known who died upon scaffold some through means rose quick succession hardly count seen some die joked because died prayers upon lips what rattling noise drop went how suddenly changed strong vigorous men dangling heaps clothes some inhabited cell sat upon spot dark why didn bring light cell built many years scores men must passed last hours there like sitting vault strewn dead bodies cap noose pinioned arms faces knew even beneath hideous veil light light length when hands raw beating against heavy door walls two men appeared one bearing candle which thrust iron candlestick fixed against wall other dragging mattress which pass night prisoner left alone more came night dark dismal silent night other watchers glad hear church clock strike tell life coming day brought despair boom every iron bell came laden one deep hollow sound death what availed noise bustle cheerful morning which penetrated even there another form knell mockery added warning day passed day there day gone soon come night came again night long yet short long dreadful silence short fleeting hours one time raved blasphemed another howled tore hair venerable men own persuasion come pray beside driven away curses renewed charitable efforts beat saturday night only one night more live thought day broke sunday until night last awful day withering sense helpless desperate state came full intensity upon blighted soul ever held any defined positive hope mercy never able consider more dim probability dying soon spoken little either two men who relieved each other attendance upon parts made effort rouse attention sat there awake dreaming now started every minute gasping mouth burning skin hurried fro paroxysm fear wrath even used sights recoiled horror grew terrible last all tortures evil conscience one man bear sit there eyeing alone two kept watch together cowered upon stone bed thought past wounded some missiles crowd day capture head bandaged linen cloth red hair hung upon bloodless face beard torn twisted knots eyes shone terrible light unwashed flesh crackled fever burnt eight nine trick frighten real hours treading each other heels where when came round again eleven another struck before voice previous hour ceased vibrate eight only mourner own funeral train eleven dreadful walls newgate which hidden much misery unspeakable anguish only eyes often long thoughts men never held dread spectacle few who lingered passed wondered what man doing who hanged tomorrow slept ill night seen early evening until nearly midnight little groups two three presented themselves lodge gate inquired anxious faces whether any reprieve received answered negative communicated welcome intelligence clusters street who pointed one another door which must come showed where scaffold built walking unwilling steps away turned back conjure scene degrees fell one one hour dead night street left solitude darkness space before prison cleared few strong barriers painted black already thrown across road break pressure expected crowd when mr brownlow oliver appeared wicket presented order admission prisoner signed one sheriffs immediately admitted lodge young gentleman come sir said man whose duty conduct sight children sir indeed friend rejoined mr brownlow business man intimately connected child seen full career success villainy think well even cost some pain fear see now few words said apart inaudible oliver man touched hat glancing oliver some curiousity opened another gate opposite which entered led through dark winding ways towards cells said man stopping gloomy passage where couple workmen making some preparations profound silence place passes through step way see door goes led stone kitchen fitted coppers dressing prison food pointed door there open grating above through which came sound men voices mingled noise hammering throwing boards putting scaffold place passed through several strong gates opened other turnkeys inner side entered open yard ascended flight narrow steps came passage row strong doors left hand motioning remain where turnkey knocked one bunch keys two attendants after little whispering came passage stretching themselves glad temporary relief motioned visitors follow jailer cell condemned criminal seated bed rocking himself side side countenance more like snared beast face man mind evidently wandering old life continued mutter without appearing conscious presence otherwise part vision good boy charley well mumbled oliver ha ha ha oliver quite gentleman now quite take boy away bed jailer took disengaged hand oliver whispering alarmed looked without speaking take away bed cried fagin hear some somehow cause all worth money bring bolter throat bill never mind girl bolter throat deep cut saw head fagin said jailer cried jew falling instantly attitude listening assumed upon trial old man lord old old man here said turnkey laying hand upon breast keep here somebody wants see ask some questions suppose fagin fagin man shan one long replied looking face retaining human expression rage terror strike all dead what right butcher spoke caught sight oliver mr brownlow shrinking furthest corner seat demanded know what wanted there steady said turnkey still holding now sir tell what want quick please grows worse time gets some papers said mr brownlow advancing which placed hands better security man called monks all lie together replied fagin haven one one love god said mr brownlow solemnly say now upon verge death tell where know sikes dead monks confessed there hope any further gain where papers oliver cried fagin beckoning here here let whisper am afraid said oliver low voice relinquished mr brownlow hand papers said fagin drawing oliver towards canvas bag hole little way chimney top front room want talk dear want talk yes yes returned oliver let say prayer let say one prayer say only one upon knees talk till morning outside outside replied fagin pushing boy before towards door looking vacantly head say ve gone sleep ll believe get take now now oh god forgive wretched man cried boy burst tears right right said fagin ll help us door first shake tremble pass gallows don mind hurry now now now nothing ask sir inquired turnkey other question replied mr brownlow hoped recall sense position nothing sir replied man shaking head better leave door cell opened attendants returned press press cried fagin softly slow faster faster men laid hands upon disengaging oliver grasp held back struggled power desperation instant sent cry upon cry penetrated even massive walls rang ears until reached open yard some time before left prison oliver nearly swooned after frightful scene weak hour more strength walk day dawning when again emerged great multitude already assembled windows filled people smoking playing cards beguile time crowd pushing quarrelling joking everything told life animation one dark cluster objects centre all black stage cross beam rope all hideous apparatus death chapter liii last fortunes who figured tale nearly closed little remains historian relate told few simple words before three months passed rose fleming harry maylie married village church which henceforth scene young clergyman labours same day entered possession new happy home mrs maylie took abode son daughter law enjoy during tranquil remainder days greatest felicity age worth know contemplation happiness whom warmest affections tenderest cares well spent life unceasingly bestowed appeared full careful investigation wreck property remaining custody monks which never prospered either hands mother equally divided between himself oliver yield each little more three thousand pounds provisions father oliver entitled whole mr brownlow unwilling deprive elder son opportunity retrieving former vices pursuing honest career proposed mode distribution which young charge joyfully acceded monks still bearing assumed name retired portion distant part new world where quickly squandered once more fell old courses after undergoing long confinement some fresh act fraud knavery length sunk attack old disorder died prison far home died chief remaining members friend fagin gang mr brownlow adopted oliver son removing old housekeeper within mile parsonage house where dear friends resided gratified only remaining wish oliver warm earnest heart thus linked together little society whose condition approached nearly one perfect happiness ever known changing world soon after marriage young people worthy doctor returned chertsey where bereft presence old friends discontented temperament admitted feeling turned quite peevish known how two three months contented himself hinting feared air began disagree finding place really longer what settled business assistant took bachelor cottage outside village which young friend pastor instantaneously recovered here took gardening planting fishing carpentering various other pursuits similar kind all undertaken characteristic impetuosity each all since become famous throughout neighborhood most profound authority before removal managed contract strong friendship mr grimwig which eccentric gentleman cordially reciprocated accordingly visited mr grimwig great many times course year all occasions mr grimwig plants fishes carpenters great ardour doing everything singular unprecedented manner always maintaining favourite asseveration mode right one sundays never fails criticise sermon young clergyman face always informing mr losberne strict confidence afterwards considers excellent performance deems well say standing favourite joke mr brownlow rally old prophecy concerning oliver remind night which sat watch between waiting return mr grimwig contends right main proof thereof remarks oliver come back after all which always calls forth laugh side increases good humour mr noah claypole receiving free pardon crown consequence admitted approver against fagin considering profession altogether safe one wish some little time loss means livelihood burdened much work after some consideration went business informer which calling realises genteel subsistence plan walk once week during church time attended charlotte respectable attire lady faints away doors charitable publicans gentleman accommodated three penny worth brandy restore lays information next day pockets half penalty sometimes mr claypole faints himself result same mr mrs bumble deprived situations gradually reduced great indigence misery finally became paupers same workhouse which once lorded others mr bumble heard say reverse degradation even spirits thankful separated wife mr giles brittles still remain old posts although former bald last named boy quite grey sleep parsonage divide attentions equally among inmates oliver mr brownlow mr losberne day villagers never able discover which establishment properly belong master charles bates appalled sikes crime fell train reflection whether honest life after all best arriving conclusion certainly turned back upon scenes past resolved amend some new sphere action struggled hard suffered much some time contented disposition good purpose succeeded end farmer drudge carrier lad now merriest young grazier all northamptonshire now hand traces words falters approaches conclusion task weave little longer space thread adventures fain linger yet few among whom long moved share happiness endeavouring depict show rose maylie all bloom grace early womanhood shedding secluded path life soft gentle light fell all who trod shone hearts paint life joy fire side circle lively summer group follow through sultry fields noon hear low tones sweet voice moonlit evening walk watch all goodness charity abroad smiling untiring discharge domestic duties home paint dead sister child happy love one another passing whole hours together picturing friends whom sadly lost summon before once again joyous little faces clustered round knee listen merry prattle recall tones clear laugh conjure sympathising tear glistened soft blue eye thousand looks smiles turns thought speech fain recall every one how mr brownlow went day day filling mind adopted child stores knowledge becoming attached more more nature developed itself showed thriving seeds all wished become how traced new traits early friend awakened own bosom old remembrances melancholy yet sweet soothing how two orphans tried adversity remembered lessons mercy others mutual love fervent thanks who protected preserved all matters which need told said truly happy without strong affection humanity heart gratitude whose code mercy whose great attribute benevolence all things breathe happiness never attained within altar old village church there stands white marble tablet which bears yet one word agnes there coffin tomb many many years before another name placed above spirits dead ever come back earth visit spots hallowed love love beyond grave whom knew life believe shade agnes sometimes hovers round solemn nook believe none less because nook church weak erring \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/data/raw/oliver_twist.txt b/data/raw/oliver_twist.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..28c1557 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/raw/oliver_twist.txt @@ -0,0 +1,38376 @@ +The Project Gutenberg eBook of Oliver Twist + + + +This ebook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and + +most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions + +whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms + +of the Project Gutenberg License included with this ebook or online + +at www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, + +you will have to check the laws of the country where you are located + +before using this eBook. + + + +Title: Oliver Twist + + + +Author: Charles Dickens + + + +Release date: November 1, 1996 [eBook #730] + + Most recently updated: July 20, 2025 + + + +Language: English + + + +Credits: Peggy Gaugy and Leigh Little. HTML version by Al Haines + + + + + +*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK OLIVER TWIST *** + + + + + + + + + +Oliver Twist + + + +OR + +THE PARISH BOY’S PROGRESS + + + +by Charles Dickens + + + + + +Contents + + + +I TREATS OF THE PLACE WHERE OLIVER TWIST WAS BORN AND OF THE + + CIRCUMSTANCES ATTENDING HIS BIRTH + +II TREATS OF OLIVER TWIST’S GROWTH, EDUCATION, AND BOARD + +III RELATES HOW OLIVER TWIST WAS VERY NEAR GETTING A PLACE WHICH + + WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN A SINECURE + +IV OLIVER, BEING OFFERED ANOTHER PLACE, MAKES HIS FIRST ENTRY + + INTO PUBLIC LIFE + +V OLIVER MINGLES WITH NEW ASSOCIATES. GOING TO A FUNERAL FOR THE + + FIRST TIME, HE FORMS AN UNFAVOURABLE NOTION OF HIS MASTER’S + + BUSINESS + +VI OLIVER, BEING GOADED BY THE TAUNTS OF NOAH, ROUSES INTO + + ACTION, AND RATHER ASTONISHES HIM + +VII OLIVER CONTINUES REFRACTORY + +VIII OLIVER WALKS TO LONDON. HE ENCOUNTERS ON THE ROAD A STRANGE + + SORT OF YOUNG GENTLEMAN + +IX CONTAINING FURTHER PARTICULARS CONCERNING THE PLEASANT OLD + + GENTLEMAN, AND HIS HOPEFUL PUPILS + +X OLIVER BECOMES BETTER ACQUAINTED WITH THE CHARACTERS OF HIS + + NEW ASSOCIATES; AND PURCHASES EXPERIENCE AT A HIGH PRICE. + + BEING A SHORT, BUT VERY IMPORTANT CHAPTER, IN THIS HISTORY + +XI TREATS OF MR. FANG THE POLICE MAGISTRATE; AND FURNISHES A + + SLIGHT SPECIMEN OF HIS MODE OF ADMINISTERING JUSTICE + +XII IN WHICH OLIVER IS TAKEN BETTER CARE OF THAN HE EVER WAS + + BEFORE. AND IN WHICH THE NARRATIVE REVERTS TO THE MERRY OLD + + GENTLEMAN AND HIS YOUTHFUL FRIENDS. + +XIII SOME NEW ACQUAINTANCES ARE INTRODUCED TO THE INTELLIGENT + + READER, CONNECTED WITH WHOM VARIOUS PLEASANT MATTERS ARE + + RELATED, APPERTAINING TO THIS HISTORY + +XIV COMPRISING FURTHER PARTICULARS OF OLIVER’S STAY AT MR. + + BROWNLOW’S, WITH THE REMARKABLE PREDICTION WHICH ONE MR. + + GRIMWIG UTTERED CONCERNING HIM, WHEN HE WENT OUT ON AN ERRAND + +XV SHOWING HOW VERY FOND OF OLIVER TWIST, THE MERRY OLD JEW AND + + MISS NANCY WERE + +XVI RELATES WHAT BECAME OF OLIVER TWIST, AFTER HE HAD BEEN CLAIMED + + BY NANCY + +XVII OLIVER’S DESTINY CONTINUING UNPROPITIOUS, BRINGS A GREAT MAN + + TO LONDON TO INJURE HIS REPUTATION + +XVIII HOW OLIVER PASSED HIS TIME IN THE IMPROVING SOCIETY OF HIS + + REPUTABLE FRIENDS + +XIX IN WHICH A NOTABLE PLAN IS DISCUSSED AND DETERMINED ON + +XX WHEREIN OLIVER IS DELIVERED OVER TO MR. WILLIAM SIKES + +XXI THE EXPEDITION + +XXII THE BURGLARY + +XXIII WHICH CONTAINS THE SUBSTANCE OF A PLEASANT CONVERSATION + + BETWEEN MR. BUMBLE AND A LADY; AND SHOWS THAT EVEN A BEADLE + + MAY BE SUSCEPTIBLE ON SOME POINTS + +XXIV TREATS ON A VERY POOR SUBJECT, BUT IS A SHORT ONE, AND MAY BE + + FOUND OF IMPORTANCE IN THIS HISTORY + +XXV WHEREIN THIS HISTORY REVERTS TO MR. FAGIN AND COMPANY + +XXVI IN WHICH A MYSTERIOUS CHARACTER APPEARS UPON THE SCENE; AND + + MANY THINGS, INSEPARABLE FROM THIS HISTORY, ARE DONE AND + + PERFORMED + +XXVII ATONES FOR THE UNPOLITENESS OF A FORMER CHAPTER; WHICH + + DESERTED A LADY, MOST UNCEREMONIOUSLY + +XXVIII LOOKS AFTER OLIVER, AND PROCEEDS WITH HIS ADVENTURES + +XXIX HAS AN INTRODUCTORY ACCOUNT OF THE INMATES OF THE HOUSE, TO + + WHICH OLIVER RESORTED + +XXX RELATES WHAT OLIVER’S NEW VISITORS THOUGHT OF HIM + +XXXI INVOLVES A CRITICAL POSITION + +XXXII OF THE HAPPY LIFE OLIVER BEGAN TO LEAD WITH HIS KIND FRIENDS + +XXXIII WHEREIN THE HAPPINESS OF OLIVER AND HIS FRIENDS, EXPERIENCES A + + SUDDEN CHECK + +XXXIV CONTAINS SOME INTRODUCTORY PARTICULARS RELATIVE TO A YOUNG + + GENTLEMAN WHO NOW ARRIVES UPON THE SCENE; AND A NEW ADVENTURE + + WHICH HAPPENED TO OLIVER + +XXXV CONTAINING THE UNSATISFACTORY RESULT OF OLIVER’S ADVENTURE; + + AND A CONVERSATION OF SOME IMPORTANCE BETWEEN HARRY MAYLIE AND + + ROSE + +XXXVI IS A VERY SHORT ONE, AND MAY APPEAR OF NO GREAT IMPORTANCE IN + + ITS PLACE, BUT IT SHOULD BE READ NOTWITHSTANDING, AS A SEQUEL + + TO THE LAST, AND A KEY TO ONE THAT WILL FOLLOW WHEN ITS TIME + + ARRIVES + +XXXVII IN WHICH THE READER MAY PERCEIVE A CONTRAST, NOT UNCOMMON IN + + MATRIMONIAL CASES + +XXXVIII CONTAINING AN ACCOUNT OF WHAT PASSED BETWEEN MR. AND MRS. + + BUMBLE, AND MR. MONKS, AT THEIR NOCTURNAL INTERVIEW + +XXXIX INTRODUCES SOME RESPECTABLE CHARACTERS WITH WHOM THE READER IS + + ALREADY ACQUAINTED, AND SHOWS HOW MONKS AND THE JEW LAID THEIR + + WORTHY HEADS TOGETHER + +XL A STRANGE INTERVIEW, WHICH IS A SEQUEL TO THE LAST CHAMBER + +XLI CONTAINING FRESH DISCOVERIES, AND SHOWING THAT SUPRISES, LIKE + + MISFORTUNES, SELDOM COME ALONE + +XLII AN OLD ACQUAINTANCE OF OLIVER’S, EXHIBITING DECIDED MARKS OF + + GENIUS, BECOMES A PUBLIC CHARACTER IN THE METROPOLIS + +XLIII WHEREIN IS SHOWN HOW THE ARTFUL DODGER GOT INTO TROUBLE + +XLIV THE TIME ARRIVES FOR NANCY TO REDEEM HER PLEDGE TO ROSE + + MAYLIE. SHE FAILS. + +XLV NOAH CLAYPOLE IS EMPLOYED BY FAGIN ON A SECRET MISSION + +XLVI THE APPOINTMENT KEPT + +XLVII FATAL CONSEQUENCES + +XLVIII THE FLIGHT OF SIKES + +XLIX MONKS AND MR. BROWNLOW AT LENGTH MEET. THEIR CONVERSATION, AND + + THE INTELLIGENCE THAT INTERRUPTS IT + +L THE PURSUIT AND ESCAPE + +LI AFFORDING AN EXPLANATION OF MORE MYSTERIES THAN ONE, AND + + COMPREHENDING A PROPOSAL OF MARRIAGE WITH NO WORD OF + + SETTLEMENT OR PIN-MONEY + +LII FAGIN’S LAST NIGHT ALIVE + +LIII AND LAST + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER I. + +TREATS OF THE PLACE WHERE OLIVER TWIST WAS BORN AND OF THE + +CIRCUMSTANCES ATTENDING HIS BIRTH + + + + + +Among other public buildings in a certain town, which for many reasons + +it will be prudent to refrain from mentioning, and to which I will + +assign no fictitious name, there is one anciently common to most towns, + +great or small: to wit, a workhouse; and in this workhouse was born; on + +a day and date which I need not trouble myself to repeat, inasmuch as + +it can be of no possible consequence to the reader, in this stage of + +the business at all events; the item of mortality whose name is + +prefixed to the head of this chapter. + + + +For a long time after it was ushered into this world of sorrow and + +trouble, by the parish surgeon, it remained a matter of considerable + +doubt whether the child would survive to bear any name at all; in which + +case it is somewhat more than probable that these memoirs would never + +have appeared; or, if they had, that being comprised within a couple of + +pages, they would have possessed the inestimable merit of being the + +most concise and faithful specimen of biography, extant in the + +literature of any age or country. + + + +Although I am not disposed to maintain that being born in a workhouse, + +is in itself the most fortunate and enviable circumstance that can + +possibly befall a human being, I do mean to say that in this particular + +instance, it was the best thing for Oliver Twist that could by + +possibility have occurred. The fact is, that there was considerable + +difficulty in inducing Oliver to take upon himself the office of + +respiration,—a troublesome practice, but one which custom has rendered + +necessary to our easy existence; and for some time he lay gasping on + +a little flock mattress, rather unequally poised between this world + +and the next: the balance being decidedly in favour of the latter. + +Now, if, during this brief period, Oliver had been surrounded by + +careful grandmothers, anxious aunts, experienced nurses, and doctors + +of profound wisdom, he would most inevitably and indubitably have + +been killed in no time. There being nobody by, however, but a pauper + +old woman, who was rendered rather misty by an unwonted allowance of + +beer; and a parish surgeon who did such matters by contract; Oliver + +and Nature fought out the point between them. The result was, that, + +after a few struggles, Oliver breathed, sneezed, and proceeded to + +advertise to the inmates of the workhouse the fact of a new burden + +having been imposed upon the parish, by setting up as loud a cry as + +could reasonably have been expected from a male infant who had not been + +possessed of that very useful appendage, a voice, for a much longer + +space of time than three minutes and a quarter. + + + +As Oliver gave this first proof of the free and proper action of his + +lungs, the patchwork coverlet which was carelessly flung over the iron + +bedstead, rustled; the pale face of a young woman was raised feebly + +from the pillow; and a faint voice imperfectly articulated the words, + +“Let me see the child, and die.” + + + +The surgeon had been sitting with his face turned towards the fire: + +giving the palms of his hands a warm and a rub alternately. As the + +young woman spoke, he rose, and advancing to the bed’s head, said, with + +more kindness than might have been expected of him: + + + +“Oh, you must not talk about dying yet.” + + + +“Lor bless her dear heart, no!” interposed the nurse, hastily + +depositing in her pocket a green glass bottle, the contents of which + +she had been tasting in a corner with evident satisfaction. + + + +“Lor bless her dear heart, when she has lived as long as I have, sir, + +and had thirteen children of her own, and all on ’em dead except two, + +and them in the wurkus with me, she’ll know better than to take on in + +that way, bless her dear heart! Think what it is to be a mother, + +there’s a dear young lamb, do.” + + + +Apparently this consolatory perspective of a mother’s prospects failed + +in producing its due effect. The patient shook her head, and stretched + +out her hand towards the child. + + + +The surgeon deposited it in her arms. She imprinted her cold white lips + +passionately on its forehead; passed her hands over her face; gazed + +wildly round; shuddered; fell back—and died. They chafed her breast, + +hands, and temples; but the blood had stopped forever. They talked of + +hope and comfort. They had been strangers too long. + + + +“It’s all over, Mrs. Thingummy!” said the surgeon at last. + + + +“Ah, poor dear, so it is!” said the nurse, picking up the cork of the + +green bottle, which had fallen out on the pillow, as she stooped to + +take up the child. “Poor dear!” + + + +“You needn’t mind sending up to me, if the child cries, nurse,” said + +the surgeon, putting on his gloves with great deliberation. “It’s very + +likely it _will_ be troublesome. Give it a little gruel if it is.” He + +put on his hat, and, pausing by the bed-side on his way to the door, + +added, “She was a good-looking girl, too; where did she come from?” + + + +“She was brought here last night,” replied the old woman, “by the + +overseer’s order. She was found lying in the street. She had walked + +some distance, for her shoes were worn to pieces; but where she came + +from, or where she was going to, nobody knows.” + + + +The surgeon leaned over the body, and raised the left hand. “The old + +story,” he said, shaking his head: “no wedding-ring, I see. Ah! + +Good-night!” + + + +The medical gentleman walked away to dinner; and the nurse, having once + +more applied herself to the green bottle, sat down on a low chair + +before the fire, and proceeded to dress the infant. + + + +What an excellent example of the power of dress, young Oliver Twist + +was! Wrapped in the blanket which had hitherto formed his only + +covering, he might have been the child of a nobleman or a beggar; it + +would have been hard for the haughtiest stranger to have assigned him + +his proper station in society. But now that he was enveloped in the old + +calico robes which had grown yellow in the same service, he was badged + +and ticketed, and fell into his place at once—a parish child—the orphan + +of a workhouse—the humble, half-starved drudge—to be cuffed and + +buffeted through the world—despised by all, and pitied by none. + + + +Oliver cried lustily. If he could have known that he was an orphan, + +left to the tender mercies of churchwardens and overseers, perhaps he + +would have cried the louder. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER II. + +TREATS OF OLIVER TWIST’S GROWTH, EDUCATION, AND BOARD + + + + + +For the next eight or ten months, Oliver was the victim of a systematic + +course of treachery and deception. He was brought up by hand. The + +hungry and destitute situation of the infant orphan was duly reported + +by the workhouse authorities to the parish authorities. The parish + +authorities inquired with dignity of the workhouse authorities, whether + +there was no female then domiciled in “the house” who was in a + +situation to impart to Oliver Twist, the consolation and nourishment of + +which he stood in need. The workhouse authorities replied with + +humility, that there was not. Upon this, the parish authorities + +magnanimously and humanely resolved, that Oliver should be “farmed,” + +or, in other words, that he should be dispatched to a branch-workhouse + +some three miles off, where twenty or thirty other juvenile offenders + +against the poor-laws, rolled about the floor all day, without the + +inconvenience of too much food or too much clothing, under the parental + +superintendence of an elderly female, who received the culprits at and + +for the consideration of sevenpence-halfpenny per small head per week. + +Sevenpence-halfpenny’s worth per week is a good round diet for a child; + +a great deal may be got for sevenpence-halfpenny, quite enough to + +overload its stomach, and make it uncomfortable. The elderly female was + +a woman of wisdom and experience; she knew what was good for children; + +and she had a very accurate perception of what was good for herself. + +So, she appropriated the greater part of the weekly stipend to her own + +use, and consigned the rising parochial generation to even a shorter + +allowance than was originally provided for them. Thereby finding in the + +lowest depth a deeper still; and proving herself a very great + +experimental philosopher. + + + +Everybody knows the story of another experimental philosopher who had a + +great theory about a horse being able to live without eating, and who + +demonstrated it so well, that he had got his own horse down to a straw + +a day, and would unquestionably have rendered him a very spirited and + +rampacious animal on nothing at all, if he had not died, + +four-and-twenty hours before he was to have had his first comfortable + +bait of air. Unfortunately for the experimental philosophy of the + +female to whose protecting care Oliver Twist was delivered over, a + +similar result usually attended the operation of _her_ system; for at + +the very moment when the child had contrived to exist upon the smallest + +possible portion of the weakest possible food, it did perversely happen + +in eight and a half cases out of ten, either that it sickened from want + +and cold, or fell into the fire from neglect, or got half-smothered by + +accident; in any one of which cases, the miserable little being was + +usually summoned into another world, and there gathered to the fathers + +it had never known in this. + + + +Occasionally, when there was some more than usually interesting inquest + +upon a parish child who had been overlooked in turning up a bedstead, + +or inadvertently scalded to death when there happened to be a + +washing—though the latter accident was very scarce, anything + +approaching to a washing being of rare occurrence in the farm—the jury + +would take it into their heads to ask troublesome questions, or the + +parishioners would rebelliously affix their signatures to a + +remonstrance. But these impertinences were speedily checked by the + +evidence of the surgeon, and the testimony of the beadle; the former of + +whom had always opened the body and found nothing inside (which was + +very probable indeed), and the latter of whom invariably swore whatever + +the parish wanted; which was very self-devotional. Besides, the board + +made periodical pilgrimages to the farm, and always sent the beadle the + +day before, to say they were going. The children were neat and clean to + +behold, when _they_ went; and what more would the people have! + + + +It cannot be expected that this system of farming would produce any + +very extraordinary or luxuriant crop. Oliver Twist’s ninth birthday + +found him a pale thin child, somewhat diminutive in stature, and + +decidedly small in circumference. But nature or inheritance had + +implanted a good sturdy spirit in Oliver’s breast. It had had plenty of + +room to expand, thanks to the spare diet of the establishment; and + +perhaps to this circumstance may be attributed his having any ninth + +birth-day at all. Be this as it may, however, it _was_ his ninth + +birthday; and he was keeping it in the coal-cellar with a select party + +of two other young gentleman, who, after participating with him in a + +sound thrashing, had been locked up for atrociously presuming to be + +hungry, when Mrs. Mann, the good lady of the house, was unexpectedly + +startled by the apparition of Mr. Bumble, the beadle, striving to undo + +the wicket of the garden-gate. + + + +“Goodness gracious! Is that you, Mr. Bumble, sir?” said Mrs. Mann, + +thrusting her head out of the window in well-affected ecstasies of joy. + +“(Susan, take Oliver and them two brats upstairs, and wash ’em + +directly.)—My heart alive! Mr. Bumble, how glad I am to see you, + +sure-ly!” + + + +Now, Mr. Bumble was a fat man, and a choleric; so, instead of + +responding to this open-hearted salutation in a kindred spirit, he gave + +the little wicket a tremendous shake, and then bestowed upon it a kick + +which could have emanated from no leg but a beadle’s. + + + +“Lor, only think,” said Mrs. Mann, running out,—for the three boys had + +been removed by this time,—“only think of that! That I should have + +forgotten that the gate was bolted on the inside, on account of them + +dear children! Walk in sir; walk in, pray, Mr. Bumble, do, sir.” + + + +Although this invitation was accompanied with a curtsey that might have + +softened the heart of a churchwarden, it by no means mollified the + +beadle. + + + +“Do you think this respectful or proper conduct, Mrs. Mann,” inquired + +Mr. Bumble, grasping his cane, “to keep the parish officers a waiting + +at your garden-gate, when they come here upon porochial business with + +the porochial orphans? Are you aweer, Mrs. Mann, that you are, as I may + +say, a porochial delegate, and a stipendiary?” + + + +“I’m sure Mr. Bumble, that I was only a telling one or two of the dear + +children as is so fond of you, that it was you a coming,” replied Mrs. + +Mann with great humility. + + + +Mr. Bumble had a great idea of his oratorical powers and his + +importance. He had displayed the one, and vindicated the other. He + +relaxed. + + + +“Well, well, Mrs. Mann,” he replied in a calmer tone; “it may be as you + +say; it may be. Lead the way in, Mrs. Mann, for I come on business, and + +have something to say.” + + + +Mrs. Mann ushered the beadle into a small parlour with a brick floor; + +placed a seat for him; and officiously deposited his cocked hat and + +cane on the table before him. Mr. Bumble wiped from his forehead the + +perspiration which his walk had engendered, glanced complacently at the + +cocked hat, and smiled. Yes, he smiled. Beadles are but men: and Mr. + +Bumble smiled. + + + +“Now don’t you be offended at what I’m a going to say,” observed Mrs. + +Mann, with captivating sweetness. “You’ve had a long walk, you know, or + +I wouldn’t mention it. Now, will you take a little drop of somethink, + +Mr. Bumble?” + + + +“Not a drop. Nor a drop,” said Mr. Bumble, waving his right hand in a + +dignified, but placid manner. + + + +“I think you will,” said Mrs. Mann, who had noticed the tone of the + +refusal, and the gesture that had accompanied it. “Just a leetle drop, + +with a little cold water, and a lump of sugar.” + + + +Mr. Bumble coughed. + + + +“Now, just a leetle drop,” said Mrs. Mann persuasively. + + + +“What is it?” inquired the beadle. + + + +“Why, it’s what I’m obliged to keep a little of in the house, to put + +into the blessed infants’ Daffy, when they ain’t well, Mr. Bumble,” + +replied Mrs. Mann as she opened a corner cupboard, and took down a + +bottle and glass. “It’s gin. I’ll not deceive you, Mr. B. It’s gin.” + + + +“Do you give the children Daffy, Mrs. Mann?” inquired Bumble, following + +with his eyes the interesting process of mixing. + + + +“Ah, bless ’em, that I do, dear as it is,” replied the nurse. “I + +couldn’t see ’em suffer before my very eyes, you know sir.” + + + +“No”; said Mr. Bumble approvingly; “no, you could not. You are a humane + +woman, Mrs. Mann.” (Here she set down the glass.) “I shall take a early + +opportunity of mentioning it to the board, Mrs. Mann.” (He drew it + +towards him.) “You feel as a mother, Mrs. Mann.” (He stirred the + +gin-and-water.) “I—I drink your health with cheerfulness, Mrs. Mann”; + +and he swallowed half of it. + + + +“And now about business,” said the beadle, taking out a leathern + +pocket-book. “The child that was half-baptized Oliver Twist, is nine + +year old today.” + + + +“Bless him!” interposed Mrs. Mann, inflaming her left eye with the + +corner of her apron. + + + +“And notwithstanding a offered reward of ten pound, which was + +afterwards increased to twenty pound. Notwithstanding the most + +superlative, and, I may say, supernat’ral exertions on the part of this + +parish,” said Bumble, “we have never been able to discover who is his + +father, or what was his mother’s settlement, name, or condition.” + + + +Mrs. Mann raised her hands in astonishment; but added, after a moment’s + +reflection, “How comes he to have any name at all, then?” + + + +The beadle drew himself up with great pride, and said, “I inwented it.” + + + +“You, Mr. Bumble!” + + + +“I, Mrs. Mann. We name our fondlings in alphabetical order. The last + +was a S,—Swubble, I named him. This was a T,—Twist, I named _him_. The + +next one comes will be Unwin, and the next Vilkins. I have got names + +ready made to the end of the alphabet, and all the way through it + +again, when we come to Z.” + + + +“Why, you’re quite a literary character, sir!” said Mrs. Mann. + + + +“Well, well,” said the beadle, evidently gratified with the compliment; + +“perhaps I may be. Perhaps I may be, Mrs. Mann.” He finished the + +gin-and-water, and added, “Oliver being now too old to remain here, the + +board have determined to have him back into the house. I have come out + +myself to take him there. So let me see him at once.” + + + +“I’ll fetch him directly,” said Mrs. Mann, leaving the room for that + +purpose. Oliver, having had by this time as much of the outer coat of + +dirt which encrusted his face and hands, removed, as could be scrubbed + +off in one washing, was led into the room by his benevolent + +protectress. + + + +“Make a bow to the gentleman, Oliver,” said Mrs. Mann. + + + +Oliver made a bow, which was divided between the beadle on the chair, + +and the cocked hat on the table. + + + +“Will you go along with me, Oliver?” said Mr. Bumble, in a majestic + +voice. + + + +Oliver was about to say that he would go along with anybody with great + +readiness, when, glancing upward, he caught sight of Mrs. Mann, who had + +got behind the beadle’s chair, and was shaking her fist at him with a + +furious countenance. He took the hint at once, for the fist had been + +too often impressed upon his body not to be deeply impressed upon his + +recollection. + + + +“Will _she_ go with me?” inquired poor Oliver. + + + +“No, she can’t,” replied Mr. Bumble. “But she’ll come and see you + +sometimes.” + + + +This was no very great consolation to the child. Young as he was, + +however, he had sense enough to make a feint of feeling great regret at + +going away. It was no very difficult matter for the boy to call tears + +into his eyes. Hunger and recent ill-usage are great assistants if you + +want to cry; and Oliver cried very naturally indeed. Mrs. Mann gave him + +a thousand embraces, and what Oliver wanted a great deal more, a piece + +of bread and butter, lest he should seem too hungry when he got to the + +workhouse. With the slice of bread in his hand, and the little + +brown-cloth parish cap on his head, Oliver was then led away by Mr. + +Bumble from the wretched home where one kind word or look had never + +lighted the gloom of his infant years. And yet he burst into an agony + +of childish grief, as the cottage-gate closed after him. Wretched as + +were the little companions in misery he was leaving behind, they were + +the only friends he had ever known; and a sense of his loneliness in + +the great wide world, sank into the child’s heart for the first time. + + + +Mr. Bumble walked on with long strides; little Oliver, firmly grasping + +his gold-laced cuff, trotted beside him, inquiring at the end of every + +quarter of a mile whether they were “nearly there.” To these + +interrogations Mr. Bumble returned very brief and snappish replies; for + +the temporary blandness which gin-and-water awakens in some bosoms had + +by this time evaporated; and he was once again a beadle. + + + +Oliver had not been within the walls of the workhouse a quarter of an + +hour, and had scarcely completed the demolition of a second slice of + +bread, when Mr. Bumble, who had handed him over to the care of an old + +woman, returned; and, telling him it was a board night, informed him + +that the board had said he was to appear before it forthwith. + + + +Not having a very clearly defined notion of what a live board was, + +Oliver was rather astounded by this intelligence, and was not quite + +certain whether he ought to laugh or cry. He had no time to think about + +the matter, however; for Mr. Bumble gave him a tap on the head, with + +his cane, to wake him up: and another on the back to make him lively: + +and bidding him to follow, conducted him into a large whitewashed + +room, where eight or ten fat gentlemen were sitting round a table. At + +the top of the table, seated in an arm-chair rather higher than the + +rest, was a particularly fat gentleman with a very round, red face. + + + +“Bow to the board,” said Bumble. Oliver brushed away two or three tears + +that were lingering in his eyes; and seeing no board but the table, + +fortunately bowed to that. + + + +“What’s your name, boy?” said the gentleman in the high chair. + + + +Oliver was frightened at the sight of so many gentlemen, which made him + +tremble: and the beadle gave him another tap behind, which made him + +cry. These two causes made him answer in a very low and hesitating + +voice; whereupon a gentleman in a white waistcoat said he was a fool. + +Which was a capital way of raising his spirits, and putting him quite + +at his ease. + + + +“Boy,” said the gentleman in the high chair, “listen to me. You know + +you’re an orphan, I suppose?” + + + +“What’s that, sir?” inquired poor Oliver. + + + +“The boy _is_ a fool—I thought he was,” said the gentleman in the white + +waistcoat. + + + +“Hush!” said the gentleman who had spoken first. “You know you’ve got + +no father or mother, and that you were brought up by the parish, don’t + +you?” + + + +“Yes, sir,” replied Oliver, weeping bitterly. + + + +“What are you crying for?” inquired the gentleman in the white + +waistcoat. And to be sure it was very extraordinary. What _could_ the + +boy be crying for? + + + +“I hope you say your prayers every night,” said another gentleman in a + +gruff voice; “and pray for the people who feed you, and take care of + +you—like a Christian.” + + + +“Yes, sir,” stammered the boy. The gentleman who spoke last was + +unconsciously right. It would have been _very_ like a Christian, and a + +marvellously good Christian too, if Oliver had prayed for the people + +who fed and took care of _him_. But he hadn’t, because nobody had + +taught him. + + + +“Well! You have come here to be educated, and taught a useful trade,” + +said the red-faced gentleman in the high chair. + + + +“So you’ll begin to pick oakum tomorrow morning at six o’clock,” added + +the surly one in the white waistcoat. + + + +For the combination of both these blessings in the one simple process + +of picking oakum, Oliver bowed low by the direction of the beadle, and + +was then hurried away to a large ward; where, on a rough, hard bed, he + +sobbed himself to sleep. What a novel illustration of the tender laws + +of England! They let the paupers go to sleep! + + + +Poor Oliver! He little thought, as he lay sleeping in happy + +unconsciousness of all around him, that the board had that very day + +arrived at a decision which would exercise the most material influence + +over all his future fortunes. But they had. And this was it: + + + +The members of this board were very sage, deep, philosophical men; and + +when they came to turn their attention to the workhouse, they found out + +at once, what ordinary folks would never have discovered—the poor + +people liked it! It was a regular place of public entertainment for the + +poorer classes; a tavern where there was nothing to pay; a public + +breakfast, dinner, tea, and supper all the year round; a brick and + +mortar elysium, where it was all play and no work. “Oho!” said the + +board, looking very knowing; “we are the fellows to set this to rights; + +we’ll stop it all, in no time.” So, they established the rule, that all + +poor people should have the alternative (for they would compel nobody, + +not they), of being starved by a gradual process in the house, or by a + +quick one out of it. With this view, they contracted with the + +water-works to lay on an unlimited supply of water; and with a + +corn-factory to supply periodically small quantities of oatmeal; and + +issued three meals of thin gruel a day, with an onion twice a week, and + +half a roll of Sundays. They made a great many other wise and humane + +regulations, having reference to the ladies, which it is not necessary + +to repeat; kindly undertook to divorce poor married people, in + +consequence of the great expense of a suit in Doctors’ Commons; and, + +instead of compelling a man to support his family, as they had + +theretofore done, took his family away from him, and made him a + +bachelor! There is no saying how many applicants for relief, under + +these last two heads, might have started up in all classes of society, + +if it had not been coupled with the workhouse; but the board were + +long-headed men, and had provided for this difficulty. The relief was + +inseparable from the workhouse and the gruel; and that frightened + +people. + + + +For the first six months after Oliver Twist was removed, the system was + +in full operation. It was rather expensive at first, in consequence of + +the increase in the undertaker’s bill, and the necessity of taking in + +the clothes of all the paupers, which fluttered loosely on their + +wasted, shrunken forms, after a week or two’s gruel. But the number of + +workhouse inmates got thin as well as the paupers; and the board were + +in ecstasies. + + + +The room in which the boys were fed, was a large stone hall, with a + +copper at one end: out of which the master, dressed in an apron for the + +purpose, and assisted by one or two women, ladled the gruel at + +mealtimes. Of this festive composition each boy had one porringer, and + +no more—except on occasions of great public rejoicing, when he had two + +ounces and a quarter of bread besides. The bowls never wanted washing. + +The boys polished them with their spoons till they shone again; and + +when they had performed this operation (which never took very long, the + +spoons being nearly as large as the bowls), they would sit staring at + +the copper, with such eager eyes, as if they could have devoured the + +very bricks of which it was composed; employing themselves, meanwhile, + +in sucking their fingers most assiduously, with the view of catching up + +any stray splashes of gruel that might have been cast thereon. Boys + +have generally excellent appetites. Oliver Twist and his companions + +suffered the tortures of slow starvation for three months: at last they + +got so voracious and wild with hunger, that one boy, who was tall for + +his age, and hadn’t been used to that sort of thing (for his father had + +kept a small cook-shop), hinted darkly to his companions, that unless + +he had another basin of gruel _per diem_, he was afraid he might some + +night happen to eat the boy who slept next him, who happened to be a + +weakly youth of tender age. He had a wild, hungry eye; and they + +implicitly believed him. A council was held; lots were cast who should + +walk up to the master after supper that evening, and ask for more; and + +it fell to Oliver Twist. + + + +The evening arrived; the boys took their places. The master, in his + +cook’s uniform, stationed himself at the copper; his pauper assistants + +ranged themselves behind him; the gruel was served out; and a long + +grace was said over the short commons. The gruel disappeared; the boys + +whispered each other, and winked at Oliver; while his next neighbors + +nudged him. Child as he was, he was desperate with hunger, and reckless + +with misery. He rose from the table; and advancing to the master, basin + +and spoon in hand, said: somewhat alarmed at his own temerity: + + + +“Please, sir, I want some more.” + + + +The master was a fat, healthy man; but he turned very pale. He gazed in + +stupefied astonishment on the small rebel for some seconds, and then + +clung for support to the copper. The assistants were paralysed with + +wonder; the boys with fear. + + + +“What!” said the master at length, in a faint voice. + + + +“Please, sir,” replied Oliver, “I want some more.” + + + +The master aimed a blow at Oliver’s head with the ladle; pinioned him + +in his arm; and shrieked aloud for the beadle. + + + +The board were sitting in solemn conclave, when Mr. Bumble rushed into + +the room in great excitement, and addressing the gentleman in the high + +chair, said, + + + +“Mr. Limbkins, I beg your pardon, sir! Oliver Twist has asked for + +more!” + + + +There was a general start. Horror was depicted on every countenance. + + + +“For _more_!” said Mr. Limbkins. “Compose yourself, Bumble, and answer + +me distinctly. Do I understand that he asked for more, after he had + +eaten the supper allotted by the dietary?” + + + +“He did, sir,” replied Bumble. + + + +“That boy will be hung,” said the gentleman in the white waistcoat. “I + +know that boy will be hung.” + + + +Nobody controverted the prophetic gentleman’s opinion. An animated + +discussion took place. Oliver was ordered into instant confinement; and + +a bill was next morning pasted on the outside of the gate, offering a + +reward of five pounds to anybody who would take Oliver Twist off the + +hands of the parish. In other words, five pounds and Oliver Twist were + +offered to any man or woman who wanted an apprentice to any trade, + +business, or calling. + + + +“I never was more convinced of anything in my life,” said the gentleman + +in the white waistcoat, as he knocked at the gate and read the bill + +next morning: “I never was more convinced of anything in my life, than + +I am that that boy will come to be hung.” + + + +As I purpose to show in the sequel whether the white waistcoated + +gentleman was right or not, I should perhaps mar the interest of this + +narrative (supposing it to possess any at all), if I ventured to hint + +just yet, whether the life of Oliver Twist had this violent termination + +or no. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER III. + +RELATES HOW OLIVER TWIST WAS VERY NEAR GETTING A PLACE WHICH WOULD NOT + +HAVE BEEN A SINECURE + + + + + +For a week after the commission of the impious and profane offence of + +asking for more, Oliver remained a close prisoner in the dark and + +solitary room to which he had been consigned by the wisdom and mercy of + +the board. It appears, at first sight not unreasonable to suppose, + +that, if he had entertained a becoming feeling of respect for the + +prediction of the gentleman in the white waistcoat, he would have + +established that sage individual’s prophetic character, once and for + +ever, by tying one end of his pocket-handkerchief to a hook in the + +wall, and attaching himself to the other. To the performance of this + +feat, however, there was one obstacle: namely, that + +pocket-handkerchiefs being decided articles of luxury, had been, for + +all future times and ages, removed from the noses of paupers by the + +express order of the board, in council assembled: solemnly given and + +pronounced under their hands and seals. There was a still greater + +obstacle in Oliver’s youth and childishness. He only cried bitterly all + +day; and, when the long, dismal night came on, spread his little hands + +before his eyes to shut out the darkness, and crouching in the corner, + +tried to sleep: ever and anon waking with a start and tremble, and + +drawing himself closer and closer to the wall, as if to feel even its + +cold hard surface were a protection in the gloom and loneliness which + +surrounded him. + + + +Let it not be supposed by the enemies of “the system,” that, during the + +period of his solitary incarceration, Oliver was denied the benefit of + +exercise, the pleasure of society, or the advantages of religious + +consolation. As for exercise, it was nice cold weather, and he was + +allowed to perform his ablutions every morning under the pump, in a + +stone yard, in the presence of Mr. Bumble, who prevented his catching + +cold, and caused a tingling sensation to pervade his frame, by repeated + +applications of the cane. As for society, he was carried every other + +day into the hall where the boys dined, and there sociably flogged as a + +public warning and example. And so far from being denied the advantages + +of religious consolation, he was kicked into the same apartment every + +evening at prayer-time, and there permitted to listen to, and console + +his mind with, a general supplication of the boys, containing a special + +clause, therein inserted by authority of the board, in which they + +entreated to be made good, virtuous, contented, and obedient, and to be + +guarded from the sins and vices of Oliver Twist: whom the supplication + +distinctly set forth to be under the exclusive patronage and protection + +of the powers of wickedness, and an article direct from the manufactory + +of the very Devil himself. + + + +It chanced one morning, while Oliver’s affairs were in this auspicious + +and comfortable state, that Mr. Gamfield, chimney-sweep, went his way + +down the High Street, deeply cogitating in his mind his ways and means + +of paying certain arrears of rent, for which his landlord had become + +rather pressing. Mr. Gamfield’s most sanguine estimate of his finances + +could not raise them within full five pounds of the desired amount; + +and, in a species of arithmetical desperation, he was alternately + +cudgelling his brains and his donkey, when passing the workhouse, his + +eyes encountered the bill on the gate. + + + +“Wo—o!” said Mr. Gamfield to the donkey. + + + +The donkey was in a state of profound abstraction: wondering, probably, + +whether he was destined to be regaled with a cabbage-stalk or two when + +he had disposed of the two sacks of soot with which the little cart was + +laden; so, without noticing the word of command, he jogged onward. + + + +Mr. Gamfield growled a fierce imprecation on the donkey generally, but + +more particularly on his eyes; and, running after him, bestowed a blow + +on his head, which would inevitably have beaten in any skull but a + +donkey’s. Then, catching hold of the bridle, he gave his jaw a sharp + +wrench, by way of gentle reminder that he was not his own master; and + +by these means turned him round. He then gave him another blow on the + +head, just to stun him till he came back again. Having completed these + +arrangements, he walked up to the gate, to read the bill. + + + +The gentleman with the white waistcoat was standing at the gate with + +his hands behind him, after having delivered himself of some profound + +sentiments in the board-room. Having witnessed the little dispute + +between Mr. Gamfield and the donkey, he smiled joyously when that + +person came up to read the bill, for he saw at once that Mr. Gamfield + +was exactly the sort of master Oliver Twist wanted. Mr. Gamfield + +smiled, too, as he perused the document; for five pounds was just the + +sum he had been wishing for; and, as to the boy with which it was + +encumbered, Mr. Gamfield, knowing what the dietary of the workhouse + +was, well knew he would be a nice small pattern, just the very thing + +for register stoves. So, he spelt the bill through again, from + +beginning to end; and then, touching his fur cap in token of humility, + +accosted the gentleman in the white waistcoat. + + + +“This here boy, sir, wot the parish wants to ’prentis,” said Mr. + +Gamfield. + + + +“Ay, my man,” said the gentleman in the white waistcoat, with a + +condescending smile. “What of him?” + + + +“If the parish vould like him to learn a right pleasant trade, in a + +good ’spectable chimbley-sweepin’ bisness,” said Mr. Gamfield, “I wants + +a ’prentis, and I am ready to take him.” + + + +“Walk in,” said the gentleman in the white waistcoat. Mr. Gamfield + +having lingered behind, to give the donkey another blow on the head, + +and another wrench of the jaw, as a caution not to run away in his + +absence, followed the gentleman with the white waistcoat into the room + +where Oliver had first seen him. + + + +“It’s a nasty trade,” said Mr. Limbkins, when Gamfield had again stated + +his wish. + + + +“Young boys have been smothered in chimneys before now,” said another + +gentleman. + + + +“That’s acause they damped the straw afore they lit it in the chimbley + +to make ’em come down again,” said Gamfield; “that’s all smoke, and no + +blaze; vereas smoke ain’t o’ no use at all in making a boy come down, + +for it only sinds him to sleep, and that’s wot he likes. Boys is wery + +obstinit, and wery lazy, Gen’l’men, and there’s nothink like a good hot + +blaze to make ’em come down vith a run. It’s humane too, gen’l’men, + +acause, even if they’ve stuck in the chimbley, roasting their feet + +makes ’em struggle to hextricate theirselves.” + + + +The gentleman in the white waistcoat appeared very much amused by this + +explanation; but his mirth was speedily checked by a look from Mr. + +Limbkins. The board then proceeded to converse among themselves for a + +few minutes, but in so low a tone, that the words “saving of + +expenditure,” “looked well in the accounts,” “have a printed report + +published,” were alone audible. These only chanced to be heard, indeed, + +on account of their being very frequently repeated with great emphasis. + + + +At length the whispering ceased; and the members of the board, having + +resumed their seats and their solemnity, Mr. Limbkins said: + + + +“We have considered your proposition, and we don’t approve of it.” + + + +“Not at all,” said the gentleman in the white waistcoat. + + + +“Decidedly not,” added the other members. + + + +As Mr. Gamfield did happen to labour under the slight imputation of + +having bruised three or four boys to death already, it occurred to him + +that the board had, perhaps, in some unaccountable freak, taken it into + +their heads that this extraneous circumstance ought to influence their + +proceedings. It was very unlike their general mode of doing business, + +if they had; but still, as he had no particular wish to revive the + +rumour, he twisted his cap in his hands, and walked slowly from the + +table. + + + +“So you won’t let me have him, gen’l’men?” said Mr. Gamfield, pausing + +near the door. + + + +“No,” replied Mr. Limbkins; “at least, as it’s a nasty business, we + +think you ought to take something less than the premium we offered.” + + + +Mr. Gamfield’s countenance brightened, as, with a quick step, he + +returned to the table, and said, + + + +“What’ll you give, gen’l’men? Come! Don’t be too hard on a poor man. + +What’ll you give?” + + + +“I should say, three pound ten was plenty,” said Mr. Limbkins. + + + +“Ten shillings too much,” said the gentleman in the white waistcoat. + + + +“Come!” said Gamfield; “say four pound, gen’l’men. Say four pound, and + +you’ve got rid of him for good and all. There!” + + + +“Three pound ten,” repeated Mr. Limbkins, firmly. + + + +“Come! I’ll split the diff’erence, gen’l’men,” urged Gamfield. “Three + +pound fifteen.” + + + +“Not a farthing more,” was the firm reply of Mr. Limbkins. + + + +“You’re desperate hard upon me, gen’l’men,” said Gamfield, wavering. + + + +“Pooh! pooh! nonsense!” said the gentleman in the white waistcoat. + +“He’d be cheap with nothing at all, as a premium. Take him, you silly + +fellow! He’s just the boy for you. He wants the stick, now and then: + +it’ll do him good; and his board needn’t come very expensive, for he + +hasn’t been overfed since he was born. Ha! ha! ha!” + + + +Mr. Gamfield gave an arch look at the faces round the table, and, + +observing a smile on all of them, gradually broke into a smile himself. + +The bargain was made. Mr. Bumble, was at once instructed that Oliver + +Twist and his indentures were to be conveyed before the magistrate, for + +signature and approval, that very afternoon. + + + +In pursuance of this determination, little Oliver, to his excessive + +astonishment, was released from bondage, and ordered to put himself + +into a clean shirt. He had hardly achieved this very unusual gymnastic + +performance, when Mr. Bumble brought him, with his own hands, a basin + +of gruel, and the holiday allowance of two ounces and a quarter of + +bread. At this tremendous sight, Oliver began to cry very piteously: + +thinking, not unnaturally, that the board must have determined to kill + +him for some useful purpose, or they never would have begun to fatten + +him up in that way. + + + +“Don’t make your eyes red, Oliver, but eat your food and be thankful,” + +said Mr. Bumble, in a tone of impressive pomposity. “You’re a going to + +be made a ’prentice of, Oliver.” + + + +“A prentice, sir!” said the child, trembling. + + + +“Yes, Oliver,” said Mr. Bumble. “The kind and blessed gentleman which + +is so many parents to you, Oliver, when you have none of your own: are + +a going to “prentice” you: and to set you up in life, and make a man of + +you: although the expense to the parish is three pound ten!—three pound + +ten, Oliver!—seventy shillins—one hundred and forty sixpences!—and all + +for a naughty orphan which nobody can’t love.” + + + +As Mr. Bumble paused to take breath, after delivering this address in + +an awful voice, the tears rolled down the poor child’s face, and he + +sobbed bitterly. + + + +“Come,” said Mr. Bumble, somewhat less pompously, for it was gratifying + +to his feelings to observe the effect his eloquence had produced; + +“Come, Oliver! Wipe your eyes with the cuffs of your jacket, and don’t + +cry into your gruel; that’s a very foolish action, Oliver.” It + +certainly was, for there was quite enough water in it already. + + + +On their way to the magistrate, Mr. Bumble instructed Oliver that all + +he would have to do, would be to look very happy, and say, when the + +gentleman asked him if he wanted to be apprenticed, that he should like + +it very much indeed; both of which injunctions Oliver promised to obey: + +the rather as Mr. Bumble threw in a gentle hint, that if he failed in + +either particular, there was no telling what would be done to him. When + +they arrived at the office, he was shut up in a little room by himself, + +and admonished by Mr. Bumble to stay there, until he came back to fetch + +him. + + + +There the boy remained, with a palpitating heart, for half an hour. At + +the expiration of which time Mr. Bumble thrust in his head, unadorned + +with the cocked hat, and said aloud: + + + +“Now, Oliver, my dear, come to the gentleman.” As Mr. Bumble said this, + +he put on a grim and threatening look, and added, in a low voice, “Mind + +what I told you, you young rascal!” + + + +Oliver stared innocently in Mr. Bumble’s face at this somewhat + +contradictory style of address; but that gentleman prevented his + +offering any remark thereupon, by leading him at once into an adjoining + +room: the door of which was open. It was a large room, with a great + +window. Behind a desk, sat two old gentleman with powdered heads: one + +of whom was reading the newspaper; while the other was perusing, with + +the aid of a pair of tortoise-shell spectacles, a small piece of + +parchment which lay before him. Mr. Limbkins was standing in front of + +the desk on one side; and Mr. Gamfield, with a partially washed face, + +on the other; while two or three bluff-looking men, in top-boots, were + +lounging about. + + + +The old gentleman with the spectacles gradually dozed off, over the + +little bit of parchment; and there was a short pause, after Oliver had + +been stationed by Mr. Bumble in front of the desk. + + + +“This is the boy, your worship,” said Mr. Bumble. + + + +The old gentleman who was reading the newspaper raised his head for a + +moment, and pulled the other old gentleman by the sleeve; whereupon, + +the last-mentioned old gentleman woke up. + + + +“Oh, is this the boy?” said the old gentleman. + + + +“This is him, sir,” replied Mr. Bumble. “Bow to the magistrate, my + +dear.” + + + +Oliver roused himself, and made his best obeisance. He had been + +wondering, with his eyes fixed on the magistrates’ powder, whether all + +boards were born with that white stuff on their heads, and were boards + +from thenceforth on that account. + + + +“Well,” said the old gentleman, “I suppose he’s fond of + +chimney-sweeping?” + + + +“He doats on it, your worship,” replied Bumble; giving Oliver a sly + +pinch, to intimate that he had better not say he didn’t. + + + +“And he _will_ be a sweep, will he?” inquired the old gentleman. + + + +“If we was to bind him to any other trade tomorrow, he’d run away + +simultaneous, your worship,” replied Bumble. + + + +“And this man that’s to be his master—you, sir—you’ll treat him well, + +and feed him, and do all that sort of thing, will you?” said the old + +gentleman. + + + +“When I says I will, I means I will,” replied Mr. Gamfield doggedly. + + + +“You’re a rough speaker, my friend, but you look an honest, + +open-hearted man,” said the old gentleman: turning his spectacles in + +the direction of the candidate for Oliver’s premium, whose villainous + +countenance was a regular stamped receipt for cruelty. But the + +magistrate was half blind and half childish, so he couldn’t reasonably + +be expected to discern what other people did. + + + +“I hope I am, sir,” said Mr. Gamfield, with an ugly leer. + + + +“I have no doubt you are, my friend,” replied the old gentleman: fixing + +his spectacles more firmly on his nose, and looking about him for the + +inkstand. + + + +It was the critical moment of Oliver’s fate. If the inkstand had been + +where the old gentleman thought it was, he would have dipped his pen + +into it, and signed the indentures, and Oliver would have been + +straightway hurried off. But, as it chanced to be immediately under his + +nose, it followed, as a matter of course, that he looked all over his + +desk for it, without finding it; and happening in the course of his + +search to look straight before him, his gaze encountered the pale and + +terrified face of Oliver Twist: who, despite all the admonitory looks + +and pinches of Bumble, was regarding the repulsive countenance of his + +future master, with a mingled expression of horror and fear, too + +palpable to be mistaken, even by a half-blind magistrate. + + + +The old gentleman stopped, laid down his pen, and looked from Oliver to + +Mr. Limbkins; who attempted to take snuff with a cheerful and + +unconcerned aspect. + + + +“My boy!” said the old gentleman, “you look pale and alarmed. What is + +the matter?” + + + +“Stand a little away from him, Beadle,” said the other magistrate: + +laying aside the paper, and leaning forward with an expression of + +interest. “Now, boy, tell us what’s the matter: don’t be afraid.” + + + +Oliver fell on his knees, and clasping his hands together, prayed that + +they would order him back to the dark room—that they would starve + +him—beat him—kill him if they pleased—rather than send him away with + +that dreadful man. + + + +“Well!” said Mr. Bumble, raising his hands and eyes with most + +impressive solemnity. “Well! of all the artful and designing orphans + +that ever I see, Oliver, you are one of the most bare-facedest.” + + + +“Hold your tongue, Beadle,” said the second old gentleman, when Mr. + +Bumble had given vent to this compound adjective. + + + +“I beg your worship’s pardon,” said Mr. Bumble, incredulous of having + +heard aright. “Did your worship speak to me?” + + + +“Yes. Hold your tongue.” + + + +Mr. Bumble was stupefied with astonishment. A beadle ordered to hold + +his tongue! A moral revolution! + + + +The old gentleman in the tortoise-shell spectacles looked at his + +companion, he nodded significantly. + + + +“We refuse to sanction these indentures,” said the old gentleman: + +tossing aside the piece of parchment as he spoke. + + + +“I hope,” stammered Mr. Limbkins: “I hope the magistrates will not form + +the opinion that the authorities have been guilty of any improper + +conduct, on the unsupported testimony of a child.” + + + +“The magistrates are not called upon to pronounce any opinion on the + +matter,” said the second old gentleman sharply. “Take the boy back to + +the workhouse, and treat him kindly. He seems to want it.” + + + +That same evening, the gentleman in the white waistcoat most positively + +and decidedly affirmed, not only that Oliver would be hung, but that he + +would be drawn and quartered into the bargain. Mr. Bumble shook his + +head with gloomy mystery, and said he wished he might come to good; + +whereunto Mr. Gamfield replied, that he wished he might come to him; + +which, although he agreed with the beadle in most matters, would seem + +to be a wish of a totally opposite description. + + + +The next morning, the public were once informed that Oliver Twist was + +again to let, and that five pounds would be paid to anybody who would + +take possession of him. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER IV. + +OLIVER, BEING OFFERED ANOTHER PLACE, MAKES HIS FIRST ENTRY INTO PUBLIC + +LIFE + + + + + +In great families, when an advantageous place cannot be obtained, + +either in possession, reversion, remainder, or expectancy, for the + +young man who is growing up, it is a very general custom to send him to + +sea. The board, in imitation of so wise and salutary an example, took + +counsel together on the expediency of shipping off Oliver Twist, in + +some small trading vessel bound to a good unhealthy port. This + +suggested itself as the very best thing that could possibly be done + +with him: the probability being, that the skipper would flog him to + +death, in a playful mood, some day after dinner, or would knock his + +brains out with an iron bar; both pastimes being, as is pretty + +generally known, very favourite and common recreations among gentleman + +of that class. The more the case presented itself to the board, in this + +point of view, the more manifold the advantages of the step appeared; + +so, they came to the conclusion that the only way of providing for + +Oliver effectually, was to send him to sea without delay. + + + +Mr. Bumble had been despatched to make various preliminary inquiries, + +with the view of finding out some captain or other who wanted a + +cabin-boy without any friends; and was returning to the workhouse to + +communicate the result of his mission; when he encountered at the gate, + +no less a person than Mr. Sowerberry, the parochial undertaker. + + + +Mr. Sowerberry was a tall gaunt, large-jointed man, attired in a suit + +of threadbare black, with darned cotton stockings of the same colour, + +and shoes to answer. His features were not naturally intended to wear a + +smiling aspect, but he was in general rather given to professional + +jocosity. His step was elastic, and his face betokened inward + +pleasantry, as he advanced to Mr. Bumble, and shook him cordially by + +the hand. + + + +“I have taken the measure of the two women that died last night, Mr. + +Bumble,” said the undertaker. + + + +“You’ll make your fortune, Mr. Sowerberry,” said the beadle, as he + +thrust his thumb and forefinger into the proffered snuff-box of the + +undertaker: which was an ingenious little model of a patent coffin. “I + +say you’ll make your fortune, Mr. Sowerberry,” repeated Mr. Bumble, + +tapping the undertaker on the shoulder, in a friendly manner, with his + +cane. + + + +“Think so?” said the undertaker in a tone which half admitted and half + +disputed the probability of the event. “The prices allowed by the board + +are very small, Mr. Bumble.” + + + +“So are the coffins,” replied the beadle: with precisely as near an + +approach to a laugh as a great official ought to indulge in. + + + +Mr. Sowerberry was much tickled at this: as of course he ought to be; + +and laughed a long time without cessation. “Well, well, Mr. Bumble,” he + +said at length, “there’s no denying that, since the new system of + +feeding has come in, the coffins are something narrower and more + +shallow than they used to be; but we must have some profit, Mr. Bumble. + +Well-seasoned timber is an expensive article, sir; and all the iron + +handles come, by canal, from Birmingham.” + + + +“Well, well,” said Mr. Bumble, “every trade has its drawbacks. A fair + +profit is, of course, allowable.” + + + +“Of course, of course,” replied the undertaker; “and if I don’t get a + +profit upon this or that particular article, why, I make it up in the + +long-run, you see—he! he! he!” + + + +“Just so,” said Mr. Bumble. + + + +“Though I must say,” continued the undertaker, resuming the current of + +observations which the beadle had interrupted: “though I must say, Mr. + +Bumble, that I have to contend against one very great disadvantage: + +which is, that all the stout people go off the quickest. The people who + +have been better off, and have paid rates for many years, are the first + +to sink when they come into the house; and let me tell you, Mr. Bumble, + +that three or four inches over one’s calculation makes a great hole in + +one’s profits: especially when one has a family to provide for, sir.” + + + +As Mr. Sowerberry said this, with the becoming indignation of an + +ill-used man; and as Mr. Bumble felt that it rather tended to convey a + +reflection on the honour of the parish; the latter gentleman thought it + +advisable to change the subject. Oliver Twist being uppermost in his + +mind, he made him his theme. + + + +“By the bye,” said Mr. Bumble, “you don’t know anybody who wants a boy, + +do you? A porochial ’prentis, who is at present a dead-weight; a + +millstone, as I may say, round the porochial throat? Liberal terms, Mr. + +Sowerberry, liberal terms?” As Mr. Bumble spoke, he raised his cane to + +the bill above him, and gave three distinct raps upon the words “five + +pounds”: which were printed thereon in Roman capitals of gigantic size. + + + +“Gadso!” said the undertaker: taking Mr. Bumble by the gilt-edged + +lappel of his official coat; “that’s just the very thing I wanted to + +speak to you about. You know—dear me, what a very elegant button this + +is, Mr. Bumble! I never noticed it before.” + + + +“Yes, I think it rather pretty,” said the beadle, glancing proudly + +downwards at the large brass buttons which embellished his coat. “The + +die is the same as the porochial seal—the Good Samaritan healing the + +sick and bruised man. The board presented it to me on Newyear’s + +morning, Mr. Sowerberry. I put it on, I remember, for the first time, + +to attend the inquest on that reduced tradesman, who died in a doorway + +at midnight.” + + + +“I recollect,” said the undertaker. “The jury brought it in, ‘Died from + +exposure to the cold, and want of the common necessaries of life,’ + +didn’t they?” + + + +Mr. Bumble nodded. + + + +“And they made it a special verdict, I think,” said the undertaker, “by + +adding some words to the effect, that if the relieving officer had—” + + + +“Tush! Foolery!” interposed the beadle. “If the board attended to all + +the nonsense that ignorant jurymen talk, they’d have enough to do.” + + + +“Very true,” said the undertaker; “they would indeed.” + + + +“Juries,” said Mr. Bumble, grasping his cane tightly, as was his wont + +when working into a passion: “juries is ineddicated, vulgar, grovelling + +wretches.” + + + +“So they are,” said the undertaker. + + + +“They haven’t no more philosophy nor political economy about ’em than + +that,” said the beadle, snapping his fingers contemptuously. + + + +“No more they have,” acquiesced the undertaker. + + + +“I despise ’em,” said the beadle, growing very red in the face. + + + +“So do I,” rejoined the undertaker. + + + +“And I only wish we’d a jury of the independent sort, in the house for + +a week or two,” said the beadle; “the rules and regulations of the + +board would soon bring their spirit down for ’em.” + + + +“Let ’em alone for that,” replied the undertaker. So saying, he smiled, + +approvingly: to calm the rising wrath of the indignant parish officer. + + + +Mr Bumble lifted off his cocked hat; took a handkerchief from the + +inside of the crown; wiped from his forehead the perspiration which his + +rage had engendered; fixed the cocked hat on again; and, turning to the + +undertaker, said in a calmer voice: + + + +“Well; what about the boy?” + + + +“Oh!” replied the undertaker; “why, you know, Mr. Bumble, I pay a good + +deal towards the poor’s rates.” + + + +“Hem!” said Mr. Bumble. “Well?” + + + +“Well,” replied the undertaker, “I was thinking that if I pay so much + +towards ’em, I’ve a right to get as much out of ’em as I can, Mr. + +Bumble; and so—I think I’ll take the boy myself.” + + + +Mr. Bumble grasped the undertaker by the arm, and led him into the + +building. Mr. Sowerberry was closeted with the board for five minutes; + +and it was arranged that Oliver should go to him that evening “upon + +liking”—a phrase which means, in the case of a parish apprentice, that + +if the master find, upon a short trial, that he can get enough work out + +of a boy without putting too much food into him, he shall have him for + +a term of years, to do what he likes with. + + + +When little Oliver was taken before “the gentlemen” that evening; and + +informed that he was to go, that night, as general house-lad to a + +coffin-maker’s; and that if he complained of his situation, or ever + +came back to the parish again, he would be sent to sea, there to be + +drowned, or knocked on the head, as the case might be, he evinced so + +little emotion, that they by common consent pronounced him a hardened + +young rascal, and ordered Mr. Bumble to remove him forthwith. + + + +Now, although it was very natural that the board, of all people in the + +world, should feel in a great state of virtuous astonishment and horror + +at the smallest tokens of want of feeling on the part of anybody, they + +were rather out, in this particular instance. The simple fact was, that + +Oliver, instead of possessing too little feeling, possessed rather too + +much; and was in a fair way of being reduced, for life, to a state of + +brutal stupidity and sullenness by the ill usage he had received. He + +heard the news of his destination, in perfect silence; and, having had + +his luggage put into his hand—which was not very difficult to carry, + +inasmuch as it was all comprised within the limits of a brown paper + +parcel, about half a foot square by three inches deep—he pulled his cap + +over his eyes; and once more attaching himself to Mr. Bumble’s coat + +cuff, was led away by that dignitary to a new scene of suffering. + + + +For some time, Mr. Bumble drew Oliver along, without notice or remark; + +for the beadle carried his head very erect, as a beadle always should: + +and, it being a windy day, little Oliver was completely enshrouded by + +the skirts of Mr. Bumble’s coat as they blew open, and disclosed to + +great advantage his flapped waistcoat and drab plush knee-breeches. As + +they drew near to their destination, however, Mr. Bumble thought it + +expedient to look down, and see that the boy was in good order for + +inspection by his new master: which he accordingly did, with a fit and + +becoming air of gracious patronage. + + + +“Oliver!” said Mr. Bumble. + + + +“Yes, sir,” replied Oliver, in a low, tremulous voice. + + + +“Pull that cap off your eyes, and hold up your head, sir.” + + + +Although Oliver did as he was desired, at once; and passed the back of + +his unoccupied hand briskly across his eyes, he left a tear in them + +when he looked up at his conductor. As Mr. Bumble gazed sternly upon + +him, it rolled down his cheek. It was followed by another, and another. + +The child made a strong effort, but it was an unsuccessful one. + +Withdrawing his other hand from Mr. Bumble’s he covered his face with + +both; and wept until the tears sprung out from between his chin and + +bony fingers. + + + +“Well!” exclaimed Mr. Bumble, stopping short, and darting at his little + +charge a look of intense malignity. “Well! Of _all_ the ungratefullest, + +and worst-disposed boys as ever I see, Oliver, you are the—” + + + +“No, no, sir,” sobbed Oliver, clinging to the hand which held the + +well-known cane; “no, no, sir; I will be good indeed; indeed, indeed I + +will, sir! I am a very little boy, sir; and it is so—so—” + + + +“So what?” inquired Mr. Bumble in amazement. + + + +“So lonely, sir! So very lonely!” cried the child. “Everybody hates me. + +Oh! sir, don’t, don’t pray be cross to me!” The child beat his hand + +upon his heart; and looked in his companion’s face, with tears of real + +agony. + + + +Mr. Bumble regarded Oliver’s piteous and helpless look, with some + +astonishment, for a few seconds; hemmed three or four times in a husky + +manner; and after muttering something about “that troublesome cough,” + +bade Oliver dry his eyes and be a good boy. Then once more taking his + +hand, he walked on with him in silence. + + + +The undertaker, who had just put up the shutters of his shop, was + +making some entries in his day-book by the light of a most appropriate + +dismal candle, when Mr. Bumble entered. + + + +“Aha!” said the undertaker; looking up from the book, and pausing in + +the middle of a word; “is that you, Bumble?” + + + +“No one else, Mr. Sowerberry,” replied the beadle. “Here! I’ve brought + +the boy.” Oliver made a bow. + + + +“Oh! that’s the boy, is it?” said the undertaker: raising the candle + +above his head, to get a better view of Oliver. “Mrs. Sowerberry, will + +you have the goodness to come here a moment, my dear?” + + + +Mrs. Sowerberry emerged from a little room behind the shop, and + +presented the form of a short, thin, squeezed-up woman, with a vixenish + +countenance. + + + +“My dear,” said Mr. Sowerberry, deferentially, “this is the boy from + +the workhouse that I told you of.” Oliver bowed again. + + + +“Dear me!” said the undertaker’s wife, “he’s very small.” + + + +“Why, he _is_ rather small,” replied Mr. Bumble: looking at Oliver as + +if it were his fault that he was no bigger; “he is small. There’s no + +denying it. But he’ll grow, Mrs. Sowerberry—he’ll grow.” + + + +“Ah! I dare say he will,” replied the lady pettishly, “on our victuals + +and our drink. I see no saving in parish children, not I; for they + +always cost more to keep, than they’re worth. However, men always think + +they know best. There! Get downstairs, little bag o’ bones.” With this, + +the undertaker’s wife opened a side door, and pushed Oliver down a + +steep flight of stairs into a stone cell, damp and dark: forming the + +ante-room to the coal-cellar, and denominated “kitchen”; wherein sat a + +slatternly girl, in shoes down at heel, and blue worsted stockings very + +much out of repair. + + + +“Here, Charlotte,” said Mr. Sowerberry, who had followed Oliver down, + +“give this boy some of the cold bits that were put by for Trip. He + +hasn’t come home since the morning, so he may go without ’em. I dare + +say the boy isn’t too dainty to eat ’em—are you, boy?” + + + +Oliver, whose eyes had glistened at the mention of meat, and who was + +trembling with eagerness to devour it, replied in the negative; and a + +plateful of coarse broken victuals was set before him. + + + +I wish some well-fed philosopher, whose meat and drink turn to gall + +within him; whose blood is ice, whose heart is iron; could have seen + +Oliver Twist clutching at the dainty viands that the dog had neglected. + +I wish he could have witnessed the horrible avidity with which Oliver + +tore the bits asunder with all the ferocity of famine. There is only + +one thing I should like better; and that would be to see the + +Philosopher making the same sort of meal himself, with the same relish. + + + +“Well,” said the undertaker’s wife, when Oliver had finished his + +supper: which she had regarded in silent horror, and with fearful + +auguries of his future appetite: “have you done?” + + + +There being nothing eatable within his reach, Oliver replied in the + +affirmative. + + + +“Then come with me,” said Mrs. Sowerberry: taking up a dim and dirty + +lamp, and leading the way upstairs; “your bed’s under the counter. You + +don’t mind sleeping among the coffins, I suppose? But it doesn’t much + +matter whether you do or don’t, for you can’t sleep anywhere else. + +Come; don’t keep me here all night!” + + + +Oliver lingered no longer, but meekly followed his new mistress. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER V. + +OLIVER MINGLES WITH NEW ASSOCIATES. GOING TO A FUNERAL FOR THE FIRST + +TIME, HE FORMS AN UNFAVOURABLE NOTION OF HIS MASTER’S BUSINESS + + + + + +Oliver, being left to himself in the undertaker’s shop, set the lamp + +down on a workman’s bench, and gazed timidly about him with a feeling + +of awe and dread, which many people a good deal older than he will be + +at no loss to understand. An unfinished coffin on black tressels, which + +stood in the middle of the shop, looked so gloomy and death-like that a + +cold tremble came over him, every time his eyes wandered in the + +direction of the dismal object: from which he almost expected to see + +some frightful form slowly rear its head, to drive him mad with terror. + +Against the wall were ranged, in regular array, a long row of elm + +boards cut in the same shape: looking in the dim light, like + +high-shouldered ghosts with their hands in their breeches pockets. + +Coffin-plates, elm-chips, bright-headed nails, and shreds of black + +cloth, lay scattered on the floor; and the wall behind the counter was + +ornamented with a lively representation of two mutes in very stiff + +neckcloths, on duty at a large private door, with a hearse drawn by + +four black steeds, approaching in the distance. The shop was close and + +hot. The atmosphere seemed tainted with the smell of coffins. The + +recess beneath the counter in which his flock mattress was thrust, + +looked like a grave. + + + +Nor were these the only dismal feelings which depressed Oliver. He was + +alone in a strange place; and we all know how chilled and desolate the + +best of us will sometimes feel in such a situation. The boy had no + +friends to care for, or to care for him. The regret of no recent + +separation was fresh in his mind; the absence of no loved and + +well-remembered face sank heavily into his heart. + + + +But his heart was heavy, notwithstanding; and he wished, as he crept + +into his narrow bed, that that were his coffin, and that he could be + +lain in a calm and lasting sleep in the churchyard ground, with the + +tall grass waving gently above his head, and the sound of the old deep + +bell to soothe him in his sleep. + + + +Oliver was awakened in the morning, by a loud kicking at the outside of + +the shop-door: which, before he could huddle on his clothes, was + +repeated, in an angry and impetuous manner, about twenty-five times. + +When he began to undo the chain, the legs desisted, and a voice began. + + + +“Open the door, will yer?” cried the voice which belonged to the legs + +which had kicked at the door. + + + +“I will, directly, sir,” replied Oliver: undoing the chain, and turning + +the key. + + + +“I suppose yer the new boy, ain’t yer?” said the voice through the + +key-hole. + + + +“Yes, sir,” replied Oliver. + + + +“How old are yer?” inquired the voice. + + + +“Ten, sir,” replied Oliver. + + + +“Then I’ll whop yer when I get in,” said the voice; “you just see if I + +don’t, that’s all, my work’us brat!” and having made this obliging + +promise, the voice began to whistle. + + + +Oliver had been too often subjected to the process to which the very + +expressive monosyllable just recorded bears reference, to entertain the + +smallest doubt that the owner of the voice, whoever he might be, would + +redeem his pledge, most honourably. He drew back the bolts with a + +trembling hand, and opened the door. + + + +For a second or two, Oliver glanced up the street, and down the street, + +and over the way: impressed with the belief that the unknown, who had + +addressed him through the key-hole, had walked a few paces off, to warm + +himself; for nobody did he see but a big charity-boy, sitting on a post + +in front of the house, eating a slice of bread and butter: which he cut + +into wedges, the size of his mouth, with a clasp-knife, and then + +consumed with great dexterity. + + + +“I beg your pardon, sir,” said Oliver at length: seeing that no other + +visitor made his appearance; “did you knock?” + + + +“I kicked,” replied the charity-boy. + + + +“Did you want a coffin, sir?” inquired Oliver, innocently. + + + +At this, the charity-boy looked monstrous fierce; and said that Oliver + +would want one before long, if he cut jokes with his superiors in that + +way. + + + +“Yer don’t know who I am, I suppose, Work’us?” said the charity-boy, in + +continuation: descending from the top of the post, meanwhile, with + +edifying gravity. + + + +“No, sir,” rejoined Oliver. + + + +“I’m Mister Noah Claypole,” said the charity-boy, “and you’re under me. + +Take down the shutters, yer idle young ruffian!” With this, Mr. + +Claypole administered a kick to Oliver, and entered the shop with a + +dignified air, which did him great credit. It is difficult for a + +large-headed, small-eyed youth, of lumbering make and heavy + +countenance, to look dignified under any circumstances; but it is more + +especially so, when superadded to these personal attractions are a red + +nose and yellow smalls. + + + +Oliver, having taken down the shutters, and broken a pane of glass in + +his effort to stagger away beneath the weight of the first one to a + +small court at the side of the house in which they were kept during the + +day, was graciously assisted by Noah: who having consoled him with the + +assurance that “he’d catch it,” condescended to help him. Mr. + +Sowerberry came down soon after. Shortly afterwards, Mrs. Sowerberry + +appeared. Oliver having “caught it,” in fulfilment of Noah’s + +prediction, followed that young gentleman down the stairs to breakfast. + + + +“Come near the fire, Noah,” said Charlotte. “I saved a nice little bit + +of bacon for you from master’s breakfast. Oliver, shut that door at + +Mister Noah’s back, and take them bits that I’ve put out on the cover + +of the bread-pan. There’s your tea; take it away to that box, and drink + +it there, and make haste, for they’ll want you to mind the shop. D’ye + +hear?” + + + +“D’ye hear, Work’us?” said Noah Claypole. + + + +“Lor, Noah!” said Charlotte, “what a rum creature you are! Why don’t + +you let the boy alone?” + + + +“Let him alone!” said Noah. “Why everybody lets him alone enough, for + +the matter of that. Neither his father nor his mother will ever + +interfere with him. All his relations let him have his own way pretty + +well. Eh, Charlotte? He! he! he!” + + + +“Oh, you queer soul!” said Charlotte, bursting into a hearty laugh, in + +which she was joined by Noah; after which they both looked scornfully + +at poor Oliver Twist, as he sat shivering on the box in the coldest + +corner of the room, and ate the stale pieces which had been specially + +reserved for him. + + + +Noah was a charity-boy, but not a workhouse orphan. No chance-child was + +he, for he could trace his genealogy all the way back to his parents, + +who lived hard by; his mother being a washerwoman, and his father a + +drunken soldier, discharged with a wooden leg, and a diurnal pension of + +twopence-halfpenny and an unstateable fraction. The shop-boys in the + +neighbourhood had long been in the habit of branding Noah in the public + +streets, with the ignominious epithets of “leathers,” “charity,” and + +the like; and Noah had borne them without reply. But, now that fortune + +had cast in his way a nameless orphan, at whom even the meanest could + +point the finger of scorn, he retorted on him with interest. This + +affords charming food for contemplation. It shows us what a beautiful + +thing human nature may be made to be; and how impartially the same + +amiable qualities are developed in the finest lord and the dirtiest + +charity-boy. + + + +Oliver had been sojourning at the undertaker’s some three weeks or a + +month. Mr. and Mrs. Sowerberry—the shop being shut up—were taking their + +supper in the little back-parlour, when Mr. Sowerberry, after several + +deferential glances at his wife, said, + + + +“My dear—” He was going to say more; but, Mrs. Sowerberry looking up, + +with a peculiarly unpropitious aspect, he stopped short. + + + +“Well,” said Mrs. Sowerberry, sharply. + + + +“Nothing, my dear, nothing,” said Mr. Sowerberry. + + + +“Ugh, you brute!” said Mrs. Sowerberry. + + + +“Not at all, my dear,” said Mr. Sowerberry humbly. “I thought you + +didn’t want to hear, my dear. I was only going to say—” + + + +“Oh, don’t tell me what you were going to say,” interposed Mrs. + +Sowerberry. “I am nobody; don’t consult me, pray. _I_ don’t want to + +intrude upon your secrets.” As Mrs. Sowerberry said this, she gave an + +hysterical laugh, which threatened violent consequences. + + + +“But, my dear,” said Sowerberry, “I want to ask your advice.” + + + +“No, no, don’t ask mine,” replied Mrs. Sowerberry, in an affecting + +manner: “ask somebody else’s.” Here, there was another hysterical + +laugh, which frightened Mr. Sowerberry very much. This is a very common + +and much-approved matrimonial course of treatment, which is often very + +effective. It at once reduced Mr. Sowerberry to begging, as a special + +favour, to be allowed to say what Mrs. Sowerberry was most curious to + +hear. After a short duration, the permission was most graciously + +conceded. + + + +“It’s only about young Twist, my dear,” said Mr. Sowerberry. “A very + +good-looking boy, that, my dear.” + + + +“He need be, for he eats enough,” observed the lady. + + + +“There’s an expression of melancholy in his face, my dear,” resumed Mr. + +Sowerberry, “which is very interesting. He would make a delightful + +mute, my love.” + + + +Mrs. Sowerberry looked up with an expression of considerable + +wonderment. Mr. Sowerberry remarked it and, without allowing time for + +any observation on the good lady’s part, proceeded. + + + +“I don’t mean a regular mute to attend grown-up people, my dear, but + +only for children’s practice. It would be very new to have a mute in + +proportion, my dear. You may depend upon it, it would have a superb + +effect.” + + + +Mrs. Sowerberry, who had a good deal of taste in the undertaking way, + +was much struck by the novelty of this idea; but, as it would have been + +compromising her dignity to have said so, under existing circumstances, + +she merely inquired, with much sharpness, why such an obvious + +suggestion had not presented itself to her husband’s mind before? Mr. + +Sowerberry rightly construed this, as an acquiescence in his + +proposition; it was speedily determined, therefore, that Oliver should + +be at once initiated into the mysteries of the trade; and, with this + +view, that he should accompany his master on the very next occasion of + +his services being required. + + + +The occasion was not long in coming. Half an hour after breakfast next + +morning, Mr. Bumble entered the shop; and supporting his cane against + +the counter, drew forth his large leathern pocket-book: from which he + +selected a small scrap of paper, which he handed over to Sowerberry. + + + +“Aha!” said the undertaker, glancing over it with a lively countenance; + +“an order for a coffin, eh?” + + + +“For a coffin first, and a porochial funeral afterwards,” replied Mr. + +Bumble, fastening the strap of the leathern pocket-book: which, like + +himself, was very corpulent. + + + +“Bayton,” said the undertaker, looking from the scrap of paper to Mr. + +Bumble. “I never heard the name before.” + + + +Bumble shook his head, as he replied, “Obstinate people, Mr. + +Sowerberry; very obstinate. Proud, too, I’m afraid, sir.” + + + +“Proud, eh?” exclaimed Mr. Sowerberry with a sneer. “Come, that’s too + +much.” + + + +“Oh, it’s sickening,” replied the beadle. “Antimonial, Mr. Sowerberry!” + + + +“So it is,” acquiesced the undertaker. + + + +“We only heard of the family the night before last,” said the beadle; + +“and we shouldn’t have known anything about them, then, only a woman + +who lodges in the same house made an application to the porochial + +committee for them to send the porochial surgeon to see a woman as was + +very bad. He had gone out to dinner; but his ’prentice (which is a very + +clever lad) sent ’em some medicine in a blacking-bottle, offhand.” + + + +“Ah, there’s promptness,” said the undertaker. + + + +“Promptness, indeed!” replied the beadle. “But what’s the consequence; + +what’s the ungrateful behaviour of these rebels, sir? Why, the husband + +sends back word that the medicine won’t suit his wife’s complaint, and + +so she shan’t take it—says she shan’t take it, sir! Good, strong, + +wholesome medicine, as was given with great success to two Irish + +labourers and a coal-heaver, only a week before—sent ’em for nothing, + +with a blackin’-bottle in,—and he sends back word that she shan’t take + +it, sir!” + + + +As the atrocity presented itself to Mr. Bumble’s mind in full force, he + +struck the counter sharply with his cane, and became flushed with + +indignation. + + + +“Well,” said the undertaker, “I ne—ver—did—” + + + +“Never did, sir!” ejaculated the beadle. “No, nor nobody never did; but + +now she’s dead, we’ve got to bury her; and that’s the direction; and + +the sooner it’s done, the better.” + + + +Thus saying, Mr. Bumble put on his cocked hat wrong side first, in a + +fever of parochial excitement; and flounced out of the shop. + + + +“Why, he was so angry, Oliver, that he forgot even to ask after you!” + +said Mr. Sowerberry, looking after the beadle as he strode down the + +street. + + + +“Yes, sir,” replied Oliver, who had carefully kept himself out of + +sight, during the interview; and who was shaking from head to foot at + +the mere recollection of the sound of Mr. Bumble’s voice. He needn’t + +have taken the trouble to shrink from Mr. Bumble’s glance, however; for + +that functionary, on whom the prediction of the gentleman in the white + +waistcoat had made a very strong impression, thought that now the + +undertaker had got Oliver upon trial the subject was better avoided, + +until such time as he should be firmly bound for seven years, and all + +danger of his being returned upon the hands of the parish should be + +thus effectually and legally overcome. + + + +“Well,” said Mr. Sowerberry, taking up his hat, “the sooner this job is + +done, the better. Noah, look after the shop. Oliver, put on your cap, + +and come with me.” Oliver obeyed, and followed his master on his + +professional mission. + + + +They walked on, for some time, through the most crowded and densely + +inhabited part of the town; and then, striking down a narrow street + +more dirty and miserable than any they had yet passed through, paused + +to look for the house which was the object of their search. The houses + +on either side were high and large, but very old, and tenanted by + +people of the poorest class: as their neglected appearance would have + +sufficiently denoted, without the concurrent testimony afforded by the + +squalid looks of the few men and women who, with folded arms and bodies + +half doubled, occasionally skulked along. A great many of the tenements + +had shop-fronts; but these were fast closed, and mouldering away; only + +the upper rooms being inhabited. Some houses which had become insecure + +from age and decay, were prevented from falling into the street, by + +huge beams of wood reared against the walls, and firmly planted in the + +road; but even these crazy dens seemed to have been selected as the + +nightly haunts of some houseless wretches, for many of the rough boards + +which supplied the place of door and window, were wrenched from their + +positions, to afford an aperture wide enough for the passage of a human + +body. The kennel was stagnant and filthy. The very rats, which here and + +there lay putrefying in its rottenness, were hideous with famine. + + + +There was neither knocker nor bell-handle at the open door where Oliver + +and his master stopped; so, groping his way cautiously through the dark + +passage, and bidding Oliver keep close to him and not be afraid, the + +undertaker mounted to the top of the first flight of stairs. Stumbling + +against a door on the landing, he rapped at it with his knuckles. + + + +It was opened by a young girl of thirteen or fourteen. The undertaker + +at once saw enough of what the room contained, to know it was the + +apartment to which he had been directed. He stepped in; Oliver followed + +him. + + + +There was no fire in the room; but a man was crouching, mechanically, + +over the empty stove. An old woman, too, had drawn a low stool to the + +cold hearth, and was sitting beside him. There were some ragged + +children in another corner; and in a small recess, opposite the door, + +there lay upon the ground, something covered with an old blanket. + +Oliver shuddered as he cast his eyes toward the place, and crept + +involuntarily closer to his master; for though it was covered up, the + +boy felt that it was a corpse. + + + +The man’s face was thin and very pale; his hair and beard were grizzly; + +his eyes were bloodshot. The old woman’s face was wrinkled; her two + +remaining teeth protruded over her under lip; and her eyes were bright + +and piercing. Oliver was afraid to look at either her or the man. They + +seemed so like the rats he had seen outside. + + + +“Nobody shall go near her,” said the man, starting fiercely up, as the + +undertaker approached the recess. “Keep back! Damn you, keep back, if + +you’ve a life to lose!” + + + +“Nonsense, my good man,” said the undertaker, who was pretty well used + +to misery in all its shapes. “Nonsense!” + + + +“I tell you,” said the man: clenching his hands, and stamping furiously + +on the floor,—“I tell you I won’t have her put into the ground. She + +couldn’t rest there. The worms would worry her—not eat her—she is so + +worn away.” + + + +The undertaker offered no reply to this raving; but producing a tape + +from his pocket, knelt down for a moment by the side of the body. + + + +“Ah!” said the man: bursting into tears, and sinking on his knees at + +the feet of the dead woman; “kneel down, kneel down—kneel round her, + +every one of you, and mark my words! I say she was starved to death. I + +never knew how bad she was, till the fever came upon her; and then her + +bones were starting through the skin. There was neither fire nor + +candle; she died in the dark—in the dark! She couldn’t even see her + +children’s faces, though we heard her gasping out their names. I begged + +for her in the streets: and they sent me to prison. When I came back, + +she was dying; and all the blood in my heart has dried up, for they + +starved her to death. I swear it before the God that saw it! They + +starved her!” He twined his hands in his hair; and, with a loud scream, + +rolled grovelling upon the floor: his eyes fixed, and the foam covering + +his lips. + + + +The terrified children cried bitterly; but the old woman, who had + +hitherto remained as quiet as if she had been wholly deaf to all that + +passed, menaced them into silence. Having unloosened the cravat of the + +man who still remained extended on the ground, she tottered towards the + +undertaker. + + + +“She was my daughter,” said the old woman, nodding her head in the + +direction of the corpse; and speaking with an idiotic leer, more + +ghastly than even the presence of death in such a place. “Lord, Lord! + +Well, it _is_ strange that I who gave birth to her, and was a woman + +then, should be alive and merry now, and she lying there: so cold and + +stiff! Lord, Lord!—to think of it; it’s as good as a play—as good as a + +play!” + + + +As the wretched creature mumbled and chuckled in her hideous merriment, + +the undertaker turned to go away. + + + +“Stop, stop!” said the old woman in a loud whisper. “Will she be buried + +tomorrow, or next day, or tonight? I laid her out; and I must walk, + +you know. Send me a large cloak: a good warm one: for it is bitter + +cold. We should have cake and wine, too, before we go! Never mind; send + +some bread—only a loaf of bread and a cup of water. Shall we have some + +bread, dear?” she said eagerly: catching at the undertaker’s coat, as + +he once more moved towards the door. + + + +“Yes, yes,” said the undertaker, “of course. Anything you like!” He + +disengaged himself from the old woman’s grasp; and, drawing Oliver + +after him, hurried away. + + + +The next day, (the family having been meanwhile relieved with a + +half-quartern loaf and a piece of cheese, left with them by Mr. Bumble + +himself,) Oliver and his master returned to the miserable abode; where + +Mr. Bumble had already arrived, accompanied by four men from the + +workhouse, who were to act as bearers. An old black cloak had been + +thrown over the rags of the old woman and the man; and the bare coffin + +having been screwed down, was hoisted on the shoulders of the bearers, + +and carried into the street. + + + +“Now, you must put your best leg foremost, old lady!” whispered + +Sowerberry in the old woman’s ear; “we are rather late; and it won’t + +do, to keep the clergyman waiting. Move on, my men,—as quick as you + +like!” + + + +Thus directed, the bearers trotted on under their light burden; and the + +two mourners kept as near them, as they could. Mr. Bumble and + +Sowerberry walked at a good smart pace in front; and Oliver, whose legs + +were not so long as his master’s, ran by the side. + + + +There was not so great a necessity for hurrying as Mr. Sowerberry had + +anticipated, however; for when they reached the obscure corner of the + +churchyard in which the nettles grew, and where the parish graves were + +made, the clergyman had not arrived; and the clerk, who was sitting by + +the vestry-room fire, seemed to think it by no means improbable that it + +might be an hour or so, before he came. So, they put the bier on the + +brink of the grave; and the two mourners waited patiently in the damp + +clay, with a cold rain drizzling down, while the ragged boys whom the + +spectacle had attracted into the churchyard played a noisy game at + +hide-and-seek among the tombstones, or varied their amusements by + +jumping backwards and forwards over the coffin. Mr. Sowerberry and + +Bumble, being personal friends of the clerk, sat by the fire with him, + +and read the paper. + + + +At length, after a lapse of something more than an hour, Mr. Bumble, + +and Sowerberry, and the clerk, were seen running towards the grave. + +Immediately afterwards, the clergyman appeared: putting on his surplice + +as he came along. Mr. Bumble then thrashed a boy or two, to keep up + +appearances; and the reverend gentleman, having read as much of the + +burial service as could be compressed into four minutes, gave his + +surplice to the clerk, and walked away again. + + + +“Now, Bill!” said Sowerberry to the grave-digger. “Fill up!” + + + +It was no very difficult task, for the grave was so full, that the + +uppermost coffin was within a few feet of the surface. The grave-digger + +shovelled in the earth; stamped it loosely down with his feet: + +shouldered his spade; and walked off, followed by the boys, who + +murmured very loud complaints at the fun being over so soon. + + + +“Come, my good fellow!” said Bumble, tapping the man on the back. “They + +want to shut up the yard.” + + + +The man who had never once moved, since he had taken his station by the + +grave side, started, raised his head, stared at the person who had + +addressed him, walked forward for a few paces; and fell down in a + +swoon. The crazy old woman was too much occupied in bewailing the loss + +of her cloak (which the undertaker had taken off), to pay him any + +attention; so they threw a can of cold water over him; and when he came + +to, saw him safely out of the churchyard, locked the gate, and departed + +on their different ways. + + + +“Well, Oliver,” said Sowerberry, as they walked home, “how do you like + +it?” + + + +“Pretty well, thank you, sir” replied Oliver, with considerable + +hesitation. “Not very much, sir.” + + + +“Ah, you’ll get used to it in time, Oliver,” said Sowerberry. “Nothing + +when you _are_ used to it, my boy.” + + + +Oliver wondered, in his own mind, whether it had taken a very long time + +to get Mr. Sowerberry used to it. But he thought it better not to ask + +the question; and walked back to the shop: thinking over all he had + +seen and heard. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER VI. + +OLIVER, BEING GOADED BY THE TAUNTS OF NOAH, ROUSES INTO ACTION, AND + +RATHER ASTONISHES HIM + + + + + +The month’s trial over, Oliver was formally apprenticed. It was a nice + +sickly season just at this time. In commercial phrase, coffins were + +looking up; and, in the course of a few weeks, Oliver acquired a great + +deal of experience. The success of Mr. Sowerberry’s ingenious + +speculation, exceeded even his most sanguine hopes. The oldest + +inhabitants recollected no period at which measles had been so + +prevalent, or so fatal to infant existence; and many were the mournful + +processions which little Oliver headed, in a hat-band reaching down to + +his knees, to the indescribable admiration and emotion of all the + +mothers in the town. As Oliver accompanied his master in most of his + +adult expeditions too, in order that he might acquire that equanimity + +of demeanour and full command of nerve which was essential to a + +finished undertaker, he had many opportunities of observing the + +beautiful resignation and fortitude with which some strong-minded + +people bear their trials and losses. + + + +For instance; when Sowerberry had an order for the burial of some rich + +old lady or gentleman, who was surrounded by a great number of nephews + +and nieces, who had been perfectly inconsolable during the previous + +illness, and whose grief had been wholly irrepressible even on the most + +public occasions, they would be as happy among themselves as need + +be—quite cheerful and contented—conversing together with as much + +freedom and gaiety, as if nothing whatever had happened to disturb + +them. Husbands, too, bore the loss of their wives with the most heroic + +calmness. Wives, again, put on weeds for their husbands, as if, so far + +from grieving in the garb of sorrow, they had made up their minds to + +render it as becoming and attractive as possible. It was observable, + +too, that ladies and gentlemen who were in passions of anguish during + +the ceremony of interment, recovered almost as soon as they reached + +home, and became quite composed before the tea-drinking was over. All + +this was very pleasant and improving to see; and Oliver beheld it with + +great admiration. + + + +That Oliver Twist was moved to resignation by the example of these good + +people, I cannot, although I am his biographer, undertake to affirm + +with any degree of confidence; but I can most distinctly say, that for + +many months he continued meekly to submit to the domination and + +ill-treatment of Noah Claypole: who used him far worse than before, now + +that his jealousy was roused by seeing the new boy promoted to the + +black stick and hat-band, while he, the old one, remained stationary in + +the muffin-cap and leathers. Charlotte treated him ill, because Noah + +did; and Mrs. Sowerberry was his decided enemy, because Mr. Sowerberry + +was disposed to be his friend; so, between these three on one side, and + +a glut of funerals on the other, Oliver was not altogether as + +comfortable as the hungry pig was, when he was shut up, by mistake, in + +the grain department of a brewery. + + + +And now, I come to a very important passage in Oliver’s history; for I + +have to record an act, slight and unimportant perhaps in appearance, + +but which indirectly produced a material change in all his future + +prospects and proceedings. + + + +One day, Oliver and Noah had descended into the kitchen at the usual + +dinner-hour, to banquet upon a small joint of mutton—a pound and a half + +of the worst end of the neck; when Charlotte being called out of the + +way, there ensued a brief interval of time, which Noah Claypole, being + +hungry and vicious, considered he could not possibly devote to a + +worthier purpose than aggravating and tantalising young Oliver Twist. + + + +Intent upon this innocent amusement, Noah put his feet on the + +table-cloth; and pulled Oliver’s hair; and twitched his ears; and + +expressed his opinion that he was a “sneak”; and furthermore announced + +his intention of coming to see him hanged, whenever that desirable + +event should take place; and entered upon various topics of petty + +annoyance, like a malicious and ill-conditioned charity-boy as he was. + +But, making Oliver cry, Noah attempted to be more facetious still; and + +in his attempt, did what many sometimes do to this day, when they want + +to be funny. He got rather personal. + + + +“Work’us,” said Noah, “how’s your mother?” + + + +“She’s dead,” replied Oliver; “don’t you say anything about her to me!” + + + +Oliver’s colour rose as he said this; he breathed quickly; and there + +was a curious working of the mouth and nostrils, which Mr. Claypole + +thought must be the immediate precursor of a violent fit of crying. + +Under this impression he returned to the charge. + + + +“What did she die of, Work’us?” said Noah. + + + +“Of a broken heart, some of our old nurses told me,” replied Oliver: + +more as if he were talking to himself, than answering Noah. “I think I + +know what it must be to die of that!” + + + +“Tol de rol lol lol, right fol lairy, Work’us,” said Noah, as a tear + +rolled down Oliver’s cheek. “What’s set you a snivelling now?” + + + +“Not _you_,” replied Oliver, sharply. “There; that’s enough. Don’t say + +anything more to me about her; you’d better not!” + + + +“Better not!” exclaimed Noah. “Well! Better not! Work’us, don’t be + +impudent. _Your_ mother, too! She was a nice ’un, she was. Oh, Lor!” + +And here, Noah nodded his head expressively; and curled up as much of + +his small red nose as muscular action could collect together, for the + +occasion. + + + +“Yer know, Work’us,” continued Noah, emboldened by Oliver’s silence, + +and speaking in a jeering tone of affected pity: of all tones the most + +annoying: “Yer know, Work’us, it can’t be helped now; and of course yer + +couldn’t help it then; and I am very sorry for it; and I’m sure we all + +are, and pity yer very much. But yer must know, Work’us, yer mother was + +a regular right-down bad ’un.” + + + +“What did you say?” inquired Oliver, looking up very quickly. + + + +“A regular right-down bad ’un, Work’us,” replied Noah, coolly. “And + +it’s a great deal better, Work’us, that she died when she did, or else + +she’d have been hard labouring in Bridewell, or transported, or hung; + +which is more likely than either, isn’t it?” + + + +Crimson with fury, Oliver started up; overthrew the chair and table; + +seized Noah by the throat; shook him, in the violence of his rage, till + +his teeth chattered in his head; and collecting his whole force into + +one heavy blow, felled him to the ground. + + + +A minute ago, the boy had looked the quiet child, mild, dejected + +creature that harsh treatment had made him. But his spirit was roused + +at last; the cruel insult to his dead mother had set his blood on fire. + +His breast heaved; his attitude was erect; his eye bright and vivid; + +his whole person changed, as he stood glaring over the cowardly + +tormentor who now lay crouching at his feet; and defied him with an + +energy he had never known before. + + + +“He’ll murder me!” blubbered Noah. “Charlotte! missis! Here’s the new + +boy a murdering of me! Help! help! Oliver’s gone mad! Char—lotte!” + + + +Noah’s shouts were responded to, by a loud scream from Charlotte, and a + +louder from Mrs. Sowerberry; the former of whom rushed into the kitchen + +by a side-door, while the latter paused on the staircase till she was + +quite certain that it was consistent with the preservation of human + +life, to come further down. + + + +“Oh, you little wretch!” screamed Charlotte: seizing Oliver with her + +utmost force, which was about equal to that of a moderately strong man + +in particularly good training. “Oh, you little un-grate-ful, + +mur-de-rous, hor-rid villain!” And between every syllable, Charlotte + +gave Oliver a blow with all her might: accompanying it with a scream, + +for the benefit of society. + + + +Charlotte’s fist was by no means a light one; but, lest it should not + +be effectual in calming Oliver’s wrath, Mrs. Sowerberry plunged into + +the kitchen, and assisted to hold him with one hand, while she + +scratched his face with the other. In this favourable position of + +affairs, Noah rose from the ground, and pommelled him behind. + + + +This was rather too violent exercise to last long. When they were all + +wearied out, and could tear and beat no longer, they dragged Oliver, + +struggling and shouting, but nothing daunted, into the dust-cellar, and + +there locked him up. This being done, Mrs. Sowerberry sunk into a + +chair, and burst into tears. + + + +“Bless her, she’s going off!” said Charlotte. “A glass of water, Noah, + +dear. Make haste!” + + + +“Oh! Charlotte,” said Mrs. Sowerberry: speaking as well as she could, + +through a deficiency of breath, and a sufficiency of cold water, which + +Noah had poured over her head and shoulders. “Oh! Charlotte, what a + +mercy we have not all been murdered in our beds!” + + + +“Ah! mercy indeed, ma’am,” was the reply. “I only hope this’ll teach + +master not to have any more of these dreadful creatures, that are born + +to be murderers and robbers from their very cradle. Poor Noah! He was + +all but killed, ma’am, when I came in.” + + + +“Poor fellow!” said Mrs. Sowerberry, looking piteously on the + +charity-boy. + + + +Noah, whose top waistcoat-button might have been somewhere on a level + +with the crown of Oliver’s head, rubbed his eyes with the inside of his + +wrists while this commiseration was bestowed upon him, and performed + +some affecting tears and sniffs. + + + +“What’s to be done!” exclaimed Mrs. Sowerberry. “Your master’s not at + +home; there’s not a man in the house, and he’ll kick that door down in + +ten minutes.” Oliver’s vigorous plunges against the bit of timber in + +question, rendered this occurance highly probable. + + + +“Dear, dear! I don’t know, ma’am,” said Charlotte, “unless we send for + +the police-officers.” + + + +“Or the millingtary,” suggested Mr. Claypole. + + + +“No, no,” said Mrs. Sowerberry: bethinking herself of Oliver’s old + +friend. “Run to Mr. Bumble, Noah, and tell him to come here directly, + +and not to lose a minute; never mind your cap! Make haste! You can hold + +a knife to that black eye, as you run along. It’ll keep the swelling + +down.” + + + +Noah stopped to make no reply, but started off at his fullest speed; + +and very much it astonished the people who were out walking, to see a + +charity-boy tearing through the streets pell-mell, with no cap on his + +head, and a clasp-knife at his eye. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER VII. + +OLIVER CONTINUES REFRACTORY + + + + + +Noah Claypole ran along the streets at his swiftest pace, and paused + +not once for breath, until he reached the workhouse-gate. Having rested + +here, for a minute or so, to collect a good burst of sobs and an + +imposing show of tears and terror, he knocked loudly at the wicket; and + +presented such a rueful face to the aged pauper who opened it, that + +even he, who saw nothing but rueful faces about him at the best of + +times, started back in astonishment. + + + +“Why, what’s the matter with the boy!” said the old pauper. + + + +“Mr. Bumble! Mr. Bumble!” cried Noah, with well-affected dismay, and in + +tones so loud and agitated, that they not only caught the ear of Mr. + +Bumble himself, who happened to be hard by, but alarmed him so much + +that he rushed into the yard without his cocked hat,—which is a very + +curious and remarkable circumstance, as showing that even a beadle, + +acted upon a sudden and powerful impulse, may be afflicted with a + +momentary visitation of loss of self-possession, and forgetfulness of + +personal dignity. + + + +“Oh, Mr. Bumble, sir!” said Noah: “Oliver, sir,—Oliver has—” + + + +“What? What?” interposed Mr. Bumble: with a gleam of pleasure in his + +metallic eyes. “Not run away; he hasn’t run away, has he, Noah?” + + + +“No, sir, no. Not run away, sir, but he’s turned wicious,” replied + +Noah. “He tried to murder me, sir; and then he tried to murder + +Charlotte; and then missis. Oh! what dreadful pain it is! Such agony, + +please, sir!” And here, Noah writhed and twisted his body into an + +extensive variety of eel-like positions; thereby giving Mr. Bumble to + +understand that, from the violent and sanguinary onset of Oliver Twist, + +he had sustained severe internal injury and damage, from which he was + +at that moment suffering the acutest torture. + + + +When Noah saw that the intelligence he communicated perfectly paralysed + +Mr. Bumble, he imparted additional effect thereunto, by bewailing his + +dreadful wounds ten times louder than before; and when he observed a + +gentleman in a white waistcoat crossing the yard, he was more tragic in + +his lamentations than ever: rightly conceiving it highly expedient to + +attract the notice, and rouse the indignation, of the gentleman + +aforesaid. + + + +The gentleman’s notice was very soon attracted; for he had not walked + +three paces, when he turned angrily round, and inquired what that young + +cur was howling for, and why Mr. Bumble did not favour him with + +something which would render the series of vocular exclamations so + +designated, an involuntary process? + + + +“It’s a poor boy from the free-school, sir,” replied Mr. Bumble, “who + +has been nearly murdered—all but murdered, sir,—by young Twist.” + + + +“By Jove!” exclaimed the gentleman in the white waistcoat, stopping + +short. “I knew it! I felt a strange presentiment from the very first, + +that that audacious young savage would come to be hung!” + + + +“He has likewise attempted, sir, to murder the female servant,” said + +Mr. Bumble, with a face of ashy paleness. + + + +“And his missis,” interposed Mr. Claypole. + + + +“And his master, too, I think you said, Noah?” added Mr. Bumble. + + + +“No! he’s out, or he would have murdered him,” replied Noah. “He said + +he wanted to.” + + + +“Ah! Said he wanted to, did he, my boy?” inquired the gentleman in the + +white waistcoat. + + + +“Yes, sir,” replied Noah. “And please, sir, missis wants to know + +whether Mr. Bumble can spare time to step up there, directly, and flog + +him—’cause master’s out.” + + + +“Certainly, my boy; certainly,” said the gentleman in the white + +waistcoat: smiling benignly, and patting Noah’s head, which was about + +three inches higher than his own. “You’re a good boy—a very good boy. + +Here’s a penny for you. Bumble, just step up to Sowerberry’s with your + +cane, and see what’s best to be done. Don’t spare him, Bumble.” + + + +“No, I will not, sir,” replied the beadle. And the cocked hat and cane + +having been, by this time, adjusted to their owner’s satisfaction, Mr. + +Bumble and Noah Claypole betook themselves with all speed to the + +undertaker’s shop. + + + +Here the position of affairs had not at all improved. Sowerberry had + +not yet returned, and Oliver continued to kick, with undiminished + +vigour, at the cellar-door. The accounts of his ferocity as related by + +Mrs. Sowerberry and Charlotte, were of so startling a nature, that Mr. + +Bumble judged it prudent to parley, before opening the door. With this + +view he gave a kick at the outside, by way of prelude; and, then, + +applying his mouth to the keyhole, said, in a deep and impressive tone: + + + +“Oliver!” + + + +“Come; you let me out!” replied Oliver, from the inside. + + + +“Do you know this here voice, Oliver?” said Mr. Bumble. + + + +“Yes,” replied Oliver. + + + +“Ain’t you afraid of it, sir? Ain’t you a-trembling while I speak, + +sir?” said Mr. Bumble. + + + +“No!” replied Oliver, boldly. + + + +An answer so different from the one he had expected to elicit, and was + +in the habit of receiving, staggered Mr. Bumble not a little. He + +stepped back from the keyhole; drew himself up to his full height; and + +looked from one to another of the three by-standers, in mute + +astonishment. + + + +“Oh, you know, Mr. Bumble, he must be mad,” said Mrs. Sowerberry. + + + +“No boy in half his senses could venture to speak so to you.” + + + +“It’s not madness, ma’am,” replied Mr. Bumble, after a few moments of + +deep meditation. “It’s meat.” + + + +“What?” exclaimed Mrs. Sowerberry. + + + +“Meat, ma’am, meat,” replied Bumble, with stern emphasis. “You’ve + +overfed him, ma’am. You’ve raised a artificial soul and spirit in him, + +ma’am unbecoming a person of his condition: as the board, Mrs. + +Sowerberry, who are practical philosophers, will tell you. What have + +paupers to do with soul or spirit? It’s quite enough that we let ’em + +have live bodies. If you had kept the boy on gruel, ma’am, this would + +never have happened.” + + + +“Dear, dear!” ejaculated Mrs. Sowerberry, piously raising her eyes to + +the kitchen ceiling: “this comes of being liberal!” + + + +The liberality of Mrs. Sowerberry to Oliver, had consisted of a profuse + +bestowal upon him of all the dirty odds and ends which nobody else + +would eat; so there was a great deal of meekness and self-devotion in + +her voluntarily remaining under Mr. Bumble’s heavy accusation, of + +which, to do her justice, she was wholly innocent, in thought, word, or + +deed. + + + +“Ah!” said Mr. Bumble, when the lady brought her eyes down to earth + +again; “the only thing that can be done now, that I know of, is to + +leave him in the cellar for a day or so, till he’s a little starved + +down; and then to take him out, and keep him on gruel all through the + +apprenticeship. He comes of a bad family. Excitable natures, Mrs. + +Sowerberry! Both the nurse and doctor said, that that mother of his + +made her way here, against difficulties and pain that would have killed + +any well-disposed woman, weeks before.” + + + +At this point of Mr. Bumble’s discourse, Oliver, just hearing enough to + +know that some allusion was being made to his mother, recommenced + +kicking, with a violence that rendered every other sound inaudible. + +Sowerberry returned at this juncture. Oliver’s offence having been + +explained to him, with such exaggerations as the ladies thought best + +calculated to rouse his ire, he unlocked the cellar-door in a + +twinkling, and dragged his rebellious apprentice out, by the collar. + + + +Oliver’s clothes had been torn in the beating he had received; his face + +was bruised and scratched; and his hair scattered over his forehead. + +The angry flush had not disappeared, however; and when he was pulled + +out of his prison, he scowled boldly on Noah, and looked quite + +undismayed. + + + +“Now, you are a nice young fellow, ain’t you?” said Sowerberry; giving + +Oliver a shake, and a box on the ear. + + + +“He called my mother names,” replied Oliver. + + + +“Well, and what if he did, you little ungrateful wretch?” said Mrs. + +Sowerberry. “She deserved what he said, and worse.” + + + +“She didn’t,” said Oliver. + + + +“She did,” said Mrs. Sowerberry. + + + +“It’s a lie!” said Oliver. + + + +Mrs. Sowerberry burst into a flood of tears. + + + +This flood of tears left Mr. Sowerberry no alternative. If he had + +hesitated for one instant to punish Oliver most severely, it must be + +quite clear to every experienced reader that he would have been, + +according to all precedents in disputes of matrimony established, a + +brute, an unnatural husband, an insulting creature, a base imitation of + +a man, and various other agreeable characters too numerous for recital + +within the limits of this chapter. To do him justice, he was, as far as + +his power went—it was not very extensive—kindly disposed towards the + +boy; perhaps, because it was his interest to be so; perhaps, because + +his wife disliked him. The flood of tears, however, left him no + +resource; so he at once gave him a drubbing, which satisfied even Mrs. + +Sowerberry herself, and rendered Mr. Bumble’s subsequent application of + +the parochial cane, rather unnecessary. For the rest of the day, he was + +shut up in the back kitchen, in company with a pump and a slice of + +bread; and at night, Mrs. Sowerberry, after making various remarks + +outside the door, by no means complimentary to the memory of his + +mother, looked into the room, and, amidst the jeers and pointings of + +Noah and Charlotte, ordered him upstairs to his dismal bed. + + + +It was not until he was left alone in the silence and stillness of the + +gloomy workshop of the undertaker, that Oliver gave way to the feelings + +which the day’s treatment may be supposed likely to have awakened in a + +mere child. He had listened to their taunts with a look of contempt; he + +had borne the lash without a cry: for he felt that pride swelling in + +his heart which would have kept down a shriek to the last, though they + +had roasted him alive. But now, when there were none to see or hear + +him, he fell upon his knees on the floor; and, hiding his face in his + +hands, wept such tears as, God send for the credit of our nature, few + +so young may ever have cause to pour out before him! + + + +For a long time, Oliver remained motionless in this attitude. The + +candle was burning low in the socket when he rose to his feet. Having + +gazed cautiously round him, and listened intently, he gently undid the + +fastenings of the door, and looked abroad. + + + +It was a cold, dark night. The stars seemed, to the boy’s eyes, farther + +from the earth than he had ever seen them before; there was no wind; + +and the sombre shadows thrown by the trees upon the ground, looked + +sepulchral and death-like, from being so still. He softly reclosed the + +door. Having availed himself of the expiring light of the candle to tie + +up in a handkerchief the few articles of wearing apparel he had, sat + +himself down upon a bench, to wait for morning. + + + +With the first ray of light that struggled through the crevices in the + +shutters, Oliver arose, and again unbarred the door. One timid look + +around—one moment’s pause of hesitation—he had closed it behind him, + +and was in the open street. + + + +He looked to the right and to the left, uncertain whither to fly. + + + +He remembered to have seen the waggons, as they went out, toiling up + +the hill. He took the same route; and arriving at a footpath across the + +fields, which he knew, after some distance, led out again into the + +road; struck into it, and walked quickly on. + + + +Along this same footpath, Oliver well-remembered he had trotted beside + +Mr. Bumble, when he first carried him to the workhouse from the farm. + +His way lay directly in front of the cottage. His heart beat quickly + +when he bethought himself of this; and he half resolved to turn back. + +He had come a long way though, and should lose a great deal of time by + +doing so. Besides, it was so early that there was very little fear of + +his being seen; so he walked on. + + + +He reached the house. There was no appearance of its inmates stirring + +at that early hour. Oliver stopped, and peeped into the garden. A child + +was weeding one of the little beds; as he stopped, he raised his pale + +face and disclosed the features of one of his former companions. Oliver + +felt glad to see him, before he went; for, though younger than himself, + +he had been his little friend and playmate. They had been beaten, and + +starved, and shut up together, many and many a time. + + + +“Hush, Dick!” said Oliver, as the boy ran to the gate, and thrust his + +thin arm between the rails to greet him. “Is any one up?” + + + +“Nobody but me,” replied the child. + + + +“You musn’t say you saw me, Dick,” said Oliver. “I am running away. + +They beat and ill-use me, Dick; and I am going to seek my fortune, some + +long way off. I don’t know where. How pale you are!” + + + +“I heard the doctor tell them I was dying,” replied the child with a + +faint smile. “I am very glad to see you, dear; but don’t stop, don’t + +stop!” + + + +“Yes, yes, I will, to say good-b’ye to you,” replied Oliver. “I shall + +see you again, Dick. I know I shall! You will be well and happy!” + + + +“I hope so,” replied the child. “After I am dead, but not before. I + +know the doctor must be right, Oliver, because I dream so much of + +Heaven, and Angels, and kind faces that I never see when I am awake. + +Kiss me,” said the child, climbing up the low gate, and flinging his + +little arms round Oliver’s neck. “Good-b’ye, dear! God bless you!” + + + +The blessing was from a young child’s lips, but it was the first that + +Oliver had ever heard invoked upon his head; and through the struggles + +and sufferings, and troubles and changes, of his after life, he never + +once forgot it. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER VIII. + +OLIVER WALKS TO LONDON. HE ENCOUNTERS ON THE ROAD A STRANGE SORT OF + +YOUNG GENTLEMAN + + + + + +Oliver reached the stile at which the by-path terminated; and once more + +gained the high-road. It was eight o’clock now. Though he was nearly + +five miles away from the town, he ran, and hid behind the hedges, by + +turns, till noon, fearing that he might be pursued and overtaken. Then + +he sat down to rest by the side of the milestone, and began to think, + +for the first time, where he had better go and try to live. + + + +The stone by which he was seated, bore, in large characters, an + +intimation that it was just seventy miles from that spot to London. The + +name awakened a new train of ideas in the boy’s mind. + + + +London!—that great place!—nobody—not even Mr. Bumble—could ever find + +him there! He had often heard the old men in the workhouse, too, say + +that no lad of spirit need want in London; and that there were ways of + +living in that vast city, which those who had been bred up in country + +parts had no idea of. It was the very place for a homeless boy, who + +must die in the streets unless some one helped him. As these things + +passed through his thoughts, he jumped upon his feet, and again walked + +forward. + + + +He had diminished the distance between himself and London by full four + +miles more, before he recollected how much he must undergo ere he could + +hope to reach his place of destination. As this consideration forced + +itself upon him, he slackened his pace a little, and meditated upon his + +means of getting there. He had a crust of bread, a coarse shirt, and + +two pairs of stockings, in his bundle. He had a penny too—a gift of + +Sowerberry’s after some funeral in which he had acquitted himself more + +than ordinarily well—in his pocket. “A clean shirt,” thought Oliver, + +“is a very comfortable thing; and so are two pairs of darned stockings; + +and so is a penny; but they are small helps to a sixty-five miles’ walk + +in winter time.” But Oliver’s thoughts, like those of most other + +people, although they were extremely ready and active to point out his + +difficulties, were wholly at a loss to suggest any feasible mode of + +surmounting them; so, after a good deal of thinking to no particular + +purpose, he changed his little bundle over to the other shoulder, and + +trudged on. + + + +Oliver walked twenty miles that day; and all that time tasted nothing + +but the crust of dry bread, and a few draughts of water, which he + +begged at the cottage-doors by the road-side. When the night came, he + +turned into a meadow; and, creeping close under a hay-rick, determined + +to lie there, till morning. He felt frightened at first, for the wind + +moaned dismally over the empty fields, and he was cold and hungry, and + +more alone than he had ever felt before. Being very tired with his + +walk, however, he soon fell asleep and forgot his troubles. + + + +He felt cold and stiff, when he got up next morning, and so hungry that + +he was obliged to exchange the penny for a small loaf, in the very + +first village through which he passed. He had walked no more than + +twelve miles, when night closed in again. His feet were sore, and his + +legs so weak that they trembled beneath him. Another night passed in + +the bleak damp air, made him worse; when he set forward on his journey + +next morning he could hardly crawl along. + + + +He waited at the bottom of a steep hill till a stage-coach came up, and + +then begged of the outside passengers; but there were very few who took + +any notice of him: and even those told him to wait till they got to the + +top of the hill, and then let them see how far he could run for a + +halfpenny. Poor Oliver tried to keep up with the coach a little way, + +but was unable to do it, by reason of his fatigue and sore feet. When + +the outsides saw this, they put their halfpence back into their pockets + +again, declaring that he was an idle young dog, and didn’t deserve + +anything; and the coach rattled away and left only a cloud of dust + +behind. + + + +In some villages, large painted boards were fixed up: warning all + +persons who begged within the district, that they would be sent to + +jail. This frightened Oliver very much, and made him glad to get out of + +those villages with all possible expedition. In others, he would stand + +about the inn-yards, and look mournfully at every one who passed: a + +proceeding which generally terminated in the landlady’s ordering one of + +the post-boys who were lounging about, to drive that strange boy out of + +the place, for she was sure he had come to steal something. If he + +begged at a farmer’s house, ten to one but they threatened to set the + +dog on him; and when he showed his nose in a shop, they talked about + +the beadle—which brought Oliver’s heart into his mouth,—very often the + +only thing he had there, for many hours together. + + + +In fact, if it had not been for a good-hearted turnpike-man, and a + +benevolent old lady, Oliver’s troubles would have been shortened by the + +very same process which had put an end to his mother’s; in other words, + +he would most assuredly have fallen dead upon the king’s highway. But + +the turnpike-man gave him a meal of bread and cheese; and the old lady, + +who had a shipwrecked grandson wandering barefoot in some distant part + +of the earth, took pity upon the poor orphan, and gave him what little + +she could afford—and more—with such kind and gentle words, and such + +tears of sympathy and compassion, that they sank deeper into Oliver’s + +soul, than all the sufferings he had ever undergone. + + + +Early on the seventh morning after he had left his native place, Oliver + +limped slowly into the little town of Barnet. The window-shutters were + +closed; the street was empty; not a soul had awakened to the business + +of the day. The sun was rising in all its splendid beauty; but the + +light only served to show the boy his own lonesomeness and desolation, + +as he sat, with bleeding feet and covered with dust, upon a door-step. + + + +By degrees, the shutters were opened; the window-blinds were drawn up; + +and people began passing to and fro. Some few stopped to gaze at Oliver + +for a moment or two, or turned round to stare at him as they hurried + +by; but none relieved him, or troubled themselves to inquire how he + +came there. He had no heart to beg. And there he sat. + + + +He had been crouching on the step for some time: wondering at the great + +number of public-houses (every other house in Barnet was a tavern, + +large or small), gazing listlessly at the coaches as they passed + +through, and thinking how strange it seemed that they could do, with + +ease, in a few hours, what it had taken him a whole week of courage and + +determination beyond his years to accomplish: when he was roused by + +observing that a boy, who had passed him carelessly some minutes + +before, had returned, and was now surveying him most earnestly from the + +opposite side of the way. He took little heed of this at first; but the + +boy remained in the same attitude of close observation so long, that + +Oliver raised his head, and returned his steady look. Upon this, the + +boy crossed over; and walking close up to Oliver, said, + + + +“Hullo, my covey! What’s the row?” + + + +The boy who addressed this inquiry to the young wayfarer, was about his + +own age: but one of the queerest looking boys that Oliver had even + +seen. He was a snub-nosed, flat-browed, common-faced boy enough; and as + +dirty a juvenile as one would wish to see; but he had about him all the + +airs and manners of a man. He was short of his age: with rather + +bow-legs, and little, sharp, ugly eyes. His hat was stuck on the top of + +his head so lightly, that it threatened to fall off every moment—and + +would have done so, very often, if the wearer had not had a knack of + +every now and then giving his head a sudden twitch, which brought it + +back to its old place again. He wore a man’s coat, which reached nearly + +to his heels. He had turned the cuffs back, half-way up his arm, to get + +his hands out of the sleeves: apparently with the ultimate view of + +thrusting them into the pockets of his corduroy trousers; for there he + +kept them. He was, altogether, as roystering and swaggering a young + +gentleman as ever stood four feet six, or something less, in the + +bluchers. + + + +“Hullo, my covey! What’s the row?” said this strange young gentleman to + +Oliver. + + + +“I am very hungry and tired,” replied Oliver: the tears standing in his + +eyes as he spoke. “I have walked a long way. I have been walking these + +seven days.” + + + +“Walking for sivin days!” said the young gentleman. “Oh, I see. Beak’s + +order, eh? But,” he added, noticing Oliver’s look of surprise, “I + +suppose you don’t know what a beak is, my flash com-pan-i-on.” + + + +Oliver mildly replied, that he had always heard a bird’s mouth + +described by the term in question. + + + +“My eyes, how green!” exclaimed the young gentleman. “Why, a beak’s a + +madgst’rate; and when you walk by a beak’s order, it’s not straight + +forerd, but always agoing up, and niver a coming down agin. Was you + +never on the mill?” + + + +“What mill?” inquired Oliver. + + + +“What mill! Why, _the_ mill—the mill as takes up so little room that + +it’ll work inside a Stone Jug; and always goes better when the wind’s + +low with people, than when it’s high; acos then they can’t get workmen. + +But come,” said the young gentleman; “you want grub, and you shall have + +it. I’m at low-water-mark myself—only one bob and a magpie; but, as far + +as it goes, I’ll fork out and stump. Up with you on your pins. There! + +Now then! Morrice!” + + + +Assisting Oliver to rise, the young gentleman took him to an adjacent + +chandler’s shop, where he purchased a sufficiency of ready-dressed ham + +and a half-quartern loaf, or, as he himself expressed it, “a fourpenny + +bran!” the ham being kept clean and preserved from dust, by the + +ingenious expedient of making a hole in the loaf by pulling out a + +portion of the crumb, and stuffing it therein. Taking the bread under + +his arm, the young gentleman turned into a small public-house, and led + +the way to a tap-room in the rear of the premises. Here, a pot of beer + +was brought in, by direction of the mysterious youth; and Oliver, + +falling to, at his new friend’s bidding, made a long and hearty meal, + +during the progress of which the strange boy eyed him from time to time + +with great attention. + + + +“Going to London?” said the strange boy, when Oliver had at length + +concluded. + + + +“Yes.” + + + +“Got any lodgings?” + + + +“No.” + + + +“Money?” + + + +“No.” + + + +The strange boy whistled; and put his arms into his pockets, as far as + +the big coat-sleeves would let them go. + + + +“Do you live in London?” inquired Oliver. + + + +“Yes. I do, when I’m at home,” replied the boy. “I suppose you want + +some place to sleep in tonight, don’t you?” + + + +“I do, indeed,” answered Oliver. “I have not slept under a roof since I + +left the country.” + + + +“Don’t fret your eyelids on that score,” said the young gentleman. + +“I’ve got to be in London tonight; and I know a ’spectable old + +gentleman as lives there, wot’ll give you lodgings for nothink, and + +never ask for the change—that is, if any gentleman he knows interduces + +you. And don’t he know me? Oh, no! Not in the least! By no means. + +Certainly not!” + + + +The young gentleman smiled, as if to intimate that the latter fragments + +of discourse were playfully ironical; and finished the beer as he did + +so. + + + +This unexpected offer of shelter was too tempting to be resisted; + +especially as it was immediately followed up, by the assurance that the + +old gentleman referred to, would doubtless provide Oliver with a + +comfortable place, without loss of time. This led to a more friendly + +and confidential dialogue; from which Oliver discovered that his + +friend’s name was Jack Dawkins, and that he was a peculiar pet and + +_protégé_ of the elderly gentleman before mentioned. + + + +Mr. Dawkins’s appearance did not say a vast deal in favour of the + +comforts which his patron’s interest obtained for those whom he took + +under his protection; but, as he had a rather flightly and dissolute + +mode of conversing, and furthermore avowed that among his intimate + +friends he was better known by the _sobriquet_ of “The Artful Dodger,” + +Oliver concluded that, being of a dissipated and careless turn, the + +moral precepts of his benefactor had hitherto been thrown away upon + +him. Under this impression, he secretly resolved to cultivate the good + +opinion of the old gentleman as quickly as possible; and, if he found + +the Dodger incorrigible, as he more than half suspected he should, to + +decline the honour of his farther acquaintance. + + + +As John Dawkins objected to their entering London before nightfall, it + +was nearly eleven o’clock when they reached the turnpike at Islington. + +They crossed from the Angel into St. John’s Road; struck down the small + +street which terminates at Sadler’s Wells Theatre; through Exmouth + +Street and Coppice Row; down the little court by the side of the + +workhouse; across the classic ground which once bore the name of + +Hockley-in-the-Hole; thence into Little Saffron Hill; and so into + +Saffron Hill the Great: along which the Dodger scudded at a rapid pace, + +directing Oliver to follow close at his heels. + + + +Although Oliver had enough to occupy his attention in keeping sight of + +his leader, he could not help bestowing a few hasty glances on either + +side of the way, as he passed along. A dirtier or more wretched place + +he had never seen. The street was very narrow and muddy, and the air + +was impregnated with filthy odours. + + + +There were a good many small shops; but the only stock in trade + +appeared to be heaps of children, who, even at that time of night, were + +crawling in and out at the doors, or screaming from the inside. The + +sole places that seemed to prosper amid the general blight of the + +place, were the public-houses; and in them, the lowest orders of Irish + +were wrangling with might and main. Covered ways and yards, which here + +and there diverged from the main street, disclosed little knots of + +houses, where drunken men and women were positively wallowing in filth; + +and from several of the door-ways, great ill-looking fellows were + +cautiously emerging, bound, to all appearance, on no very well-disposed + +or harmless errands. + + + +Oliver was just considering whether he hadn’t better run away, when + +they reached the bottom of the hill. His conductor, catching him by the + +arm, pushed open the door of a house near Field Lane; and drawing him + +into the passage, closed it behind them. + + + +“Now, then!” cried a voice from below, in reply to a whistle from the + +Dodger. + + + +“Plummy and slam!” was the reply. + + + +This seemed to be some watchword or signal that all was right; for the + +light of a feeble candle gleamed on the wall at the remote end of the + +passage; and a man’s face peeped out, from where a balustrade of the + +old kitchen staircase had been broken away. + + + +“There’s two on you,” said the man, thrusting the candle farther out, + +and shielding his eyes with his hand. “Who’s the t’other one?” + + + +“A new pal,” replied Jack Dawkins, pulling Oliver forward. + + + +“Where did he come from?” + + + +“Greenland. Is Fagin upstairs?” + + + +“Yes, he’s a sortin’ the wipes. Up with you!” The candle was drawn + +back, and the face disappeared. + + + +Oliver, groping his way with one hand, and having the other firmly + +grasped by his companion, ascended with much difficulty the dark and + +broken stairs: which his conductor mounted with an ease and expedition + +that showed he was well acquainted with them. + + + +He threw open the door of a back-room, and drew Oliver in after him. + + + +The walls and ceiling of the room were perfectly black with age and + +dirt. There was a deal table before the fire: upon which were a candle, + +stuck in a ginger-beer bottle, two or three pewter pots, a loaf and + +butter, and a plate. In a frying-pan, which was on the fire, and which + +was secured to the mantelshelf by a string, some sausages were cooking; + +and standing over them, with a toasting-fork in his hand, was a very + +old shrivelled Jew, whose villainous-looking and repulsive face was + +obscured by a quantity of matted red hair. He was dressed in a greasy + +flannel gown, with his throat bare; and seemed to be dividing his + +attention between the frying-pan and the clothes-horse, over which a + +great number of silk handkerchiefs were hanging. Several rough beds + +made of old sacks, were huddled side by side on the floor. Seated round + +the table were four or five boys, none older than the Dodger, smoking + +long clay pipes, and drinking spirits with the air of middle-aged men. + +These all crowded about their associate as he whispered a few words to + +the Jew; and then turned round and grinned at Oliver. So did the Jew + +himself, toasting-fork in hand. + + + +“This is him, Fagin,” said Jack Dawkins; “my friend Oliver Twist.” + + + +The Jew grinned; and, making a low obeisance to Oliver, took him by the + +hand, and hoped he should have the honour of his intimate acquaintance. + +Upon this, the young gentleman with the pipes came round him, and shook + +both his hands very hard—especially the one in which he held his little + +bundle. One young gentleman was very anxious to hang up his cap for + +him; and another was so obliging as to put his hands in his pockets, in + +order that, as he was very tired, he might not have the trouble of + +emptying them, himself, when he went to bed. These civilities would + +probably be extended much farther, but for a liberal exercise of the + +Jew’s toasting-fork on the heads and shoulders of the affectionate + +youths who offered them. + + + +“We are very glad to see you, Oliver, very,” said the Jew. “Dodger, + +take off the sausages; and draw a tub near the fire for Oliver. Ah, + +you’re a-staring at the pocket-handkerchiefs! eh, my dear? There are a + +good many of ’em, ain’t there? We’ve just looked ’em out, ready for the + +wash; that’s all, Oliver; that’s all. Ha! ha! ha!” + + + +The latter part of this speech, was hailed by a boisterous shout from + +all the hopeful pupils of the merry old gentleman. In the midst of + +which they went to supper. + + + +Oliver ate his share, and the Jew then mixed him a glass of hot + +gin and water, telling him he must drink it off directly, because + +another gentleman wanted the tumbler. Oliver did as he was desired. + +Immediately afterwards he felt himself gently lifted on to one of the + +sacks; and then he sunk into a deep sleep. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER IX. + +CONTAINING FURTHER PARTICULARS CONCERNING THE PLEASANT OLD GENTLEMAN, + +AND HIS HOPEFUL PUPILS + + + + + +It was late next morning when Oliver awoke, from a sound, long sleep. + +There was no other person in the room but the old Jew, who was boiling + +some coffee in a saucepan for breakfast, and whistling softly to + +himself as he stirred it round and round, with an iron spoon. He would + +stop every now and then to listen when there was the least noise below: + +and when he had satisfied himself, he would go on whistling and + +stirring again, as before. + + + +Although Oliver had roused himself from sleep, he was not thoroughly + +awake. There is a drowsy state, between sleeping and waking, when you + +dream more in five minutes with your eyes half open, and yourself half + +conscious of everything that is passing around you, than you would in + +five nights with your eyes fast closed, and your senses wrapt in + +perfect unconsciousness. At such time, a mortal knows just enough of + +what his mind is doing, to form some glimmering conception of its + +mighty powers, its bounding from earth and spurning time and space, + +when freed from the restraint of its corporeal associate. + + + +Oliver was precisely in this condition. He saw the Jew with his + +half-closed eyes; heard his low whistling; and recognised the sound of + +the spoon grating against the saucepan’s sides: and yet the self-same + +senses were mentally engaged, at the same time, in busy action with + +almost everybody he had ever known. + + + +When the coffee was done, the Jew drew the saucepan to the hob. + +Standing, then in an irresolute attitude for a few minutes, as if he + +did not well know how to employ himself, he turned round and looked at + +Oliver, and called him by his name. He did not answer, and was to all + +appearances asleep. + + + +After satisfying himself upon this head, the Jew stepped gently to the + +door: which he fastened. He then drew forth: as it seemed to Oliver, + +from some trap in the floor: a small box, which he placed carefully on + +the table. His eyes glistened as he raised the lid, and looked in. + +Dragging an old chair to the table, he sat down; and took from it a + +magnificent gold watch, sparkling with jewels. + + + +“Aha!” said the Jew, shrugging up his shoulders, and distorting every + +feature with a hideous grin. “Clever dogs! Clever dogs! Staunch to the + +last! Never told the old parson where they were. Never poached upon old + +Fagin! And why should they? It wouldn’t have loosened the knot, or kept + +the drop up, a minute longer. No, no, no! Fine fellows! Fine fellows!” + + + +With these, and other muttered reflections of the like nature, the Jew + +once more deposited the watch in its place of safety. At least half a + +dozen more were severally drawn forth from the same box, and surveyed + +with equal pleasure; besides rings, brooches, bracelets, and other + +articles of jewellery, of such magnificent materials, and costly + +workmanship, that Oliver had no idea, even of their names. + + + +Having replaced these trinkets, the Jew took out another: so small that + +it lay in the palm of his hand. There seemed to be some very minute + +inscription on it; for the Jew laid it flat upon the table, and shading + +it with his hand, pored over it, long and earnestly. At length he put + +it down, as if despairing of success; and, leaning back in his chair, + +muttered: + + + +“What a fine thing capital punishment is! Dead men never repent; dead + +men never bring awkward stories to light. Ah, it’s a fine thing for the + +trade! Five of ’em strung up in a row, and none left to play booty, or + +turn white-livered!” + + + +As the Jew uttered these words, his bright dark eyes, which had been + +staring vacantly before him, fell on Oliver’s face; the boy’s eyes were + +fixed on his in mute curiousity; and although the recognition was only + +for an instant—for the briefest space of time that can possibly be + +conceived—it was enough to show the old man that he had been observed. + + + +He closed the lid of the box with a loud crash; and, laying his hand on + +a bread knife which was on the table, started furiously up. He trembled + +very much though; for, even in his terror, Oliver could see that the + +knife quivered in the air. + + + +“What’s that?” said the Jew. “What do you watch me for? Why are you + +awake? What have you seen? Speak out, boy! Quick—quick! for your life.” + + + +“I wasn’t able to sleep any longer, sir,” replied Oliver, meekly. “I am + +very sorry if I have disturbed you, sir.” + + + +“You were not awake an hour ago?” said the Jew, scowling fiercely on + +the boy. + + + +“No! No, indeed!” replied Oliver. + + + +“Are you sure?” cried the Jew: with a still fiercer look than before: + +and a threatening attitude. + + + +“Upon my word I was not, sir,” replied Oliver, earnestly. “I was not, + +indeed, sir.” + + + +“Tush, tush, my dear!” said the Jew, abruptly resuming his old manner, + +and playing with the knife a little, before he laid it down; as if to + +induce the belief that he had caught it up, in mere sport. “Of course I + +know that, my dear. I only tried to frighten you. You’re a brave boy. + +Ha! ha! you’re a brave boy, Oliver.” The Jew rubbed his hands with a + +chuckle, but glanced uneasily at the box, notwithstanding. + + + +“Did you see any of these pretty things, my dear?” said the Jew, laying + +his hand upon it after a short pause. + + + +“Yes, sir,” replied Oliver. + + + +“Ah!” said the Jew, turning rather pale. “They—they’re mine, Oliver; my + +little property. All I have to live upon, in my old age. The folks call + +me a miser, my dear. Only a miser; that’s all.” + + + +Oliver thought the old gentleman must be a decided miser to live in + +such a dirty place, with so many watches; but, thinking that perhaps + +his fondness for the Dodger and the other boys, cost him a good deal of + +money, he only cast a deferential look at the Jew, and asked if he + +might get up. + + + +“Certainly, my dear, certainly,” replied the old gentleman. “Stay. + +There’s a pitcher of water in the corner by the door. Bring it here; + +and I’ll give you a basin to wash in, my dear.” + + + +Oliver got up; walked across the room; and stooped for an instant to + +raise the pitcher. When he turned his head, the box was gone. + + + +He had scarcely washed himself, and made everything tidy, by emptying + +the basin out of the window, agreeably to the Jew’s directions, when + +the Dodger returned: accompanied by a very sprightly young friend, whom + +Oliver had seen smoking on the previous night, and who was now formally + +introduced to him as Charley Bates. The four sat down, to breakfast, on + +the coffee, and some hot rolls and ham which the Dodger had brought + +home in the crown of his hat. + + + +“Well,” said the Jew, glancing slyly at Oliver, and addressing himself + +to the Dodger, “I hope you’ve been at work this morning, my dears?” + + + +“Hard,” replied the Dodger. + + + +“As nails,” added Charley Bates. + + + +“Good boys, good boys!” said the Jew. “What have you got, Dodger?” + + + +“A couple of pocket-books,” replied that young gentleman. + + + +“Lined?” inquired the Jew, with eagerness. + + + +“Pretty well,” replied the Dodger, producing two pocket-books; one + +green, and the other red. + + + +“Not so heavy as they might be,” said the Jew, after looking at the + +insides carefully; “but very neat and nicely made. Ingenious workman, + +ain’t he, Oliver?” + + + +“Very indeed, sir,” said Oliver. At which Mr. Charles Bates laughed + +uproariously; very much to the amazement of Oliver, who saw nothing to + +laugh at, in anything that had passed. + + + +“And what have you got, my dear?” said Fagin to Charley Bates. + + + +“Wipes,” replied Master Bates; at the same time producing four + +pocket-handkerchiefs. + + + +“Well,” said the Jew, inspecting them closely; “they’re very good ones, + +very. You haven’t marked them well, though, Charley; so the marks shall + +be picked out with a needle, and we’ll teach Oliver how to do it. Shall + +us, Oliver, eh? Ha! ha! ha!” + + + +“If you please, sir,” said Oliver. + + + +“You’d like to be able to make pocket-handkerchiefs as easy as Charley + +Bates, wouldn’t you, my dear?” said the Jew. + + + +“Very much, indeed, if you’ll teach me, sir,” replied Oliver. + + + +Master Bates saw something so exquisitely ludicrous in this reply, that + +he burst into another laugh; which laugh, meeting the coffee he was + +drinking, and carrying it down some wrong channel, very nearly + +terminated in his premature suffocation. + + + +“He is so jolly green!” said Charley when he recovered, as an apology + +to the company for his unpolite behaviour. + + + +The Dodger said nothing, but he smoothed Oliver’s hair over his eyes, + +and said he’d know better, by and by; upon which the old gentleman, + +observing Oliver’s colour mounting, changed the subject by asking + +whether there had been much of a crowd at the execution that morning? + +This made him wonder more and more; for it was plain from the replies + +of the two boys that they had both been there; and Oliver naturally + +wondered how they could possibly have found time to be so very + +industrious. + + + +When the breakfast was cleared away; the merry old gentleman and the two + +boys played at a very curious and uncommon game, which was performed in + +this way. The merry old gentleman, placing a snuff-box in one pocket of + +his trousers, a note-case in the other, and a watch in his waistcoat + +pocket, with a guard-chain round his neck, and sticking a mock diamond + +pin in his shirt: buttoned his coat tight round him, and putting his + +spectacle-case and handkerchief in his pockets, trotted up and down the + +room with a stick, in imitation of the manner in which old gentlemen + +walk about the streets any hour in the day. Sometimes he stopped at the + +fire-place, and sometimes at the door, making believe that he was + +staring with all his might into shop-windows. At such times, he would + +look constantly round him, for fear of thieves, and would keep slapping + +all his pockets in turn, to see that he hadn’t lost anything, in such a + +very funny and natural manner, that Oliver laughed till the tears ran + +down his face. All this time, the two boys followed him closely about: + +getting out of his sight, so nimbly, every time he turned round, that + +it was impossible to follow their motions. At last, the Dodger trod + +upon his toes, or ran upon his boot accidently, while Charley Bates + +stumbled up against him behind; and in that one moment they took from + +him, with the most extraordinary rapidity, snuff-box, note-case, + +watch-guard, chain, shirt-pin, pocket-handkerchief, even the + +spectacle-case. If the old gentleman felt a hand in any one of his + +pockets, he cried out where it was; and then the game began all over + +again. + + + +When this game had been played a great many times, a couple of young + +ladies called to see the young gentleman; one of whom was named Bet, + +and the other Nancy. They wore a good deal of hair, not very neatly + +turned up behind, and were rather untidy about the shoes and stockings. + +They were not exactly pretty, perhaps; but they had a great deal of + +colour in their faces, and looked quite stout and hearty. Being + +remarkably free and agreeable in their manners, Oliver thought them + +very nice girls indeed, as there is no doubt they were. + + + +The visitors stopped a long time. Spirits were produced, in consequence + +of one of the young ladies complaining of a coldness in her inside; and + +the conversation took a very convivial and improving turn. At length, + +Charley Bates expressed his opinion that it was time to pad the hoof. + +This, it occurred to Oliver, must be French for going out; for directly + +afterwards, the Dodger, and Charley, and the two young ladies, went + +away together, having been kindly furnished by the amiable old Jew with + +money to spend. + + + +“There, my dear,” said Fagin. “That’s a pleasant life, isn’t it? They + +have gone out for the day.” + + + +“Have they done work, sir?” inquired Oliver. + + + +“Yes,” said the Jew; “that is, unless they should unexpectedly come + +across any, when they are out; and they won’t neglect it, if they do, + +my dear, depend upon it. Make ’em your models, my dear. Make ’em your + +models,” tapping the fire-shovel on the hearth to add force to his + +words; “do everything they bid you, and take their advice in all + +matters—especially the Dodger’s, my dear. He’ll be a great man himself, + +and will make you one too, if you take pattern by him.—Is my + +handkerchief hanging out of my pocket, my dear?” said the Jew, stopping + +short. + + + +“Yes, sir,” said Oliver. + + + +“See if you can take it out, without my feeling it; as you saw them do, + +when we were at play this morning.” + + + +Oliver held up the bottom of the pocket with one hand, as he had seen + +the Dodger hold it, and drew the handkerchief lightly out of it with + +the other. + + + +“Is it gone?” cried the Jew. + + + +“Here it is, sir,” said Oliver, showing it in his hand. + + + +“You’re a clever boy, my dear,” said the playful old gentleman, patting + +Oliver on the head approvingly. “I never saw a sharper lad. Here’s a + +shilling for you. If you go on, in this way, you’ll be the greatest man + +of the time. And now come here, and I’ll show you how to take the marks + +out of the handkerchiefs.” + + + +Oliver wondered what picking the old gentleman’s pocket in play, had to + +do with his chances of being a great man. But, thinking that the Jew, + +being so much his senior, must know best, he followed him quietly to + +the table, and was soon deeply involved in his new study. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER X. + +OLIVER BECOMES BETTER ACQUAINTED WITH THE CHARACTERS OF HIS NEW + +ASSOCIATES; AND PURCHASES EXPERIENCE AT A HIGH PRICE. BEING A SHORT, + +BUT VERY IMPORTANT CHAPTER, IN THIS HISTORY + + + + + +For many days, Oliver remained in the Jew’s room, picking the marks out + +of the pocket-handkerchief, (of which a great number were brought + +home,) and sometimes taking part in the game already described: which + +the two boys and the Jew played, regularly, every morning. At length, + +he began to languish for fresh air, and took many occasions of + +earnestly entreating the old gentleman to allow him to go out to work + +with his two companions. + + + +Oliver was rendered the more anxious to be actively employed, by what + +he had seen of the stern morality of the old gentleman’s character. + +Whenever the Dodger or Charley Bates came home at night, empty-handed, + +he would expatiate with great vehemence on the misery of idle and lazy + +habits; and would enforce upon them the necessity of an active life, by + +sending them supperless to bed. On one occasion, indeed, he even went + +so far as to knock them both down a flight of stairs; but this was + +carrying out his virtuous precepts to an unusual extent. + + + +At length, one morning, Oliver obtained the permission he had so + +eagerly sought. There had been no handkerchiefs to work upon, for two + +or three days, and the dinners had been rather meagre. Perhaps these + +were reasons for the old gentleman’s giving his assent; but, whether + +they were or no, he told Oliver he might go, and placed him under the + +joint guardianship of Charley Bates, and his friend the Dodger. + + + +The three boys sallied out; the Dodger with his coat-sleeves tucked up, + +and his hat cocked, as usual; Master Bates sauntering along with his + +hands in his pockets; and Oliver between them, wondering where they + +were going, and what branch of manufacture he would be instructed in + +first. + + + +The pace at which they went, was such a very lazy, ill-looking saunter, + +that Oliver soon began to think his companions were going to deceive + +the old gentleman, by not going to work at all. The Dodger had a + +vicious propensity, too, of pulling the caps from the heads of small + +boys and tossing them down areas; while Charley Bates exhibited some + +very loose notions concerning the rights of property, by pilfering + +divers apples and onions from the stalls at the kennel sides, and + +thrusting them into pockets which were so surprisingly capacious, that + +they seemed to undermine his whole suit of clothes in every direction. + +These things looked so bad, that Oliver was on the point of declaring + +his intention of seeking his way back, in the best way he could; when + +his thoughts were suddenly directed into another channel, by a very + +mysterious change of behaviour on the part of the Dodger. + + + +They were just emerging from a narrow court not far from the open + +square in Clerkenwell, which is yet called, by some strange perversion + +of terms, “The Green”: when the Dodger made a sudden stop; and, laying + +his finger on his lip, drew his companions back again, with the + +greatest caution and circumspection. + + + +“What’s the matter?” demanded Oliver. + + + +“Hush!” replied the Dodger. “Do you see that old cove at the + +book-stall?” + + + +“The old gentleman over the way?” said Oliver. “Yes, I see him.” + + + +“He’ll do,” said the Dodger. + + + +“A prime plant,” observed Master Charley Bates. + + + +Oliver looked from one to the other, with the greatest surprise; but he + +was not permitted to make any inquiries; for the two boys walked + +stealthily across the road, and slunk close behind the old gentleman + +towards whom his attention had been directed. Oliver walked a few paces + +after them; and, not knowing whether to advance or retire, stood + +looking on in silent amazement. + + + +The old gentleman was a very respectable-looking personage, with a + +powdered head and gold spectacles. He was dressed in a bottle-green + +coat with a black velvet collar; wore white trousers; and carried a + +smart bamboo cane under his arm. He had taken up a book from the stall, + +and there he stood, reading away, as hard as if he were in his + +elbow-chair, in his own study. It is very possible that he fancied + +himself there, indeed; for it was plain, from his abstraction, that he + +saw not the book-stall, nor the street, nor the boys, nor, in short, + +anything but the book itself: which he was reading straight through: + +turning over the leaf when he got to the bottom of a page, beginning at + +the top line of the next one, and going regularly on, with the greatest + +interest and eagerness. + + + +What was Oliver’s horror and alarm as he stood a few paces off, looking + +on with his eyelids as wide open as they would possibly go, to see the + +Dodger plunge his hand into the old gentleman’s pocket, and draw from + +thence a handkerchief! To see him hand the same to Charley Bates; and + +finally to behold them, both running away round the corner at full + +speed! + + + +In an instant the whole mystery of the hankerchiefs, and the watches, + +and the jewels, and the Jew, rushed upon the boy’s mind. + + + +He stood, for a moment, with the blood so tingling through all his + +veins from terror, that he felt as if he were in a burning fire; then, + +confused and frightened, he took to his heels; and, not knowing what he + +did, made off as fast as he could lay his feet to the ground. + + + +This was all done in a minute’s space. In the very instant when Oliver + +began to run, the old gentleman, putting his hand to his pocket, and + +missing his handkerchief, turned sharp round. Seeing the boy scudding + +away at such a rapid pace, he very naturally concluded him to be the + +depredator; and shouting “Stop thief!” with all his might, made off + +after him, book in hand. + + + +But the old gentleman was not the only person who raised the + +hue-and-cry. The Dodger and Master Bates, unwilling to attract public + +attention by running down the open street, had merely retired into the + +very first doorway round the corner. They no sooner heard the cry, and + +saw Oliver running, than, guessing exactly how the matter stood, they + +issued forth with great promptitude; and, shouting “Stop thief!” too, + +joined in the pursuit like good citizens. + + + +Although Oliver had been brought up by philosophers, he was not + +theoretically acquainted with the beautiful axiom that + +self-preservation is the first law of nature. If he had been, perhaps + +he would have been prepared for this. Not being prepared, however, it + +alarmed him the more; so away he went like the wind, with the old + +gentleman and the two boys roaring and shouting behind him. + + + +“Stop thief! Stop thief!” There is a magic in the sound. The tradesman + +leaves his counter, and the car-man his waggon; the butcher throws down + +his tray; the baker his basket; the milkman his pail; the errand-boy + +his parcels; the school-boy his marbles; the paviour his pickaxe; the + +child his battledore. Away they run, pell-mell, helter-skelter, + +slap-dash: tearing, yelling, screaming, knocking down the passengers as + +they turn the corners, rousing up the dogs, and astonishing the fowls: + +and streets, squares, and courts, re-echo with the sound. + + + +“Stop thief! Stop thief!” The cry is taken up by a hundred voices, and + +the crowd accumulate at every turning. Away they fly, splashing through + +the mud, and rattling along the pavements: up go the windows, out run + +the people, onward bear the mob, a whole audience desert Punch in the + +very thickest of the plot, and, joining the rushing throng, swell the + +shout, and lend fresh vigour to the cry, “Stop thief! Stop thief!” + + + +“Stop thief! Stop thief!” There is a passion _for hunting something_ + +deeply implanted in the human breast. One wretched breathless child, + +panting with exhaustion; terror in his looks; agony in his eyes; large + +drops of perspiration streaming down his face; strains every nerve to + +make head upon his pursuers; and as they follow on his track, and gain + +upon him every instant, they hail his decreasing strength with joy. + +“Stop thief!” Ay, stop him for God’s sake, were it only in mercy! + + + +Stopped at last! A clever blow. He is down upon the pavement; and the + +crowd eagerly gather round him: each new comer, jostling and struggling + +with the others to catch a glimpse. “Stand aside!” “Give him a little + +air!” “Nonsense! he don’t deserve it.” “Where’s the gentleman?” “Here + +he is, coming down the street.” “Make room there for the gentleman!” + +“Is this the boy, sir!” “Yes.” + + + +Oliver lay, covered with mud and dust, and bleeding from the mouth, + +looking wildly round upon the heap of faces that surrounded him, when + +the old gentleman was officiously dragged and pushed into the circle by + +the foremost of the pursuers. + + + +“Yes,” said the gentleman, “I am afraid it is the boy.” + + + +“Afraid!” murmured the crowd. “That’s a good ’un!” + + + +“Poor fellow!” said the gentleman, “he has hurt himself.” + + + +“_I_ did that, sir,” said a great lubberly fellow, stepping forward; + +“and preciously I cut my knuckle agin’ his mouth. _I_ stopped him, + +sir.” + + + +The fellow touched his hat with a grin, expecting something for his + +pains; but, the old gentleman, eyeing him with an expression of + +dislike, look anxiously round, as if he contemplated running away + +himself: which it is very possible he might have attempted to do, and + +thus have afforded another chase, had not a police officer (who is + +generally the last person to arrive in such cases) at that moment made + +his way through the crowd, and seized Oliver by the collar. + + + +“Come, get up,” said the man, roughly. + + + +“It wasn’t me indeed, sir. Indeed, indeed, it was two other boys,” said + +Oliver, clasping his hands passionately, and looking round. “They are + +here somewhere.” + + + +“Oh no, they ain’t,” said the officer. He meant this to be ironical, + +but it was true besides; for the Dodger and Charley Bates had filed off + +down the first convenient court they came to. + + + +“Come, get up!” + + + +“Don’t hurt him,” said the old gentleman, compassionately. + + + +“Oh no, I won’t hurt him,” replied the officer, tearing his jacket half + +off his back, in proof thereof. “Come, I know you; it won’t do. Will + +you stand upon your legs, you young devil?” + + + +Oliver, who could hardly stand, made a shift to raise himself on his + +feet, and was at once lugged along the streets by the jacket-collar, at + +a rapid pace. The gentleman walked on with them by the officer’s side; + +and as many of the crowd as could achieve the feat, got a little ahead, + +and stared back at Oliver from time to time. The boys shouted in + +triumph; and on they went. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XI. + +TREATS OF MR. FANG THE POLICE MAGISTRATE; AND FURNISHES A SLIGHT + +SPECIMEN OF HIS MODE OF ADMINISTERING JUSTICE + + + + + +The offence had been committed within the district, and indeed in the + +immediate neighborhood of, a very notorious metropolitan police office. + +The crowd had only the satisfaction of accompanying Oliver through two + +or three streets, and down a place called Mutton Hill, when he was led + +beneath a low archway, and up a dirty court, into this dispensary of + +summary justice, by the back way. It was a small paved yard into which + +they turned; and here they encountered a stout man with a bunch of + +whiskers on his face, and a bunch of keys in his hand. + + + +“What’s the matter now?” said the man carelessly. + + + +“A young fogle-hunter,” replied the man who had Oliver in charge. + + + +“Are you the party that’s been robbed, sir?” inquired the man with the + +keys. + + + +“Yes, I am,” replied the old gentleman; “but I am not sure that this + +boy actually took the handkerchief. I—I would rather not press the + +case.” + + + +“Must go before the magistrate now, sir,” replied the man. “His worship + +will be disengaged in half a minute. Now, young gallows!” + + + +This was an invitation for Oliver to enter through a door which he + +unlocked as he spoke, and which led into a stone cell. Here he was + +searched; and nothing being found upon him, locked up. + + + +This cell was in shape and size something like an area cellar, only not + +so light. It was most intolerably dirty; for it was Monday morning; and + +it had been tenanted by six drunken people, who had been locked up, + +elsewhere, since Saturday night. But this is little. In our + +station-houses, men and women are every night confined on the most + +trivial charges—the word is worth noting—in dungeons, compared with + +which, those in Newgate, occupied by the most atrocious felons, tried, + +found guilty, and under sentence of death, are palaces. Let any one who + +doubts this, compare the two. + + + +The old gentleman looked almost as rueful as Oliver when the key grated + +in the lock. He turned with a sigh to the book, which had been the + +innocent cause of all this disturbance. + + + +“There is something in that boy’s face,” said the old gentleman to + +himself as he walked slowly away, tapping his chin with the cover of + +the book, in a thoughtful manner; “something that touches and interests + +me. _Can_ he be innocent? He looked like— Bye the bye,” exclaimed the + +old gentleman, halting very abruptly, and staring up into the sky, + +“Bless my soul!—where have I seen something like that look before?” + + + +After musing for some minutes, the old gentleman walked, with the same + +meditative face, into a back anteroom opening from the yard; and there, + +retiring into a corner, called up before his mind’s eye a vast + +amphitheatre of faces over which a dusky curtain had hung for many + +years. “No,” said the old gentleman, shaking his head; “it must be + +imagination.” + + + +He wandered over them again. He had called them into view, and it was + +not easy to replace the shroud that had so long concealed them. There + +were the faces of friends, and foes, and of many that had been almost + +strangers peering intrusively from the crowd; there were the faces of + +young and blooming girls that were now old women; there were faces that + +the grave had changed and closed upon, but which the mind, superior to + +its power, still dressed in their old freshness and beauty, calling + +back the lustre of the eyes, the brightness of the smile, the beaming + +of the soul through its mask of clay, and whispering of beauty beyond + +the tomb, changed but to be heightened, and taken from earth only to be + +set up as a light, to shed a soft and gentle glow upon the path to + +Heaven. + + + +But the old gentleman could recall no one countenance of which Oliver’s + +features bore a trace. So, he heaved a sigh over the recollections he + +awakened; and being, happily for himself, an absent old gentleman, + +buried them again in the pages of the musty book. + + + +He was roused by a touch on the shoulder, and a request from the man + +with the keys to follow him into the office. He closed his book + +hastily; and was at once ushered into the imposing presence of the + +renowned Mr. Fang. + + + +The office was a front parlour, with a panelled wall. Mr. Fang sat + +behind a bar, at the upper end; and on one side of the door was a + +sort of wooden pen in which poor little Oliver was already deposited; + +trembling very much at the awfulness of the scene. + + + +Mr. Fang was a lean, long-backed, stiff-necked, middle-sized man, with + +no great quantity of hair, and what he had, growing on the back and + +sides of his head. His face was stern, and much flushed. If he were + +really not in the habit of drinking rather more than was exactly good + +for him, he might have brought action against his countenance for + +libel, and have recovered heavy damages. + + + +The old gentleman bowed respectfully; and advancing to the magistrate’s + +desk, said, suiting the action to the word, “That is my name and + +address, sir.” He then withdrew a pace or two; and, with another polite + +and gentlemanly inclination of the head, waited to be questioned. + + + +Now, it so happened that Mr. Fang was at that moment perusing a leading + +article in a newspaper of the morning, adverting to some recent + +decision of his, and commending him, for the three hundred and fiftieth + +time, to the special and particular notice of the Secretary of State + +for the Home Department. He was out of temper; and he looked up with an + +angry scowl. + + + +“Who are you?” said Mr. Fang. + + + +The old gentleman pointed, with some surprise, to his card. + + + +“Officer!” said Mr. Fang, tossing the card contemptuously away with the + +newspaper. “Who is this fellow?” + + + +“My name, sir,” said the old gentleman, speaking _like_ a gentleman, + +“my name, sir, is Brownlow. Permit me to inquire the name of the + +magistrate who offers a gratuitous and unprovoked insult to a + +respectable person, under the protection of the bench.” Saying this, + +Mr. Brownlow looked around the office as if in search of some person + +who would afford him the required information. + + + +“Officer!” said Mr. Fang, throwing the paper on one side, “what’s this + +fellow charged with?” + + + +“He’s not charged at all, your worship,” replied the officer. “He + +appears against this boy, your worship.” + + + +His worship knew this perfectly well; but it was a good annoyance, and + +a safe one. + + + +“Appears against the boy, does he?” said Mr. Fang, surveying Mr. + +Brownlow contemptuously from head to foot. “Swear him!” + + + +“Before I am sworn, I must beg to say one word,” said Mr. Brownlow; + +“and that is, that I really never, without actual experience, could + +have believed—” + + + +“Hold your tongue, sir!” said Mr. Fang, peremptorily. + + + +“I will not, sir!” replied the old gentleman. + + + +“Hold your tongue this instant, or I’ll have you turned out of the + +office!” said Mr. Fang. “You’re an insolent impertinent fellow. How + +dare you bully a magistrate!” + + + +“What!” exclaimed the old gentleman, reddening. + + + +“Swear this person!” said Fang to the clerk. “I’ll not hear another + +word. Swear him.” + + + +Mr. Brownlow’s indignation was greatly roused; but reflecting perhaps, + +that he might only injure the boy by giving vent to it, he suppressed + +his feelings and submitted to be sworn at once. + + + +“Now,” said Fang, “what’s the charge against this boy? What have you + +got to say, sir?” + + + +“I was standing at a bookstall—” Mr. Brownlow began. + + + +“Hold your tongue, sir,” said Mr. Fang. “Policeman! Where’s the + +policeman? Here, swear this policeman. Now, policeman, what is this?” + + + +The policeman, with becoming humility, related how he had taken the + +charge; how he had searched Oliver, and found nothing on his person; + +and how that was all he knew about it. + + + +“Are there any witnesses?” inquired Mr. Fang. + + + +“None, your worship,” replied the policeman. + + + +Mr. Fang sat silent for some minutes, and then, turning round to the + +prosecutor, said in a towering passion. + + + +“Do you mean to state what your complaint against this boy is, man, or + +do you not? You have been sworn. Now, if you stand there, refusing to + +give evidence, I’ll punish you for disrespect to the bench; I will, + +by—” + + + +By what, or by whom, nobody knows, for the clerk and jailor coughed + +very loud, just at the right moment; and the former dropped a heavy + +book upon the floor, thus preventing the word from being + +heard—accidently, of course. + + + +With many interruptions, and repeated insults, Mr. Brownlow contrived + +to state his case; observing that, in the surprise of the moment, he + +had run after the boy because he had seen him running away; and + +expressing his hope that, if the magistrate should believe him, + +although not actually the thief, to be connected with the thieves, he + +would deal as leniently with him as justice would allow. + + + +“He has been hurt already,” said the old gentleman in conclusion. “And + +I fear,” he added, with great energy, looking towards the bar, “I + +really fear that he is ill.” + + + +“Oh! yes, I dare say!” said Mr. Fang, with a sneer. “Come, none of your + +tricks here, you young vagabond; they won’t do. What’s your name?” + + + +Oliver tried to reply but his tongue failed him. He was deadly pale; + +and the whole place seemed turning round and round. + + + +“What’s your name, you hardened scoundrel?” demanded Mr. Fang. + +“Officer, what’s his name?” + + + +This was addressed to a bluff old fellow, in a striped waistcoat, who + +was standing by the bar. He bent over Oliver, and repeated the inquiry; + +but finding him really incapable of understanding the question; and + +knowing that his not replying would only infuriate the magistrate the + +more, and add to the severity of his sentence; he hazarded a guess. + + + +“He says his name’s Tom White, your worship,” said the kind-hearted + +thief-taker. + + + +“Oh, he won’t speak out, won’t he?” said Fang. “Very well, very well. + +Where does he live?” + + + +“Where he can, your worship,” replied the officer; again pretending to + +receive Oliver’s answer. + + + +“Has he any parents?” inquired Mr. Fang. + + + +“He says they died in his infancy, your worship,” replied the officer: + +hazarding the usual reply. + + + +At this point of the inquiry, Oliver raised his head; and, looking + +round with imploring eyes, murmured a feeble prayer for a draught of + +water. + + + +“Stuff and nonsense!” said Mr. Fang: “don’t try to make a fool of me.” + + + +“I think he really is ill, your worship,” remonstrated the officer. + + + +“I know better,” said Mr. Fang. + + + +“Take care of him, officer,” said the old gentleman, raising his hands + +instinctively; “he’ll fall down.” + + + +“Stand away, officer,” cried Fang; “let him, if he likes.” + + + +Oliver availed himself of the kind permission, and fell to the floor in + +a fainting fit. The men in the office looked at each other, but no one + +dared to stir. + + + +“I knew he was shamming,” said Fang, as if this were incontestable + +proof of the fact. “Let him lie there; he’ll soon be tired of that.” + + + +“How do you propose to deal with the case, sir?” inquired the clerk in + +a low voice. + + + +“Summarily,” replied Mr. Fang. “He stands committed for three + +months—hard labour of course. Clear the office.” + + + +The door was opened for this purpose, and a couple of men were + +preparing to carry the insensible boy to his cell; when an elderly man + +of decent but poor appearance, clad in an old suit of black, rushed + +hastily into the office, and advanced towards the bench. + + + +“Stop, stop! don’t take him away! For Heaven’s sake stop a moment!” + +cried the new comer, breathless with haste. + + + +Although the presiding Genii in such an office as this, exercise a + +summary and arbitrary power over the liberties, the good name, the + +character, almost the lives, of Her Majesty’s subjects, especially of + +the poorer class; and although, within such walls, enough fantastic + +tricks are daily played to make the angels blind with weeping; they are + +closed to the public, save through the medium of the daily press. Mr. + +Fang was consequently not a little indignant to see an unbidden guest + +enter in such irreverent disorder. + + + +“What is this? Who is this? Turn this man out. Clear the office!” cried + +Mr. Fang. + + + +“I _will_ speak,” cried the man; “I will not be turned out. I saw it + +all. I keep the book-stall. I demand to be sworn. I will not be put + +down. Mr. Fang, you must hear me. You must not refuse, sir.” + + + +The man was right. His manner was determined; and the matter was + +growing rather too serious to be hushed up. + + + +“Swear the man,” growled Mr. Fang, with a very ill grace. “Now, man, + +what have you got to say?” + + + +“This,” said the man: “I saw three boys: two others and the prisoner + +here: loitering on the opposite side of the way, when this gentleman + +was reading. The robbery was committed by another boy. I saw it done; + +and I saw that this boy was perfectly amazed and stupified by it.” + +Having by this time recovered a little breath, the worthy book-stall + +keeper proceeded to relate, in a more coherent manner the exact + +circumstances of the robbery. + + + +“Why didn’t you come here before?” said Fang, after a pause. + + + +“I hadn’t a soul to mind the shop,” replied the man. “Everybody who + +could have helped me, had joined in the pursuit. I could get nobody + +till five minutes ago; and I’ve run here all the way.” + + + +“The prosecutor was reading, was he?” inquired Fang, after another + +pause. + + + +“Yes,” replied the man. “The very book he has in his hand.” + + + +“Oh, that book, eh?” said Fang. “Is it paid for?” + + + +“No, it is not,” replied the man, with a smile. + + + +“Dear me, I forgot all about it!” exclaimed the absent old gentleman, + +innocently. + + + +“A nice person to prefer a charge against a poor boy!” said Fang, with + +a comical effort to look humane. “I consider, sir, that you have + +obtained possession of that book, under very suspicious and + +disreputable circumstances; and you may think yourself very fortunate + +that the owner of the property declines to prosecute. Let this be a + +lesson to you, my man, or the law will overtake you yet. The boy is + +discharged. Clear the office!” + + + +“D—n me!” cried the old gentleman, bursting out with the rage he had + +kept down so long, “d—n me! I’ll—” + + + +“Clear the office!” said the magistrate. “Officers, do you hear? Clear + +the office!” + + + +The mandate was obeyed; and the indignant Mr. Brownlow was conveyed + +out, with the book in one hand, and the bamboo cane in the other: in a + +perfect phrenzy of rage and defiance. He reached the yard; and his + +passion vanished in a moment. Little Oliver Twist lay on his back on + +the pavement, with his shirt unbuttoned, and his temples bathed with + +water; his face a deadly white; and a cold tremble convulsing his whole + +frame. + + + +“Poor boy, poor boy!” said Mr. Brownlow, bending over him. “Call a + +coach, somebody, pray. Directly!” + + + +A coach was obtained, and Oliver having been carefully laid on the + +seat, the old gentleman got in and sat himself on the other. + + + +“May I accompany you?” said the book-stall keeper, looking in. + + + +“Bless me, yes, my dear sir,” said Mr. Brownlow quickly. “I forgot you. + +Dear, dear! I have this unhappy book still! Jump in. Poor fellow! + +There’s no time to lose.” + + + +The book-stall keeper got into the coach; and away they drove. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XII. + +IN WHICH OLIVER IS TAKEN BETTER CARE OF THAN HE EVER WAS BEFORE. AND IN + +WHICH THE NARRATIVE REVERTS TO THE MERRY OLD GENTLEMAN AND HIS YOUTHFUL + +FRIENDS. + + + + + +The coach rattled away, over nearly the same ground as that which + +Oliver had traversed when he first entered London in company with the + +Dodger; and, turning a different way when it reached the Angel at + +Islington, stopped at length before a neat house, in a quiet shady + +street near Pentonville. Here, a bed was prepared, without loss of + +time, in which Mr. Brownlow saw his young charge carefully and + +comfortably deposited; and here, he was tended with a kindness and + +solicitude that knew no bounds. + + + +But, for many days, Oliver remained insensible to all the goodness of + +his new friends. The sun rose and sank, and rose and sank again, and + +many times after that; and still the boy lay stretched on his uneasy + +bed, dwindling away beneath the dry and wasting heat of fever. The worm + +does not work more surely on the dead body, than does this slow + +creeping fire upon the living frame. + + + +Weak, and thin, and pallid, he awoke at last from what seemed to have + +been a long and troubled dream. Feebly raising himself in the bed, with + +his head resting on his trembling arm, he looked anxiously around. + + + +“What room is this? Where have I been brought to?” said Oliver. “This + +is not the place I went to sleep in.” + + + +He uttered these words in a feeble voice, being very faint and weak; + +but they were overheard at once. The curtain at the bed’s head was + +hastily drawn back, and a motherly old lady, very neatly and precisely + +dressed, rose as she undrew it, from an arm-chair close by, in which + +she had been sitting at needle-work. + + + +“Hush, my dear,” said the old lady softly. “You must be very quiet, or + +you will be ill again; and you have been very bad,—as bad as bad could + +be, pretty nigh. Lie down again; there’s a dear!” With those words, the + +old lady very gently placed Oliver’s head upon the pillow; and, + +smoothing back his hair from his forehead, looked so kindly and loving + +in his face, that he could not help placing his little withered hand in + +hers, and drawing it round his neck. + + + +“Save us!” said the old lady, with tears in her eyes. “What a grateful + +little dear it is. Pretty creetur! What would his mother feel if she + +had sat by him as I have, and could see him now!” + + + +“Perhaps she does see me,” whispered Oliver, folding his hands + +together; “perhaps she has sat by me. I almost feel as if she had.” + + + +“That was the fever, my dear,” said the old lady mildly. + + + +“I suppose it was,” replied Oliver, “because heaven is a long way off; + +and they are too happy there, to come down to the bedside of a poor + +boy. But if she knew I was ill, she must have pitied me, even there; + +for she was very ill herself before she died. She can’t know anything + +about me though,” added Oliver after a moment’s silence. “If she had + +seen me hurt, it would have made her sorrowful; and her face has always + +looked sweet and happy, when I have dreamed of her.” + + + +The old lady made no reply to this; but wiping her eyes first, and her + +spectacles, which lay on the counterpane, afterwards, as if they were + +part and parcel of those features, brought some cool stuff for Oliver + +to drink; and then, patting him on the cheek, told him he must lie very + +quiet, or he would be ill again. + + + +So, Oliver kept very still; partly because he was anxious to obey the + +kind old lady in all things; and partly, to tell the truth, because he + +was completely exhausted with what he had already said. He soon fell + +into a gentle doze, from which he was awakened by the light of a + +candle: which, being brought near the bed, showed him a gentleman with + +a very large and loud-ticking gold watch in his hand, who felt his + +pulse, and said he was a great deal better. + + + +“You _are_ a great deal better, are you not, my dear?” said the + +gentleman. + + + +“Yes, thank you, sir,” replied Oliver. + + + +“Yes, I know you are,” said the gentleman: “You’re hungry too, an’t + +you?” + + + +“No, sir,” answered Oliver. + + + +“Hem!” said the gentleman. “No, I know you’re not. He is not hungry, + +Mrs. Bedwin,” said the gentleman: looking very wise. + + + +The old lady made a respectful inclination of the head, which seemed to + +say that she thought the doctor was a very clever man. The doctor + +appeared much of the same opinion himself. + + + +“You feel sleepy, don’t you, my dear?” said the doctor. + + + +“No, sir,” replied Oliver. + + + +“No,” said the doctor, with a very shrewd and satisfied look. “You’re + +not sleepy. Nor thirsty. Are you?” + + + +“Yes, sir, rather thirsty,” answered Oliver. + + + +“Just as I expected, Mrs. Bedwin,” said the doctor. “It’s very natural + +that he should be thirsty. You may give him a little tea, ma’am, and + +some dry toast without any butter. Don’t keep him too warm, ma’am; but + +be careful that you don’t let him be too cold; will you have the + +goodness?” + + + +The old lady dropped a curtsey. The doctor, after tasting the cool + +stuff, and expressing a qualified approval of it, hurried away: his + +boots creaking in a very important and wealthy manner as he went + +downstairs. + + + +Oliver dozed off again, soon after this; when he awoke, it was nearly + +twelve o’clock. The old lady tenderly bade him good-night shortly + +afterwards, and left him in charge of a fat old woman who had just + +come: bringing with her, in a little bundle, a small Prayer Book and a + +large nightcap. Putting the latter on her head and the former on the + +table, the old woman, after telling Oliver that she had come to sit up + +with him, drew her chair close to the fire and went off into a series + +of short naps, chequered at frequent intervals with sundry tumblings + +forward, and divers moans and chokings. These, however, had no worse + +effect than causing her to rub her nose very hard, and then fall asleep + +again. + + + +And thus the night crept slowly on. Oliver lay awake for some time, + +counting the little circles of light which the reflection of the + +rushlight-shade threw upon the ceiling; or tracing with his languid + +eyes the intricate pattern of the paper on the wall. The darkness and + +the deep stillness of the room were very solemn; as they brought into + +the boy’s mind the thought that death had been hovering there, for many + +days and nights, and might yet fill it with the gloom and dread of his + +awful presence, he turned his face upon the pillow, and fervently + +prayed to Heaven. + + + +Gradually, he fell into that deep tranquil sleep which ease from recent + +suffering alone imparts; that calm and peaceful rest which it is pain + +to wake from. Who, if this were death, would be roused again to all the + +struggles and turmoils of life; to all its cares for the present; its + +anxieties for the future; more than all, its weary recollections of the + +past! + + + +It had been bright day, for hours, when Oliver opened his eyes; he felt + +cheerful and happy. The crisis of the disease was safely past. He + +belonged to the world again. + + + +In three days’ time he was able to sit in an easy-chair, well propped + +up with pillows; and, as he was still too weak to walk, Mrs. Bedwin had + +him carried downstairs into the little housekeeper’s room, which + +belonged to her. Having him set, here, by the fire-side, the good old + +lady sat herself down too; and, being in a state of considerable + +delight at seeing him so much better, forthwith began to cry most + +violently. + + + +“Never mind me, my dear,” said the old lady; “I’m only having a regular + +good cry. There; it’s all over now; and I’m quite comfortable.” + + + +“You’re very, very kind to me, ma’am,” said Oliver. + + + +“Well, never you mind that, my dear,” said the old lady; “that’s got + +nothing to do with your broth; and it’s full time you had it; for the + +doctor says Mr. Brownlow may come in to see you this morning; and we + +must get up our best looks, because the better we look, the more he’ll + +be pleased.” And with this, the old lady applied herself to warming up, + +in a little saucepan, a basin full of broth: strong enough, Oliver + +thought, to furnish an ample dinner, when reduced to the regulation + +strength, for three hundred and fifty paupers, at the lowest + +computation. + + + +“Are you fond of pictures, dear?” inquired the old lady, seeing that + +Oliver had fixed his eyes, most intently, on a portrait which hung + +against the wall; just opposite his chair. + + + +“I don’t quite know, ma’am,” said Oliver, without taking his eyes from + +the canvas; “I have seen so few that I hardly know. What a beautiful, + +mild face that lady’s is!” + + + +“Ah!” said the old lady, “painters always make ladies out prettier than + +they are, or they wouldn’t get any custom, child. The man that invented + +the machine for taking likenesses might have known _that_ would never + +succeed; it’s a deal too honest. A deal,” said the old lady, laughing + +very heartily at her own acuteness. + + + +“Is—is that a likeness, ma’am?” said Oliver. + + + +“Yes,” said the old lady, looking up for a moment from the broth; + +“that’s a portrait.” + + + +“Whose, ma’am?” asked Oliver. + + + +“Why, really, my dear, I don’t know,” answered the old lady in a + +good-humoured manner. “It’s not a likeness of anybody that you or I + +know, I expect. It seems to strike your fancy, dear.” + + + +“It is so pretty,” replied Oliver. + + + +“Why, sure you’re not afraid of it?” said the old lady: observing in + +great surprise, the look of awe with which the child regarded the + +painting. + + + +“Oh no, no,” returned Oliver quickly; “but the eyes look so sorrowful; + +and where I sit, they seem fixed upon me. It makes my heart beat,” + +added Oliver in a low voice, “as if it was alive, and wanted to speak + +to me, but couldn’t.” + + + +“Lord save us!” exclaimed the old lady, starting; “don’t talk in that + +way, child. You’re weak and nervous after your illness. Let me wheel + +your chair round to the other side; and then you won’t see it. There!” + +said the old lady, suiting the action to the word; “you don’t see it + +now, at all events.” + + + +Oliver _did_ see it in his mind’s eye as distinctly as if he had not + +altered his position; but he thought it better not to worry the kind + +old lady; so he smiled gently when she looked at him; and Mrs. Bedwin, + +satisfied that he felt more comfortable, salted and broke bits of + +toasted bread into the broth, with all the bustle befitting so solemn a + +preparation. Oliver got through it with extraordinary expedition. He + +had scarcely swallowed the last spoonful, when there came a soft rap at + +the door. “Come in,” said the old lady; and in walked Mr. Brownlow. + + + +Now, the old gentleman came in as brisk as need be; but, he had no + +sooner raised his spectacles on his forehead, and thrust his hands + +behind the skirts of his dressing-gown to take a good long look at + +Oliver, than his countenance underwent a very great variety of odd + +contortions. Oliver looked very worn and shadowy from sickness, and + +made an ineffectual attempt to stand up, out of respect to his + +benefactor, which terminated in his sinking back into the chair again; + +and the fact is, if the truth must be told, that Mr. Brownlow’s heart, + +being large enough for any six ordinary old gentlemen of humane + +disposition, forced a supply of tears into his eyes, by some hydraulic + +process which we are not sufficiently philosophical to be in a + +condition to explain. + + + +“Poor boy, poor boy!” said Mr. Brownlow, clearing his throat. “I’m + +rather hoarse this morning, Mrs. Bedwin. I’m afraid I have caught + +cold.” + + + +“I hope not, sir,” said Mrs. Bedwin. “Everything you have had, has been + +well aired, sir.” + + + +“I don’t know, Bedwin. I don’t know,” said Mr. Brownlow; “I rather + +think I had a damp napkin at dinner-time yesterday; but never mind + +that. How do you feel, my dear?” + + + +“Very happy, sir,” replied Oliver. “And very grateful indeed, sir, for + +your goodness to me.” + + + +“Good boy,” said Mr. Brownlow, stoutly. “Have you given him any + +nourishment, Bedwin? Any slops, eh?” + + + +“He has just had a basin of beautiful strong broth, sir,” replied Mrs. + +Bedwin, drawing herself up slightly, and laying strong emphasis on the + +last word, to intimate that between slops, and broth well compounded, + +there existed no affinity or connection whatsoever. + + + +“Ugh!” said Mr. Brownlow, with a slight shudder; “a couple of glasses + +of port wine would have done him a great deal more good. Wouldn’t they, + +Tom White, eh?” + + + +“My name is Oliver, sir,” replied the little invalid with a look of + +great astonishment. + + + +“Oliver,” said Mr. Brownlow; “Oliver what? Oliver White, eh?” + + + +“No, sir, Twist, Oliver Twist.” + + + +“Queer name!” said the old gentleman. “What made you tell the + +magistrate your name was White?” + + + +“I never told him so, sir,” returned Oliver in amazement. + + + +This sounded so like a falsehood, that the old gentleman looked + +somewhat sternly in Oliver’s face. It was impossible to doubt him; + +there was truth in every one of its thin and sharpened lineaments. + + + +“Some mistake,” said Mr. Brownlow. But, although his motive for looking + +steadily at Oliver no longer existed, the old idea of the resemblance + +between his features and some familiar face came upon him so strongly, + +that he could not withdraw his gaze. + + + +“I hope you are not angry with me, sir?” said Oliver, raising his eyes + +beseechingly. + + + +“No, no,” replied the old gentleman. “Why! what’s this? Bedwin, look + +there!” + + + +As he spoke, he pointed hastily to the picture over Oliver’s head, and + +then to the boy’s face. There was its living copy. The eyes, the head, + +the mouth; every feature was the same. The expression was, for the + +instant, so precisely alike, that the minutest line seemed copied with + +startling accuracy! + + + +Oliver knew not the cause of this sudden exclamation; for, not being + +strong enough to bear the start it gave him, he fainted away. A + +weakness on his part, which affords the narrative an opportunity of + +relieving the reader from suspense, in behalf of the two young pupils + +of the Merry Old Gentleman; and of recording— + + + +That when the Dodger, and his accomplished friend Master Bates, joined + +in the hue-and-cry which was raised at Oliver’s heels, in consequence + +of their executing an illegal conveyance of Mr. Brownlow’s personal + +property, as has been already described, they were actuated by a very + +laudable and becoming regard for themselves; and forasmuch as the + +freedom of the subject and the liberty of the individual are among the + +first and proudest boasts of a true-hearted Englishman, so, I need + +hardly beg the reader to observe, that this action should tend to exalt + +them in the opinion of all public and patriotic men, in almost as great + +a degree as this strong proof of their anxiety for their own + +preservation and safety goes to corroborate and confirm the little code + +of laws which certain profound and sound-judging philosophers have laid + +down as the main-springs of all Nature’s deeds and actions: the said + +philosophers very wisely reducing the good lady’s proceedings to + +matters of maxim and theory: and, by a very neat and pretty compliment + +to her exalted wisdom and understanding, putting entirely out of sight + +any considerations of heart, or generous impulse and feeling. For, + +these are matters totally beneath a female who is acknowledged by + +universal admission to be far above the numerous little foibles and + +weaknesses of her sex. + + + +If I wanted any further proof of the strictly philosophical nature of + +the conduct of these young gentlemen in their very delicate + +predicament, I should at once find it in the fact (also recorded in a + +foregoing part of this narrative), of their quitting the pursuit, when + +the general attention was fixed upon Oliver; and making immediately for + +their home by the shortest possible cut. Although I do not mean to + +assert that it is usually the practice of renowned and learned sages, + +to shorten the road to any great conclusion (their course indeed being + +rather to lengthen the distance, by various circumlocutions and + +discursive staggerings, like unto those in which drunken men under the + +pressure of a too mighty flow of ideas, are prone to indulge); still, I + +do mean to say, and do say distinctly, that it is the invariable + +practice of many mighty philosophers, in carrying out their theories, + +to evince great wisdom and foresight in providing against every + +possible contingency which can be supposed at all likely to affect + +themselves. Thus, to do a great right, you may do a little wrong; and + +you may take any means which the end to be attained, will justify; the + +amount of the right, or the amount of the wrong, or indeed the + +distinction between the two, being left entirely to the philosopher + +concerned, to be settled and determined by his clear, comprehensive, + +and impartial view of his own particular case. + + + +It was not until the two boys had scoured, with great rapidity, through + +a most intricate maze of narrow streets and courts, that they ventured + +to halt beneath a low and dark archway. Having remained silent here, + +just long enough to recover breath to speak, Master Bates uttered an + +exclamation of amusement and delight; and, bursting into an + +uncontrollable fit of laughter, flung himself upon a doorstep, and + +rolled thereon in a transport of mirth. + + + +“What’s the matter?” inquired the Dodger. + + + +“Ha! ha! ha!” roared Charley Bates. + + + +“Hold your noise,” remonstrated the Dodger, looking cautiously round. + +“Do you want to be grabbed, stupid?” + + + +“I can’t help it,” said Charley, “I can’t help it! To see him splitting + +away at that pace, and cutting round the corners, and knocking up + +again’ the posts, and starting on again as if he was made of iron as + +well as them, and me with the wipe in my pocket, singing out arter + +him—oh, my eye!” The vivid imagination of Master Bates presented the + +scene before him in too strong colours. As he arrived at this + +apostrophe, he again rolled upon the door-step, and laughed louder than + +before. + + + +“What’ll Fagin say?” inquired the Dodger; taking advantage of the next + +interval of breathlessness on the part of his friend to propound the + +question. + + + +“What?” repeated Charley Bates. + + + +“Ah, what?” said the Dodger. + + + +“Why, what should he say?” inquired Charley: stopping rather suddenly + +in his merriment; for the Dodger’s manner was impressive. “What should + +he say?” + + + +Mr. Dawkins whistled for a couple of minutes; then, taking off his hat, + +scratched his head, and nodded thrice. + + + +“What do you mean?” said Charley. + + + +“Toor rul lol loo, gammon and spinnage, the frog he wouldn’t, and high + +cockolorum,” said the Dodger: with a slight sneer on his intellectual + +countenance. + + + +This was explanatory, but not satisfactory. Master Bates felt it so; + +and again said, “What do you mean?” + + + +The Dodger made no reply; but putting his hat on again, and gathering + +the skirts of his long-tailed coat under his arm, thrust his tongue + +into his cheek, slapped the bridge of his nose some half-dozen times in + +a familiar but expressive manner, and turning on his heel, slunk down + +the court. Master Bates followed, with a thoughtful countenance. + + + +The noise of footsteps on the creaking stairs, a few minutes after the + +occurrence of this conversation, roused the merry old gentleman as he + +sat over the fire with a saveloy and a small loaf in his hand; a + +pocket-knife in his right; and a pewter pot on the trivet. There was a + +rascally smile on his white face as he turned round, and looking + +sharply out from under his thick red eyebrows, bent his ear towards the + +door, and listened. + + + +“Why, how’s this?” muttered the Jew: changing countenance; “only two of + +’em? Where’s the third? They can’t have got into trouble. Hark!” + + + +The footsteps approached nearer; they reached the landing. The door was + +slowly opened; and the Dodger and Charley Bates entered, closing it + +behind them. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XIII. + +SOME NEW ACQUAINTANCES ARE INTRODUCED TO THE INTELLIGENT READER, + +CONNECTED WITH WHOM VARIOUS PLEASANT MATTERS ARE RELATED, APPERTAINING + +TO THIS HISTORY + + + + + +“Where’s Oliver?” said the Jew, rising with a menacing look. “Where’s + +the boy?” + + + +The young thieves eyed their preceptor as if they were alarmed at his + +violence; and looked uneasily at each other. But they made no reply. + + + +“What’s become of the boy?” said the Jew, seizing the Dodger tightly by + +the collar, and threatening him with horrid imprecations. “Speak out, + +or I’ll throttle you!” + + + +Mr. Fagin looked so very much in earnest, that Charley Bates, who + +deemed it prudent in all cases to be on the safe side, and who + +conceived it by no means improbable that it might be his turn to be + +throttled second, dropped upon his knees, and raised a loud, + +well-sustained, and continuous roar—something between a mad bull and a + +speaking trumpet. + + + +“Will you speak?” thundered the Jew: shaking the Dodger so much that + +his keeping in the big coat at all, seemed perfectly miraculous. + + + +“Why, the traps have got him, and that’s all about it,” said the + +Dodger, sullenly. “Come, let go o’ me, will you!” And, swinging + +himself, at one jerk, clean out of the big coat, which he left in the + +Jew’s hands, the Dodger snatched up the toasting fork, and made a pass + +at the merry old gentleman’s waistcoat; which, if it had taken effect, + +would have let a little more merriment out than could have been easily + +replaced. + + + +The Jew stepped back in this emergency, with more agility than could + +have been anticipated in a man of his apparent decrepitude; and, + +seizing up the pot, prepared to hurl it at his assailant’s head. But + +Charley Bates, at this moment, calling his attention by a perfectly + +terrific howl, he suddenly altered its destination, and flung it full + +at that young gentleman. + + + +“Why, what the blazes is in the wind now!” growled a deep voice. “Who + +pitched that ’ere at me? It’s well it’s the beer, and not the pot, as + +hit me, or I’d have settled somebody. I might have know’d, as nobody + +but an infernal, rich, plundering, thundering old Jew could afford to + +throw away any drink but water—and not that, unless he done the River + +Company every quarter. Wot’s it all about, Fagin? D—me, if my + +neck-handkercher an’t lined with beer! Come in, you sneaking warmint; + +wot are you stopping outside for, as if you was ashamed of your master! + +Come in!” + + + +The man who growled out these words, was a stoutly-built fellow of + +about five-and-thirty, in a black velveteen coat, very soiled drab + +breeches, lace-up half boots, and grey cotton stockings which inclosed + +a bulky pair of legs, with large swelling calves;—the kind of legs, + +which in such costume, always look in an unfinished and incomplete + +state without a set of fetters to garnish them. He had a brown hat on + +his head, and a dirty belcher handkerchief round his neck: with the + +long frayed ends of which he smeared the beer from his face as he + +spoke. He disclosed, when he had done so, a broad heavy countenance + +with a beard of three days’ growth, and two scowling eyes; one of which + +displayed various parti-coloured symptoms of having been recently + +damaged by a blow. + + + +“Come in, d’ye hear?” growled this engaging ruffian. + + + +A white shaggy dog, with his face scratched and torn in twenty + +different places, skulked into the room. + + + +“Why didn’t you come in afore?” said the man. “You’re getting too proud + +to own me afore company, are you? Lie down!” + + + +This command was accompanied with a kick, which sent the animal to the + +other end of the room. He appeared well used to it, however; for he + +coiled himself up in a corner very quietly, without uttering a sound, + +and winking his very ill-looking eyes twenty times in a minute, + +appeared to occupy himself in taking a survey of the apartment. + + + +“What are you up to? Ill-treating the boys, you covetous, avaricious, + +in-sa-ti-a-ble old fence?” said the man, seating himself deliberately. + +“I wonder they don’t murder you! I would if I was them. If I’d been + +your ’prentice, I’d have done it long ago, and—no, I couldn’t have sold + +you afterwards, for you’re fit for nothing but keeping as a curiousity + +of ugliness in a glass bottle, and I suppose they don’t blow glass + +bottles large enough.” + + + +“Hush! hush! Mr. Sikes,” said the Jew, trembling; “don’t speak so + +loud!” + + + +“None of your mistering,” replied the ruffian; “you always mean + +mischief when you come that. You know my name: out with it! I shan’t + +disgrace it when the time comes.” + + + +“Well, well, then—Bill Sikes,” said the Jew, with abject humility. “You + +seem out of humour, Bill.” + + + +“Perhaps I am,” replied Sikes; “I should think you was rather out of + +sorts too, unless you mean as little harm when you throw pewter pots + +about, as you do when you blab and—” + + + +“Are you mad?” said the Jew, catching the man by the sleeve, and + +pointing towards the boys. + + + +Mr. Sikes contented himself with tying an imaginary knot under his left + +ear, and jerking his head over on the right shoulder; a piece of dumb + +show which the Jew appeared to understand perfectly. He then, in cant + +terms, with which his whole conversation was plentifully besprinkled, + +but which would be quite unintelligible if they were recorded here, + +demanded a glass of liquor. + + + +“And mind you don’t poison it,” said Mr. Sikes, laying his hat upon the + +table. + + + +This was said in jest; but if the speaker could have seen the evil leer + +with which the Jew bit his pale lip as he turned round to the cupboard, + +he might have thought the caution not wholly unnecessary, or the wish + +(at all events) to improve upon the distiller’s ingenuity not very far + +from the old gentleman’s merry heart. + + + +After swallowing two of three glasses of spirits, Mr. Sikes + +condescended to take some notice of the young gentlemen; which gracious + +act led to a conversation, in which the cause and manner of Oliver’s + +capture were circumstantially detailed, with such alterations and + +improvements on the truth, as to the Dodger appeared most advisable + +under the circumstances. + + + +“I’m afraid,” said the Jew, “that he may say something which will get + +us into trouble.” + + + +“That’s very likely,” returned Sikes with a malicious grin. “You’re + +blowed upon, Fagin.” + + + +“And I’m afraid, you see,” added the Jew, speaking as if he had not + +noticed the interruption; and regarding the other closely as he did + +so,—“I’m afraid that, if the game was up with us, it might be up with a + +good many more, and that it would come out rather worse for you than it + +would for me, my dear.” + + + +The man started, and turned round upon the Jew. But the old gentleman’s + +shoulders were shrugged up to his ears; and his eyes were vacantly + +staring on the opposite wall. + + + +There was a long pause. Every member of the respectable coterie + +appeared plunged in his own reflections; not excepting the dog, who by + +a certain malicious licking of his lips seemed to be meditating an + +attack upon the legs of the first gentleman or lady he might encounter + +in the streets when he went out. + + + +“Somebody must find out wot’s been done at the office,” said Mr. Sikes + +in a much lower tone than he had taken since he came in. + + + +The Jew nodded assent. + + + +“If he hasn’t peached, and is committed, there’s no fear till he comes + +out again,” said Mr. Sikes, “and then he must be taken care on. You + +must get hold of him somehow.” + + + +Again the Jew nodded. + + + +The prudence of this line of action, indeed, was obvious; but, + +unfortunately, there was one very strong objection to its being + +adopted. This was, that the Dodger, and Charley Bates, and Fagin, and + +Mr. William Sikes, happened, one and all, to entertain a violent and + +deeply-rooted antipathy to going near a police-office on any ground or + +pretext whatever. + + + +How long they might have sat and looked at each other, in a state of + +uncertainty not the most pleasant of its kind, it is difficult to + +guess. It is not necessary to make any guesses on the subject, however; + +for the sudden entrance of the two young ladies whom Oliver had seen on + +a former occasion, caused the conversation to flow afresh. + + + +“The very thing!” said the Jew. “Bet will go; won’t you, my dear?” + + + +“Wheres?” inquired the young lady. + + + +“Only just up to the office, my dear,” said the Jew coaxingly. + + + +It is due to the young lady to say that she did not positively affirm + +that she would not, but that she merely expressed an emphatic and + +earnest desire to be “blessed” if she would; a polite and delicate + +evasion of the request, which shows the young lady to have been + +possessed of that natural good breeding which cannot bear to inflict + +upon a fellow-creature, the pain of a direct and pointed refusal. + + + +The Jew’s countenance fell. He turned from this young lady, who was + +gaily, not to say gorgeously attired, in a red gown, green boots, and + +yellow curl-papers, to the other female. + + + +“Nancy, my dear,” said the Jew in a soothing manner, “what do _you_ + +say?” + + + +“That it won’t do; so it’s no use a-trying it on, Fagin,” replied + +Nancy. + + + +“What do you mean by that?” said Mr. Sikes, looking up in a surly + +manner. + + + +“What I say, Bill,” replied the lady collectedly. + + + +“Why, you’re just the very person for it,” reasoned Mr. Sikes: “nobody + +about here knows anything of you.” + + + +“And as I don’t want ’em to, neither,” replied Nancy in the same + +composed manner, “it’s rather more no than yes with me, Bill.” + + + +“She’ll go, Fagin,” said Sikes. + + + +“No, she won’t, Fagin,” said Nancy. + + + +“Yes, she will, Fagin,” said Sikes. + + + +And Mr. Sikes was right. By dint of alternate threats, promises, and + +bribes, the lady in question was ultimately prevailed upon to undertake + +the commission. She was not, indeed, withheld by the same + +considerations as her agreeable friend; for, having recently removed + +into the neighborhood of Field Lane from the remote but genteel suburb + +of Ratcliffe, she was not under the same apprehension of being + +recognised by any of her numerous acquaintances. + + + +Accordingly, with a clean white apron tied over her gown, and her + +curl-papers tucked up under a straw bonnet,—both articles of dress + +being provided from the Jew’s inexhaustible stock,—Miss Nancy prepared + +to issue forth on her errand. + + + +“Stop a minute, my dear,” said the Jew, producing, a little covered + +basket. “Carry that in one hand. It looks more respectable, my dear.” + + + +“Give her a door-key to carry in her t’other one, Fagin,” said Sikes; + +“it looks real and genivine like.” + + + +“Yes, yes, my dear, so it does,” said the Jew, hanging a large + +street-door key on the forefinger of the young lady’s right hand. + +“There; very good! Very good indeed, my dear!” said the Jew, rubbing + +his hands. + + + +“Oh, my brother! My poor, dear, sweet, innocent little brother!” + +exclaimed Nancy, bursting into tears, and wringing the little basket + +and the street-door key in an agony of distress. “What has become of + +him! Where have they taken him to! Oh, do have pity, and tell me what’s + +been done with the dear boy, gentlemen; do, gentlemen, if you please, + +gentlemen!” + + + +Having uttered those words in a most lamentable and heart-broken tone: + +to the immeasurable delight of her hearers: Miss Nancy paused, winked + +to the company, nodded smilingly round, and disappeared. + + + +“Ah, she’s a clever girl, my dears,” said the Jew, turning round to his + +young friends, and shaking his head gravely, as if in mute admonition + +to them to follow the bright example they had just beheld. + + + +“She’s a honour to her sex,” said Mr. Sikes, filling his glass, and + +smiting the table with his enormous fist. “Here’s her health, and + +wishing they was all like her!” + + + +While these, and many other encomiums, were being passed on the + +accomplished Nancy, that young lady made the best of her way to the + +police-office; whither, notwithstanding a little natural timidity + +consequent upon walking through the streets alone and unprotected, she + +arrived in perfect safety shortly afterwards. + + + +Entering by the back way, she tapped softly with the key at one of the + +cell-doors, and listened. There was no sound within: so she coughed and + +listened again. Still there was no reply: so she spoke. + + + +“Nolly, dear?” murmured Nancy in a gentle voice; “Nolly?” + + + +There was nobody inside but a miserable shoeless criminal, who had been + +taken up for playing the flute, and who, the offence against society + +having been clearly proved, had been very properly committed by Mr. + +Fang to the House of Correction for one month; with the appropriate and + +amusing remark that since he had so much breath to spare, it would be + +more wholesomely expended on the treadmill than in a musical + +instrument. He made no answer: being occupied mentally bewailing the + +loss of the flute, which had been confiscated for the use of the + +county: so Nancy passed on to the next cell, and knocked there. + + + +“Well!” cried a faint and feeble voice. + + + +“Is there a little boy here?” inquired Nancy, with a preliminary sob. + + + +“No,” replied the voice; “God forbid.” + + + +This was a vagrant of sixty-five, who was going to prison for _not_ + +playing the flute; or, in other words, for begging in the streets, and + +doing nothing for his livelihood. In the next cell was another man, who + +was going to the same prison for hawking tin saucepans without license; + +thereby doing something for his living, in defiance of the + +Stamp-office. + + + +But, as neither of these criminals answered to the name of Oliver, or + +knew anything about him, Nancy made straight up to the bluff officer in + +the striped waistcoat; and with the most piteous wailings and + +lamentations, rendered more piteous by a prompt and efficient use of + +the street-door key and the little basket, demanded her own dear + +brother. + + + +“I haven’t got him, my dear,” said the old man. + + + +“Where is he?” screamed Nancy, in a distracted manner. + + + +“Why, the gentleman’s got him,” replied the officer. + + + +“What gentleman! Oh, gracious heavens! What gentleman?” exclaimed + +Nancy. + + + +In reply to this incoherent questioning, the old man informed the + +deeply affected sister that Oliver had been taken ill in the office, + +and discharged in consequence of a witness having proved the robbery to + +have been committed by another boy, not in custody; and that the + +prosecutor had carried him away, in an insensible condition, to his own + +residence: of and concerning which, all the informant knew was, that it + +was somewhere in Pentonville, he having heard that word mentioned in + +the directions to the coachman. + + + +In a dreadful state of doubt and uncertainty, the agonised young woman + +staggered to the gate, and then, exchanging her faltering walk for a + +swift run, returned by the most devious and complicated route she could + +think of, to the domicile of the Jew. + + + +Mr. Bill Sikes no sooner heard the account of the expedition delivered, + +than he very hastily called up the white dog, and, putting on his hat, + +expeditiously departed: without devoting any time to the formality of + +wishing the company good-morning. + + + +“We must know where he is, my dears; he must be found,” said the Jew + +greatly excited. “Charley, do nothing but skulk about, till you bring + +home some news of him! Nancy, my dear, I must have him found. I trust + +to you, my dear,—to you and the Artful for everything! Stay, stay,” + +added the Jew, unlocking a drawer with a shaking hand; “there’s money, + +my dears. I shall shut up this shop tonight. You’ll know where to find + +me! Don’t stop here a minute. Not an instant, my dears!” + + + +With these words, he pushed them from the room: and carefully + +double-locking and barring the door behind them, drew from its place of + +concealment the box which he had unintentionally disclosed to Oliver. + +Then, he hastily proceeded to dispose the watches and jewellery beneath + +his clothing. + + + +A rap at the door startled him in this occupation. “Who’s there?” he + +cried in a shrill tone. + + + +“Me!” replied the voice of the Dodger, through the key-hole. + + + +“What now?” cried the Jew impatiently. + + + +“Is he to be kidnapped to the other ken, Nancy says?” inquired the + +Dodger. + + + +“Yes,” replied the Jew, “wherever she lays hands on him. Find him, find + +him out, that’s all. I shall know what to do next; never fear.” + + + +The boy murmured a reply of intelligence: and hurried downstairs after + +his companions. + + + +“He has not peached so far,” said the Jew as he pursued his occupation. + +“If he means to blab us among his new friends, we may stop his mouth + +yet.” + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XIV. + +COMPRISING FURTHER PARTICULARS OF OLIVER’S STAY AT MR. BROWNLOW’S, WITH + +THE REMARKABLE PREDICTION WHICH ONE MR. GRIMWIG UTTERED CONCERNING HIM, + +WHEN HE WENT OUT ON AN ERRAND + + + + + +Oliver soon recovering from the fainting-fit into which Mr. Brownlow’s + +abrupt exclamation had thrown him, the subject of the picture was + +carefully avoided, both by the old gentleman and Mrs. Bedwin, in the + +conversation that ensued: which indeed bore no reference to Oliver’s + +history or prospects, but was confined to such topics as might amuse + +without exciting him. He was still too weak to get up to breakfast; + +but, when he came down into the housekeeper’s room next day, his first + +act was to cast an eager glance at the wall, in the hope of again + +looking on the face of the beautiful lady. His expectations were + +disappointed, however, for the picture had been removed. + + + +“Ah!” said the housekeeper, watching the direction of Oliver’s eyes. + +“It is gone, you see.” + + + +“I see it is ma’am,” replied Oliver. “Why have they taken it away?” + + + +“It has been taken down, child, because Mr. Brownlow said, that as it + +seemed to worry you, perhaps it might prevent your getting well, you + +know,” rejoined the old lady. + + + +“Oh, no, indeed. It didn’t worry me, ma’am,” said Oliver. “I liked to + +see it. I quite loved it.” + + + +“Well, well!” said the old lady, good-humouredly; “you get well as fast + +as ever you can, dear, and it shall be hung up again. There! I promise + +you that! Now, let us talk about something else.” + + + +This was all the information Oliver could obtain about the picture at + +that time. As the old lady had been so kind to him in his illness, he + +endeavoured to think no more of the subject just then; so he listened + +attentively to a great many stories she told him, about an amiable and + +handsome daughter of hers, who was married to an amiable and handsome + +man, and lived in the country; and about a son, who was clerk to a + +merchant in the West Indies; and who was, also, such a good young man, + +and wrote such dutiful letters home four times a year, that it brought + +the tears into her eyes to talk about them. When the old lady had + +expatiated, a long time, on the excellences of her children, and the + +merits of her kind good husband besides, who had been dead and gone, + +poor dear soul! just six-and-twenty years, it was time to have tea. + +After tea she began to teach Oliver cribbage: which he learnt as + +quickly as she could teach: and at which game they played, with great + +interest and gravity, until it was time for the invalid to have some + +warm wine and water, with a slice of dry toast, and then to go cosily + +to bed. + + + +They were happy days, those of Oliver’s recovery. Everything was so + +quiet, and neat, and orderly; everybody so kind and gentle; that after + +the noise and turbulence in the midst of which he had always lived, it + +seemed like Heaven itself. He was no sooner strong enough to put his + +clothes on, properly, than Mr. Brownlow caused a complete new suit, and + +a new cap, and a new pair of shoes, to be provided for him. As Oliver + +was told that he might do what he liked with the old clothes, he gave + +them to a servant who had been very kind to him, and asked her to sell + +them to a Jew, and keep the money for herself. This she very readily + +did; and, as Oliver looked out of the parlour window, and saw the Jew + +roll them up in his bag and walk away, he felt quite delighted to think + +that they were safely gone, and that there was now no possible danger + +of his ever being able to wear them again. They were sad rags, to tell + +the truth; and Oliver had never had a new suit before. + + + +One evening, about a week after the affair of the picture, as he was + +sitting talking to Mrs. Bedwin, there came a message down from Mr. + +Brownlow, that if Oliver Twist felt pretty well, he should like to see + +him in his study, and talk to him a little while. + + + +“Bless us, and save us! Wash your hands, and let me part your hair + +nicely for you, child,” said Mrs. Bedwin. “Dear heart alive! If we had + +known he would have asked for you, we would have put you a clean collar + +on, and made you as smart as sixpence!” + + + +Oliver did as the old lady bade him; and, although she lamented + +grievously, meanwhile, that there was not even time to crimp the little + +frill that bordered his shirt-collar; he looked so delicate and + +handsome, despite that important personal advantage, that she went so + +far as to say: looking at him with great complacency from head to foot, + +that she really didn’t think it would have been possible, on the + +longest notice, to have made much difference in him for the better. + + + +Thus encouraged, Oliver tapped at the study door. On Mr. Brownlow + +calling to him to come in, he found himself in a little back room, + +quite full of books, with a window, looking into some pleasant little + +gardens. There was a table drawn up before the window, at which Mr. + +Brownlow was seated reading. When he saw Oliver, he pushed the book + +away from him, and told him to come near the table, and sit down. + +Oliver complied; marvelling where the people could be found to read + +such a great number of books as seemed to be written to make the world + +wiser. Which is still a marvel to more experienced people than Oliver + +Twist, every day of their lives. + + + +“There are a good many books, are there not, my boy?” said Mr. + +Brownlow, observing the curiosity with which Oliver surveyed the + +shelves that reached from the floor to the ceiling. + + + +“A great number, sir,” replied Oliver. “I never saw so many.” + + + +“You shall read them, if you behave well,” said the old gentleman + +kindly; “and you will like that, better than looking at the + +outsides,—that is, some cases; because there are books of which the + +backs and covers are by far the best parts.” + + + +“I suppose they are those heavy ones, sir,” said Oliver, pointing to + +some large quartos, with a good deal of gilding about the binding. + + + +“Not always those,” said the old gentleman, patting Oliver on the head, + +and smiling as he did so; “there are other equally heavy ones, though + +of a much smaller size. How should you like to grow up a clever man, + +and write books, eh?” + + + +“I think I would rather read them, sir,” replied Oliver. + + + +“What! wouldn’t you like to be a book-writer?” said the old gentleman. + + + +Oliver considered a little while; and at last said, he should think it + +would be a much better thing to be a book-seller; upon which the old + +gentleman laughed heartily, and declared he had said a very good thing. + +Which Oliver felt glad to have done, though he by no means knew what it + +was. + + + +“Well, well,” said the old gentleman, composing his features. “Don’t be + +afraid! We won’t make an author of you, while there’s an honest trade + +to be learnt, or brick-making to turn to.” + + + +“Thank you, sir,” said Oliver. At the earnest manner of his reply, the + +old gentleman laughed again; and said something about a curious + +instinct, which Oliver, not understanding, paid no very great attention + +to. + + + +“Now,” said Mr. Brownlow, speaking if possible in a kinder, but at the + +same time in a much more serious manner, than Oliver had ever known him + +assume yet, “I want you to pay great attention, my boy, to what I am + +going to say. I shall talk to you without any reserve; because I am + +sure you are well able to understand me, as many older persons would + +be.” + + + +“Oh, don’t tell you are going to send me away, sir, pray!” exclaimed + +Oliver, alarmed at the serious tone of the old gentleman’s + +commencement! “Don’t turn me out of doors to wander in the streets + +again. Let me stay here, and be a servant. Don’t send me back to the + +wretched place I came from. Have mercy upon a poor boy, sir!” + + + +“My dear child,” said the old gentleman, moved by the warmth of + +Oliver’s sudden appeal; “you need not be afraid of my deserting you, + +unless you give me cause.” + + + +“I never, never will, sir,” interposed Oliver. + + + +“I hope not,” rejoined the old gentleman. “I do not think you ever + +will. I have been deceived, before, in the objects whom I have + +endeavoured to benefit; but I feel strongly disposed to trust you, + +nevertheless; and I am more interested in your behalf than I can well + +account for, even to myself. The persons on whom I have bestowed my + +dearest love, lie deep in their graves; but, although the happiness and + +delight of my life lie buried there too, I have not made a coffin of my + +heart, and sealed it up, forever, on my best affections. Deep + +affliction has but strengthened and refined them.” + + + +As the old gentleman said this in a low voice: more to himself than to + +his companion: and as he remained silent for a short time afterwards: + +Oliver sat quite still. + + + +“Well, well!” said the old gentleman at length, in a more cheerful + +tone, “I only say this, because you have a young heart; and knowing + +that I have suffered great pain and sorrow, you will be more careful, + +perhaps, not to wound me again. You say you are an orphan, without a + +friend in the world; all the inquiries I have been able to make, + +confirm the statement. Let me hear your story; where you come from; who + +brought you up; and how you got into the company in which I found you. + +Speak the truth, and you shall not be friendless while I live.” + + + +Oliver’s sobs checked his utterance for some minutes; when he was on + +the point of beginning to relate how he had been brought up at the + +farm, and carried to the workhouse by Mr. Bumble, a peculiarly + +impatient little double-knock was heard at the street-door: and the + +servant, running upstairs, announced Mr. Grimwig. + + + +“Is he coming up?” inquired Mr. Brownlow. + + + +“Yes, sir,” replied the servant. “He asked if there were any muffins in + +the house; and, when I told him yes, he said he had come to tea.” + + + +Mr. Brownlow smiled; and, turning to Oliver, said that Mr. Grimwig was + +an old friend of his, and he must not mind his being a little rough in + +his manners; for he was a worthy creature at bottom, as he had reason + +to know. + + + +“Shall I go downstairs, sir?” inquired Oliver. + + + +“No,” replied Mr. Brownlow, “I would rather you remained here.” + + + +At this moment, there walked into the room: supporting himself by a + +thick stick: a stout old gentleman, rather lame in one leg, who was + +dressed in a blue coat, striped waistcoat, nankeen breeches and + +gaiters, and a broad-brimmed white hat, with the sides turned up with + +green. A very small-plaited shirt frill stuck out from his waistcoat; + +and a very long steel watch-chain, with nothing but a key at the end, + +dangled loosely below it. The ends of his white neckerchief were + +twisted into a ball about the size of an orange; the variety of shapes + +into which his countenance was twisted, defy description. He had a + +manner of screwing his head on one side when he spoke; and of looking + +out of the corners of his eyes at the same time: which irresistibly + +reminded the beholder of a parrot. In this attitude, he fixed himself, + +the moment he made his appearance; and, holding out a small piece of + +orange-peel at arm’s length, exclaimed, in a growling, discontented + +voice, + + + +“Look here! do you see this! Isn’t it a most wonderful and + +extraordinary thing that I can’t call at a man’s house but I find a + +piece of this poor surgeon’s friend on the staircase? I’ve been lamed + +with orange-peel once, and I know orange-peel will be my death, or I’ll + +be content to eat my own head, sir!” + + + +This was the handsome offer with which Mr. Grimwig backed and confirmed + +nearly every assertion he made; and it was the more singular in his + +case, because, even admitting for the sake of argument, the possibility + +of scientific improvements being brought to that pass which will enable + +a gentleman to eat his own head in the event of his being so disposed, + +Mr. Grimwig’s head was such a particularly large one, that the most + +sanguine man alive could hardly entertain a hope of being able to get + +through it at a sitting—to put entirely out of the question, a very + +thick coating of powder. + + + +“I’ll eat my head, sir,” repeated Mr. Grimwig, striking his stick upon + +the ground. “Hallo! what’s that!” looking at Oliver, and retreating a + +pace or two. + + + +“This is young Oliver Twist, whom we were speaking about,” said Mr. + +Brownlow. + + + +Oliver bowed. + + + +“You don’t mean to say that’s the boy who had the fever, I hope?” said + +Mr. Grimwig, recoiling a little more. “Wait a minute! Don’t speak! + +Stop—” continued Mr. Grimwig, abruptly, losing all dread of the fever + +in his triumph at the discovery; “that’s the boy who had the orange! If + +that’s not the boy, sir, who had the orange, and threw this bit of peel + +upon the staircase, I’ll eat my head, and his too.” + + + +“No, no, he has not had one,” said Mr. Brownlow, laughing. “Come! Put + +down your hat; and speak to my young friend.” + + + +“I feel strongly on this subject, sir,” said the irritable old + +gentleman, drawing off his gloves. “There’s always more or less + +orange-peel on the pavement in our street; and I _know_ it’s put there + +by the surgeon’s boy at the corner. A young woman stumbled over a bit + +last night, and fell against my garden-railings; directly she got up I + +saw her look towards his infernal red lamp with the pantomime-light. + +‘Don’t go to him,’ I called out of the window, ‘he’s an assassin! A + +man-trap!’ So he is. If he is not—” Here the irascible old gentleman + +gave a great knock on the ground with his stick; which was always + +understood, by his friends, to imply the customary offer, whenever it + +was not expressed in words. Then, still keeping his stick in his hand, + +he sat down; and, opening a double eye-glass, which he wore attached to + +a broad black riband, took a view of Oliver: who, seeing that he was + +the object of inspection, coloured, and bowed again. + + + +“That’s the boy, is it?” said Mr. Grimwig, at length. + + + +“That’s the boy,” replied Mr. Brownlow. + + + +“How are you, boy?” said Mr. Grimwig. + + + +“A great deal better, thank you, sir,” replied Oliver. + + + +Mr. Brownlow, seeming to apprehend that his singular friend was about + +to say something disagreeable, asked Oliver to step downstairs and tell + +Mrs. Bedwin they were ready for tea; which, as he did not half like the + +visitor’s manner, he was very happy to do. + + + +“He is a nice-looking boy, is he not?” inquired Mr. Brownlow. + + + +“I don’t know,” replied Mr. Grimwig, pettishly. + + + +“Don’t know?” + + + +“No. I don’t know. I never see any difference in boys. I only knew two + +sort of boys. Mealy boys, and beef-faced boys.” + + + +“And which is Oliver?” + + + +“Mealy. I know a friend who has a beef-faced boy; a fine boy, they call + +him; with a round head, and red cheeks, and glaring eyes; a horrid boy; + +with a body and limbs that appear to be swelling out of the seams of + +his blue clothes; with the voice of a pilot, and the appetite of a + +wolf. I know him! The wretch!” + + + +“Come,” said Mr. Brownlow, “these are not the characteristics of young + +Oliver Twist; so he needn’t excite your wrath.” + + + +“They are not,” replied Mr. Grimwig. “He may have worse.” + + + +Here, Mr. Brownlow coughed impatiently; which appeared to afford Mr. + +Grimwig the most exquisite delight. + + + +“He may have worse, I say,” repeated Mr. Grimwig. “Where does he come + +from! Who is he? What is he? He has had a fever. What of that? Fevers + +are not peculiar to good people; are they? Bad people have fevers + +sometimes; haven’t they, eh? I knew a man who was hung in Jamaica for + +murdering his master. He had had a fever six times; he wasn’t + +recommended to mercy on that account. Pooh! nonsense!” + + + +Now, the fact was, that in the inmost recesses of his own heart, Mr. + +Grimwig was strongly disposed to admit that Oliver’s appearance and + +manner were unusually prepossessing; but he had a strong appetite for + +contradiction, sharpened on this occasion by the finding of the + +orange-peel; and, inwardly determining that no man should dictate to + +him whether a boy was well-looking or not, he had resolved, from the + +first, to oppose his friend. When Mr. Brownlow admitted that on no one + +point of inquiry could he yet return a satisfactory answer; and that he + +had postponed any investigation into Oliver’s previous history until he + +thought the boy was strong enough to hear it; Mr. Grimwig chuckled + +maliciously. And he demanded, with a sneer, whether the housekeeper was + +in the habit of counting the plate at night; because if she didn’t find + +a table-spoon or two missing some sunshiny morning, why, he would be + +content to—and so forth. + + + +All this, Mr. Brownlow, although himself somewhat of an impetuous + +gentleman: knowing his friend’s peculiarities, bore with great good + +humour; as Mr. Grimwig, at tea, was graciously pleased to express his + +entire approval of the muffins, matters went on very smoothly; and + +Oliver, who made one of the party, began to feel more at his ease than + +he had yet done in the fierce old gentleman’s presence. + + + +“And when are you going to hear a full, true, and particular account of + +the life and adventures of Oliver Twist?” asked Grimwig of Mr. + +Brownlow, at the conclusion of the meal; looking sideways at Oliver, as + +he resumed his subject. + + + +“Tomorrow morning,” replied Mr. Brownlow. “I would rather he was alone + +with me at the time. Come up to me tomorrow morning at ten o’clock, my + +dear.” + + + +“Yes, sir,” replied Oliver. He answered with some hesitation, because + +he was confused by Mr. Grimwig’s looking so hard at him. + + + +“I’ll tell you what,” whispered that gentleman to Mr. Brownlow; “he + +won’t come up to you tomorrow morning. I saw him hesitate. He is + +deceiving you, my good friend.” + + + +“I’ll swear he is not,” replied Mr. Brownlow, warmly. + + + +“If he is not,” said Mr. Grimwig, “I’ll—” and down went the stick. + + + +“I’ll answer for that boy’s truth with my life!” said Mr. Brownlow, + +knocking the table. + + + +“And I for his falsehood with my head!” rejoined Mr. Grimwig, knocking + +the table also. + + + +“We shall see,” said Mr. Brownlow, checking his rising anger. + + + +“We will,” replied Mr. Grimwig, with a provoking smile; “we will.” + + + +As fate would have it, Mrs. Bedwin chanced to bring in, at this moment, + +a small parcel of books, which Mr. Brownlow had that morning purchased + +of the identical bookstall-keeper, who has already figured in this + +history; having laid them on the table, she prepared to leave the room. + + + +“Stop the boy, Mrs. Bedwin!” said Mr. Brownlow; “there is something to + +go back.” + + + +“He has gone, sir,” replied Mrs. Bedwin. + + + +“Call after him,” said Mr. Brownlow; “it’s particular. He is a poor + +man, and they are not paid for. There are some books to be taken back, + +too.” + + + +The street-door was opened. Oliver ran one way; and the girl ran + +another; and Mrs. Bedwin stood on the step and screamed for the boy; + +but there was no boy in sight. Oliver and the girl returned, in a + +breathless state, to report that there were no tidings of him. + + + +“Dear me, I am very sorry for that,” exclaimed Mr. Brownlow; “I + +particularly wished those books to be returned tonight.” + + + +“Send Oliver with them,” said Mr. Grimwig, with an ironical smile; “he + +will be sure to deliver them safely, you know.” + + + +“Yes; do let me take them, if you please, sir,” said Oliver. “I’ll run + +all the way, sir.” + + + +The old gentleman was just going to say that Oliver should not go out + +on any account; when a most malicious cough from Mr. Grimwig determined + +him that he should; and that, by his prompt discharge of the + +commission, he should prove to him the injustice of his suspicions: on + +this head at least: at once. + + + +“You _shall_ go, my dear,” said the old gentleman. “The books are on a + +chair by my table. Fetch them down.” + + + +Oliver, delighted to be of use, brought down the books under his arm in + +a great bustle; and waited, cap in hand, to hear what message he was to + +take. + + + +“You are to say,” said Mr. Brownlow, glancing steadily at Grimwig; “you + +are to say that you have brought those books back; and that you have + +come to pay the four pound ten I owe him. This is a five-pound note, so + +you will have to bring me back, ten shillings change.” + + + +“I won’t be ten minutes, sir,” said Oliver, eagerly. Having buttoned up + +the bank-note in his jacket pocket, and placed the books carefully + +under his arm, he made a respectful bow, and left the room. Mrs. Bedwin + +followed him to the street-door, giving him many directions about the + +nearest way, and the name of the bookseller, and the name of the + +street: all of which Oliver said he clearly understood. Having + +superadded many injunctions to be sure and not take cold, the old lady + +at length permitted him to depart. + + + +“Bless his sweet face!” said the old lady, looking after him. “I can’t + +bear, somehow, to let him go out of my sight.” + + + +At this moment, Oliver looked gaily round, and nodded before he turned + +the corner. The old lady smilingly returned his salutation, and, + +closing the door, went back to her own room. + + + +“Let me see; he’ll be back in twenty minutes, at the longest,” said Mr. + +Brownlow, pulling out his watch, and placing it on the table. “It will + +be dark by that time.” + + + +“Oh! you really expect him to come back, do you?” inquired Mr. Grimwig. + + + +“Don’t you?” asked Mr. Brownlow, smiling. + + + +The spirit of contradiction was strong in Mr. Grimwig’s breast, at the + +moment; and it was rendered stronger by his friend’s confident smile. + + + +“No,” he said, smiting the table with his fist, “I do not. The boy has + +a new suit of clothes on his back, a set of valuable books under his + +arm, and a five-pound note in his pocket. He’ll join his old friends + +the thieves, and laugh at you. If ever that boy returns to this house, + +sir, I’ll eat my head.” + + + +With these words he drew his chair closer to the table; and there the + +two friends sat, in silent expectation, with the watch between them. + + + +It is worthy of remark, as illustrating the importance we attach to our + +own judgments, and the pride with which we put forth our most rash and + +hasty conclusions, that, although Mr. Grimwig was not by any means a + +bad-hearted man, and though he would have been unfeignedly sorry to see + +his respected friend duped and deceived, he really did most earnestly + +and strongly hope at that moment, that Oliver Twist might not come + +back. + + + +It grew so dark, that the figures on the dial-plate were scarcely + +discernible; but there the two old gentlemen continued to sit, in + +silence, with the watch between them. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XV. + +SHOWING HOW VERY FOND OF OLIVER TWIST, THE MERRY OLD JEW AND MISS NANCY + +WERE + + + + + +In the obscure parlour of a low public-house, in the filthiest part of + +Little Saffron Hill; a dark and gloomy den, where a flaring gas-light + +burnt all day in the winter-time; and where no ray of sun ever shone in + +the summer: there sat, brooding over a little pewter measure and a + +small glass, strongly impregnated with the smell of liquor, a man in a + +velveteen coat, drab shorts, half-boots and stockings, whom even by + +that dim light no experienced agent of the police would have hesitated + +to recognise as Mr. William Sikes. At his feet, sat a white-coated, + +red-eyed dog; who occupied himself, alternately, in winking at his + +master with both eyes at the same time; and in licking a large, fresh + +cut on one side of his mouth, which appeared to be the result of some + +recent conflict. + + + +“Keep quiet, you warmint! Keep quiet!” said Mr. Sikes, suddenly + +breaking silence. Whether his meditations were so intense as to be + +disturbed by the dog’s winking, or whether his feelings were so wrought + +upon by his reflections that they required all the relief derivable + +from kicking an unoffending animal to allay them, is matter for + +argument and consideration. Whatever was the cause, the effect was a + +kick and a curse, bestowed upon the dog simultaneously. + + + +Dogs are not generally apt to revenge injuries inflicted upon them by + +their masters; but Mr. Sikes’s dog, having faults of temper in common + +with his owner, and labouring, perhaps, at this moment, under a + +powerful sense of injury, made no more ado but at once fixed his teeth + +in one of the half-boots. Having given in a hearty shake, he retired, + +growling, under a form; just escaping the pewter measure which Mr. + +Sikes levelled at his head. + + + +“You would, would you?” said Sikes, seizing the poker in one hand, and + +deliberately opening with the other a large clasp-knife, which he drew + +from his pocket. “Come here, you born devil! Come here! D’ye hear?” + + + +The dog no doubt heard; because Mr. Sikes spoke in the very harshest + +key of a very harsh voice; but, appearing to entertain some + +unaccountable objection to having his throat cut, he remained where he + +was, and growled more fiercely than before: at the same time grasping + +the end of the poker between his teeth, and biting at it like a wild + +beast. + + + +This resistance only infuriated Mr. Sikes the more; who, dropping on + +his knees, began to assail the animal most furiously. The dog jumped + +from right to left, and from left to right; snapping, growling, and + +barking; the man thrust and swore, and struck and blasphemed; and the + +struggle was reaching a most critical point for one or other; when, the + +door suddenly opening, the dog darted out: leaving Bill Sikes with the + +poker and the clasp-knife in his hands. + + + +There must always be two parties to a quarrel, says the old adage. Mr. + +Sikes, being disappointed of the dog’s participation, at once + +transferred his share in the quarrel to the new comer. + + + +“What the devil do you come in between me and my dog for?” said Sikes, + +with a fierce gesture. + + + +“I didn’t know, my dear, I didn’t know,” replied Fagin, humbly; for the + +Jew was the new comer. + + + +“Didn’t know, you white-livered thief!” growled Sikes. “Couldn’t you + +hear the noise?” + + + +“Not a sound of it, as I’m a living man, Bill,” replied the Jew. + + + +“Oh no! You hear nothing, you don’t,” retorted Sikes with a fierce + +sneer. “Sneaking in and out, so as nobody hears how you come or go! I + +wish you had been the dog, Fagin, half a minute ago.” + + + +“Why?” inquired the Jew with a forced smile. + + + +“’Cause the government, as cares for the lives of such men as you, as + +haven’t half the pluck of curs, lets a man kill a dog how he likes,” + +replied Sikes, shutting up the knife with a very expressive look; + +“that’s why.” + + + +The Jew rubbed his hands; and, sitting down at the table, affected to + +laugh at the pleasantry of his friend. He was obviously very ill at + +ease, however. + + + +“Grin away,” said Sikes, replacing the poker, and surveying him with + +savage contempt; “grin away. You’ll never have the laugh at me, though, + +unless it’s behind a nightcap. I’ve got the upper hand over you, Fagin; + +and, d—me, I’ll keep it. There! If I go, you go; so take care of me.” + + + +“Well, well, my dear,” said the Jew, “I know all that; we—we—have a + +mutual interest, Bill,—a mutual interest.” + + + +“Humph,” said Sikes, as if he thought the interest lay rather more on + +the Jew’s side than on his. “Well, what have you got to say to me?” + + + +“It’s all passed safe through the melting-pot,” replied Fagin, “and + +this is your share. It’s rather more than it ought to be, my dear; but + +as I know you’ll do me a good turn another time, and—” + + + +“Stow that gammon,” interposed the robber, impatiently. “Where is it? + +Hand over!” + + + +“Yes, yes, Bill; give me time, give me time,” replied the Jew, + +soothingly. “Here it is! All safe!” As he spoke, he drew forth an old + +cotton handkerchief from his breast; and untying a large knot in one + +corner, produced a small brown-paper packet. Sikes, snatching it from + +him, hastily opened it; and proceeded to count the sovereigns it + +contained. + + + +“This is all, is it?” inquired Sikes. + + + +“All,” replied the Jew. + + + +“You haven’t opened the parcel and swallowed one or two as you come + +along, have you?” inquired Sikes, suspiciously. “Don’t put on an + +injured look at the question; you’ve done it many a time. Jerk the + +tinkler.” + + + +These words, in plain English, conveyed an injunction to ring the bell. + +It was answered by another Jew: younger than Fagin, but nearly as vile + +and repulsive in appearance. + + + +Bill Sikes merely pointed to the empty measure. The Jew, perfectly + +understanding the hint, retired to fill it: previously exchanging a + +remarkable look with Fagin, who raised his eyes for an instant, as if + +in expectation of it, and shook his head in reply; so slightly that the + +action would have been almost imperceptible to an observant third + +person. It was lost upon Sikes, who was stooping at the moment to tie + +the boot-lace which the dog had torn. Possibly, if he had observed the + +brief interchange of signals, he might have thought that it boded no + +good to him. + + + +“Is anybody here, Barney?” inquired Fagin; speaking, now that + +Sikes was looking on, without raising his eyes from the ground. + + + +“Dot a shoul,” replied Barney; whose words: whether they came from the + +heart or not: made their way through the nose. + + + +“Nobody?” inquired Fagin, in a tone of surprise: which perhaps might + +mean that Barney was at liberty to tell the truth. + + + +“Dobody but Biss Dadsy,” replied Barney. + + + +“Nancy!” exclaimed Sikes. “Where? Strike me blind, if I don’t honour + +that ’ere girl, for her native talents.” + + + +“She’s bid havid a plate of boiled beef id the bar,” replied Barney. + + + +“Send her here,” said Sikes, pouring out a glass of liquor. “Send her + +here.” + + + +Barney looked timidly at Fagin, as if for permission; the Jew remaining + +silent, and not lifting his eyes from the ground, he retired; and + +presently returned, ushering in Nancy; who was decorated with the + +bonnet, apron, basket, and street-door key, complete. + + + +“You are on the scent, are you, Nancy?” inquired Sikes, proffering the + +glass. + + + +“Yes, I am, Bill,” replied the young lady, disposing of its contents; + +“and tired enough of it I am, too. The young brat’s been ill and + +confined to the crib; and—” + + + +“Ah, Nancy, dear!” said Fagin, looking up. + + + +Now, whether a peculiar contraction of the Jew’s red eye-brows, and a + +half closing of his deeply-set eyes, warned Miss Nancy that she was + +disposed to be too communicative, is not a matter of much importance. + +The fact is all we need care for here; and the fact is, that she + +suddenly checked herself, and with several gracious smiles upon Mr. + +Sikes, turned the conversation to other matters. In about ten minutes’ + +time, Mr. Fagin was seized with a fit of coughing; upon which Nancy + +pulled her shawl over her shoulders, and declared it was time to go. + +Mr. Sikes, finding that he was walking a short part of her way himself, + +expressed his intention of accompanying her; they went away together, + +followed, at a little distant, by the dog, who slunk out of a back-yard + +as soon as his master was out of sight. + + + +The Jew thrust his head out of the room door when Sikes had left it; + +looked after him as he walked up the dark passage; shook his clenched + +fist; muttered a deep curse; and then, with a horrible grin, reseated + +himself at the table; where he was soon deeply absorbed in the + +interesting pages of the Hue-and-Cry. + + + +Meanwhile, Oliver Twist, little dreaming that he was within so very + +short a distance of the merry old gentleman, was on his way to the + +book-stall. When he got into Clerkenwell, he accidently turned down a + +by-street which was not exactly in his way; but not discovering his + +mistake until he had got half-way down it, and knowing it must lead in + +the right direction, he did not think it worth while to turn back; and + +so marched on, as quickly as he could, with the books under his arm. + + + +He was walking along, thinking how happy and contented he ought to + +feel; and how much he would give for only one look at poor little Dick, + +who, starved and beaten, might be weeping bitterly at that very moment; + +when he was startled by a young woman screaming out very loud. “Oh, my + +dear brother!” And he had hardly looked up, to see what the matter was, + +when he was stopped by having a pair of arms thrown tight round his + +neck. + + + +“Don’t,” cried Oliver, struggling. “Let go of me. Who is it? What are + +you stopping me for?” + + + +The only reply to this, was a great number of loud lamentations from + +the young woman who had embraced him; and who had a little basket and a + +street-door key in her hand. + + + +“Oh my gracious!” said the young woman, “I have found him! Oh! Oliver! + +Oliver! Oh you naughty boy, to make me suffer such distress on your + +account! Come home, dear, come. Oh, I’ve found him. Thank gracious + +goodness heavins, I’ve found him!” With these incoherent exclamations, + +the young woman burst into another fit of crying, and got so dreadfully + +hysterical, that a couple of women who came up at the moment asked a + +butcher’s boy with a shiny head of hair anointed with suet, who was + +also looking on, whether he didn’t think he had better run for the + +doctor. To which, the butcher’s boy: who appeared of a lounging, not to + +say indolent disposition: replied, that he thought not. + + + +“Oh, no, no, never mind,” said the young woman, grasping Oliver’s hand; + +“I’m better now. Come home directly, you cruel boy! Come!” + + + +“Oh, ma’am,” replied the young woman, “he ran away, near a month ago, + +from his parents, who are hard-working and respectable people; and went + +and joined a set of thieves and bad characters; and almost broke his + +mother’s heart.” + + + +“Young wretch!” said one woman. + + + +“Go home, do, you little brute,” said the other. + + + +“I am not,” replied Oliver, greatly alarmed. “I don’t know her. I + +haven’t any sister, or father and mother either. I’m an orphan; I live + +at Pentonville.” + + + +“Only hear him, how he braves it out!” cried the young woman. + + + +“Why, it’s Nancy!” exclaimed Oliver; who now saw her face for the first + +time; and started back, in irrepressible astonishment. + + + +“You see he knows me!” cried Nancy, appealing to the bystanders. “He + +can’t help himself. Make him come home, there’s good people, or he’ll + +kill his dear mother and father, and break my heart!” + + + +“What the devil’s this?” said a man, bursting out of a beer-shop, with + +a white dog at his heels; “young Oliver! Come home to your poor mother, + +you young dog! Come home directly.” + + + +“I don’t belong to them. I don’t know them. Help! help!” cried Oliver, + +struggling in the man’s powerful grasp. + + + +“Help!” repeated the man. “Yes; I’ll help you, you young rascal! What + +books are these? You’ve been a stealing ’em, have you? Give ’em here.” + +With these words, the man tore the volumes from his grasp, and struck + +him on the head. + + + +“That’s right!” cried a looker-on, from a garret-window. “That’s the + +only way of bringing him to his senses!” + + + +“To be sure!” cried a sleepy-faced carpenter, casting an approving look + +at the garret-window. + + + +“It’ll do him good!” said the two women. + + + +“And he shall have it, too!” rejoined the man, administering another + +blow, and seizing Oliver by the collar. “Come on, you young villain! + +Here, Bull’s-eye, mind him, boy! Mind him!” + + + +Weak with recent illness; stupified by the blows and the suddenness of + +the attack; terrified by the fierce growling of the dog, and the + +brutality of the man; overpowered by the conviction of the bystanders + +that he really was the hardened little wretch he was described to be; + +what could one poor child do! Darkness had set in; it was a low + +neighborhood; no help was near; resistance was useless. In another + +moment he was dragged into a labyrinth of dark narrow courts, and was + +forced along them at a pace which rendered the few cries he dared to + +give utterance to, unintelligible. It was of little moment, indeed, + +whether they were intelligible or no; for there was nobody to care for + +them, had they been ever so plain. + + + + + +The gas-lamps were lighted; Mrs. Bedwin was waiting anxiously at the + +open door; the servant had run up the street twenty times to see if + +there were any traces of Oliver; and still the two old gentlemen sat, + +perseveringly, in the dark parlour, with the watch between them. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XVI. + +RELATES WHAT BECAME OF OLIVER TWIST, AFTER HE HAD BEEN CLAIMED BY NANCY + + + + + +The narrow streets and courts, at length, terminated in a large open + +space; scattered about which, were pens for beasts, and other + +indications of a cattle-market. Sikes slackened his pace when they + +reached this spot: the girl being quite unable to support any longer, + +the rapid rate at which they had hitherto walked. Turning to Oliver, he + +roughly commanded him to take hold of Nancy’s hand. + + + +“Do you hear?” growled Sikes, as Oliver hesitated, and looked round. + + + +They were in a dark corner, quite out of the track of passengers. + + + +Oliver saw, but too plainly, that resistance would be of no avail. He + +held out his hand, which Nancy clasped tight in hers. + + + +“Give me the other,” said Sikes, seizing Oliver’s unoccupied hand. + +“Here, Bull’s-Eye!” + + + +The dog looked up, and growled. + + + +“See here, boy!” said Sikes, putting his other hand to Oliver’s throat; + +“if he speaks ever so soft a word, hold him! D’ye mind!” + + + +The dog growled again; and licking his lips, eyed Oliver as if he were + +anxious to attach himself to his windpipe without delay. + + + +“He’s as willing as a Christian, strike me blind if he isn’t!” said + +Sikes, regarding the animal with a kind of grim and ferocious approval. + +“Now, you know what you’ve got to expect, master, so call away as quick + +as you like; the dog will soon stop that game. Get on, young ’un!” + + + +Bull’s-eye wagged his tail in acknowledgment of this unusually + +endearing form of speech; and, giving vent to another admonitory growl + +for the benefit of Oliver, led the way onward. + + + +It was Smithfield that they were crossing, although it might have been + +Grosvenor Square, for anything Oliver knew to the contrary. The night + +was dark and foggy. The lights in the shops could scarecely struggle + +through the heavy mist, which thickened every moment and shrouded the + +streets and houses in gloom; rendering the strange place still stranger + +in Oliver’s eyes; and making his uncertainty the more dismal and + +depressing. + + + +They had hurried on a few paces, when a deep church-bell struck the + +hour. With its first stroke, his two conductors stopped, and turned + +their heads in the direction whence the sound proceeded. + + + +“Eight o’clock, Bill,” said Nancy, when the bell ceased. + + + +“What’s the good of telling me that; I can hear it, can’t I?” replied + +Sikes. + + + +“I wonder whether _they_ can hear it,” said Nancy. + + + +“Of course they can,” replied Sikes. “It was Bartlemy time when I was + +shopped; and there warn’t a penny trumpet in the fair, as I couldn’t + +hear the squeaking on. Arter I was locked up for the night, the row and + +din outside made the thundering old jail so silent, that I could almost + +have beat my brains out against the iron plates of the door.” + + + +“Poor fellow!” said Nancy, who still had her face turned towards the + +quarter in which the bell had sounded. “Oh, Bill, such fine young chaps + +as them!” + + + +“Yes; that’s all you women think of,” answered Sikes. “Fine young + +chaps! Well, they’re as good as dead, so it don’t much matter.” + + + +With this consolation, Mr. Sikes appeared to repress a rising tendency + +to jealousy, and, clasping Oliver’s wrist more firmly, told him to step + +out again. + + + +“Wait a minute!” said the girl: “I wouldn’t hurry by, if it was you + +that was coming out to be hung, the next time eight o’clock struck, + +Bill. I’d walk round and round the place till I dropped, if the snow + +was on the ground, and I hadn’t a shawl to cover me.” + + + +“And what good would that do?” inquired the unsentimental Mr. Sikes. + +“Unless you could pitch over a file and twenty yards of good stout + +rope, you might as well be walking fifty mile off, or not walking at + +all, for all the good it would do me. Come on, and don’t stand + +preaching there.” + + + +The girl burst into a laugh; drew her shawl more closely round her; and + +they walked away. But Oliver felt her hand tremble, and, looking up in + +her face as they passed a gas-lamp, saw that it had turned a deadly + +white. + + + +They walked on, by little-frequented and dirty ways, for a full + +half-hour: meeting very few people, and those appearing from their + +looks to hold much the same position in society as Mr. Sikes himself. + +At length they turned into a very filthy narrow street, nearly full of + +old-clothes shops; the dog running forward, as if conscious that there + +was no further occasion for his keeping on guard, stopped before the + +door of a shop that was closed and apparently untenanted; the house was + +in a ruinous condition, and on the door was nailed a board, intimating + +that it was to let: which looked as if it had hung there for many + +years. + + + +“All right,” cried Sikes, glancing cautiously about. + + + +Nancy stooped below the shutters, and Oliver heard the sound of a bell. + +They crossed to the opposite side of the street, and stood for a few + +moments under a lamp. A noise, as if a sash window were gently raised, + +was heard; and soon afterwards the door softly opened. Mr. Sikes then + +seized the terrified boy by the collar with very little ceremony; and + +all three were quickly inside the house. + + + +The passage was perfectly dark. They waited, while the person who had + +let them in, chained and barred the door. + + + +“Anybody here?” inquired Sikes. + + + +“No,” replied a voice, which Oliver thought he had heard before. + + + +“Is the old ’un here?” asked the robber. + + + +“Yes,” replied the voice, “and precious down in the mouth he has been. + +Won’t he be glad to see you? Oh, no!” + + + +The style of this reply, as well as the voice which delivered it, + +seemed familiar to Oliver’s ears: but it was impossible to distinguish + +even the form of the speaker in the darkness. + + + +“Let’s have a glim,” said Sikes, “or we shall go breaking our necks, or + +treading on the dog. Look after your legs if you do!” + + + +“Stand still a moment, and I’ll get you one,” replied the voice. The + +receding footsteps of the speaker were heard; and, in another minute, + +the form of Mr. John Dawkins, otherwise the Artful Dodger, appeared. He + +bore in his right hand a tallow candle stuck in the end of a cleft + +stick. + + + +The young gentleman did not stop to bestow any other mark of + +recognition upon Oliver than a humourous grin; but, turning away, + +beckoned the visitors to follow him down a flight of stairs. They + +crossed an empty kitchen; and, opening the door of a low + +earthy-smelling room, which seemed to have been built in a small + +back-yard, were received with a shout of laughter. + + + +“Oh, my wig, my wig!” cried Master Charles Bates, from whose lungs the + +laughter had proceeded: “here he is! oh, cry, here he is! Oh, Fagin, + +look at him! Fagin, do look at him! I can’t bear it; it is such a jolly + +game, I can’t bear it. Hold me, somebody, while I laugh it out.” + + + +With this irrepressible ebullition of mirth, Master Bates laid himself + +flat on the floor: and kicked convulsively for five minutes, in an + +ectasy of facetious joy. Then jumping to his feet, he snatched the + +cleft stick from the Dodger; and, advancing to Oliver, viewed him round + +and round; while the Jew, taking off his nightcap, made a great number + +of low bows to the bewildered boy. The Artful, meantime, who was of a + +rather saturnine disposition, and seldom gave way to merriment when it + +interfered with business, rifled Oliver’s pockets with steady + +assiduity. + + + +“Look at his togs, Fagin!” said Charley, putting the light so close to + +his new jacket as nearly to set him on fire. “Look at his togs! + +Superfine cloth, and the heavy swell cut! Oh, my eye, what a game! And + +his books, too! Nothing but a gentleman, Fagin!” + + + +“Delighted to see you looking so well, my dear,” said the Jew, bowing + +with mock humility. “The Artful shall give you another suit, my dear, + +for fear you should spoil that Sunday one. Why didn’t you write, my + +dear, and say you were coming? We’d have got something warm for + +supper.” + + + +At his, Master Bates roared again: so loud, that Fagin himself relaxed, + +and even the Dodger smiled; but as the Artful drew forth the five-pound + +note at that instant, it is doubtful whether the sally of the discovery + +awakened his merriment. + + + +“Hallo, what’s that?” inquired Sikes, stepping forward as the Jew + +seized the note. “That’s mine, Fagin.” + + + +“No, no, my dear,” said the Jew. “Mine, Bill, mine. You shall have the + +books.” + + + +“If that ain’t mine!” said Bill Sikes, putting on his hat with a + +determined air; “mine and Nancy’s that is; I’ll take the boy back + +again.” + + + +The Jew started. Oliver started too, though from a very different + +cause; for he hoped that the dispute might really end in his being + +taken back. + + + +“Come! Hand over, will you?” said Sikes. + + + +“This is hardly fair, Bill; hardly fair, is it, Nancy?” inquired the + +Jew. + + + +“Fair, or not fair,” retorted Sikes, “hand over, I tell you! Do you + +think Nancy and me has got nothing else to do with our precious time + +but to spend it in scouting arter, and kidnapping, every young boy as + +gets grabbed through you? Give it here, you avaricious old skeleton, + +give it here!” + + + +With this gentle remonstrance, Mr. Sikes plucked the note from between + +the Jew’s finger and thumb; and looking the old man coolly in the face, + +folded it up small, and tied it in his neckerchief. + + + +“That’s for our share of the trouble,” said Sikes; “and not half + +enough, neither. You may keep the books, if you’re fond of reading. If + +you ain’t, sell ’em.” + + + +“They’re very pretty,” said Charley Bates: who, with sundry grimaces, + +had been affecting to read one of the volumes in question; “beautiful + +writing, isn’t is, Oliver?” At sight of the dismayed look with which + +Oliver regarded his tormentors, Master Bates, who was blessed with a + +lively sense of the ludicrous, fell into another ectasy, more + +boisterous than the first. + + + +“They belong to the old gentleman,” said Oliver, wringing his hands; + +“to the good, kind, old gentleman who took me into his house, and had + +me nursed, when I was near dying of the fever. Oh, pray send them back; + +send him back the books and money. Keep me here all my life long; but + +pray, pray send them back. He’ll think I stole them; the old lady: all + +of them who were so kind to me: will think I stole them. Oh, do have + +mercy upon me, and send them back!” + + + +With these words, which were uttered with all the energy of passionate + +grief, Oliver fell upon his knees at the Jew’s feet; and beat his hands + +together, in perfect desperation. + + + +“The boy’s right,” remarked Fagin, looking covertly round, and knitting + +his shaggy eyebrows into a hard knot. “You’re right, Oliver, you’re + +right; they _will_ think you have stolen ’em. Ha! ha!” chuckled the + +Jew, rubbing his hands, “it couldn’t have happened better, if we had + +chosen our time!” + + + +“Of course it couldn’t,” replied Sikes; “I know’d that, directly I see + +him coming through Clerkenwell, with the books under his arm. It’s all + +right enough. They’re soft-hearted psalm-singers, or they wouldn’t have + +taken him in at all; and they’ll ask no questions after him, fear they + +should be obliged to prosecute, and so get him lagged. He’s safe + +enough.” + + + +Oliver had looked from one to the other, while these words were being + +spoken, as if he were bewildered, and could scarecely understand what + +passed; but when Bill Sikes concluded, he jumped suddenly to his feet, + +and tore wildly from the room: uttering shrieks for help, which made + +the bare old house echo to the roof. + + + +“Keep back the dog, Bill!” cried Nancy, springing before the door, and + +closing it, as the Jew and his two pupils darted out in pursuit. “Keep + +back the dog; he’ll tear the boy to pieces.” + + + +“Serve him right!” cried Sikes, struggling to disengage himself from + +the girl’s grasp. “Stand off from me, or I’ll split your head against + +the wall.” + + + +“I don’t care for that, Bill, I don’t care for that,” screamed the + +girl, struggling violently with the man, “the child shan’t be torn down + +by the dog, unless you kill me first.” + + + +“Shan’t he!” said Sikes, setting his teeth. “I’ll soon do that, if you + +don’t keep off.” + + + +The housebreaker flung the girl from him to the further end of the + +room, just as the Jew and the two boys returned, dragging Oliver among + +them. + + + +“What’s the matter here!” said Fagin, looking round. + + + +“The girl’s gone mad, I think,” replied Sikes, savagely. + + + +“No, she hasn’t,” said Nancy, pale and breathless from the scuffle; + +“no, she hasn’t, Fagin; don’t think it.” + + + +“Then keep quiet, will you?” said the Jew, with a threatening look. + + + +“No, I won’t do that, neither,” replied Nancy, speaking very loud. + +“Come! What do you think of that?” + + + +Mr. Fagin was sufficiently well acquainted with the manners and customs + +of that particular species of humanity to which Nancy belonged, to feel + +tolerably certain that it would be rather unsafe to prolong any + +conversation with her, at present. With the view of diverting the + +attention of the company, he turned to Oliver. + + + +“So you wanted to get away, my dear, did you?” said the Jew, taking up + +a jagged and knotted club which lay in a corner of the fireplace; “eh?” + + + +Oliver made no reply. But he watched the Jew’s motions, and breathed + +quickly. + + + +“Wanted to get assistance; called for the police; did you?” sneered the + +Jew, catching the boy by the arm. “We’ll cure you of that, my young + +master.” + + + +The Jew inflicted a smart blow on Oliver’s shoulders with the club; and + +was raising it for a second, when the girl, rushing forward, wrested it + +from his hand. She flung it into the fire, with a force that brought + +some of the glowing coals whirling out into the room. + + + +“I won’t stand by and see it done, Fagin,” cried the girl. “You’ve got + +the boy, and what more would you have?—Let him be—let him be—or I shall + +put that mark on some of you, that will bring me to the gallows before + +my time.” + + + +The girl stamped her foot violently on the floor as she vented this + +threat; and with her lips compressed, and her hands clenched, looked + +alternately at the Jew and the other robber: her face quite colourless + +from the passion of rage into which she had gradually worked herself. + + + +“Why, Nancy!” said the Jew, in a soothing tone; after a pause, during + +which he and Mr. Sikes had stared at one another in a disconcerted + +manner; “you,—you’re more clever than ever tonight. Ha! ha! my dear, + +you are acting beautifully.” + + + +“Am I?” said the girl. “Take care I don’t overdo it. You will be the + +worse for it, Fagin, if I do; and so I tell you in good time to keep + +clear of me.” + + + +There is something about a roused woman: especially if she add to all + +her other strong passions, the fierce impulses of recklessness and + +despair; which few men like to provoke. The Jew saw that it would be + +hopeless to affect any further mistake regarding the reality of Miss + +Nancy’s rage; and, shrinking involuntarily back a few paces, cast a + +glance, half imploring and half cowardly, at Sikes: as if to hint that + +he was the fittest person to pursue the dialogue. + + + +Mr. Sikes, thus mutely appealed to; and possibly feeling his personal + +pride and influence interested in the immediate reduction of Miss Nancy + +to reason; gave utterance to about a couple of score of curses and + +threats, the rapid production of which reflected great credit on the + +fertility of his invention. As they produced no visible effect on the + +object against whom they were discharged, however, he resorted to more + +tangible arguments. + + + +“What do you mean by this?” said Sikes; backing the inquiry with a very + +common imprecation concerning the most beautiful of human features: + +which, if it were heard above, only once out of every fifty thousand + +times that it is uttered below, would render blindness as common a + +disorder as measles: “what do you mean by it? Burn my body! Do you know + +who you are, and what you are?” + + + +“Oh, yes, I know all about it,” replied the girl, laughing + +hysterically; and shaking her head from side to side, with a poor + +assumption of indifference. + + + +“Well, then, keep quiet,” rejoined Sikes, with a growl like that he was + +accustomed to use when addressing his dog, “or I’ll quiet you for a + +good long time to come.” + + + +The girl laughed again: even less composedly than before; and, darting + +a hasty look at Sikes, turned her face aside, and bit her lip till the + +blood came. + + + +“You’re a nice one,” added Sikes, as he surveyed her with a + +contemptuous air, “to take up the humane and gen—teel side! A pretty + +subject for the child, as you call him, to make a friend of!” + + + +“God Almighty help me, I am!” cried the girl passionately; “and I wish + +I had been struck dead in the street, or had changed places with them + +we passed so near tonight, before I had lent a hand in bringing him + +here. He’s a thief, a liar, a devil, all that’s bad, from this night + +forth. Isn’t that enough for the old wretch, without blows?” + + + +“Come, come, Sikes,” said the Jew appealing to him in a remonstratory + +tone, and motioning towards the boys, who were eagerly attentive to all + +that passed; “we must have civil words; civil words, Bill.” + + + +“Civil words!” cried the girl, whose passion was frightful to see. + +“Civil words, you villain! Yes, you deserve ’em from me. I thieved for + +you when I was a child not half as old as this!” pointing to Oliver. “I + +have been in the same trade, and in the same service, for twelve years + +since. Don’t you know it? Speak out! Don’t you know it?” + + + +“Well, well,” replied the Jew, with an attempt at pacification; “and, + +if you have, it’s your living!” + + + +“Aye, it is!” returned the girl; not speaking, but pouring out the + +words in one continuous and vehement scream. “It is my living; and the + +cold, wet, dirty streets are my home; and you’re the wretch that drove + +me to them long ago, and that’ll keep me there, day and night, day and + +night, till I die!” + + + +“I shall do you a mischief!” interposed the Jew, goaded by these + +reproaches; “a mischief worse than that, if you say much more!” + + + +The girl said nothing more; but, tearing her hair and dress in a + +transport of passion, made such a rush at the Jew as would probably + +have left signal marks of her revenge upon him, had not her wrists been + +seized by Sikes at the right moment; upon which, she made a few + +ineffectual struggles, and fainted. + + + +“She’s all right now,” said Sikes, laying her down in a corner. “She’s + +uncommon strong in the arms, when she’s up in this way.” + + + +The Jew wiped his forehead: and smiled, as if it were a relief to have + +the disturbance over; but neither he, nor Sikes, nor the dog, nor the + +boys, seemed to consider it in any other light than a common occurance + +incidental to business. + + + +“It’s the worst of having to do with women,” said the Jew, replacing + +his club; “but they’re clever, and we can’t get on, in our line, + +without ’em. Charley, show Oliver to bed.” + + + +“I suppose he’d better not wear his best clothes tomorrow, Fagin, had + +he?” inquired Charley Bates. + + + +“Certainly not,” replied the Jew, reciprocating the grin with which + +Charley put the question. + + + +Master Bates, apparently much delighted with his commission, took the + +cleft stick: and led Oliver into an adjacent kitchen, where there were + +two or three of the beds on which he had slept before; and here, with + +many uncontrollable bursts of laughter, he produced the identical old + +suit of clothes which Oliver had so much congratulated himself upon + +leaving off at Mr. Brownlow’s; and the accidental display of which, to + +Fagin, by the Jew who purchased them, had been the very first clue + +received, of his whereabout. + + + +“Put off the smart ones,” said Charley, “and I’ll give ’em to Fagin to + +take care of. What fun it is!” + + + +Poor Oliver unwillingly complied. Master Bates rolling up the new + +clothes under his arm, departed from the room, leaving Oliver in the + +dark, and locking the door behind him. + + + +The noise of Charley’s laughter, and the voice of Miss Betsy, who + +opportunely arrived to throw water over her friend, and perform other + +feminine offices for the promotion of her recovery, might have kept + +many people awake under more happy circumstances than those in which + +Oliver was placed. But he was sick and weary; and he soon fell sound + +asleep. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XVII. + +OLIVER’S DESTINY CONTINUING UNPROPITIOUS, BRINGS A GREAT MAN TO LONDON + +TO INJURE HIS REPUTATION + + + + + +It is the custom on the stage, in all good murderous melodramas, to + +present the tragic and the comic scenes, in as regular alternation, as + +the layers of red and white in a side of streaky bacon. The hero sinks + +upon his straw bed, weighed down by fetters and misfortunes; in the + +next scene, his faithful but unconscious squire regales the audience + +with a comic song. We behold, with throbbing bosoms, the heroine in the + +grasp of a proud and ruthless baron: her virtue and her life alike in + +danger, drawing forth her dagger to preserve the one at the cost of the + +other; and just as our expectations are wrought up to the highest + +pitch, a whistle is heard, and we are straightway transported to the + +great hall of the castle; where a grey-headed seneschal sings a funny + +chorus with a funnier body of vassals, who are free of all sorts of + +places, from church vaults to palaces, and roam about in company, + +carolling perpetually. + + + +Such changes appear absurd; but they are not so unnatural as they would + +seem at first sight. The transitions in real life from well-spread + +boards to death-beds, and from mourning-weeds to holiday garments, are + +not a whit less startling; only, there, we are busy actors, instead of + +passive lookers-on, which makes a vast difference. The actors in the + +mimic life of the theatre, are blind to violent transitions and abrupt + +impulses of passion or feeling, which, presented before the eyes of + +mere spectators, are at once condemned as outrageous and preposterous. + + + +As sudden shiftings of the scene, and rapid changes of time and place, + +are not only sanctioned in books by long usage, but are by many + +considered as the great art of authorship: an author’s skill in his + +craft being, by such critics, chiefly estimated with relation to the + +dilemmas in which he leaves his characters at the end of every chapter: + +this brief introduction to the present one may perhaps be deemed + +unnecessary. If so, let it be considered a delicate intimation on the + +part of the historian that he is going back to the town in which Oliver + +Twist was born; the reader taking it for granted that there are good + +and substantial reasons for making the journey, or he would not be + +invited to proceed upon such an expedition. + + + +Mr. Bumble emerged at early morning from the workhouse-gate, and walked + +with portly carriage and commanding steps, up the High Street. He was + +in the full bloom and pride of beadlehood; his cocked hat and coat were + +dazzling in the morning sun; he clutched his cane with the vigorous + +tenacity of health and power. Mr. Bumble always carried his head high; + +but this morning it was higher than usual. There was an abstraction in + +his eye, an elevation in his air, which might have warned an observant + +stranger that thoughts were passing in the beadle’s mind, too great for + +utterance. + + + +Mr. Bumble stopped not to converse with the small shopkeepers and + +others who spoke to him, deferentially, as he passed along. He merely + +returned their salutations with a wave of his hand, and relaxed not in + +his dignified pace, until he reached the farm where Mrs. Mann tended + +the infant paupers with parochial care. + + + +“Drat that beadle!” said Mrs. Mann, hearing the well-known shaking at + +the garden-gate. “If it isn’t him at this time in the morning! Lauk, + +Mr. Bumble, only think of its being you! Well, dear me, it _is_ a + +pleasure, this is! Come into the parlour, sir, please.” + + + +The first sentence was addressed to Susan; and the exclamations of + +delight were uttered to Mr. Bumble: as the good lady unlocked the + +garden-gate: and showed him, with great attention and respect, into the + +house. + + + +“Mrs. Mann,” said Mr. Bumble; not sitting upon, or dropping himself + +into a seat, as any common jackanapes would: but letting himself + +gradually and slowly down into a chair; “Mrs. Mann, ma’am, good + +morning.” + + + +“Well, and good morning to _you_, sir,” replied Mrs. Mann, with many + +smiles; “and hoping you find yourself well, sir!” + + + +“So-so, Mrs. Mann,” replied the beadle. “A porochial life is not a bed + +of roses, Mrs. Mann.” + + + +“Ah, that it isn’t indeed, Mr. Bumble,” rejoined the lady. And all the + +infant paupers might have chorussed the rejoinder with great propriety, + +if they had heard it. + + + +“A porochial life, ma’am,” continued Mr. Bumble, striking the table + +with his cane, “is a life of worrit, and vexation, and hardihood; but + +all public characters, as I may say, must suffer prosecution.” + + + +Mrs. Mann, not very well knowing what the beadle meant, raised her + +hands with a look of sympathy, and sighed. + + + +“Ah! You may well sigh, Mrs. Mann!” said the beadle. + + + +Finding she had done right, Mrs. Mann sighed again: evidently to the + +satisfaction of the public character: who, repressing a complacent + +smile by looking sternly at his cocked hat, said, + + + +“Mrs. Mann, I am going to London.” + + + +“Lauk, Mr. Bumble!” cried Mrs. Mann, starting back. + + + +“To London, ma’am,” resumed the inflexible beadle, “by coach. I and two + +paupers, Mrs. Mann! A legal action is a coming on, about a settlement; + +and the board has appointed me—me, Mrs. Mann—to dispose to the matter + +before the quarter-sessions at Clerkinwell. And I very much question,” + +added Mr. Bumble, drawing himself up, “whether the Clerkinwell Sessions + +will not find themselves in the wrong box before they have done with + +me.” + + + +“Oh! you mustn’t be too hard upon them, sir,” said Mrs. Mann, + +coaxingly. + + + +“The Clerkinwell Sessions have brought it upon themselves, ma’am,” + +replied Mr. Bumble; “and if the Clerkinwell Sessions find that they + +come off rather worse than they expected, the Clerkinwell Sessions have + +only themselves to thank.” + + + +There was so much determination and depth of purpose about the menacing + +manner in which Mr. Bumble delivered himself of these words, that Mrs. + +Mann appeared quite awed by them. At length she said, + + + +“You’re going by coach, sir? I thought it was always usual to send them + +paupers in carts.” + + + +“That’s when they’re ill, Mrs. Mann,” said the beadle. “We put the sick + +paupers into open carts in the rainy weather, to prevent their taking + +cold.” + + + +“Oh!” said Mrs. Mann. + + + +“The opposition coach contracts for these two; and takes them cheap,” + +said Mr. Bumble. “They are both in a very low state, and we find it + +would come two pound cheaper to move ’em than to bury ’em—that is, if + +we can throw ’em upon another parish, which I think we shall be able to + +do, if they don’t die upon the road to spite us. Ha! ha! ha!” + + + +When Mr. Bumble had laughed a little while, his eyes again encountered + +the cocked hat; and he became grave. + + + +“We are forgetting business, ma’am,” said the beadle; “here is your + +porochial stipend for the month.” + + + +Mr. Bumble produced some silver money rolled up in paper, from his + +pocket-book; and requested a receipt: which Mrs. Mann wrote. + + + +“It’s very much blotted, sir,” said the farmer of infants; “but it’s + +formal enough, I dare say. Thank you, Mr. Bumble, sir, I am very much + +obliged to you, I’m sure.” + + + +Mr. Bumble nodded, blandly, in acknowledgment of Mrs. Mann’s curtsey; + +and inquired how the children were. + + + +“Bless their dear little hearts!” said Mrs. Mann with emotion, “they’re + +as well as can be, the dears! Of course, except the two that died last + +week. And little Dick.” + + + +“Isn’t that boy no better?” inquired Mr. Bumble. + + + +Mrs. Mann shook her head. + + + +“He’s a ill-conditioned, wicious, bad-disposed porochial child that,” + +said Mr. Bumble angrily. “Where is he?” + + + +“I’ll bring him to you in one minute, sir,” replied Mrs. Mann. “Here, + +you Dick!” + + + +After some calling, Dick was discovered. Having had his face put under + +the pump, and dried upon Mrs. Mann’s gown, he was led into the awful + +presence of Mr. Bumble, the beadle. + + + +The child was pale and thin; his cheeks were sunken; and his eyes large + +and bright. The scanty parish dress, the livery of his misery, hung + +loosely on his feeble body; and his young limbs had wasted away, like + +those of an old man. + + + +Such was the little being who stood trembling beneath Mr. Bumble’s + +glance; not daring to lift his eyes from the floor; and dreading even + +to hear the beadle’s voice. + + + +“Can’t you look at the gentleman, you obstinate boy?” said Mrs. Mann. + + + +The child meekly raised his eyes, and encountered those of Mr. Bumble. + + + +“What’s the matter with you, porochial Dick?” inquired Mr. Bumble, with + +well-timed jocularity. + + + +“Nothing, sir,” replied the child faintly. + + + +“I should think not,” said Mrs. Mann, who had of course laughed very + +much at Mr. Bumble’s humour. + + + +“You want for nothing, I’m sure.” + + + +“I should like—” faltered the child. + + + +“Hey-day!” interposed Mrs. Mann, “I suppose you’re going to say that + +you _do_ want for something, now? Why, you little wretch—” + + + +“Stop, Mrs. Mann, stop!” said the beadle, raising his hand with a show + +of authority. “Like what, sir, eh?” + + + +“I should like,” faltered the child, “if somebody that can write, would + +put a few words down for me on a piece of paper, and fold it up and + +seal it, and keep it for me, after I am laid in the ground.” + + + +“Why, what does the boy mean?” exclaimed Mr. Bumble, on whom the + +earnest manner and wan aspect of the child had made some impression: + +accustomed as he was to such things. “What do you mean, sir?” + + + +“I should like,” said the child, “to leave my dear love to poor Oliver + +Twist; and to let him know how often I have sat by myself and cried to + +think of his wandering about in the dark nights with nobody to help + +him. And I should like to tell him,” said the child pressing his small + +hands together, and speaking with great fervour, “that I was glad to + +die when I was very young; for, perhaps, if I had lived to be a man, + +and had grown old, my little sister who is in Heaven, might forget me, + +or be unlike me; and it would be so much happier if we were both + +children there together.” + + + +Mr. Bumble surveyed the little speaker, from head to foot, with + +indescribable astonishment; and, turning to his companion, said, + +“They’re all in one story, Mrs. Mann. That out-dacious Oliver had + +demogalized them all!” + + + +“I couldn’t have believed it, sir” said Mrs Mann, holding up her hands, + +and looking malignantly at Dick. “I never see such a hardened little + +wretch!” + + + +“Take him away, ma’am!” said Mr. Bumble imperiously. “This must be + +stated to the board, Mrs. Mann.” + + + +“I hope the gentleman will understand that it isn’t my fault, sir?” + +said Mrs. Mann, whimpering pathetically. + + + +“They shall understand that, ma’am; they shall be acquainted with the + +true state of the case,” said Mr. Bumble. “There; take him away, I + +can’t bear the sight on him.” + + + +Dick was immediately taken away, and locked up in the coal-cellar. Mr. + +Bumble shortly afterwards took himself off, to prepare for his journey. + + + +At six o’clock next morning, Mr. Bumble: having exchanged his cocked + +hat for a round one, and encased his person in a blue great-coat with a + +cape to it: took his place on the outside of the coach, accompanied by + +the criminals whose settlement was disputed; with whom, in due course + +of time, he arrived in London. + + + +He experienced no other crosses on the way, than those which originated + +in the perverse behaviour of the two paupers, who persisted in + +shivering, and complaining of the cold, in a manner which, Mr. Bumble + +declared, caused his teeth to chatter in his head, and made him feel + +quite uncomfortable; although he had a great-coat on. + + + +Having disposed of these evil-minded persons for the night, Mr. Bumble + +sat himself down in the house at which the coach stopped; and took a + +temperate dinner of steaks, oyster sauce, and porter. Putting a glass + +of hot gin-and-water on the chimney-piece, he drew his chair to the + +fire; and, with sundry moral reflections on the too-prevalent sin of + +discontent and complaining, composed himself to read the paper. + + + +The very first paragraph upon which Mr. Bumble’s eye rested, was the + +following advertisement. + + + +“FIVE GUINEAS REWARD + + + + + +“Whereas a young boy, named Oliver Twist, absconded, or was enticed, on + +Thursday evening last, from his home, at Pentonville; and has not since + +been heard of. The above reward will be paid to any person who will + +give such information as will lead to the discovery of the said Oliver + +Twist, or tend to throw any light upon his previous history, in which + +the advertiser is, for many reasons, warmly interested.” + + + +And then followed a full description of Oliver’s dress, person, + +appearance, and disappearance: with the name and address of Mr. + +Brownlow at full length. + + + +Mr. Bumble opened his eyes; read the advertisement, slowly and + +carefully, three several times; and in something more than five minutes + +was on his way to Pentonville: having actually, in his excitement, left + +the glass of hot gin-and-water, untasted. + + + +“Is Mr. Brownlow at home?” inquired Mr. Bumble of the girl who opened + +the door. + + + +To this inquiry the girl returned the not uncommon, but rather evasive + +reply of “I don’t know; where do you come from?” + + + +Mr. Bumble no sooner uttered Oliver’s name, in explanation of his + +errand, than Mrs. Bedwin, who had been listening at the parlour door, + +hastened into the passage in a breathless state. + + + +“Come in, come in,” said the old lady: “I knew we should hear of him. + +Poor dear! I knew we should! I was certain of it. Bless his heart! I + +said so all along.” + + + +Having said this, the worthy old lady hurried back into the parlour + +again; and seating herself on a sofa, burst into tears. The girl, who + +was not quite so susceptible, had run upstairs meanwhile; and now + +returned with a request that Mr. Bumble would follow her immediately: + +which he did. + + + +He was shown into the little back study, where sat Mr. Brownlow and his + +friend Mr. Grimwig, with decanters and glasses before them. The latter + +gentleman at once burst into the exclamation: + + + +“A beadle. A parish beadle, or I’ll eat my head.” + + + +“Pray don’t interrupt just now,” said Mr. Brownlow. “Take a seat, will + +you?” + + + +Mr. Bumble sat himself down; quite confounded by the oddity of Mr. + +Grimwig’s manner. Mr. Brownlow moved the lamp, so as to obtain an + +uninterrupted view of the beadle’s countenance; and said, with a little + +impatience, + + + +“Now, sir, you come in consequence of having seen the advertisement?” + + + +“Yes, sir,” said Mr. Bumble. + + + +“And you _are_ a beadle, are you not?” inquired Mr. Grimwig. + + + +“I am a porochial beadle, gentlemen,” rejoined Mr. Bumble proudly. + + + +“Of course,” observed Mr. Grimwig aside to his friend, “I knew he was. + +A beadle all over!” + + + +Mr. Brownlow gently shook his head to impose silence on his friend, and + +resumed: + + + +“Do you know where this poor boy is now?” + + + +“No more than nobody,” replied Mr. Bumble. + + + +“Well, what _do_ you know of him?” inquired the old gentleman. “Speak + +out, my friend, if you have anything to say. What _do_ you know of + +him?” + + + +“You don’t happen to know any good of him, do you?” said Mr. Grimwig, + +caustically; after an attentive perusal of Mr. Bumble’s features. + + + +Mr. Bumble, catching at the inquiry very quickly, shook his head with + +portentous solemnity. + + + +“You see?” said Mr. Grimwig, looking triumphantly at Mr. Brownlow. + + + +Mr. Brownlow looked apprehensively at Mr. Bumble’s pursed-up + +countenance; and requested him to communicate what he knew regarding + +Oliver, in as few words as possible. + + + +Mr. Bumble put down his hat; unbuttoned his coat; folded his arms; + +inclined his head in a retrospective manner; and, after a few moments’ + +reflection, commenced his story. + + + +It would be tedious if given in the beadle’s words: occupying, as it + +did, some twenty minutes in the telling; but the sum and substance of + +it was, that Oliver was a foundling, born of low and vicious parents. + +That he had, from his birth, displayed no better qualities than + +treachery, ingratitude, and malice. That he had terminated his brief + +career in the place of his birth, by making a sanguinary and cowardly + +attack on an unoffending lad, and running away in the night-time from + +his master’s house. In proof of his really being the person he + +represented himself, Mr. Bumble laid upon the table the papers he had + +brought to town. Folding his arms again, he then awaited Mr. Brownlow’s + +observations. + + + +“I fear it is all too true,” said the old gentleman sorrowfully, after + +looking over the papers. “This is not much for your intelligence; but I + +would gladly have given you treble the money, if it had been favourable + +to the boy.” + + + +It is not improbable that if Mr. Bumble had been possessed of this + +information at an earlier period of the interview, he might have + +imparted a very different colouring to his little history. It was too + +late to do it now, however; so he shook his head gravely, and, + +pocketing the five guineas, withdrew. + + + +Mr. Brownlow paced the room to and fro for some minutes; evidently so + +much disturbed by the beadle’s tale, that even Mr. Grimwig forbore to + +vex him further. + + + +At length he stopped, and rang the bell violently. + + + +“Mrs. Bedwin,” said Mr. Brownlow, when the housekeeper appeared; “that + +boy, Oliver, is an imposter.” + + + +“It can’t be, sir. It cannot be,” said the old lady energetically. + + + +“I tell you he is,” retorted the old gentleman. “What do you mean by + +can’t be? We have just heard a full account of him from his birth; and + +he has been a thorough-paced little villain, all his life.” + + + +“I never will believe it, sir,” replied the old lady, firmly. “Never!” + + + +“You old women never believe anything but quack-doctors, and lying + +story-books,” growled Mr. Grimwig. “I knew it all along. Why didn’t you + +take my advice in the beginning; you would if he hadn’t had a fever, I + +suppose, eh? He was interesting, wasn’t he? Interesting! Bah!” And Mr. + +Grimwig poked the fire with a flourish. + + + +“He was a dear, grateful, gentle child, sir,” retorted Mrs. Bedwin, + +indignantly. “I know what children are, sir; and have done these forty + +years; and people who can’t say the same, shouldn’t say anything about + +them. That’s my opinion!” + + + +This was a hard hit at Mr. Grimwig, who was a bachelor. As it extorted + +nothing from that gentleman but a smile, the old lady tossed her head, + +and smoothed down her apron preparatory to another speech, when she was + +stopped by Mr. Brownlow. + + + +“Silence!” said the old gentleman, feigning an anger he was far from + +feeling. “Never let me hear the boy’s name again. I rang to tell you + +that. Never. Never, on any pretence, mind! You may leave the room, Mrs. + +Bedwin. Remember! I am in earnest.” + + + +There were sad hearts at Mr. Brownlow’s that night. + + + +Oliver’s heart sank within him, when he thought of his good friends; it + +was well for him that he could not know what they had heard, or it + +might have broken outright. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XVIII. + +HOW OLIVER PASSED HIS TIME IN THE IMPROVING SOCIETY OF HIS REPUTABLE + +FRIENDS + + + + + +About noon next day, when the Dodger and Master Bates had gone out to + +pursue their customary avocations, Mr. Fagin took the opportunity of + +reading Oliver a long lecture on the crying sin of ingratitude; of + +which he clearly demonstrated he had been guilty, to no ordinary + +extent, in wilfully absenting himself from the society of his anxious + +friends; and, still more, in endeavouring to escape from them after so + +much trouble and expense had been incurred in his recovery. Mr. Fagin + +laid great stress on the fact of his having taken Oliver in, and + +cherished him, when, without his timely aid, he might have perished + +with hunger; and he related the dismal and affecting history of a young + +lad whom, in his philanthropy, he had succoured under parallel + +circumstances, but who, proving unworthy of his confidence and evincing + +a desire to communicate with the police, had unfortunately come to be + +hanged at the Old Bailey one morning. Mr. Fagin did not seek to conceal + +his share in the catastrophe, but lamented with tears in his eyes that + +the wrong-headed and treacherous behaviour of the young person in + +question, had rendered it necessary that he should become the victim of + +certain evidence for the crown: which, if it were not precisely true, + +was indispensably necessary for the safety of him (Mr. Fagin) and a few + +select friends. Mr. Fagin concluded by drawing a rather disagreeable + +picture of the discomforts of hanging; and, with great friendliness and + +politeness of manner, expressed his anxious hopes that he might never + +be obliged to submit Oliver Twist to that unpleasant operation. + + + +Little Oliver’s blood ran cold, as he listened to the Jew’s words, and + +imperfectly comprehended the dark threats conveyed in them. That it was + +possible even for justice itself to confound the innocent with the + +guilty when they were in accidental companionship, he knew already; and + +that deeply-laid plans for the destruction of inconveniently knowing or + +over-communicative persons, had been really devised and carried out by + +the Jew on more occasions than one, he thought by no means unlikely, + +when he recollected the general nature of the altercations between that + +gentleman and Mr. Sikes: which seemed to bear reference to some + +foregone conspiracy of the kind. As he glanced timidly up, and met the + +Jew’s searching look, he felt that his pale face and trembling limbs + +were neither unnoticed nor unrelished by that wary old gentleman. + + + +The Jew, smiling hideously, patted Oliver on the head, and said, that + +if he kept himself quiet, and applied himself to business, he saw they + +would be very good friends yet. Then, taking his hat, and covering + +himself with an old patched great-coat, he went out, and locked the + +room-door behind him. + + + +And so Oliver remained all that day, and for the greater part of many + +subsequent days, seeing nobody, between early morning and midnight, and + +left during the long hours to commune with his own thoughts. Which, + +never failing to revert to his kind friends, and the opinion they must + +long ago have formed of him, were sad indeed. + + + +After the lapse of a week or so, the Jew left the room-door unlocked; + +and he was at liberty to wander about the house. + + + +It was a very dirty place. The rooms upstairs had great high wooden + +chimney-pieces and large doors, with panelled walls and cornices to the + +ceiling; which, although they were black with neglect and dust, were + +ornamented in various ways. From all of these tokens Oliver concluded + +that a long time ago, before the old Jew was born, it had belonged to + +better people, and had perhaps been quite gay and handsome: dismal and + +dreary as it looked now. + + + +Spiders had built their webs in the angles of the walls and ceilings; + +and sometimes, when Oliver walked softly into a room, the mice would + +scamper across the floor, and run back terrified to their holes. With + +these exceptions, there was neither sight nor sound of any living + +thing; and often, when it grew dark, and he was tired of wandering from + +room to room, he would crouch in the corner of the passage by the + +street-door, to be as near living people as he could; and would remain + +there, listening and counting the hours, until the Jew or the boys + +returned. + + + +In all the rooms, the mouldering shutters were fast closed: the bars + +which held them were screwed tight into the wood; the only light which + +was admitted, stealing its way through round holes at the top: which + +made the rooms more gloomy, and filled them with strange shadows. There + +was a back-garret window with rusty bars outside, which had no shutter; + +and out of this, Oliver often gazed with a melancholy face for hours + +together; but nothing was to be descried from it but a confused and + +crowded mass of housetops, blackened chimneys, and gable-ends. + +Sometimes, indeed, a grizzly head might be seen, peering over the + +parapet-wall of a distant house; but it was quickly withdrawn again; + +and as the window of Oliver’s observatory was nailed down, and dimmed + +with the rain and smoke of years, it was as much as he could do to make + +out the forms of the different objects beyond, without making any + +attempt to be seen or heard,—which he had as much chance of being, as + +if he had lived inside the ball of St. Paul’s Cathedral. + + + +One afternoon, the Dodger and Master Bates being engaged out that + +evening, the first-named young gentleman took it into his head to + +evince some anxiety regarding the decoration of his person (to do him + +justice, this was by no means an habitual weakness with him); and, with + +this end and aim, he condescendingly commanded Oliver to assist him in + +his toilet, straightway. + + + +Oliver was but too glad to make himself useful; too happy to have some + +faces, however bad, to look upon; too desirous to conciliate those + +about him when he could honestly do so; to throw any objection in the + +way of this proposal. So he at once expressed his readiness; and, + +kneeling on the floor, while the Dodger sat upon the table so that he + +could take his foot in his laps, he applied himself to a process which + +Mr. Dawkins designated as “japanning his trotter-cases.” The phrase, + +rendered into plain English, signifieth, cleaning his boots. + + + +Whether it was the sense of freedom and independence which a rational + +animal may be supposed to feel when he sits on a table in an easy + +attitude smoking a pipe, swinging one leg carelessly to and fro, and + +having his boots cleaned all the time, without even the past trouble of + +having taken them off, or the prospective misery of putting them on, to + +disturb his reflections; or whether it was the goodness of the tobacco + +that soothed the feelings of the Dodger, or the mildness of the beer + +that mollified his thoughts; he was evidently tinctured, for the nonce, + +with a spice of romance and enthusiasm, foreign to his general nature. + +He looked down on Oliver, with a thoughtful countenance, for a brief + +space; and then, raising his head, and heaving a gentle sigh, said, + +half in abstraction, and half to Master Bates: + + + +“What a pity it is he isn’t a prig!” + + + +“Ah!” said Master Charles Bates; “he don’t know what’s good for him.” + + + +The Dodger sighed again, and resumed his pipe: as did Charley Bates. + +They both smoked, for some seconds, in silence. + + + +“I suppose you don’t even know what a prig is?” said the Dodger + +mournfully. + + + +“I think I know that,” replied Oliver, looking up. “It’s a the—; you’re + +one, are you not?” inquired Oliver, checking himself. + + + +“I am,” replied the Dodger. “I’d scorn to be anything else.” Mr. + +Dawkins gave his hat a ferocious cock, after delivering this sentiment, + +and looked at Master Bates, as if to denote that he would feel obliged + +by his saying anything to the contrary. + + + +“I am,” repeated the Dodger. “So’s Charley. So’s Fagin. So’s Sikes. + +So’s Nancy. So’s Bet. So we all are, down to the dog. And he’s the + +downiest one of the lot!” + + + +“And the least given to peaching,” added Charley Bates. + + + +“He wouldn’t so much as bark in a witness-box, for fear of committing + +himself; no, not if you tied him up in one, and left him there without + +wittles for a fortnight,” said the Dodger. + + + +“Not a bit of it,” observed Charley. + + + +“He’s a rum dog. Don’t he look fierce at any strange cove that laughs + +or sings when he’s in company!” pursued the Dodger. “Won’t he growl at + +all, when he hears a fiddle playing! And don’t he hate other dogs as + +ain’t of his breed! Oh, no!” + + + +“He’s an out-and-out Christian,” said Charley. + + + +This was merely intended as a tribute to the animal’s abilities, but it + +was an appropriate remark in another sense, if Master Bates had only + +known it; for there are a good many ladies and gentlemen, claiming to + +be out-and-out Christians, between whom, and Mr. Sikes’ dog, there + +exist strong and singular points of resemblance. + + + +“Well, well,” said the Dodger, recurring to the point from which they + +had strayed: with that mindfulness of his profession which influenced + +all his proceedings. “This hasn’t got anything to do with young Green + +here.” + + + +“No more it has,” said Charley. “Why don’t you put yourself under + +Fagin, Oliver?” + + + +“And make your fortun’ out of hand?” added the Dodger, with a grin. + + + +“And so be able to retire on your property, and do the gen-teel: as I + +mean to, in the very next leap-year but four that ever comes, and the + +forty-second Tuesday in Trinity-week,” said Charley Bates. + + + +“I don’t like it,” rejoined Oliver, timidly; “I wish they would let me + +go. I—I—would rather go.” + + + +“And Fagin would _rather_ not!” rejoined Charley. + + + +Oliver knew this too well; but thinking it might be dangerous to + +express his feelings more openly, he only sighed, and went on with his + +boot-cleaning. + + + +“Go!” exclaimed the Dodger. “Why, where’s your spirit? Don’t you take + +any pride out of yourself? Would you go and be dependent on your + +friends?” + + + +“Oh, blow that!” said Master Bates: drawing two or three silk + +handkerchiefs from his pocket, and tossing them into a cupboard, + +“that’s too mean; that is.” + + + +“_I_ couldn’t do it,” said the Dodger, with an air of haughty disgust. + + + +“You can leave your friends, though,” said Oliver with a half smile; + +“and let them be punished for what you did.” + + + +“That,” rejoined the Dodger, with a wave of his pipe, “That was all out + +of consideration for Fagin, ’cause the traps know that we work + +together, and he might have got into trouble if we hadn’t made our + +lucky; that was the move, wasn’t it, Charley?” + + + +Master Bates nodded assent, and would have spoken, but the recollection + +of Oliver’s flight came so suddenly upon him, that the smoke he was + +inhaling got entangled with a laugh, and went up into his head, and + +down into his throat: and brought on a fit of coughing and stamping, + +about five minutes long. + + + +“Look here!” said the Dodger, drawing forth a handful of shillings and + +halfpence. “Here’s a jolly life! What’s the odds where it comes from? + +Here, catch hold; there’s plenty more where they were took from. You + +won’t, won’t you? Oh, you precious flat!” + + + +“It’s naughty, ain’t it, Oliver?” inquired Charley Bates. “He’ll come + +to be scragged, won’t he?” + + + +“I don’t know what that means,” replied Oliver. + + + +“Something in this way, old feller,” said Charley. As he said it, + +Master Bates caught up an end of his neckerchief; and, holding it erect + +in the air, dropped his head on his shoulder, and jerked a curious + +sound through his teeth; thereby indicating, by a lively pantomimic + +representation, that scragging and hanging were one and the same thing. + + + +“That’s what it means,” said Charley. “Look how he stares, Jack! I + +never did see such prime company as that ’ere boy; he’ll be the death + +of me, I know he will.” Master Charley Bates, having laughed heartily + +again, resumed his pipe with tears in his eyes. + + + +“You’ve been brought up bad,” said the Dodger, surveying his boots with + +much satisfaction when Oliver had polished them. “Fagin will make + +something of you, though, or you’ll be the first he ever had that + +turned out unprofitable. You’d better begin at once; for you’ll come to + +the trade long before you think of it; and you’re only losing time, + +Oliver.” + + + +Master Bates backed this advice with sundry moral admonitions of his + +own: which, being exhausted, he and his friend Mr. Dawkins launched + +into a glowing description of the numerous pleasures incidental to the + +life they led, interspersed with a variety of hints to Oliver that the + +best thing he could do, would be to secure Fagin’s favour without more + +delay, by the means which they themselves had employed to gain it. + + + +“And always put this in your pipe, Nolly,” said the Dodger, as the Jew + +was heard unlocking the door above, “if you don’t take fogels and + +tickers—” + + + +“What’s the good of talking in that way?” interposed Master Bates; “he + +don’t know what you mean.” + + + +“If you don’t take pocket-handkechers and watches,” said the Dodger, + +reducing his conversation to the level of Oliver’s capacity, “some + +other cove will; so that the coves that lose ’em will be all the worse, + +and you’ll be all the worse, too, and nobody half a ha’p’orth the + +better, except the chaps wot gets them—and you’ve just as good a right + +to them as they have.” + + + +“To be sure, to be sure!” said the Jew, who had entered unseen by + +Oliver. “It all lies in a nutshell my dear; in a nutshell, take the + +Dodger’s word for it. Ha! ha! ha! He understands the catechism of his + +trade.” + + + +The old man rubbed his hands gleefully together, as he corroborated the + +Dodger’s reasoning in these terms; and chuckled with delight at his + +pupil’s proficiency. + + + +The conversation proceeded no farther at this time, for the Jew had + +returned home accompanied by Miss Betsy, and a gentleman whom Oliver + +had never seen before, but who was accosted by the Dodger as Tom + +Chitling; and who, having lingered on the stairs to exchange a few + +gallantries with the lady, now made his appearance. + + + +Mr. Chitling was older in years than the Dodger: having perhaps + +numbered eighteen winters; but there was a degree of deference in his + +deportment towards that young gentleman which seemed to indicate that + +he felt himself conscious of a slight inferiority in point of genius + +and professional aquirements. He had small twinkling eyes, and a + +pock-marked face; wore a fur cap, a dark corduroy jacket, greasy + +fustian trousers, and an apron. His wardrobe was, in truth, rather out + +of repair; but he excused himself to the company by stating that his + +“time” was only out an hour before; and that, in consequence of having + +worn the regimentals for six weeks past, he had not been able to bestow + +any attention on his private clothes. Mr. Chitling added, with strong + +marks of irritation, that the new way of fumigating clothes up yonder + +was infernal unconstitutional, for it burnt holes in them, and there + +was no remedy against the county. The same remark he considered to + +apply to the regulation mode of cutting the hair: which he held to be + +decidedly unlawful. Mr. Chitling wound up his observations by stating + +that he had not touched a drop of anything for forty-two moral long + +hard-working days; and that he “wished he might be busted if he warn’t + +as dry as a lime-basket.” + + + +“Where do you think the gentleman has come from, Oliver?” inquired the + +Jew, with a grin, as the other boys put a bottle of spirits on the + +table. + + + +“I—I—don’t know, sir,” replied Oliver. + + + +“Who’s that?” inquired Tom Chitling, casting a contemptuous look at + +Oliver. + + + +“A young friend of mine, my dear,” replied the Jew. + + + +“He’s in luck, then,” said the young man, with a meaning look at Fagin. + +“Never mind where I came from, young ’un; you’ll find your way there, + +soon enough, I’ll bet a crown!” + + + +At this sally, the boys laughed. After some more jokes on the same + +subject, they exchanged a few short whispers with Fagin; and withdrew. + + + +After some words apart between the last comer and Fagin, they drew + +their chairs towards the fire; and the Jew, telling Oliver to come and + +sit by him, led the conversation to the topics most calculated to + +interest his hearers. These were, the great advantages of the trade, + +the proficiency of the Dodger, the amiability of Charley Bates, and the + +liberality of the Jew himself. At length these subjects displayed signs + +of being thoroughly exhausted; and Mr. Chitling did the same: for the + +house of correction becomes fatiguing after a week or two. Miss Betsy + +accordingly withdrew; and left the party to their repose. + + + +From this day, Oliver was seldom left alone; but was placed in almost + +constant communication with the two boys, who played the old game with + +the Jew every day: whether for their own improvement or Oliver’s, Mr. + +Fagin best knew. At other times the old man would tell them stories of + +robberies he had committed in his younger days: mixed up with so much + +that was droll and curious, that Oliver could not help laughing + +heartily, and showing that he was amused in spite of all his better + +feelings. + + + +In short, the wily old Jew had the boy in his toils. Having prepared + +his mind, by solitude and gloom, to prefer any society to the + +companionship of his own sad thoughts in such a dreary place, he was + +now slowly instilling into his soul the poison which he hoped would + +blacken it, and change its hue for ever. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XIX. + +IN WHICH A NOTABLE PLAN IS DISCUSSED AND DETERMINED ON + + + + + +It was a chill, damp, windy night, when the Jew: buttoning his + +great-coat tight round his shrivelled body, and pulling the collar up + +over his ears so as completely to obscure the lower part of his face: + +emerged from his den. He paused on the step as the door was locked and + +chained behind him; and having listened while the boys made all secure, + +and until their retreating footsteps were no longer audible, slunk down + +the street as quickly as he could. + + + +The house to which Oliver had been conveyed, was in the neighborhood of + +Whitechapel. The Jew stopped for an instant at the corner of the + +street; and, glancing suspiciously round, crossed the road, and struck + +off in the direction of the Spitalfields. + + + +The mud lay thick upon the stones, and a black mist hung over the + +streets; the rain fell sluggishly down, and everything felt cold and + +clammy to the touch. It seemed just the night when it befitted such a + +being as the Jew to be abroad. As he glided stealthily along, creeping + +beneath the shelter of the walls and doorways, the hideous old man + +seemed like some loathsome reptile, engendered in the slime and + +darkness through which he moved: crawling forth, by night, in search of + +some rich offal for a meal. + + + +He kept on his course, through many winding and narrow ways, until he + +reached Bethnal Green; then, turning suddenly off to the left, he soon + +became involved in a maze of the mean and dirty streets which abound in + +that close and densely-populated quarter. + + + +The Jew was evidently too familiar with the ground he traversed to be + +at all bewildered, either by the darkness of the night, or the + +intricacies of the way. He hurried through several alleys and streets, + +and at length turned into one, lighted only by a single lamp at the + +farther end. At the door of a house in this street, he knocked; having + +exchanged a few muttered words with the person who opened it, he walked + +upstairs. + + + +A dog growled as he touched the handle of a room-door; and a man’s + +voice demanded who was there. + + + +“Only me, Bill; only me, my dear,” said the Jew looking in. + + + +“Bring in your body then,” said Sikes. “Lie down, you stupid brute! + +Don’t you know the devil when he’s got a great-coat on?” + + + +Apparently, the dog had been somewhat deceived by Mr. Fagin’s outer + +garment; for as the Jew unbuttoned it, and threw it over the back of a + +chair, he retired to the corner from which he had risen: wagging his + +tail as he went, to show that he was as well satisfied as it was in his + +nature to be. + + + +“Well!” said Sikes. + + + +“Well, my dear,” replied the Jew.—“Ah! Nancy.” + + + +The latter recognition was uttered with just enough of embarrassment to + +imply a doubt of its reception; for Mr. Fagin and his young friend had + +not met, since she had interfered in behalf of Oliver. All doubts upon + +the subject, if he had any, were speedily removed by the young lady’s + +behaviour. She took her feet off the fender, pushed back her chair, and + +bade Fagin draw up his, without saying more about it: for it was a cold + +night, and no mistake. + + + +“It _is_ cold, Nancy dear,” said the Jew, as he warmed his skinny hands + +over the fire. “It seems to go right through one,” added the old man, + +touching his side. + + + +“It must be a piercer, if it finds its way through your heart,” said + +Mr. Sikes. “Give him something to drink, Nancy. Burn my body, make + +haste! It’s enough to turn a man ill, to see his lean old carcase + +shivering in that way, like a ugly ghost just rose from the grave.” + + + +Nancy quickly brought a bottle from a cupboard, in which there were + +many: which, to judge from the diversity of their appearance, were + +filled with several kinds of liquids. Sikes pouring out a glass of + +brandy, bade the Jew drink it off. + + + +“Quite enough, quite, thankye, Bill,” replied the Jew, putting down the + +glass after just setting his lips to it. + + + +“What! You’re afraid of our getting the better of you, are you?” + +inquired Sikes, fixing his eyes on the Jew. “Ugh!” + + + +With a hoarse grunt of contempt, Mr. Sikes seized the glass, and threw + +the remainder of its contents into the ashes: as a preparatory ceremony + +to filling it again for himself: which he did at once. + + + +The Jew glanced round the room, as his companion tossed down the second + +glassful; not in curiousity, for he had seen it often before; but in a + +restless and suspicious manner habitual to him. It was a meanly + +furnished apartment, with nothing but the contents of the closet to + +induce the belief that its occupier was anything but a working man; and + +with no more suspicious articles displayed to view than two or three + +heavy bludgeons which stood in a corner, and a “life-preserver” that + +hung over the chimney-piece. + + + +“There,” said Sikes, smacking his lips. “Now I’m ready.” + + + +“For business?” inquired the Jew. + + + +“For business,” replied Sikes; “so say what you’ve got to say.” + + + +“About the crib at Chertsey, Bill?” said the Jew, drawing his chair + +forward, and speaking in a very low voice. + + + +“Yes. Wot about it?” inquired Sikes. + + + +“Ah! you know what I mean, my dear,” said the Jew. “He knows what I + +mean, Nancy; don’t he?” + + + +“No, he don’t,” sneered Mr. Sikes. “Or he won’t, and that’s the same + +thing. Speak out, and call things by their right names; don’t sit + +there, winking and blinking, and talking to me in hints, as if you + +warn’t the very first that thought about the robbery. Wot d’ye mean?” + + + +“Hush, Bill, hush!” said the Jew, who had in vain attempted to stop + +this burst of indignation; “somebody will hear us, my dear. Somebody + +will hear us.” + + + +“Let ’em hear!” said Sikes; “I don’t care.” But as Mr. Sikes _did_ + +care, on reflection, he dropped his voice as he said the words, and + +grew calmer. + + + +“There, there,” said the Jew, coaxingly. “It was only my caution, + +nothing more. Now, my dear, about that crib at Chertsey; when is it to + +be done, Bill, eh? When is it to be done? Such plate, my dear, such + +plate!” said the Jew: rubbing his hands, and elevating his eyebrows in + +a rapture of anticipation. + + + +“Not at all,” replied Sikes coldly. + + + +“Not to be done at all!” echoed the Jew, leaning back in his chair. + + + +“No, not at all,” rejoined Sikes. “At least it can’t be a put-up job, + +as we expected.” + + + +“Then it hasn’t been properly gone about,” said the Jew, turning pale + +with anger. “Don’t tell me!” + + + +“But I will tell you,” retorted Sikes. “Who are you that’s not to be + +told? I tell you that Toby Crackit has been hanging about the place for + +a fortnight, and he can’t get one of the servants in line.” + + + +“Do you mean to tell me, Bill,” said the Jew: softening as the other + +grew heated: “that neither of the two men in the house can be got + +over?” + + + +“Yes, I do mean to tell you so,” replied Sikes. “The old lady has had + +’em these twenty years; and if you were to give ’em five hundred pound, + +they wouldn’t be in it.” + + + +“But do you mean to say, my dear,” remonstrated the Jew, “that the + +women can’t be got over?” + + + +“Not a bit of it,” replied Sikes. + + + +“Not by flash Toby Crackit?” said the Jew incredulously. “Think what + +women are, Bill,” + + + +“No; not even by flash Toby Crackit,” replied Sikes. “He says he’s worn + +sham whiskers, and a canary waistcoat, the whole blessed time he’s been + +loitering down there, and it’s all of no use.” + + + +“He should have tried mustachios and a pair of military trousers, my + +dear,” said the Jew. + + + +“So he did,” rejoined Sikes, “and they warn’t of no more use than the + +other plant.” + + + +The Jew looked blank at this information. After ruminating for some + +minutes with his chin sunk on his breast, he raised his head and said, + +with a deep sigh, that if flash Toby Crackit reported aright, he feared + +the game was up. + + + +“And yet,” said the old man, dropping his hands on his knees, “it’s a + +sad thing, my dear, to lose so much when we had set our hearts upon + +it.” + + + +“So it is,” said Mr. Sikes. “Worse luck!” + + + +A long silence ensued; during which the Jew was plunged in deep + +thought, with his face wrinkled into an expression of villainy + +perfectly demoniacal. Sikes eyed him furtively from time to time. + +Nancy, apparently fearful of irritating the housebreaker, sat with her + +eyes fixed upon the fire, as if she had been deaf to all that passed. + + + +“Fagin,” said Sikes, abruptly breaking the stillness that prevailed; + +“is it worth fifty shiners extra, if it’s safely done from the + +outside?” + + + +“Yes,” said the Jew, as suddenly rousing himself. + + + +“Is it a bargain?” inquired Sikes. + + + +“Yes, my dear, yes,” rejoined the Jew; his eyes glistening, and every + +muscle in his face working, with the excitement that the inquiry had + +awakened. + + + +“Then,” said Sikes, thrusting aside the Jew’s hand, with some disdain, + +“let it come off as soon as you like. Toby and me were over the + +garden-wall the night afore last, sounding the panels of the door and + +shutters. The crib’s barred up at night like a jail; but there’s one + +part we can crack, safe and softly.” + + + +“Which is that, Bill?” asked the Jew eagerly. + + + +“Why,” whispered Sikes, “as you cross the lawn—” + + + +“Yes?” said the Jew, bending his head forward, with his eyes almost + +starting out of it. + + + +“Umph!” cried Sikes, stopping short, as the girl, scarcely moving her + +head, looked suddenly round, and pointed for an instant to the Jew’s + +face. “Never mind which part it is. You can’t do it without me, I know; + +but it’s best to be on the safe side when one deals with you.” + + + +“As you like, my dear, as you like” replied the Jew. “Is there no help + +wanted, but yours and Toby’s?” + + + +“None,” said Sikes, “’cept a centre-bit and a boy. The first we’ve both + +got; the second you must find us.” + + + +“A boy!” exclaimed the Jew. “Oh! then it’s a panel, eh?” + + + +“Never mind wot it is!” replied Sikes. “I want a boy, and he musn’t be + +a big ’un. Lord!” said Mr. Sikes, reflectively, “if I’d only got that + +young boy of Ned, the chimbley-sweeper’s! He kept him small on purpose, + +and let him out by the job. But the father gets lagged; and then the + +Juvenile Delinquent Society comes, and takes the boy away from a trade + +where he was earning money, teaches him to read and write, and in time + +makes a ’prentice of him. And so they go on,” said Mr. Sikes, his wrath + +rising with the recollection of his wrongs, “so they go on; and, if + +they’d got money enough (which it’s a Providence they haven’t,) we + +shouldn’t have half a dozen boys left in the whole trade, in a year or + +two.” + + + +“No more we should,” acquiesced the Jew, who had been considering + +during this speech, and had only caught the last sentence. “Bill!” + + + +“What now?” inquired Sikes. + + + +The Jew nodded his head towards Nancy, who was still gazing at the + +fire; and intimated, by a sign, that he would have her told to leave + +the room. Sikes shrugged his shoulders impatiently, as if he thought + +the precaution unnecessary; but complied, nevertheless, by requesting + +Miss Nancy to fetch him a jug of beer. + + + +“You don’t want any beer,” said Nancy, folding her arms, and retaining + +her seat very composedly. + + + +“I tell you I do!” replied Sikes. + + + +“Nonsense,” rejoined the girl coolly, “Go on, Fagin. I know what he’s + +going to say, Bill; he needn’t mind me.” + + + +The Jew still hesitated. Sikes looked from one to the other in some + +surprise. + + + +“Why, you don’t mind the old girl, do you, Fagin?” he asked at length. + +“You’ve known her long enough to trust her, or the Devil’s in it. She + +ain’t one to blab. Are you Nancy?” + + + +“_I_ should think not!” replied the young lady: drawing her chair up to + +the table, and putting her elbows upon it. + + + +“No, no, my dear, I know you’re not,” said the Jew; “but—” and again + +the old man paused. + + + +“But wot?” inquired Sikes. + + + +“I didn’t know whether she mightn’t p’r’aps be out of sorts, you know, + +my dear, as she was the other night,” replied the Jew. + + + +At this confession, Miss Nancy burst into a loud laugh; and, swallowing + +a glass of brandy, shook her head with an air of defiance, and burst + +into sundry exclamations of “Keep the game a-going!” “Never say die!” + +and the like. These seemed to have the effect of re-assuring both + +gentlemen; for the Jew nodded his head with a satisfied air, and + +resumed his seat: as did Mr. Sikes likewise. + + + +“Now, Fagin,” said Nancy with a laugh. “Tell Bill at once, about + +Oliver!” + + + +“Ha! you’re a clever one, my dear: the sharpest girl I ever saw!” said + +the Jew, patting her on the neck. “It _was_ about Oliver I was going to + +speak, sure enough. Ha! ha! ha!” + + + +“What about him?” demanded Sikes. + + + +“He’s the boy for you, my dear,” replied the Jew in a hoarse whisper; + +laying his finger on the side of his nose, and grinning frightfully. + + + +“He!” exclaimed Sikes. + + + +“Have him, Bill!” said Nancy. “I would, if I was in your place. He + +mayn’t be so much up, as any of the others; but that’s not what you + +want, if he’s only to open a door for you. Depend upon it he’s a safe + +one, Bill.” + + + +“I know he is,” rejoined Fagin. “He’s been in good training these last + +few weeks, and it’s time he began to work for his bread. Besides, the + +others are all too big.” + + + +“Well, he is just the size I want,” said Mr. Sikes, ruminating. + + + +“And will do everything you want, Bill, my dear,” interposed the Jew; + +“he can’t help himself. That is, if you frighten him enough.” + + + +“Frighten him!” echoed Sikes. “It’ll be no sham frightening, mind you. + +If there’s anything queer about him when we once get into the work; in + +for a penny, in for a pound. You won’t see him alive again, Fagin. + +Think of that, before you send him. Mark my words!” said the robber, + +poising a crowbar, which he had drawn from under the bedstead. + + + +“I’ve thought of it all,” said the Jew with energy. “I’ve—I’ve had my + +eye upon him, my dears, close—close. Once let him feel that he is one + +of us; once fill his mind with the idea that he has been a thief; and + +he’s ours! Ours for his life. Oho! It couldn’t have come about better!” + +The old man crossed his arms upon his breast; and, drawing his head and + +shoulders into a heap, literally hugged himself for joy. + + + +“Ours!” said Sikes. “Yours, you mean.” + + + +“Perhaps I do, my dear,” said the Jew, with a shrill chuckle. “Mine, if + +you like, Bill.” + + + +“And wot,” said Sikes, scowling fiercely on his agreeable friend, “wot + +makes you take so much pains about one chalk-faced kid, when you know + +there are fifty boys snoozing about Common Garden every night, as you + +might pick and choose from?” + + + +“Because they’re of no use to me, my dear,” replied the Jew, with some + +confusion, “not worth the taking. Their looks convict ’em when they get + +into trouble, and I lose ’em all. With this boy, properly managed, my + +dears, I could do what I couldn’t with twenty of them. Besides,” said + +the Jew, recovering his self-possession, “he has us now if he could + +only give us leg-bail again; and he must be in the same boat with us. + +Never mind how he came there; it’s quite enough for my power over him + +that he was in a robbery; that’s all I want. Now, how much better this + +is, than being obliged to put the poor leetle boy out of the way—which + +would be dangerous, and we should lose by it besides.” + + + +“When is it to be done?” asked Nancy, stopping some turbulent + +exclamation on the part of Mr. Sikes, expressive of the disgust with + +which he received Fagin’s affectation of humanity. + + + +“Ah, to be sure,” said the Jew; “when is it to be done, Bill?” + + + +“I planned with Toby, the night arter tomorrow,” rejoined Sikes in a + +surly voice, “if he heerd nothing from me to the contrairy.” + + + +“Good,” said the Jew; “there’s no moon.” + + + +“No,” rejoined Sikes. + + + +“It’s all arranged about bringing off the swag, is it?” asked the Jew. + + + +Sikes nodded. + + + +“And about—” + + + +“Oh, ah, it’s all planned,” rejoined Sikes, interrupting him. “Never + +mind particulars. You’d better bring the boy here tomorrow night. I + +shall get off the stone an hour arter daybreak. Then you hold your + +tongue, and keep the melting-pot ready, and that’s all you’ll have to + +do.” + + + +After some discussion, in which all three took an active part, it was + +decided that Nancy should repair to the Jew’s next evening when the + +night had set in, and bring Oliver away with her; Fagin craftily + +observing, that, if he evinced any disinclination to the task, he would + +be more willing to accompany the girl who had so recently interfered in + +his behalf, than anybody else. It was also solemnly arranged that poor + +Oliver should, for the purposes of the contemplated expedition, be + +unreservedly consigned to the care and custody of Mr. William Sikes; + +and further, that the said Sikes should deal with him as he thought + +fit; and should not be held responsible by the Jew for any mischance or + +evil that might be necessary to visit him: it being understood that, to + +render the compact in this respect binding, any representations made by + +Mr. Sikes on his return should be required to be confirmed and + +corroborated, in all important particulars, by the testimony of flash + +Toby Crackit. + + + +These preliminaries adjusted, Mr. Sikes proceeded to drink brandy at a + +furious rate, and to flourish the crowbar in an alarming manner; + +yelling forth, at the same time, most unmusical snatches of song, + +mingled with wild execrations. At length, in a fit of professional + +enthusiasm, he insisted upon producing his box of housebreaking tools: + +which he had no sooner stumbled in with, and opened for the purpose of + +explaining the nature and properties of the various implements it + +contained, and the peculiar beauties of their construction, than he + +fell over the box upon the floor, and went to sleep where he fell. + + + +“Good-night, Nancy,” said the Jew, muffling himself up as before. + + + +“Good-night.” + + + +Their eyes met, and the Jew scrutinised her, narrowly. There was no + +flinching about the girl. She was as true and earnest in the matter as + +Toby Crackit himself could be. + + + +The Jew again bade her good-night, and, bestowing a sly kick upon the + +prostrate form of Mr. Sikes while her back was turned, groped + +downstairs. + + + +“Always the way!” muttered the Jew to himself as he turned homeward. + +“The worst of these women is, that a very little thing serves to call + +up some long-forgotten feeling; and, the best of them is, that it never + +lasts. Ha! ha! The man against the child, for a bag of gold!” + + + +Beguiling the time with these pleasant reflections, Mr. Fagin wended + +his way, through mud and mire, to his gloomy abode: where the Dodger + +was sitting up, impatiently awaiting his return. + + + +“Is Oliver a-bed? I want to speak to him,” was his first remark as they + +descended the stairs. + + + +“Hours ago,” replied the Dodger, throwing open a door. “Here he is!” + + + +The boy was lying, fast asleep, on a rude bed upon the floor; so pale + +with anxiety, and sadness, and the closeness of his prison, that he + +looked like death; not death as it shows in shroud and coffin, but in + +the guise it wears when life has just departed; when a young and gentle + +spirit has, but an instant, fled to Heaven, and the gross air of the + +world has not had time to breathe upon the changing dust it hallowed. + + + +“Not now,” said the Jew, turning softly away. “Tomorrow. Tomorrow.” + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XX. + +WHEREIN OLIVER IS DELIVERED OVER TO MR. WILLIAM SIKES + + + + + +When Oliver awoke in the morning, he was a good deal surprised to find + +that a new pair of shoes, with strong thick soles, had been placed at + +his bedside; and that his old shoes had been removed. At first, he was + +pleased with the discovery: hoping that it might be the forerunner of + +his release; but such thoughts were quickly dispelled, on his sitting + +down to breakfast along with the Jew, who told him, in a tone and + +manner which increased his alarm, that he was to be taken to the + +residence of Bill Sikes that night. + + + +“To—to—stop there, sir?” asked Oliver, anxiously. + + + +“No, no, my dear. Not to stop there,” replied the Jew. “We shouldn’t + +like to lose you. Don’t be afraid, Oliver, you shall come back to us + +again. Ha! ha! ha! We won’t be so cruel as to send you away, my dear. + +Oh no, no!” + + + +The old man, who was stooping over the fire toasting a piece of bread, + +looked round as he bantered Oliver thus; and chuckled as if to show + +that he knew he would still be very glad to get away if he could. + + + +“I suppose,” said the Jew, fixing his eyes on Oliver, “you want to know + +what you’re going to Bill’s for—eh, my dear?” + + + +Oliver coloured, involuntarily, to find that the old thief had been + +reading his thoughts; but boldly said, Yes, he did want to know. + + + +“Why, do you think?” inquired Fagin, parrying the question. + + + +“Indeed I don’t know, sir,” replied Oliver. + + + +“Bah!” said the Jew, turning away with a disappointed countenance from + +a close perusal of the boy’s face. “Wait till Bill tells you, then.” + + + +The Jew seemed much vexed by Oliver’s not expressing any greater + +curiosity on the subject; but the truth is, that, although Oliver felt + +very anxious, he was too much confused by the earnest cunning of + +Fagin’s looks, and his own speculations, to make any further inquiries + +just then. He had no other opportunity: for the Jew remained very surly + +and silent till night: when he prepared to go abroad. + + + +“You may burn a candle,” said the Jew, putting one upon the table. “And + +here’s a book for you to read, till they come to fetch you. + +Good-night!” + + + +“Good-night!” replied Oliver, softly. + + + +The Jew walked to the door: looking over his shoulder at the boy as he + +went. Suddenly stopping, he called him by his name. + + + +Oliver looked up; the Jew, pointing to the candle, motioned him to + +light it. He did so; and, as he placed the candlestick upon the table, + +saw that the Jew was gazing fixedly at him, with lowering and + +contracted brows, from the dark end of the room. + + + +“Take heed, Oliver! take heed!” said the old man, shaking his right + +hand before him in a warning manner. “He’s a rough man, and thinks + +nothing of blood when his own is up. Whatever falls out, say nothing; + +and do what he bids you. Mind!” Placing a strong emphasis on the last + +word, he suffered his features gradually to resolve themselves into a + +ghastly grin, and, nodding his head, left the room. + + + +Oliver leaned his head upon his hand when the old man disappeared, and + +pondered, with a trembling heart, on the words he had just heard. The + +more he thought of the Jew’s admonition, the more he was at a loss to + +divine its real purpose and meaning. + + + +He could think of no bad object to be attained by sending him to Sikes, + +which would not be equally well answered by his remaining with Fagin; + +and after meditating for a long time, concluded that he had been + +selected to perform some ordinary menial offices for the housebreaker, + +until another boy, better suited for his purpose could be engaged. He + +was too well accustomed to suffering, and had suffered too much where + +he was, to bewail the prospect of change very severely. He remained + +lost in thought for some minutes; and then, with a heavy sigh, snuffed + +the candle, and, taking up the book which the Jew had left with him, + +began to read. + + + +He turned over the leaves. Carelessly at first; but, lighting on a + +passage which attracted his attention, he soon became intent upon the + +volume. It was a history of the lives and trials of great criminals; + +and the pages were soiled and thumbed with use. Here, he read of + +dreadful crimes that made the blood run cold; of secret murders that + +had been committed by the lonely wayside; of bodies hidden from the eye + +of man in deep pits and wells: which would not keep them down, deep as + +they were, but had yielded them up at last, after many years, and so + +maddened the murderers with the sight, that in their horror they had + +confessed their guilt, and yelled for the gibbet to end their agony. + +Here, too, he read of men who, lying in their beds at dead of night, + +had been tempted (so they said) and led on, by their own bad thoughts, + +to such dreadful bloodshed as it made the flesh creep, and the limbs + +quail, to think of. The terrible descriptions were so real and vivid, + +that the sallow pages seemed to turn red with gore; and the words upon + +them, to be sounded in his ears, as if they were whispered, in hollow + +murmurs, by the spirits of the dead. + + + +In a paroxysm of fear, the boy closed the book, and thrust it from him. + +Then, falling upon his knees, he prayed Heaven to spare him from such + +deeds; and rather to will that he should die at once, than be reserved + +for crimes, so fearful and appalling. By degrees, he grew more calm, + +and besought, in a low and broken voice, that he might be rescued from + +his present dangers; and that if any aid were to be raised up for a + +poor outcast boy who had never known the love of friends or kindred, it + +might come to him now, when, desolate and deserted, he stood alone in + +the midst of wickedness and guilt. + + + +He had concluded his prayer, but still remained with his head buried in + +his hands, when a rustling noise aroused him. + + + +“What’s that!” he cried, starting up, and catching sight of a figure + +standing by the door. “Who’s there?” + + + +“Me. Only me,” replied a tremulous voice. + + + +Oliver raised the candle above his head: and looked towards the door. + +It was Nancy. + + + +“Put down the light,” said the girl, turning away her head. “It hurts + +my eyes.” + + + +Oliver saw that she was very pale, and gently inquired if she were ill. + +The girl threw herself into a chair, with her back towards him: and + +wrung her hands; but made no reply. + + + +“God forgive me!” she cried after a while, “I never thought of this.” + + + +“Has anything happened?” asked Oliver. “Can I help you? I will if I + +can. I will, indeed.” + + + +She rocked herself to and fro; caught her throat; and, uttering a + +gurgling sound, gasped for breath. + + + +“Nancy!” cried Oliver, “What is it?” + + + +The girl beat her hands upon her knees, and her feet upon the ground; + +and, suddenly stopping, drew her shawl close round her: and shivered + +with cold. + + + +Oliver stirred the fire. Drawing her chair close to it, she sat there, + +for a little time, without speaking; but at length she raised her head, + +and looked round. + + + +“I don’t know what comes over me sometimes,” said she, affecting to + +busy herself in arranging her dress; “it’s this damp dirty room, I + +think. Now, Nolly, dear, are you ready?” + + + +“Am I to go with you?” asked Oliver. + + + +“Yes. I have come from Bill,” replied the girl. “You are to go with + +me.” + + + +“What for?” asked Oliver, recoiling. + + + +“What for?” echoed the girl, raising her eyes, and averting them again, + +the moment they encountered the boy’s face. “Oh! For no harm.” + + + +“I don’t believe it,” said Oliver: who had watched her closely. + + + +“Have it your own way,” rejoined the girl, affecting to laugh. “For no + +good, then.” + + + +Oliver could see that he had some power over the girl’s better + +feelings, and, for an instant, thought of appealing to her compassion + +for his helpless state. But, then, the thought darted across his mind + +that it was barely eleven o’clock; and that many people were still in + +the streets: of whom surely some might be found to give credence to his + +tale. As the reflection occured to him, he stepped forward: and said, + +somewhat hastily, that he was ready. + + + +Neither his brief consideration, nor its purport, was lost on his + +companion. She eyed him narrowly, while he spoke; and cast upon him a + +look of intelligence which sufficiently showed that she guessed what + +had been passing in his thoughts. + + + +“Hush!” said the girl, stooping over him, and pointing to the door as + +she looked cautiously round. “You can’t help yourself. I have tried + +hard for you, but all to no purpose. You are hedged round and round. If + +ever you are to get loose from here, this is not the time.” + + + +Struck by the energy of her manner, Oliver looked up in her face with + +great surprise. She seemed to speak the truth; her countenance was + +white and agitated; and she trembled with very earnestness. + + + +“I have saved you from being ill-used once, and I will again, and I do + +now,” continued the girl aloud; “for those who would have fetched you, + +if I had not, would have been far more rough than me. I have promised + +for your being quiet and silent; if you are not, you will only do harm + +to yourself and me too, and perhaps be my death. See here! I have borne + +all this for you already, as true as God sees me show it.” + + + +She pointed, hastily, to some livid bruises on her neck and arms; and + +continued, with great rapidity: + + + +“Remember this! And don’t let me suffer more for you, just now. If I + +could help you, I would; but I have not the power. They don’t mean to + +harm you; whatever they make you do, is no fault of yours. Hush! Every + +word from you is a blow for me. Give me your hand. Make haste! Your + +hand!” + + + +She caught the hand which Oliver instinctively placed in hers, and, + +blowing out the light, drew him after her up the stairs. The door was + +opened, quickly, by some one shrouded in the darkness, and was as + +quickly closed, when they had passed out. A hackney-cabriolet was in + +waiting; with the same vehemence which she had exhibited in addressing + +Oliver, the girl pulled him in with her, and drew the curtains close. + +The driver wanted no directions, but lashed his horse into full speed, + +without the delay of an instant. + + + +The girl still held Oliver fast by the hand, and continued to pour into + +his ear, the warnings and assurances she had already imparted. All was + +so quick and hurried, that he had scarcely time to recollect where he + +was, or how he came there, when the carriage stopped at the house to + +which the Jew’s steps had been directed on the previous evening. + + + +For one brief moment, Oliver cast a hurried glance along the empty + +street, and a cry for help hung upon his lips. But the girl’s voice was + +in his ear, beseeching him in such tones of agony to remember her, that + +he had not the heart to utter it. While he hesitated, the opportunity + +was gone; he was already in the house, and the door was shut. + + + +“This way,” said the girl, releasing her hold for the first time. + +“Bill!” + + + +“Hallo!” replied Sikes: appearing at the head of the stairs, with a + +candle. “Oh! That’s the time of day. Come on!” + + + +This was a very strong expression of approbation, an uncommonly hearty + +welcome, from a person of Mr. Sikes’ temperament. Nancy, appearing much + +gratified thereby, saluted him cordially. + + + +“Bull’s-eye’s gone home with Tom,” observed Sikes, as he lighted them + +up. “He’d have been in the way.” + + + +“That’s right,” rejoined Nancy. + + + +“So you’ve got the kid,” said Sikes when they had all reached the room: + +closing the door as he spoke. + + + +“Yes, here he is,” replied Nancy. + + + +“Did he come quiet?” inquired Sikes. + + + +“Like a lamb,” rejoined Nancy. + + + +“I’m glad to hear it,” said Sikes, looking grimly at Oliver; “for the + +sake of his young carcase: as would otherways have suffered for it. + +Come here, young ’un; and let me read you a lectur’, which is as well + +got over at once.” + + + +Thus addressing his new pupil, Mr. Sikes pulled off Oliver’s cap and + +threw it into a corner; and then, taking him by the shoulder, sat + +himself down by the table, and stood the boy in front of him. + + + +“Now, first: do you know wot this is?” inquired Sikes, taking up a + +pocket-pistol which lay on the table. + + + +Oliver replied in the affirmative. + + + +“Well, then, look here,” continued Sikes. “This is powder; that ’ere’s + +a bullet; and this is a little bit of a old hat for waddin’.” + + + +Oliver murmured his comprehension of the different bodies referred to; + +and Mr. Sikes proceeded to load the pistol, with great nicety and + +deliberation. + + + +“Now it’s loaded,” said Mr. Sikes, when he had finished. + + + +“Yes, I see it is, sir,” replied Oliver. + + + +“Well,” said the robber, grasping Oliver’s wrist, and putting the + +barrel so close to his temple that they touched; at which moment the + +boy could not repress a start; “if you speak a word when you’re out + +o’doors with me, except when I speak to you, that loading will be in + +your head without notice. So, if you _do_ make up your mind to speak + +without leave, say your prayers first.” + + + +Having bestowed a scowl upon the object of this warning, to increase + +its effect, Mr. Sikes continued. + + + +“As near as I know, there isn’t anybody as would be asking very + +partickler arter you, if you _was_ disposed of; so I needn’t take this + +devil-and-all of trouble to explain matters to you, if it warn’t for + +your own good. D’ye hear me?” + + + +“The short and the long of what you mean,” said Nancy: speaking very + +emphatically, and slightly frowning at Oliver as if to bespeak his + +serious attention to her words: “is, that if you’re crossed by him in + +this job you have on hand, you’ll prevent his ever telling tales + +afterwards, by shooting him through the head, and will take your chance + +of swinging for it, as you do for a great many other things in the way + +of business, every month of your life.” + + + +“That’s it!” observed Mr. Sikes, approvingly; “women can always put + +things in fewest words.—Except when it’s blowing up; and then they + +lengthens it out. And now that he’s thoroughly up to it, let’s have + +some supper, and get a snooze before starting.” + + + +In pursuance of this request, Nancy quickly laid the cloth; + +disappearing for a few minutes, she presently returned with a pot of + +porter and a dish of sheep’s heads: which gave occasion to several + +pleasant witticisms on the part of Mr. Sikes, founded upon the singular + +coincidence of “jemmies” being a can name, common to them, and also to + +an ingenious implement much used in his profession. Indeed, the worthy + +gentleman, stimulated perhaps by the immediate prospect of being on + +active service, was in great spirits and good humour; in proof whereof, + +it may be here remarked, that he humourously drank all the beer at a + +draught, and did not utter, on a rough calculation, more than + +four-score oaths during the whole progress of the meal. + + + +Supper being ended—it may be easily conceived that Oliver had no great + +appetite for it—Mr. Sikes disposed of a couple of glasses of spirits + +and water, and threw himself on the bed; ordering Nancy, with many + +imprecations in case of failure, to call him at five precisely. Oliver + +stretched himself in his clothes, by command of the same authority, on + +a mattress upon the floor; and the girl, mending the fire, sat before + +it, in readiness to rouse them at the appointed time. + + + +For a long time Oliver lay awake, thinking it not impossible that Nancy + +might seek that opportunity of whispering some further advice; but the + +girl sat brooding over the fire, without moving, save now and then to + +trim the light. Weary with watching and anxiety, he at length fell + +asleep. + + + +When he awoke, the table was covered with tea-things, and Sikes was + +thrusting various articles into the pockets of his great-coat, which + +hung over the back of a chair. Nancy was busily engaged in preparing + +breakfast. It was not yet daylight; for the candle was still burning, + +and it was quite dark outside. A sharp rain, too, was beating against + +the window-panes; and the sky looked black and cloudy. + + + +“Now, then!” growled Sikes, as Oliver started up; “half-past five! Look + +sharp, or you’ll get no breakfast; for it’s late as it is.” + + + +Oliver was not long in making his toilet; having taken some breakfast, + +he replied to a surly inquiry from Sikes, by saying that he was quite + +ready. + + + +Nancy, scarcely looking at the boy, threw him a handkerchief to tie + +round his throat; Sikes gave him a large rough cape to button over his + +shoulders. Thus attired, he gave his hand to the robber, who, merely + +pausing to show him with a menacing gesture that he had that same + +pistol in a side-pocket of his great-coat, clasped it firmly in his, + +and, exchanging a farewell with Nancy, led him away. + + + +Oliver turned, for an instant, when they reached the door, in the hope + +of meeting a look from the girl. But she had resumed her old seat in + +front of the fire, and sat, perfectly motionless before it. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XXI. + +THE EXPEDITION + + + + + +It was a cheerless morning when they got into the street; blowing and + +raining hard; and the clouds looking dull and stormy. The night had + +been very wet: large pools of water had collected in the road: and the + +kennels were overflowing. There was a faint glimmering of the coming + +day in the sky; but it rather aggravated than relieved the gloom of the + +scene: the sombre light only serving to pale that which the street + +lamps afforded, without shedding any warmer or brighter tints upon the + +wet house-tops, and dreary streets. There appeared to be nobody + +stirring in that quarter of the town; the windows of the houses were + +all closely shut; and the streets through which they passed, were + +noiseless and empty. + + + +By the time they had turned into the Bethnal Green Road, the day had + +fairly begun to break. Many of the lamps were already extinguished; a + +few country waggons were slowly toiling on, towards London; now and + +then, a stage-coach, covered with mud, rattled briskly by: the driver + +bestowing, as he passed, an admonitory lash upon the heavy waggoner + +who, by keeping on the wrong side of the road, had endangered his + +arriving at the office, a quarter of a minute after his time. The + +public-houses, with gas-lights burning inside, were already open. By + +degrees, other shops began to be unclosed, and a few scattered people + +were met with. Then, came straggling groups of labourers going to their + +work; then, men and women with fish-baskets on their heads; + +donkey-carts laden with vegetables; chaise-carts filled with live-stock + +or whole carcasses of meat; milk-women with pails; an unbroken + +concourse of people, trudging out with various supplies to the eastern + +suburbs of the town. As they approached the City, the noise and traffic + +gradually increased; when they threaded the streets between Shoreditch + +and Smithfield, it had swelled into a roar of sound and bustle. It was + +as light as it was likely to be, till night came on again, and the busy + +morning of half the London population had begun. + + + +Turning down Sun Street and Crown Street, and crossing Finsbury square, + +Mr. Sikes struck, by way of Chiswell Street, into Barbican: thence into + +Long Lane, and so into Smithfield; from which latter place arose a + +tumult of discordant sounds that filled Oliver Twist with amazement. + + + +It was market-morning. The ground was covered, nearly ankle-deep, with + +filth and mire; a thick steam, perpetually rising from the reeking + +bodies of the cattle, and mingling with the fog, which seemed to rest + +upon the chimney-tops, hung heavily above. All the pens in the centre + +of the large area, and as many temporary pens as could be crowded into + +the vacant space, were filled with sheep; tied up to posts by the + +gutter side were long lines of beasts and oxen, three or four deep. + +Countrymen, butchers, drovers, hawkers, boys, thieves, idlers, and + +vagabonds of every low grade, were mingled together in a mass; the + +whistling of drovers, the barking dogs, the bellowing and plunging of + +the oxen, the bleating of sheep, the grunting and squeaking of pigs, + +the cries of hawkers, the shouts, oaths, and quarrelling on all sides; + +the ringing of bells and roar of voices, that issued from every + +public-house; the crowding, pushing, driving, beating, whooping and + +yelling; the hideous and discordant dim that resounded from every + +corner of the market; and the unwashed, unshaven, squalid, and dirty + +figures constantly running to and fro, and bursting in and out of the + +throng; rendered it a stunning and bewildering scene, which quite + +confounded the senses. + + + +Mr. Sikes, dragging Oliver after him, elbowed his way through the + +thickest of the crowd, and bestowed very little attention on the + +numerous sights and sounds, which so astonished the boy. He nodded, + +twice or thrice, to a passing friend; and, resisting as many + +invitations to take a morning dram, pressed steadily onward, until they + +were clear of the turmoil, and had made their way through Hosier Lane + +into Holborn. + + + +“Now, young ’un!” said Sikes, looking up at the clock of St. Andrew’s + +Church, “hard upon seven! you must step out. Come, don’t lag behind + +already, Lazy-legs!” + + + +Mr. Sikes accompanied this speech with a jerk at his little companion’s + +wrist; Oliver, quickening his pace into a kind of trot between a fast + +walk and a run, kept up with the rapid strides of the house-breaker as + +well as he could. + + + +They held their course at this rate, until they had passed Hyde Park + +corner, and were on their way to Kensington: when Sikes relaxed his + +pace, until an empty cart which was at some little distance behind, + +came up. Seeing “Hounslow” written on it, he asked the driver with as + +much civility as he could assume, if he would give them a lift as far + +as Isleworth. + + + +“Jump up,” said the man. “Is that your boy?” + + + +“Yes; he’s my boy,” replied Sikes, looking hard at Oliver, and putting + +his hand abstractedly into the pocket where the pistol was. + + + +“Your father walks rather too quick for you, don’t he, my man?” + +inquired the driver: seeing that Oliver was out of breath. + + + +“Not a bit of it,” replied Sikes, interposing. “He’s used to it. Here, + +take hold of my hand, Ned. In with you!” + + + +Thus addressing Oliver, he helped him into the cart; and the driver, + +pointing to a heap of sacks, told him to lie down there, and rest + +himself. + + + +As they passed the different mile-stones, Oliver wondered, more and + +more, where his companion meant to take him. Kensington, Hammersmith, + +Chiswick, Kew Bridge, Brentford, were all passed; and yet they went on + +as steadily as if they had only just begun their journey. At length, + +they came to a public-house called the Coach and Horses; a little way + +beyond which, another road appeared to run off. And here, the cart + +stopped. + + + +Sikes dismounted with great precipitation, holding Oliver by the hand + +all the while; and lifting him down directly, bestowed a furious look + +upon him, and rapped the side-pocket with his fist, in a significant + +manner. + + + +“Good-bye, boy,” said the man. + + + +“He’s sulky,” replied Sikes, giving him a shake; “he’s sulky. A young + +dog! Don’t mind him.” + + + +“Not I!” rejoined the other, getting into his cart. “It’s a fine day, + +after all.” And he drove away. + + + +Sikes waited until he had fairly gone; and then, telling Oliver he + +might look about him if he wanted, once again led him onward on his + +journey. + + + +They turned round to the left, a short way past the public-house; and + +then, taking a right-hand road, walked on for a long time: passing many + +large gardens and gentlemen’s houses on both sides of the way, and + +stopping for nothing but a little beer, until they reached a town. Here + +against the wall of a house, Oliver saw written up in pretty large + +letters, “Hampton.” They lingered about, in the fields, for some hours. + +At length they came back into the town; and, turning into an old + +public-house with a defaced sign-board, ordered some dinner by the + +kitchen fire. + + + +The kitchen was an old, low-roofed room; with a great beam across the + +middle of the ceiling, and benches, with high backs to them, by the + +fire; on which were seated several rough men in smock-frocks, drinking + +and smoking. They took no notice of Oliver; and very little of Sikes; + +and, as Sikes took very little notice of them, he and his young comrade + +sat in a corner by themselves, without being much troubled by their + +company. + + + +They had some cold meat for dinner, and sat so long after it, while Mr. + +Sikes indulged himself with three or four pipes, that Oliver began to + +feel quite certain they were not going any further. Being much tired + +with the walk, and getting up so early, he dozed a little at first; + +then, quite overpowered by fatigue and the fumes of the tobacco, fell + +asleep. + + + +It was quite dark when he was awakened by a push from Sikes. Rousing + +himself sufficiently to sit up and look about him, he found that worthy + +in close fellowship and communication with a labouring man, over a pint + +of ale. + + + +“So, you’re going on to Lower Halliford, are you?” inquired Sikes. + + + +“Yes, I am,” replied the man, who seemed a little the worse—or better, + +as the case might be—for drinking; “and not slow about it neither. My + +horse hasn’t got a load behind him going back, as he had coming up in + +the mornin’; and he won’t be long a-doing of it. Here’s luck to him. + +Ecod! he’s a good ’un!” + + + +“Could you give my boy and me a lift as far as there?” demanded Sikes, + +pushing the ale towards his new friend. + + + +“If you’re going directly, I can,” replied the man, looking out of the + +pot. “Are you going to Halliford?” + + + +“Going on to Shepperton,” replied Sikes. + + + +“I’m your man, as far as I go,” replied the other. “Is all paid, + +Becky?” + + + +“Yes, the other gentleman’s paid,” replied the girl. + + + +“I say!” said the man, with tipsy gravity; “that won’t do, you know.” + + + +“Why not?” rejoined Sikes. “You’re a-going to accommodate us, and wot’s + +to prevent my standing treat for a pint or so, in return?” + + + +The stranger reflected upon this argument, with a very profound face; + +having done so, he seized Sikes by the hand: and declared he was a real + +good fellow. To which Mr. Sikes replied, he was joking; as, if he had + +been sober, there would have been strong reason to suppose he was. + + + +After the exchange of a few more compliments, they bade the company + +good-night, and went out; the girl gathering up the pots and glasses as + +they did so, and lounging out to the door, with her hands full, to see + +the party start. + + + +The horse, whose health had been drunk in his absence, was standing + +outside: ready harnessed to the cart. Oliver and Sikes got in without + +any further ceremony; and the man to whom he belonged, having lingered + +for a minute or two “to bear him up,” and to defy the hostler and the + +world to produce his equal, mounted also. Then, the hostler was told to + +give the horse his head; and, his head being given him, he made a very + +unpleasant use of it: tossing it into the air with great disdain, and + +running into the parlour windows over the way; after performing those + +feats, and supporting himself for a short time on his hind-legs, he + +started off at great speed, and rattled out of the town right + +gallantly. + + + +The night was very dark. A damp mist rose from the river, and the + +marshy ground about; and spread itself over the dreary fields. It was + +piercing cold, too; all was gloomy and black. Not a word was spoken; + +for the driver had grown sleepy; and Sikes was in no mood to lead him + +into conversation. Oliver sat huddled together, in a corner of the + +cart; bewildered with alarm and apprehension; and figuring strange + +objects in the gaunt trees, whose branches waved grimly to and fro, as + +if in some fantastic joy at the desolation of the scene. + + + +As they passed Sunbury Church, the clock struck seven. There was a + +light in the ferry-house window opposite: which streamed across the + +road, and threw into more sombre shadow a dark yew-tree with graves + +beneath it. There was a dull sound of falling water not far off; and + +the leaves of the old tree stirred gently in the night wind. It seemed + +like quiet music for the repose of the dead. + + + +Sunbury was passed through, and they came again into the lonely road. + +Two or three miles more, and the cart stopped. Sikes alighted, took + +Oliver by the hand, and they once again walked on. + + + +They turned into no house at Shepperton, as the weary boy had expected; + +but still kept walking on, in mud and darkness, through gloomy lanes + +and over cold open wastes, until they came within sight of the lights + +of a town at no great distance. On looking intently forward, Oliver saw + +that the water was just below them, and that they were coming to the + +foot of a bridge. + + + +Sikes kept straight on, until they were close upon the bridge; then + +turned suddenly down a bank upon the left. + + + +“The water!” thought Oliver, turning sick with fear. “He has brought me + +to this lonely place to murder me!” + + + +He was about to throw himself on the ground, and make one struggle for + +his young life, when he saw that they stood before a solitary house: + +all ruinous and decayed. There was a window on each side of the + +dilapidated entrance; and one story above; but no light was visible. + +The house was dark, dismantled: and, to all appearance, uninhabited. + + + +Sikes, with Oliver’s hand still in his, softly approached the low + +porch, and raised the latch. The door yielded to the pressure, and they + +passed in together. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XXII. + +THE BURGLARY + + + + + +“Hallo!” cried a loud, hoarse voice, as soon as they set foot in the + +passage. + + + +“Don’t make such a row,” said Sikes, bolting the door. “Show a glim, + +Toby.” + + + +“Aha! my pal!” cried the same voice. “A glim, Barney, a glim! Show the + +gentleman in, Barney; wake up first, if convenient.” + + + +The speaker appeared to throw a boot-jack, or some such article, at the + +person he addressed, to rouse him from his slumbers: for the noise of a + +wooden body, falling violently, was heard; and then an indistinct + +muttering, as of a man between sleep and awake. + + + +“Do you hear?” cried the same voice. “There’s Bill Sikes in the passage + +with nobody to do the civil to him; and you sleeping there, as if you + +took laudanum with your meals, and nothing stronger. Are you any + +fresher now, or do you want the iron candlestick to wake you + +thoroughly?” + + + +A pair of slipshod feet shuffled, hastily, across the bare floor of the + +room, as this interrogatory was put; and there issued, from a door on + +the right hand; first, a feeble candle: and next, the form of the same + +individual who has been heretofore described as labouring under the + +infirmity of speaking through his nose, and officiating as waiter at + +the public-house on Saffron Hill. + + + +“Bister Sikes!” exclaimed Barney, with real or counterfeit joy; “cub + +id, sir; cub id.” + + + +“Here! you get on first,” said Sikes, putting Oliver in front of him. + +“Quicker! or I shall tread upon your heels.” + + + +Muttering a curse upon his tardiness, Sikes pushed Oliver before him; + +and they entered a low dark room with a smoky fire, two or three broken + +chairs, a table, and a very old couch: on which, with his legs much + +higher than his head, a man was reposing at full length, smoking a long + +clay pipe. He was dressed in a smartly-cut snuff-coloured coat, with + +large brass buttons; an orange neckerchief; a coarse, staring, + +shawl-pattern waistcoat; and drab breeches. Mr. Crackit (for he it was) + +had no very great quantity of hair, either upon his head or face; but + +what he had, was of a reddish dye, and tortured into long corkscrew + +curls, through which he occasionally thrust some very dirty fingers, + +ornamented with large common rings. He was a trifle above the middle + +size, and apparently rather weak in the legs; but this circumstance by + +no means detracted from his own admiration of his top-boots, which he + +contemplated, in their elevated situation, with lively satisfaction. + + + +“Bill, my boy!” said this figure, turning his head towards the door, + +“I’m glad to see you. I was almost afraid you’d given it up: in which + +case I should have made a personal wentur. Hallo!” + + + +Uttering this exclamation in a tone of great surprise, as his eyes + +rested on Oliver, Mr. Toby Crackit brought himself into a sitting + +posture, and demanded who that was. + + + +“The boy. Only the boy!” replied Sikes, drawing a chair towards the + +fire. + + + +“Wud of Bister Fagid’s lads,” exclaimed Barney, with a grin. + + + +“Fagin’s, eh!” exclaimed Toby, looking at Oliver. “Wot an inwalable boy + +that’ll make, for the old ladies’ pockets in chapels! His mug is a + +fortin’ to him.” + + + +“There—there’s enough of that,” interposed Sikes, impatiently; and + +stooping over his recumbant friend, he whispered a few words in his + +ear: at which Mr. Crackit laughed immensely, and honoured Oliver with a + +long stare of astonishment. + + + +“Now,” said Sikes, as he resumed his seat, “if you’ll give us something + +to eat and drink while we’re waiting, you’ll put some heart in us; or + +in me, at all events. Sit down by the fire, younker, and rest yourself; + +for you’ll have to go out with us again tonight, though not very far + +off.” + + + +Oliver looked at Sikes, in mute and timid wonder; and drawing a stool + +to the fire, sat with his aching head upon his hands, scarcely knowing + +where he was, or what was passing around him. + + + +“Here,” said Toby, as the young Jew placed some fragments of food, and + +a bottle upon the table, “Success to the crack!” He rose to honour the + +toast; and, carefully depositing his empty pipe in a corner, advanced + +to the table, filled a glass with spirits, and drank off its contents. + +Mr. Sikes did the same. + + + +“A drain for the boy,” said Toby, half-filling a wine-glass. “Down with + +it, innocence.” + + + +“Indeed,” said Oliver, looking piteously up into the man’s face; + +“indeed, I—” + + + +“Down with it!” echoed Toby. “Do you think I don’t know what’s good for + +you? Tell him to drink it, Bill.” + + + +“He had better!” said Sikes clapping his hand upon his pocket. “Burn my + +body, if he isn’t more trouble than a whole family of Dodgers. Drink + +it, you perwerse imp; drink it!” + + + +Frightened by the menacing gestures of the two men, Oliver hastily + +swallowed the contents of the glass, and immediately fell into a + +violent fit of coughing: which delighted Toby Crackit and Barney, and + +even drew a smile from the surly Mr. Sikes. + + + +This done, and Sikes having satisfied his appetite (Oliver could eat + +nothing but a small crust of bread which they made him swallow), the + +two men laid themselves down on chairs for a short nap. Oliver retained + +his stool by the fire; Barney wrapped in a blanket, stretched himself + +on the floor: close outside the fender. + + + +They slept, or appeared to sleep, for some time; nobody stirring but + +Barney, who rose once or twice to throw coals on the fire. Oliver fell + +into a heavy doze: imagining himself straying along the gloomy lanes, + +or wandering about the dark churchyard, or retracing some one or other + +of the scenes of the past day: when he was roused by Toby Crackit + +jumping up and declaring it was half-past one. + + + +In an instant, the other two were on their legs, and all were actively + +engaged in busy preparation. Sikes and his companion enveloped their + +necks and chins in large dark shawls, and drew on their great-coats; + +Barney, opening a cupboard, brought forth several articles, which he + +hastily crammed into the pockets. + + + +“Barkers for me, Barney,” said Toby Crackit. + + + +“Here they are,” replied Barney, producing a pair of pistols. “You + +loaded them yourself.” + + + +“All right!” replied Toby, stowing them away. “The persuaders?” + + + +“I’ve got ’em,” replied Sikes. + + + +“Crape, keys, centre-bits, darkies—nothing forgotten?” inquired Toby: + +fastening a small crowbar to a loop inside the skirt of his coat. + + + +“All right,” rejoined his companion. “Bring them bits of timber, + +Barney. That’s the time of day.” + + + +With these words, he took a thick stick from Barney’s hands, who, + +having delivered another to Toby, busied himself in fastening on + +Oliver’s cape. + + + +“Now then!” said Sikes, holding out his hand. + + + +Oliver: who was completely stupified by the unwonted exercise, and the + +air, and the drink which had been forced upon him: put his hand + +mechanically into that which Sikes extended for the purpose. + + + +“Take his other hand, Toby,” said Sikes. “Look out, Barney.” + + + +The man went to the door, and returned to announce that all was quiet. + +The two robbers issued forth with Oliver between them. Barney, having + +made all fast, rolled himself up as before, and was soon asleep again. + + + +It was now intensely dark. The fog was much heavier than it had been in + +the early part of the night; and the atmosphere was so damp, that, + +although no rain fell, Oliver’s hair and eyebrows, within a few minutes + +after leaving the house, had become stiff with the half-frozen moisture + +that was floating about. They crossed the bridge, and kept on towards + +the lights which he had seen before. They were at no great distance + +off; and, as they walked pretty briskly, they soon arrived at Chertsey. + + + +“Slap through the town,” whispered Sikes; “there’ll be nobody in the + +way, tonight, to see us.” + + + +Toby acquiesced; and they hurried through the main street of the little + +town, which at that late hour was wholly deserted. A dim light shone at + +intervals from some bed-room window; and the hoarse barking of dogs + +occasionally broke the silence of the night. But there was nobody + +abroad. They had cleared the town, as the church-bell struck two. + + + +Quickening their pace, they turned up a road upon the left hand. After + +walking about a quarter of a mile, they stopped before a detached house + +surrounded by a wall: to the top of which, Toby Crackit, scarcely + +pausing to take breath, climbed in a twinkling. + + + +“The boy next,” said Toby. “Hoist him up; I’ll catch hold of him.” + + + +Before Oliver had time to look round, Sikes had caught him under the + +arms; and in three or four seconds he and Toby were lying on the grass + +on the other side. Sikes followed directly. And they stole cautiously + +towards the house. + + + +And now, for the first time, Oliver, well-nigh mad with grief and + +terror, saw that housebreaking and robbery, if not murder, were the + +objects of the expedition. He clasped his hands together, and + +involuntarily uttered a subdued exclamation of horror. A mist came + +before his eyes; the cold sweat stood upon his ashy face; his limbs + +failed him; and he sank upon his knees. + + + +“Get up!” murmured Sikes, trembling with rage, and drawing the pistol + +from his pocket; “Get up, or I’ll strew your brains upon the grass.” + + + +“Oh! for God’s sake let me go!” cried Oliver; “let me run away and die + +in the fields. I will never come near London; never, never! Oh! pray + +have mercy on me, and do not make me steal. For the love of all the + +bright Angels that rest in Heaven, have mercy upon me!” + + + +The man to whom this appeal was made, swore a dreadful oath, and had + +cocked the pistol, when Toby, striking it from his grasp, placed his + +hand upon the boy’s mouth, and dragged him to the house. + + + +“Hush!” cried the man; “it won’t answer here. Say another word, and + +I’ll do your business myself with a crack on the head. That makes no + +noise, and is quite as certain, and more genteel. Here, Bill, wrench + +the shutter open. He’s game enough now, I’ll engage. I’ve seen older + +hands of his age took the same way, for a minute or two, on a cold + +night.” + + + +Sikes, invoking terrific imprecations upon Fagin’s head for sending + +Oliver on such an errand, plied the crowbar vigorously, but with little + +noise. After some delay, and some assistance from Toby, the shutter to + +which he had referred, swung open on its hinges. + + + +It was a little lattice window, about five feet and a half above the + +ground, at the back of the house: which belonged to a scullery, or + +small brewing-place, at the end of the passage. The aperture was so + +small, that the inmates had probably not thought it worth while to + +defend it more securely; but it was large enough to admit a boy of + +Oliver’s size, nevertheless. A very brief exercise of Mr. Sikes’s art, + +sufficed to overcome the fastening of the lattice; and it soon stood + +wide open also. + + + +“Now listen, you young limb,” whispered Sikes, drawing a dark lantern + +from his pocket, and throwing the glare full on Oliver’s face; “I’m a + +going to put you through there. Take this light; go softly up the steps + +straight afore you, and along the little hall, to the street door; + +unfasten it, and let us in.” + + + +“There’s a bolt at the top, you won’t be able to reach,” interposed + +Toby. “Stand upon one of the hall chairs. There are three there, Bill, + +with a jolly large blue unicorn and gold pitchfork on ’em: which is the + +old lady’s arms.” + + + +“Keep quiet, can’t you?” replied Sikes, with a threatening look. “The + +room-door is open, is it?” + + + +“Wide,” replied Toby, after peeping in to satisfy himself. “The game of + +that is, that they always leave it open with a catch, so that the dog, + +who’s got a bed in here, may walk up and down the passage when he feels + +wakeful. Ha! ha! Barney ’ticed him away tonight. So neat!” + + + +Although Mr. Crackit spoke in a scarcely audible whisper, and laughed + +without noise, Sikes imperiously commanded him to be silent, and to get + +to work. Toby complied, by first producing his lantern, and placing it + +on the ground; then by planting himself firmly with his head against + +the wall beneath the window, and his hands upon his knees, so as to + +make a step of his back. This was no sooner done, than Sikes, mounting + +upon him, put Oliver gently through the window with his feet first; + +and, without leaving hold of his collar, planted him safely on the + +floor inside. + + + +“Take this lantern,” said Sikes, looking into the room. “You see the + +stairs afore you?” + + + +Oliver, more dead than alive, gasped out, “Yes.” Sikes, pointing to the + +street-door with the pistol-barrel, briefly advised him to take notice + +that he was within shot all the way; and that if he faltered, he would + +fall dead that instant. + + + +“It’s done in a minute,” said Sikes, in the same low whisper. “Directly + +I leave go of you, do your work. Hark!” + + + +“What’s that?” whispered the other man. + + + +They listened intently. + + + +“Nothing,” said Sikes, releasing his hold of Oliver. “Now!” + + + +In the short time he had had to collect his senses, the boy had firmly + +resolved that, whether he died in the attempt or not, he would make one + +effort to dart upstairs from the hall, and alarm the family. Filled + +with this idea, he advanced at once, but stealthily. + + + +“Come back!” suddenly cried Sikes aloud. “Back! back!” + + + +Scared by the sudden breaking of the dead stillness of the place, and + +by a loud cry which followed it, Oliver let his lantern fall, and knew + +not whether to advance or fly. + + + +The cry was repeated—a light appeared—a vision of two terrified + +half-dressed men at the top of the stairs swam before his eyes—a + +flash—a loud noise—a smoke—a crash somewhere, but where he knew + +not,—and he staggered back. + + + +Sikes had disappeared for an instant; but he was up again, and had him + +by the collar before the smoke had cleared away. He fired his own + +pistol after the men, who were already retreating; and dragged the boy + +up. + + + +“Clasp your arm tighter,” said Sikes, as he drew him through the + +window. “Give me a shawl here. They’ve hit him. Quick! How the boy + +bleeds!” + + + +Then came the loud ringing of a bell, mingled with the noise of + +fire-arms, and the shouts of men, and the sensation of being carried + +over uneven ground at a rapid pace. And then, the noises grew confused + +in the distance; and a cold deadly feeling crept over the boy’s heart; + +and he saw or heard no more. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XXIII. + +WHICH CONTAINS THE SUBSTANCE OF A PLEASANT CONVERSATION BETWEEN MR. + +BUMBLE AND A LADY; AND SHOWS THAT EVEN A BEADLE MAY BE SUSCEPTIBLE ON + +SOME POINTS + + + + + +The night was bitter cold. The snow lay on the ground, frozen into a + +hard thick crust, so that only the heaps that had drifted into byways + +and corners were affected by the sharp wind that howled abroad: which, + +as if expending increased fury on such prey as it found, caught it + +savagely up in clouds, and, whirling it into a thousand misty eddies, + +scattered it in air. Bleak, dark, and piercing cold, it was a night for + +the well-housed and fed to draw round the bright fire and thank God + +they were at home; and for the homeless, starving wretch to lay him + +down and die. Many hunger-worn outcasts close their eyes in our bare + +streets, at such times, who, let their crimes have been what they may, + +can hardly open them in a more bitter world. + + + +Such was the aspect of out-of-doors affairs, when Mrs. Corney, the + +matron of the workhouse to which our readers have been already + +introduced as the birthplace of Oliver Twist, sat herself down before a + +cheerful fire in her own little room, and glanced, with no small degree + +of complacency, at a small round table: on which stood a tray of + +corresponding size, furnished with all necessary materials for the most + +grateful meal that matrons enjoy. In fact, Mrs. Corney was about to + +solace herself with a cup of tea. As she glanced from the table to the + +fireplace, where the smallest of all possible kettles was singing a + +small song in a small voice, her inward satisfaction evidently + +increased,—so much so, indeed, that Mrs. Corney smiled. + + + +“Well!” said the matron, leaning her elbow on the table, and looking + +reflectively at the fire; “I’m sure we have all on us a great deal to + +be grateful for! A great deal, if we did but know it. Ah!” + + + +Mrs. Corney shook her head mournfully, as if deploring the mental + +blindness of those paupers who did not know it; and thrusting a silver + +spoon (private property) into the inmost recesses of a two-ounce tin + +tea-caddy, proceeded to make the tea. + + + +How slight a thing will disturb the equanimity of our frail minds! The + +black teapot, being very small and easily filled, ran over while Mrs. + +Corney was moralising; and the water slightly scalded Mrs. Corney’s + +hand. + + + +“Drat the pot!” said the worthy matron, setting it down very hastily on + +the hob; “a little stupid thing, that only holds a couple of cups! What + +use is it of, to anybody! Except,” said Mrs. Corney, pausing, “except + +to a poor desolate creature like me. Oh dear!” + + + +With these words, the matron dropped into her chair, and, once more + +resting her elbow on the table, thought of her solitary fate. The small + +teapot, and the single cup, had awakened in her mind sad recollections + +of Mr. Corney (who had not been dead more than five-and-twenty years); + +and she was overpowered. + + + +“I shall never get another!” said Mrs. Corney, pettishly; “I shall + +never get another—like him.” + + + +Whether this remark bore reference to the husband, or the teapot, is + +uncertain. It might have been the latter; for Mrs. Corney looked at it + +as she spoke; and took it up afterwards. She had just tasted her first + +cup, when she was disturbed by a soft tap at the room-door. + + + +“Oh, come in with you!” said Mrs. Corney, sharply. “Some of the old + +women dying, I suppose. They always die when I’m at meals. Don’t stand + +there, letting the cold air in, don’t. What’s amiss now, eh?” + + + +“Nothing, ma’am, nothing,” replied a man’s voice. + + + +“Dear me!” exclaimed the matron, in a much sweeter tone, “is that Mr. + +Bumble?” + + + +“At your service, ma’am,” said Mr. Bumble, who had been stopping + +outside to rub his shoes clean, and to shake the snow off his coat; and + +who now made his appearance, bearing the cocked hat in one hand and a + +bundle in the other. “Shall I shut the door, ma’am?” + + + +The lady modestly hesitated to reply, lest there should be any + +impropriety in holding an interview with Mr. Bumble, with closed doors. + +Mr. Bumble taking advantage of the hesitation, and being very cold + +himself, shut it without permission. + + + +“Hard weather, Mr. Bumble,” said the matron. + + + +“Hard, indeed, ma’am,” replied the beadle. “Anti-porochial weather + +this, ma’am. We have given away, Mrs. Corney, we have given away a + +matter of twenty quartern loaves and a cheese and a half, this very + +blessed afternoon; and yet them paupers are not contented.” + + + +“Of course not. When would they be, Mr. Bumble?” said the matron, + +sipping her tea. + + + +“When, indeed, ma’am!” rejoined Mr. Bumble. “Why here’s one man that, + +in consideration of his wife and large family, has a quartern loaf and + +a good pound of cheese, full weight. Is he grateful, ma’am? Is he + +grateful? Not a copper farthing’s worth of it! What does he do, ma’am, + +but ask for a few coals; if it’s only a pocket handkerchief full, he + +says! Coals! What would he do with coals? Toast his cheese with ’em and + +then come back for more. That’s the way with these people, ma’am; give + +’em a apron full of coals today, and they’ll come back for another, + +the day after tomorrow, as brazen as alabaster.” + + + +The matron expressed her entire concurrence in this intelligible + +simile; and the beadle went on. + + + +“I never,” said Mr. Bumble, “see anything like the pitch it’s got to. + +The day afore yesterday, a man—you have been a married woman, ma’am, + +and I may mention it to you—a man, with hardly a rag upon his back + +(here Mrs. Corney looked at the floor), goes to our overseer’s door + +when he has got company coming to dinner; and says, he must be + +relieved, Mrs. Corney. As he wouldn’t go away, and shocked the company + +very much, our overseer sent him out a pound of potatoes and half a + +pint of oatmeal. ‘My heart!’ says the ungrateful villain, ‘what’s the + +use of _this_ to me? You might as well give me a pair of iron + +spectacles!’ ‘Very good,’ says our overseer, taking ’em away again, + +‘you won’t get anything else here.’ ‘Then I’ll die in the streets!’ + +says the vagrant. ‘Oh no, you won’t,’ says our overseer.” + + + +“Ha! ha! That was very good! So like Mr. Grannett, wasn’t it?” + +interposed the matron. “Well, Mr. Bumble?” + + + +“Well, ma’am,” rejoined the beadle, “he went away; and he _did_ die in + +the streets. There’s a obstinate pauper for you!” + + + +“It beats anything I could have believed,” observed the matron + +emphatically. “But don’t you think out-of-door relief a very bad thing, + +any way, Mr. Bumble? You’re a gentleman of experience, and ought to + +know. Come.” + + + +“Mrs. Corney,” said the beadle, smiling as men smile who are conscious + +of superior information, “out-of-door relief, properly managed: + +properly managed, ma’am: is the porochial safeguard. The great + +principle of out-of-door relief is, to give the paupers exactly what + +they don’t want; and then they get tired of coming.” + + + +“Dear me!” exclaimed Mrs. Corney. “Well, that is a good one, too!” + + + +“Yes. Betwixt you and me, ma’am,” returned Mr. Bumble, “that’s the + +great principle; and that’s the reason why, if you look at any cases + +that get into them owdacious newspapers, you’ll always observe that + +sick families have been relieved with slices of cheese. That’s the rule + +now, Mrs. Corney, all over the country. But, however,” said the beadle, + +stopping to unpack his bundle, “these are official secrets, ma’am; not + +to be spoken of; except, as I may say, among the porochial officers, + +such as ourselves. This is the port wine, ma’am, that the board ordered + +for the infirmary; real, fresh, genuine port wine; only out of the cask + +this forenoon; clear as a bell, and no sediment!” + + + +Having held the first bottle up to the light, and shaken it well to + +test its excellence, Mr. Bumble placed them both on top of a chest of + +drawers; folded the handkerchief in which they had been wrapped; put it + +carefully in his pocket; and took up his hat, as if to go. + + + +“You’ll have a very cold walk, Mr. Bumble,” said the matron. + + + +“It blows, ma’am,” replied Mr. Bumble, turning up his coat-collar, + +“enough to cut one’s ears off.” + + + +The matron looked, from the little kettle, to the beadle, who was + +moving towards the door; and as the beadle coughed, preparatory to + +bidding her good-night, bashfully inquired whether—whether he wouldn’t + +take a cup of tea? + + + +Mr. Bumble instantaneously turned back his collar again; laid his hat + +and stick upon a chair; and drew another chair up to the table. As he + +slowly seated himself, he looked at the lady. She fixed her eyes upon + +the little teapot. Mr. Bumble coughed again, and slightly smiled. + + + +Mrs. Corney rose to get another cup and saucer from the closet. As she + +sat down, her eyes once again encountered those of the gallant beadle; + +she coloured, and applied herself to the task of making his tea. Again + +Mr. Bumble coughed—louder this time than he had coughed yet. + + + +“Sweet? Mr. Bumble?” inquired the matron, taking up the sugar-basin. + + + +“Very sweet, indeed, ma’am,” replied Mr. Bumble. He fixed his eyes on + +Mrs. Corney as he said this; and if ever a beadle looked tender, Mr. + +Bumble was that beadle at that moment. + + + +The tea was made, and handed in silence. Mr. Bumble, having spread a + +handkerchief over his knees to prevent the crumbs from sullying the + +splendour of his shorts, began to eat and drink; varying these + +amusements, occasionally, by fetching a deep sigh; which, however, had + +no injurious effect upon his appetite, but, on the contrary, rather + +seemed to facilitate his operations in the tea and toast department. + + + +“You have a cat, ma’am, I see,” said Mr. Bumble, glancing at one who, + +in the centre of her family, was basking before the fire; “and kittens + +too, I declare!” + + + +“I am so fond of them, Mr. Bumble, you can’t think,” replied the + +matron. “They’re _so_ happy, _so_ frolicsome, and _so_ cheerful, that + +they are quite companions for me.” + + + +“Very nice animals, ma’am,” replied Mr. Bumble, approvingly; “so very + +domestic.” + + + +“Oh, yes!” rejoined the matron with enthusiasm; “so fond of their home + +too, that it’s quite a pleasure, I’m sure.” + + + +“Mrs. Corney, ma’am,” said Mr. Bumble, slowly, and marking the time + +with his teaspoon, “I mean to say this, ma’am; that any cat, or kitten, + +that could live with you, ma’am, and _not_ be fond of its home, must be + +a ass, ma’am.” + + + +“Oh, Mr. Bumble!” remonstrated Mrs. Corney. + + + +“It’s of no use disguising facts, ma’am,” said Mr. Bumble, slowly + +flourishing the teaspoon with a kind of amorous dignity which made him + +doubly impressive; “I would drown it myself, with pleasure.” + + + +“Then you’re a cruel man,” said the matron vivaciously, as she held out + +her hand for the beadle’s cup; “and a very hard-hearted man besides.” + + + +“Hard-hearted, ma’am?” said Mr. Bumble. “Hard?” Mr. Bumble resigned his + +cup without another word; squeezed Mrs. Corney’s little finger as she + +took it; and inflicting two open-handed slaps upon his laced waistcoat, + +gave a mighty sigh, and hitched his chair a very little morsel farther + +from the fire. + + + +It was a round table; and as Mrs. Corney and Mr. Bumble had been + +sitting opposite each other, with no great space between them, and + +fronting the fire, it will be seen that Mr. Bumble, in receding from + +the fire, and still keeping at the table, increased the distance + +between himself and Mrs. Corney; which proceeding, some prudent readers + +will doubtless be disposed to admire, and to consider an act of great + +heroism on Mr. Bumble’s part: he being in some sort tempted by time, + +place, and opportunity, to give utterance to certain soft nothings, + +which however well they may become the lips of the light and + +thoughtless, do seem immeasurably beneath the dignity of judges of the + +land, members of parliament, ministers of state, lord mayors, and other + +great public functionaries, but more particularly beneath the + +stateliness and gravity of a beadle: who (as is well known) should be + +the sternest and most inflexible among them all. + + + +Whatever were Mr. Bumble’s intentions, however (and no doubt they were + +of the best): it unfortunately happened, as has been twice before + +remarked, that the table was a round one; consequently Mr. Bumble, + +moving his chair by little and little, soon began to diminish the + +distance between himself and the matron; and, continuing to travel + +round the outer edge of the circle, brought his chair, in time, close + +to that in which the matron was seated. + + + +Indeed, the two chairs touched; and when they did so, Mr. Bumble + +stopped. + + + +Now, if the matron had moved her chair to the right, she would have + +been scorched by the fire; and if to the left, she must have fallen + +into Mr. Bumble’s arms; so (being a discreet matron, and no doubt + +foreseeing these consequences at a glance) she remained where she was, + +and handed Mr. Bumble another cup of tea. + + + +“Hard-hearted, Mrs. Corney?” said Mr. Bumble, stirring his tea, and + +looking up into the matron’s face; “are _you_ hard-hearted, Mrs. + +Corney?” + + + +“Dear me!” exclaimed the matron, “what a very curious question from a + +single man. What can you want to know for, Mr. Bumble?” + + + +The beadle drank his tea to the last drop; finished a piece of toast; + +whisked the crumbs off his knees; wiped his lips; and deliberately + +kissed the matron. + + + +“Mr. Bumble!” cried that discreet lady in a whisper; for the fright was + +so great, that she had quite lost her voice, “Mr. Bumble, I shall + +scream!” Mr. Bumble made no reply; but in a slow and dignified manner, + +put his arm round the matron’s waist. + + + +As the lady had stated her intention of screaming, of course she would + +have screamed at this additional boldness, but that the exertion was + +rendered unnecessary by a hasty knocking at the door: which was no + +sooner heard, than Mr. Bumble darted, with much agility, to the wine + +bottles, and began dusting them with great violence: while the matron + +sharply demanded who was there. + + + +It is worthy of remark, as a curious physical instance of the efficacy + +of a sudden surprise in counteracting the effects of extreme fear, that + +her voice had quite recovered all its official asperity. + + + +“If you please, mistress,” said a withered old female pauper, hideously + +ugly: putting her head in at the door, “Old Sally is a-going fast.” + + + +“Well, what’s that to me?” angrily demanded the matron. “I can’t keep + +her alive, can I?” + + + +“No, no, mistress,” replied the old woman, “nobody can; she’s far + +beyond the reach of help. I’ve seen a many people die; little babes and + +great strong men; and I know when death’s a-coming, well enough. But + +she’s troubled in her mind: and when the fits are not on her,—and + +that’s not often, for she is dying very hard,—she says she has got + +something to tell, which you must hear. She’ll never die quiet till you + +come, mistress.” + + + +At this intelligence, the worthy Mrs. Corney muttered a variety of + +invectives against old women who couldn’t even die without purposely + +annoying their betters; and, muffling herself in a thick shawl which + +she hastily caught up, briefly requested Mr. Bumble to stay till she + +came back, lest anything particular should occur. Bidding the messenger + +walk fast, and not be all night hobbling up the stairs, she followed + +her from the room with a very ill grace, scolding all the way. + + + +Mr. Bumble’s conduct on being left to himself, was rather inexplicable. + +He opened the closet, counted the teaspoons, weighed the sugar-tongs, + +closely inspected a silver milk-pot to ascertain that it was of the + +genuine metal, and, having satisfied his curiosity on these points, put + +on his cocked hat corner-wise, and danced with much gravity four + +distinct times round the table. + + + +Having gone through this very extraordinary performance, he took off + +the cocked hat again, and, spreading himself before the fire with his + +back towards it, seemed to be mentally engaged in taking an exact + +inventory of the furniture. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XXIV. + +TREATS ON A VERY POOR SUBJECT, BUT IS A SHORT ONE, AND MAY BE FOUND OF + +IMPORTANCE IN THIS HISTORY + + + + + +It was no unfit messenger of death, who had disturbed the quiet of the + +matron’s room. Her body was bent by age; her limbs trembled with palsy; + +her face, distorted into a mumbling leer, resembled more the grotesque + +shaping of some wild pencil, than the work of Nature’s hand. + + + +Alas! How few of Nature’s faces are left alone to gladden us with their + +beauty! The cares, and sorrows, and hungerings, of the world, change + +them as they change hearts; and it is only when those passions sleep, + +and have lost their hold for ever, that the troubled clouds pass off, + +and leave Heaven’s surface clear. It is a common thing for the + +countenances of the dead, even in that fixed and rigid state, to + +subside into the long-forgotten expression of sleeping infancy, and + +settle into the very look of early life; so calm, so peaceful, do they + +grow again, that those who knew them in their happy childhood, kneel by + +the coffin’s side in awe, and see the Angel even upon earth. + + + +The old crone tottered along the passages, and up the stairs, muttering + +some indistinct answers to the chidings of her companion; being at + +length compelled to pause for breath, she gave the light into her hand, + +and remained behind to follow as she might: while the more nimble + +superior made her way to the room where the sick woman lay. + + + +It was a bare garret-room, with a dim light burning at the farther end. + +There was another old woman watching by the bed; the parish + +apothecary’s apprentice was standing by the fire, making a toothpick + +out of a quill. + + + +“Cold night, Mrs. Corney,” said this young gentleman, as the matron + +entered. + + + +“Very cold, indeed, sir,” replied the mistress, in her most civil + +tones, and dropping a curtsey as she spoke. + + + +“You should get better coals out of your contractors,” said the + +apothecary’s deputy, breaking a lump on the top of the fire with the + +rusty poker; “these are not at all the sort of thing for a cold night.” + + + +“They’re the board’s choosing, sir,” returned the matron. “The least + +they could do, would be to keep us pretty warm: for our places are hard + +enough.” + + + +The conversation was here interrupted by a moan from the sick woman. + + + +“Oh!” said the young man, turning his face towards the bed, as if he + +had previously quite forgotten the patient, “it’s all U.P. there, Mrs. + +Corney.” + + + +“It is, is it, sir?” asked the matron. + + + +“If she lasts a couple of hours, I shall be surprised,” said the + +apothecary’s apprentice, intent upon the toothpick’s point. “It’s a + +break-up of the system altogether. Is she dozing, old lady?” + + + +The attendant stooped over the bed, to ascertain; and nodded in the + +affirmative. + + + +“Then perhaps she’ll go off in that way, if you don’t make a row,” said + +the young man. “Put the light on the floor. She won’t see it there.” + + + +The attendant did as she was told: shaking her head meanwhile, to + +intimate that the woman would not die so easily; having done so, she + +resumed her seat by the side of the other nurse, who had by this time + +returned. The mistress, with an expression of impatience, wrapped + +herself in her shawl, and sat at the foot of the bed. + + + +The apothecary’s apprentice, having completed the manufacture of the + +toothpick, planted himself in front of the fire and made good use of it + +for ten minutes or so: when apparently growing rather dull, he wished + +Mrs. Corney joy of her job, and took himself off on tiptoe. + + + +When they had sat in silence for some time, the two old women rose from + +the bed, and crouching over the fire, held out their withered hands to + +catch the heat. The flame threw a ghastly light on their shrivelled + +faces, and made their ugliness appear terrible, as, in this position, + +they began to converse in a low voice. + + + +“Did she say any more, Anny dear, while I was gone?” inquired the + +messenger. + + + +“Not a word,” replied the other. “She plucked and tore at her arms for + +a little time; but I held her hands, and she soon dropped off. She + +hasn’t much strength in her, so I easily kept her quiet. I ain’t so + +weak for an old woman, although I am on parish allowance; no, no!” + + + +“Did she drink the hot wine the doctor said she was to have?” demanded + +the first. + + + +“I tried to get it down,” rejoined the other. “But her teeth were tight + +set, and she clenched the mug so hard that it was as much as I could do + +to get it back again. So _I_ drank it; and it did me good!” + + + +Looking cautiously round, to ascertain that they were not overheard, + +the two hags cowered nearer to the fire, and chuckled heartily. + + + +“I mind the time,” said the first speaker, “when she would have done + +the same, and made rare fun of it afterwards.” + + + +“Ay, that she would,” rejoined the other; “she had a merry heart. A + +many, many, beautiful corpses she laid out, as nice and neat as + +waxwork. My old eyes have seen them—ay, and those old hands touched + +them too; for I have helped her, scores of times.” + + + +Stretching forth her trembling fingers as she spoke, the old creature + +shook them exultingly before her face, and fumbling in her pocket, + +brought out an old time-discoloured tin snuff-box, from which she shook + +a few grains into the outstretched palm of her companion, and a few + +more into her own. While they were thus employed, the matron, who had + +been impatiently watching until the dying woman should awaken from her + +stupor, joined them by the fire, and sharply asked how long she was to + +wait? + + + +“Not long, mistress,” replied the second woman, looking up into her + +face. “We have none of us long to wait for Death. Patience, patience! + +He’ll be here soon enough for us all.” + + + +“Hold your tongue, you doting idiot!” said the matron sternly. “You, + +Martha, tell me; has she been in this way before?” + + + +“Often,” answered the first woman. + + + +“But will never be again,” added the second one; “that is, she’ll never + +wake again but once—and mind, mistress, that won’t be for long!” + + + +“Long or short,” said the matron, snappishly, “she won’t find me here + +when she does wake; take care, both of you, how you worry me again for + +nothing. It’s no part of my duty to see all the old women in the house + +die, and I won’t—that’s more. Mind that, you impudent old harridans. If + +you make a fool of me again, I’ll soon cure you, I warrant you!” + + + +She was bouncing away, when a cry from the two women, who had turned + +towards the bed, caused her to look round. The patient had raised + +herself upright, and was stretching her arms towards them. + + + +“Who’s that?” she cried, in a hollow voice. + + + +“Hush, hush!” said one of the women, stooping over her. “Lie down, lie + +down!” + + + +“I’ll never lie down again alive!” said the woman, struggling. “I + +_will_ tell her! Come here! Nearer! Let me whisper in your ear.” + + + +She clutched the matron by the arm, and forcing her into a chair by the + +bedside, was about to speak, when looking round, she caught sight of + +the two old women bending forward in the attitude of eager listeners. + + + +“Turn them away,” said the woman, drowsily; “make haste! make haste!” + + + +The two old crones, chiming in together, began pouring out many piteous + +lamentations that the poor dear was too far gone to know her best + +friends; and were uttering sundry protestations that they would never + +leave her, when the superior pushed them from the room, closed the + +door, and returned to the bedside. On being excluded, the old ladies + +changed their tone, and cried through the keyhole that old Sally was + +drunk; which, indeed, was not unlikely; since, in addition to a + +moderate dose of opium prescribed by the apothecary, she was labouring + +under the effects of a final taste of gin-and-water which had been + +privily administered, in the openness of their hearts, by the worthy + +old ladies themselves. + + + +“Now listen to me,” said the dying woman aloud, as if making a great + +effort to revive one latent spark of energy. “In this very room—in this + +very bed—I once nursed a pretty young creetur’, that was brought into + +the house with her feet cut and bruised with walking, and all soiled + +with dust and blood. She gave birth to a boy, and died. Let me + +think—what was the year again!” + + + +“Never mind the year,” said the impatient auditor; “what about her?” + + + +“Ay,” murmured the sick woman, relapsing into her former drowsy state, + +“what about her?—what about—I know!” she cried, jumping fiercely up: + +her face flushed, and her eyes starting from her head—“I robbed her, so + +I did! She wasn’t cold—I tell you she wasn’t cold, when I stole it!” + + + +“Stole what, for God’s sake?” cried the matron, with a gesture as if + +she would call for help. + + + +“_It_!” replied the woman, laying her hand over the other’s mouth. “The + +only thing she had. She wanted clothes to keep her warm, and food to + +eat; but she had kept it safe, and had it in her bosom. It was gold, I + +tell you! Rich gold, that might have saved her life!” + + + +“Gold!” echoed the matron, bending eagerly over the woman as she fell + +back. “Go on, go on—yes—what of it? Who was the mother? When was it?” + + + +“She charged me to keep it safe,” replied the woman with a groan, “and + +trusted me as the only woman about her. I stole it in my heart when she + +first showed it me hanging round her neck; and the child’s death, + +perhaps, is on me besides! They would have treated him better, if they + +had known it all!” + + + +“Known what?” asked the other. “Speak!” + + + +“The boy grew so like his mother,” said the woman, rambling on, and not + +heeding the question, “that I could never forget it when I saw his + +face. Poor girl! poor girl! She was so young, too! Such a gentle lamb! + +Wait; there’s more to tell. I have not told you all, have I?” + + + +“No, no,” replied the matron, inclining her head to catch the words, as + +they came more faintly from the dying woman. “Be quick, or it may be + +too late!” + + + +“The mother,” said the woman, making a more violent effort than before; + +“the mother, when the pains of death first came upon her, whispered in + +my ear that if her baby was born alive, and thrived, the day might come + +when it would not feel so much disgraced to hear its poor young mother + +named. ‘And oh, kind Heaven!’ she said, folding her thin hands + +together, ‘whether it be boy or girl, raise up some friends for it in + +this troubled world, and take pity upon a lonely desolate child, + +abandoned to its mercy!’” + + + +“The boy’s name?” demanded the matron. + + + +“They _called_ him Oliver,” replied the woman, feebly. “The gold I + +stole was—” + + + +“Yes, yes—what?” cried the other. + + + +She was bending eagerly over the woman to hear her reply; but drew + +back, instinctively, as she once again rose, slowly and stiffly, into a + +sitting posture; then, clutching the coverlid with both hands, muttered + +some indistinct sounds in her throat, and fell lifeless on the bed. + + + + + +“Stone dead!” said one of the old women, hurrying in as soon as the + +door was opened. + + + +“And nothing to tell, after all,” rejoined the matron, walking + +carelessly away. + + + +The two crones, to all appearance, too busily occupied in the + +preparations for their dreadful duties to make any reply, were left + +alone, hovering about the body. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XXV. + +WHEREIN THIS HISTORY REVERTS TO MR. FAGIN AND COMPANY + + + + + +While these things were passing in the country workhouse, Mr. Fagin sat + +in the old den—the same from which Oliver had been removed by the + +girl—brooding over a dull, smoky fire. He held a pair of bellows upon + +his knee, with which he had apparently been endeavouring to rouse it + +into more cheerful action; but he had fallen into deep thought; and + +with his arms folded on them, and his chin resting on his thumbs, fixed + +his eyes, abstractedly, on the rusty bars. + + + +At a table behind him sat the Artful Dodger, Master Charles Bates, and + +Mr. Chitling: all intent upon a game of whist; the Artful taking dummy + +against Master Bates and Mr. Chitling. The countenance of the + +first-named gentleman, peculiarly intelligent at all times, acquired + +great additional interest from his close observance of the game, and + +his attentive perusal of Mr. Chitling’s hand; upon which, from time to + +time, as occasion served, he bestowed a variety of earnest glances: + +wisely regulating his own play by the result of his observations upon + +his neighbour’s cards. It being a cold night, the Dodger wore his hat, + +as, indeed, was often his custom within doors. He also sustained a clay + +pipe between his teeth, which he only removed for a brief space when he + +deemed it necessary to apply for refreshment to a quart pot upon the + +table, which stood ready filled with gin-and-water for the + +accommodation of the company. + + + +Master Bates was also attentive to the play; but being of a more + +excitable nature than his accomplished friend, it was observable that + +he more frequently applied himself to the gin-and-water, and moreover + +indulged in many jests and irrelevant remarks, all highly unbecoming a + +scientific rubber. Indeed, the Artful, presuming upon their close + +attachment, more than once took occasion to reason gravely with his + +companion upon these improprieties; all of which remonstrances, Master + +Bates received in extremely good part; merely requesting his friend to + +be “blowed,” or to insert his head in a sack, or replying with some + +other neatly-turned witticism of a similar kind, the happy application + +of which, excited considerable admiration in the mind of Mr. Chitling. + +It was remarkable that the latter gentleman and his partner invariably + +lost; and that the circumstance, so far from angering Master Bates, + +appeared to afford him the highest amusement, inasmuch as he laughed + +most uproariously at the end of every deal, and protested that he had + +never seen such a jolly game in all his born days. + + + +“That’s two doubles and the rub,” said Mr. Chitling, with a very long + +face, as he drew half-a-crown from his waistcoat-pocket. “I never see + +such a feller as you, Jack; you win everything. Even when we’ve good + +cards, Charley and I can’t make nothing of ’em.” + + + +Either the matter or the manner of this remark, which was made very + +ruefully, delighted Charley Bates so much, that his consequent shout of + +laughter roused the Jew from his reverie, and induced him to inquire + +what was the matter. + + + +“Matter, Fagin!” cried Charley. “I wish you had watched the play. Tommy + +Chitling hasn’t won a point; and I went partners with him against the + +Artful and dumb.” + + + +“Ay, ay!” said the Jew, with a grin, which sufficiently demonstrated + +that he was at no loss to understand the reason. “Try ’em again, Tom; + +try ’em again.” + + + +“No more of it for me, thank ’ee, Fagin,” replied Mr. Chitling; “I’ve + +had enough. That ’ere Dodger has such a run of luck that there’s no + +standing again’ him.” + + + +“Ha! ha! my dear,” replied the Jew, “you must get up very early in the + +morning, to win against the Dodger.” + + + +“Morning!” said Charley Bates; “you must put your boots on over-night, + +and have a telescope at each eye, and a opera-glass between your + +shoulders, if you want to come over him.” + + + +Mr. Dawkins received these handsome compliments with much philosophy, + +and offered to cut any gentleman in company, for the first + +picture-card, at a shilling at a time. Nobody accepting the challenge, + +and his pipe being by this time smoked out, he proceeded to amuse + +himself by sketching a ground-plan of Newgate on the table with the + +piece of chalk which had served him in lieu of counters; whistling, + +meantime, with peculiar shrillness. + + + +“How precious dull you are, Tommy!” said the Dodger, stopping short + +when there had been a long silence; and addressing Mr. Chitling. “What + +do you think he’s thinking of, Fagin?” + + + +“How should I know, my dear?” replied the Jew, looking round as he + +plied the bellows. “About his losses, maybe; or the little retirement + +in the country that he’s just left, eh? Ha! ha! Is that it, my dear?” + + + +“Not a bit of it,” replied the Dodger, stopping the subject of + +discourse as Mr. Chitling was about to reply. “What do _you_ say, + +Charley?” + + + +“_I_ should say,” replied Master Bates, with a grin, “that he was + +uncommon sweet upon Betsy. See how he’s a-blushing! Oh, my eye! here’s + +a merry-go-rounder! Tommy Chitling’s in love! Oh, Fagin, Fagin! what a + +spree!” + + + +Thoroughly overpowered with the notion of Mr. Chitling being the victim + +of the tender passion, Master Bates threw himself back in his chair + +with such violence, that he lost his balance, and pitched over upon the + +floor; where (the accident abating nothing of his merriment) he lay at + +full length until his laugh was over, when he resumed his former + +position, and began another laugh. + + + +“Never mind him, my dear,” said the Jew, winking at Mr. Dawkins, and + +giving Master Bates a reproving tap with the nozzle of the bellows. + +“Betsy’s a fine girl. Stick up to her, Tom. Stick up to her.” + + + +“What I mean to say, Fagin,” replied Mr. Chitling, very red in the + +face, “is, that that isn’t anything to anybody here.” + + + +“No more it is,” replied the Jew; “Charley will talk. Don’t mind him, + +my dear; don’t mind him. Betsy’s a fine girl. Do as she bids you, Tom, + +and you will make your fortune.” + + + +“So I _do_ do as she bids me,” replied Mr. Chitling; “I shouldn’t have + +been milled, if it hadn’t been for her advice. But it turned out a good + +job for you; didn’t it, Fagin! And what’s six weeks of it? It must + +come, some time or another, and why not in the winter time when you + +don’t want to go out a-walking so much; eh, Fagin?” + + + +“Ah, to be sure, my dear,” replied the Jew. + + + +“You wouldn’t mind it again, Tom, would you,” asked the Dodger, winking + +upon Charley and the Jew, “if Bet was all right?” + + + +“I mean to say that I shouldn’t,” replied Tom, angrily. “There, now. + +Ah! Who’ll say as much as that, I should like to know; eh, Fagin?” + + + +“Nobody, my dear,” replied the Jew; “not a soul, Tom. I don’t know one + +of ’em that would do it besides you; not one of ’em, my dear.” + + + +“I might have got clear off, if I’d split upon her; mightn’t I, Fagin?” + +angrily pursued the poor half-witted dupe. “A word from me would have + +done it; wouldn’t it, Fagin?” + + + +“To be sure it would, my dear,” replied the Jew. + + + +“But I didn’t blab it; did I, Fagin?” demanded Tom, pouring question + +upon question with great volubility. + + + +“No, no, to be sure,” replied the Jew; “you were too stout-hearted for + +that. A deal too stout, my dear!” + + + +“Perhaps I was,” rejoined Tom, looking round; “and if I was, what’s to + +laugh at, in that; eh, Fagin?” + + + +The Jew, perceiving that Mr. Chitling was considerably roused, hastened + +to assure him that nobody was laughing; and to prove the gravity of the + +company, appealed to Master Bates, the principal offender. But, + +unfortunately, Charley, in opening his mouth to reply that he was never + +more serious in his life, was unable to prevent the escape of such a + +violent roar, that the abused Mr. Chitling, without any preliminary + +ceremonies, rushed across the room and aimed a blow at the offender; + +who, being skilful in evading pursuit, ducked to avoid it, and chose + +his time so well that it lighted on the chest of the merry old + +gentleman, and caused him to stagger to the wall, where he stood + +panting for breath, while Mr. Chitling looked on in intense dismay. + + + +“Hark!” cried the Dodger at this moment, “I heard the tinkler.” + +Catching up the light, he crept softly upstairs. + + + +The bell was rung again, with some impatience, while the party were in + +darkness. After a short pause, the Dodger reappeared, and whispered + +Fagin mysteriously. + + + +“What!” cried the Jew, “alone?” + + + +The Dodger nodded in the affirmative, and, shading the flame of the + +candle with his hand, gave Charley Bates a private intimation, in dumb + +show, that he had better not be funny just then. Having performed this + +friendly office, he fixed his eyes on the Jew’s face, and awaited his + +directions. + + + +The old man bit his yellow fingers, and meditated for some seconds; his + +face working with agitation the while, as if he dreaded something, and + +feared to know the worst. At length he raised his head. + + + +“Where is he?” he asked. + + + +The Dodger pointed to the floor above, and made a gesture, as if to + +leave the room. + + + +“Yes,” said the Jew, answering the mute inquiry; “bring him down. Hush! + +Quiet, Charley! Gently, Tom! Scarce, scarce!” + + + +This brief direction to Charley Bates, and his recent antagonist, was + +softly and immediately obeyed. There was no sound of their whereabout, + +when the Dodger descended the stairs, bearing the light in his hand, + +and followed by a man in a coarse smock-frock; who, after casting a + +hurried glance round the room, pulled off a large wrapper which had + +concealed the lower portion of his face, and disclosed: all haggard, + +unwashed, and unshorn: the features of flash Toby Crackit. + + + +“How are you, Faguey?” said this worthy, nodding to the Jew. “Pop that + +shawl away in my castor, Dodger, so that I may know where to find it + +when I cut; that’s the time of day! You’ll be a fine young cracksman + +afore the old file now.” + + + +With these words he pulled up the smock-frock; and, winding it round + +his middle, drew a chair to the fire, and placed his feet upon the hob. + + + +“See there, Faguey,” he said, pointing disconsolately to his top boots; + +“not a drop of Day and Martin since you know when; not a bubble of + +blacking, by Jove! But don’t look at me in that way, man. All in good + +time. I can’t talk about business till I’ve eat and drank; so produce + +the sustainance, and let’s have a quiet fill-out for the first time + +these three days!” + + + +The Jew motioned to the Dodger to place what eatables there were, upon + +the table; and, seating himself opposite the housebreaker, waited his + +leisure. + + + +To judge from appearances, Toby was by no means in a hurry to open the + +conversation. At first, the Jew contented himself with patiently + +watching his countenance, as if to gain from its expression some clue + +to the intelligence he brought; but in vain. + + + +He looked tired and worn, but there was the same complacent repose upon + +his features that they always wore: and through dirt, and beard, and + +whisker, there still shone, unimpaired, the self-satisfied smirk of + +flash Toby Crackit. Then the Jew, in an agony of impatience, watched + +every morsel he put into his mouth; pacing up and down the room, + +meanwhile, in irrepressible excitement. It was all of no use. Toby + +continued to eat with the utmost outward indifference, until he could + +eat no more; then, ordering the Dodger out, he closed the door, mixed a + +glass of spirits and water, and composed himself for talking. + + + +“First and foremost, Faguey,” said Toby. + + + +“Yes, yes!” interposed the Jew, drawing up his chair. + + + +Mr. Crackit stopped to take a draught of spirits and water, and to + +declare that the gin was excellent; then placing his feet against the + +low mantelpiece, so as to bring his boots to about the level of his + +eye, he quietly resumed. + + + +“First and foremost, Faguey,” said the housebreaker, “how’s Bill?” + + + +“What!” screamed the Jew, starting from his seat. + + + +“Why, you don’t mean to say—” began Toby, turning pale. + + + +“Mean!” cried the Jew, stamping furiously on the ground. “Where are + +they? Sikes and the boy! Where are they? Where have they been? Where + +are they hiding? Why have they not been here?” + + + +“The crack failed,” said Toby faintly. + + + +“I know it,” replied the Jew, tearing a newspaper from his pocket and + +pointing to it. “What more?” + + + +“They fired and hit the boy. We cut over the fields at the back, with + +him between us—straight as the crow flies—through hedge and ditch. They + +gave chase. Damme! the whole country was awake, and the dogs upon us.” + + + +“The boy!” + + + +“Bill had him on his back, and scudded like the wind. We stopped to + +take him between us; his head hung down, and he was cold. They were + +close upon our heels; every man for himself, and each from the gallows! + +We parted company, and left the youngster lying in a ditch. Alive or + +dead, that’s all I know about him.” + + + +The Jew stopped to hear no more; but uttering a loud yell, and twining + +his hands in his hair, rushed from the room, and from the house. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XXVI. + +IN WHICH A MYSTERIOUS CHARACTER APPEARS UPON THE SCENE; AND MANY + +THINGS, INSEPARABLE FROM THIS HISTORY, ARE DONE AND PERFORMED + + + + + +The old man had gained the street corner, before he began to recover + +the effect of Toby Crackit’s intelligence. He had relaxed nothing of + +his unusual speed; but was still pressing onward, in the same wild and + +disordered manner, when the sudden dashing past of a carriage: and a + +boisterous cry from the foot passengers, who saw his danger: drove him + +back upon the pavement. Avoiding, as much as was possible, all the main + +streets, and skulking only through the by-ways and alleys, he at length + +emerged on Snow Hill. Here he walked even faster than before; nor did + +he linger until he had again turned into a court; when, as if conscious + +that he was now in his proper element, he fell into his usual shuffling + +pace, and seemed to breathe more freely. + + + +Near to the spot on which Snow Hill and Holborn Hill meet, opens, upon + +the right hand as you come out of the City, a narrow and dismal alley, + +leading to Saffron Hill. In its filthy shops are exposed for sale huge + +bunches of second-hand silk handkerchiefs, of all sizes and patterns; + +for here reside the traders who purchase them from pick-pockets. + +Hundreds of these handkerchiefs hang dangling from pegs outside the + +windows or flaunting from the door-posts; and the shelves, within, are + +piled with them. Confined as the limits of Field Lane are, it has its + +barber, its coffee-shop, its beer-shop, and its fried-fish warehouse. + +It is a commercial colony of itself: the emporium of petty larceny: + +visited at early morning, and setting-in of dusk, by silent merchants, + +who traffic in dark back-parlours, and who go as strangely as they + +come. Here, the clothesman, the shoe-vamper, and the rag-merchant, + +display their goods, as sign-boards to the petty thief; here, stores of + +old iron and bones, and heaps of mildewy fragments of woollen-stuff and + +linen, rust and rot in the grimy cellars. + + + +It was into this place that the Jew turned. He was well known to the + +sallow denizens of the lane; for such of them as were on the look-out + +to buy or sell, nodded, familiarly, as he passed along. He replied to + +their salutations in the same way; but bestowed no closer recognition + +until he reached the further end of the alley; when he stopped, to + +address a salesman of small stature, who had squeezed as much of his + +person into a child’s chair as the chair would hold, and was smoking a + +pipe at his warehouse door. + + + +“Why, the sight of you, Mr. Fagin, would cure the hoptalmy!” said this + +respectable trader, in acknowledgment of the Jew’s inquiry after his + +health. + + + +“The neighbourhood was a little too hot, Lively,” said Fagin, elevating + +his eyebrows, and crossing his hands upon his shoulders. + + + +“Well, I’ve heerd that complaint of it, once or twice before,” replied + +the trader; “but it soon cools down again; don’t you find it so?” + + + +Fagin nodded in the affirmative. Pointing in the direction of Saffron + +Hill, he inquired whether any one was up yonder tonight. + + + +“At the Cripples?” inquired the man. + + + +The Jew nodded. + + + +“Let me see,” pursued the merchant, reflecting. “Yes, there’s some + +half-dozen of ’em gone in, that I knows. I don’t think your friend’s + +there.” + + + +“Sikes is not, I suppose?” inquired the Jew, with a disappointed + +countenance. + + + +“_Non istwentus_, as the lawyers say,” replied the little man, shaking + +his head, and looking amazingly sly. “Have you got anything in my line + +tonight?” + + + +“Nothing tonight,” said the Jew, turning away. + + + +“Are you going up to the Cripples, Fagin?” cried the little man, + +calling after him. “Stop! I don’t mind if I have a drop there with + +you!” + + + +But as the Jew, looking back, waved his hand to intimate that he + +preferred being alone; and, moreover, as the little man could not very + +easily disengage himself from the chair; the sign of the Cripples was, + +for a time, bereft of the advantage of Mr. Lively’s presence. By the + +time he had got upon his legs, the Jew had disappeared; so Mr. Lively, + +after ineffectually standing on tiptoe, in the hope of catching sight + +of him, again forced himself into the little chair, and, exchanging a + +shake of the head with a lady in the opposite shop, in which doubt and + +mistrust were plainly mingled, resumed his pipe with a grave demeanour. + + + +The Three Cripples, or rather the Cripples; which was the sign by which + +the establishment was familiarly known to its patrons: was the + +public-house in which Mr. Sikes and his dog have already figured. + +Merely making a sign to a man at the bar, Fagin walked straight + +upstairs, and opening the door of a room, and softly insinuating + +himself into the chamber, looked anxiously about: shading his eyes with + +his hand, as if in search of some particular person. + + + +The room was illuminated by two gas-lights; the glare of which was + +prevented by the barred shutters, and closely-drawn curtains of faded + +red, from being visible outside. The ceiling was blackened, to prevent + +its colour from being injured by the flaring of the lamps; and the + +place was so full of dense tobacco smoke, that at first it was scarcely + +possible to discern anything more. By degrees, however, as some of it + +cleared away through the open door, an assemblage of heads, as confused + +as the noises that greeted the ear, might be made out; and as the eye + +grew more accustomed to the scene, the spectator gradually became aware + +of the presence of a numerous company, male and female, crowded round a + +long table: at the upper end of which, sat a chairman with a hammer of + +office in his hand; while a professional gentleman with a bluish nose, + +and his face tied up for the benefit of a toothache, presided at a + +jingling piano in a remote corner. + + + +As Fagin stepped softly in, the professional gentleman, running over + +the keys by way of prelude, occasioned a general cry of order for a + +song; which having subsided, a young lady proceeded to entertain the + +company with a ballad in four verses, between each of which the + +accompanyist played the melody all through, as loud as he could. When + +this was over, the chairman gave a sentiment, after which, the + +professional gentleman on the chairman’s right and left volunteered a + +duet, and sang it, with great applause. + + + +It was curious to observe some faces which stood out prominently from + +among the group. There was the chairman himself, (the landlord of the + +house,) a coarse, rough, heavy built fellow, who, while the songs were + +proceeding, rolled his eyes hither and thither, and, seeming to give + +himself up to joviality, had an eye for everything that was done, and + +an ear for everything that was said—and sharp ones, too. Near him were + +the singers: receiving, with professional indifference, the compliments + +of the company, and applying themselves, in turn, to a dozen proffered + +glasses of spirits and water, tendered by their more boisterous + +admirers; whose countenances, expressive of almost every vice in almost + +every grade, irresistibly attracted the attention, by their very + +repulsiveness. Cunning, ferocity, and drunkeness in all its stages, + +were there, in their strongest aspect; and women: some with the last + +lingering tinge of their early freshness almost fading as you looked: + +others with every mark and stamp of their sex utterly beaten out, and + +presenting but one loathsome blank of profligacy and crime; some mere + +girls, others but young women, and none past the prime of life; formed + +the darkest and saddest portion of this dreary picture. + + + +Fagin, troubled by no grave emotions, looked eagerly from face to face + +while these proceedings were in progress; but apparently without + +meeting that of which he was in search. Succeeding, at length, in + +catching the eye of the man who occupied the chair, he beckoned to him + +slightly, and left the room, as quietly as he had entered it. + + + +“What can I do for you, Mr. Fagin?” inquired the man, as he followed + +him out to the landing. “Won’t you join us? They’ll be delighted, every + +one of ’em.” + + + +The Jew shook his head impatiently, and said in a whisper, “Is _he_ + +here?” + + + +“No,” replied the man. + + + +“And no news of Barney?” inquired Fagin. + + + +“None,” replied the landlord of the Cripples; for it was he. “He won’t + +stir till it’s all safe. Depend on it, they’re on the scent down there; + +and that if he moved, he’d blow upon the thing at once. He’s all right + +enough, Barney is, else I should have heard of him. I’ll pound it, that + +Barney’s managing properly. Let him alone for that.” + + + +“Will _he_ be here tonight?” asked the Jew, laying the same emphasis + +on the pronoun as before. + + + +“Monks, do you mean?” inquired the landlord, hesitating. + + + +“Hush!” said the Jew. “Yes.” + + + +“Certain,” replied the man, drawing a gold watch from his fob; “I + +expected him here before now. If you’ll wait ten minutes, he’ll be—” + + + +“No, no,” said the Jew, hastily; as though, however desirous he might + +be to see the person in question, he was nevertheless relieved by his + +absence. “Tell him I came here to see him; and that he must come to me + +tonight. No, say tomorrow. As he is not here, tomorrow will be time + +enough.” + + + +“Good!” said the man. “Nothing more?” + + + +“Not a word now,” said the Jew, descending the stairs. + + + +“I say,” said the other, looking over the rails, and speaking in a + +hoarse whisper; “what a time this would be for a sell! I’ve got Phil + +Barker here: so drunk, that a boy might take him!” + + + +“Ah! But it’s not Phil Barker’s time,” said the Jew, looking up. “Phil + +has something more to do, before we can afford to part with him; so go + +back to the company, my dear, and tell them to lead merry lives—_while + +they last_. Ha! ha! ha!” + + + +The landlord reciprocated the old man’s laugh; and returned to his + +guests. The Jew was no sooner alone, than his countenance resumed its + +former expression of anxiety and thought. After a brief reflection, he + +called a hack-cabriolet, and bade the man drive towards Bethnal Green. + +He dismissed him within some quarter of a mile of Mr. Sikes’s + +residence, and performed the short remainder of the distance on foot. + + + +“Now,” muttered the Jew, as he knocked at the door, “if there is any + +deep play here, I shall have it out of you, my girl, cunning as you + +are.” + + + +She was in her room, the woman said. Fagin crept softly upstairs, and + +entered it without any previous ceremony. The girl was alone; lying + +with her head upon the table, and her hair straggling over it. + + + +“She has been drinking,” thought the Jew, cooly, “or perhaps she is + +only miserable.” + + + +The old man turned to close the door, as he made this reflection; the + +noise thus occasioned, roused the girl. She eyed his crafty face + +narrowly, as she inquired to his recital of Toby Crackit’s story. When + +it was concluded, she sank into her former attitude, but spoke not a + +word. She pushed the candle impatiently away; and once or twice as she + +feverishly changed her position, shuffled her feet upon the ground; but + +this was all. + + + +During the silence, the Jew looked restlessly about the room, as if to + +assure himself that there were no appearances of Sikes having covertly + +returned. Apparently satisfied with his inspection, he coughed twice or + +thrice, and made as many efforts to open a conversation; but the girl + +heeded him no more than if he had been made of stone. At length he made + +another attempt; and rubbing his hands together, said, in his most + +conciliatory tone, + + + +“And where should you think Bill was now, my dear?” + + + +The girl moaned out some half intelligible reply, that she could not + +tell; and seemed, from the smothered noise that escaped her, to be + +crying. + + + +“And the boy, too,” said the Jew, straining his eyes to catch a glimpse + +of her face. “Poor leetle child! Left in a ditch, Nance; only think!” + + + +“The child,” said the girl, suddenly looking up, “is better where he + +is, than among us; and if no harm comes to Bill from it, I hope he lies + +dead in the ditch and that his young bones may rot there.” + + + +“What!” cried the Jew, in amazement. + + + +“Ay, I do,” returned the girl, meeting his gaze. “I shall be glad to + +have him away from my eyes, and to know that the worst is over. I can’t + +bear to have him about me. The sight of him turns me against myself, + +and all of you.” + + + +“Pooh!” said the Jew, scornfully. “You’re drunk.” + + + +“Am I?” cried the girl bitterly. “It’s no fault of yours, if I am not! + +You’d never have me anything else, if you had your will, except + +now;—the humour doesn’t suit you, doesn’t it?” + + + +“No!” rejoined the Jew, furiously. “It does not.” + + + +“Change it, then!” responded the girl, with a laugh. + + + +“Change it!” exclaimed the Jew, exasperated beyond all bounds by his + +companion’s unexpected obstinacy, and the vexation of the night, “I + +_will_ change it! Listen to me, you drab. Listen to me, who with six + +words, can strangle Sikes as surely as if I had his bull’s throat + +between my fingers now. If he comes back, and leaves the boy behind + +him; if he gets off free, and dead or alive, fails to restore him to + +me; murder him yourself if you would have him escape Jack Ketch. And do + +it the moment he sets foot in this room, or mind me, it will be too + +late!” + + + +“What is all this?” cried the girl involuntarily. + + + +“What is it?” pursued Fagin, mad with rage. “When the boy’s worth + +hundreds of pounds to me, am I to lose what chance threw me in the way + +of getting safely, through the whims of a drunken gang that I could + +whistle away the lives of! And me bound, too, to a born devil that only + +wants the will, and has the power to, to—” + + + +Panting for breath, the old man stammered for a word; and in that + +instant checked the torrent of his wrath, and changed his whole + +demeanour. A moment before, his clenched hands had grasped the air; his + +eyes had dilated; and his face grown livid with passion; but now, he + +shrunk into a chair, and, cowering together, trembled with the + +apprehension of having himself disclosed some hidden villainy. After a + +short silence, he ventured to look round at his companion. He appeared + +somewhat reassured, on beholding her in the same listless attitude from + +which he had first roused her. + + + +“Nancy, dear!” croaked the Jew, in his usual voice. “Did you mind me, + +dear?” + + + +“Don’t worry me now, Fagin!” replied the girl, raising her head + +languidly. “If Bill has not done it this time, he will another. He has + +done many a good job for you, and will do many more when he can; and + +when he can’t he won’t; so no more about that.” + + + +“Regarding this boy, my dear?” said the Jew, rubbing the palms of his + +hands nervously together. + + + +“The boy must take his chance with the rest,” interrupted Nancy, + +hastily; “and I say again, I hope he is dead, and out of harm’s way, + +and out of yours,—that is, if Bill comes to no harm. And if Toby got + +clear off, Bill’s pretty sure to be safe; for Bill’s worth two of Toby + +any time.” + + + +“And about what I was saying, my dear?” observed the Jew, keeping his + +glistening eye steadily upon her. + + + +“You must say it all over again, if it’s anything you want me to do,” + +rejoined Nancy; “and if it is, you had better wait till tomorrow. You + +put me up for a minute; but now I’m stupid again.” + + + +Fagin put several other questions: all with the same drift of + +ascertaining whether the girl had profited by his unguarded hints; but, + +she answered them so readily, and was withal so utterly unmoved by his + +searching looks, that his original impression of her being more than a + +trifle in liquor, was confirmed. Nancy, indeed, was not exempt from a + +failing which was very common among the Jew’s female pupils; and in + +which, in their tenderer years, they were rather encouraged than + +checked. Her disordered appearance, and a wholesale perfume of Geneva + +which pervaded the apartment, afforded strong confirmatory evidence of + +the justice of the Jew’s supposition; and when, after indulging in the + +temporary display of violence above described, she subsided, first into + +dullness, and afterwards into a compound of feelings: under the + +influence of which she shed tears one minute, and in the next gave + +utterance to various exclamations of “Never say die!” and divers + +calculations as to what might be the amount of the odds so long as a + +lady or gentleman was happy, Mr. Fagin, who had had considerable + +experience of such matters in his time, saw, with great satisfaction, + +that she was very far gone indeed. + + + +Having eased his mind by this discovery; and having accomplished his + +twofold object of imparting to the girl what he had, that night, heard, + +and of ascertaining, with his own eyes, that Sikes had not returned, + +Mr. Fagin again turned his face homeward: leaving his young friend + +asleep, with her head upon the table. + + + +It was within an hour of midnight. The weather being dark, and piercing + +cold, he had no great temptation to loiter. The sharp wind that scoured + +the streets, seemed to have cleared them of passengers, as of dust and + +mud, for few people were abroad, and they were to all appearance + +hastening fast home. It blew from the right quarter for the Jew, + +however, and straight before it he went: trembling, and shivering, as + +every fresh gust drove him rudely on his way. + + + +He had reached the corner of his own street, and was already fumbling + +in his pocket for the door-key, when a dark figure emerged from a + +projecting entrance which lay in deep shadow, and, crossing the road, + +glided up to him unperceived. + + + +“Fagin!” whispered a voice close to his ear. + + + +“Ah!” said the Jew, turning quickly round, “is that—” + + + +“Yes!” interrupted the stranger. “I have been lingering here these two + +hours. Where the devil have you been?” + + + +“On your business, my dear,” replied the Jew, glancing uneasily at his + +companion, and slackening his pace as he spoke. “On your business all + +night.” + + + +“Oh, of course!” said the stranger, with a sneer. “Well; and what’s + +come of it?” + + + +“Nothing good,” said the Jew. + + + +“Nothing bad, I hope?” said the stranger, stopping short, and turning a + +startled look on his companion. + + + +The Jew shook his head, and was about to reply, when the stranger, + +interrupting him, motioned to the house, before which they had by this + +time arrived: remarking, that he had better say what he had got to say, + +under cover: for his blood was chilled with standing about so long, and + +the wind blew through him. + + + +Fagin looked as if he could have willingly excused himself from taking + +home a visitor at that unseasonable hour; and, indeed, muttered + +something about having no fire; but his companion repeating his request + +in a peremptory manner, he unlocked the door, and requested him to + +close it softly, while he got a light. + + + +“It’s as dark as the grave,” said the man, groping forward a few steps. + +“Make haste!” + + + +“Shut the door,” whispered Fagin from the end of the passage. As he + +spoke, it closed with a loud noise. + + + +“That wasn’t my doing,” said the other man, feeling his way. “The wind + +blew it to, or it shut of its own accord: one or the other. Look sharp + +with the light, or I shall knock my brains out against something in + +this confounded hole.” + + + +Fagin stealthily descended the kitchen stairs. After a short absence, + +he returned with a lighted candle, and the intelligence that Toby + +Crackit was asleep in the back room below, and that the boys were in + +the front one. Beckoning the man to follow him, he led the way + +upstairs. + + + +“We can say the few words we’ve got to say in here, my dear,” said the + +Jew, throwing open a door on the first floor; “and as there are holes + +in the shutters, and we never show lights to our neighbours, we’ll set + +the candle on the stairs. There!” + + + +With those words, the Jew, stooping down, placed the candle on an upper + +flight of stairs, exactly opposite to the room door. This done, he led + +the way into the apartment; which was destitute of all movables save a + +broken arm-chair, and an old couch or sofa without covering, which + +stood behind the door. Upon this piece of furniture, the stranger sat + +himself with the air of a weary man; and the Jew, drawing up the + +arm-chair opposite, they sat face to face. It was not quite dark; the + +door was partially open; and the candle outside, threw a feeble + +reflection on the opposite wall. + + + +They conversed for some time in whispers. Though nothing of the + +conversation was distinguishable beyond a few disjointed words here and + +there, a listener might easily have perceived that Fagin appeared to be + +defending himself against some remarks of the stranger; and that the + +latter was in a state of considerable irritation. They might have been + +talking, thus, for a quarter of an hour or more, when Monks—by which + +name the Jew had designated the strange man several times in the course + +of their colloquy—said, raising his voice a little, + + + +“I tell you again, it was badly planned. Why not have kept him here + +among the rest, and made a sneaking, snivelling pickpocket of him at + +once?” + + + +“Only hear him!” exclaimed the Jew, shrugging his shoulders. + + + +“Why, do you mean to say you couldn’t have done it, if you had chosen?” + +demanded Monks, sternly. “Haven’t you done it, with other boys, scores + +of times? If you had had patience for a twelvemonth, at most, couldn’t + +you have got him convicted, and sent safely out of the kingdom; perhaps + +for life?” + + + +“Whose turn would that have served, my dear?” inquired the Jew humbly. + + + +“Mine,” replied Monks. + + + +“But not mine,” said the Jew, submissively. “He might have become of + +use to me. When there are two parties to a bargain, it is only + +reasonable that the interests of both should be consulted; is it, my + +good friend?” + + + +“What then?” demanded Monks. + + + +“I saw it was not easy to train him to the business,” replied the Jew; + +“he was not like other boys in the same circumstances.” + + + +“Curse him, no!” muttered the man, “or he would have been a thief, long + +ago.” + + + +“I had no hold upon him to make him worse,” pursued the Jew, anxiously + +watching the countenance of his companion. “His hand was not in. I had + +nothing to frighten him with; which we always must have in the + +beginning, or we labour in vain. What could I do? Send him out with the + +Dodger and Charley? We had enough of that, at first, my dear; I + +trembled for us all.” + + + +“_That_ was not my doing,” observed Monks. + + + +“No, no, my dear!” renewed the Jew. “And I don’t quarrel with it now; + +because, if it had never happened, you might never have clapped eyes on + +the boy to notice him, and so led to the discovery that it was him you + +were looking for. Well! I got him back for you by means of the girl; + +and then _she_ begins to favour him.” + + + +“Throttle the girl!” said Monks, impatiently. + + + +“Why, we can’t afford to do that just now, my dear,” replied the Jew, + +smiling; “and, besides, that sort of thing is not in our way; or, one + +of these days, I might be glad to have it done. I know what these girls + +are, Monks, well. As soon as the boy begins to harden, she’ll care no + +more for him, than for a block of wood. You want him made a thief. If + +he is alive, I can make him one from this time; and, if—if—” said the + +Jew, drawing nearer to the other,—“it’s not likely, mind,—but if the + +worst comes to the worst, and he is dead—” + + + +“It’s no fault of mine if he is!” interposed the other man, with a look + +of terror, and clasping the Jew’s arm with trembling hands. “Mind that. + +Fagin! I had no hand in it. Anything but his death, I told you from the + +first. I won’t shed blood; it’s always found out, and haunts a man + +besides. If they shot him dead, I was not the cause; do you hear me? + +Fire this infernal den! What’s that?” + + + +“What!” cried the Jew, grasping the coward round the body, with both + +arms, as he sprung to his feet. “Where?” + + + +“Yonder!” replied the man, glaring at the opposite wall. “The shadow! I + +saw the shadow of a woman, in a cloak and bonnet, pass along the + +wainscot like a breath!” + + + +The Jew released his hold, and they rushed tumultuously from the room. + +The candle, wasted by the draught, was standing where it had been + +placed. It showed them only the empty staircase, and their own white + +faces. They listened intently: a profound silence reigned throughout + +the house. + + + +“It’s your fancy,” said the Jew, taking up the light and turning to his + +companion. + + + +“I’ll swear I saw it!” replied Monks, trembling. “It was bending + +forward when I saw it first; and when I spoke, it darted away.” + + + +The Jew glanced contemptuously at the pale face of his associate, and, + +telling him he could follow, if he pleased, ascended the stairs. They + +looked into all the rooms; they were cold, bare, and empty. They + +descended into the passage, and thence into the cellars below. The + +green damp hung upon the low walls; the tracks of the snail and slug + +glistened in the light of the candle; but all was still as death. + + + +“What do you think now?” said the Jew, when they had regained the + +passage. “Besides ourselves, there’s not a creature in the house except + +Toby and the boys; and they’re safe enough. See here!” + + + +As a proof of the fact, the Jew drew forth two keys from his pocket; + +and explained, that when he first went downstairs, he had locked them + +in, to prevent any intrusion on the conference. + + + +This accumulated testimony effectually staggered Mr. Monks. His + +protestations had gradually become less and less vehement as they + +proceeded in their search without making any discovery; and, now, he + +gave vent to several very grim laughs, and confessed it could only have + +been his excited imagination. He declined any renewal of the + +conversation, however, for that night: suddenly remembering that it was + +past one o’clock. And so the amiable couple parted. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XXVII. + +ATONES FOR THE UNPOLITENESS OF A FORMER CHAPTER; WHICH DESERTED A LADY, + +MOST UNCEREMONIOUSLY + + + + + +As it would be, by no means, seemly in a humble author to keep so + +mighty a personage as a beadle waiting, with his back to the fire, and + +the skirts of his coat gathered up under his arms, until such time as + +it might suit his pleasure to relieve him; and as it would still less + +become his station, or his gallantry to involve in the same neglect a + +lady on whom that beadle had looked with an eye of tenderness and + +affection, and in whose ear he had whispered sweet words, which, coming + +from such a quarter, might well thrill the bosom of maid or matron of + +whatsoever degree; the historian whose pen traces these words—trusting + +that he knows his place, and that he entertains a becoming reverence + +for those upon earth to whom high and important authority is + +delegated—hastens to pay them that respect which their position + +demands, and to treat them with all that duteous ceremony which their + +exalted rank, and (by consequence) great virtues, imperatively claim at + +his hands. Towards this end, indeed, he had purposed to introduce, in + +this place, a dissertation touching the divine right of beadles, and + +elucidative of the position, that a beadle can do no wrong: which could + +not fail to have been both pleasurable and profitable to the + +right-minded reader but which he is unfortunately compelled, by want of + +time and space, to postpone to some more convenient and fitting + +opportunity; on the arrival of which, he will be prepared to show, that + +a beadle properly constituted: that is to say, a parochial beadle, + +attached to a parochial workhouse, and attending in his official + +capacity the parochial church: is, in right and virtue of his office, + +possessed of all the excellences and best qualities of humanity; and + +that to none of those excellences, can mere companies’ beadles, or + +court-of-law beadles, or even chapel-of-ease beadles (save the last, + +and they in a very lowly and inferior degree), lay the remotest + +sustainable claim. + + + +Mr. Bumble had re-counted the teaspoons, re-weighed the sugar-tongs, + +made a closer inspection of the milk-pot, and ascertained to a nicety + +the exact condition of the furniture, down to the very horse-hair seats + +of the chairs; and had repeated each process full half a dozen times; + +before he began to think that it was time for Mrs. Corney to return. + +Thinking begets thinking; as there were no sounds of Mrs. Corney’s + +approach, it occured to Mr. Bumble that it would be an innocent and + +virtuous way of spending the time, if he were further to allay his + +curiousity by a cursory glance at the interior of Mrs. Corney’s chest + +of drawers. + + + +Having listened at the keyhole, to assure himself that nobody was + +approaching the chamber, Mr. Bumble, beginning at the bottom, proceeded + +to make himself acquainted with the contents of the three long drawers: + +which, being filled with various garments of good fashion and texture, + +carefully preserved between two layers of old newspapers, speckled with + +dried lavender: seemed to yield him exceeding satisfaction. Arriving, + +in course of time, at the right-hand corner drawer (in which was the + +key), and beholding therein a small padlocked box, which, being shaken, + +gave forth a pleasant sound, as of the chinking of coin, Mr. Bumble + +returned with a stately walk to the fireplace; and, resuming his old + +attitude, said, with a grave and determined air, “I’ll do it!” He + +followed up this remarkable declaration, by shaking his head in a + +waggish manner for ten minutes, as though he were remonstrating with + +himself for being such a pleasant dog; and then, he took a view of his + +legs in profile, with much seeming pleasure and interest. + + + +He was still placidly engaged in this latter survey, when Mrs. Corney, + +hurrying into the room, threw herself, in a breathless state, on a + +chair by the fireside, and covering her eyes with one hand, placed the + +other over her heart, and gasped for breath. + + + +“Mrs. Corney,” said Mr. Bumble, stooping over the matron, “what is + +this, ma’am? Has anything happened, ma’am? Pray answer me: I’m on—on—” + +Mr. Bumble, in his alarm, could not immediately think of the word + +“tenterhooks,” so he said “broken bottles.” + + + +“Oh, Mr. Bumble!” cried the lady, “I have been so dreadfully put out!” + + + +“Put out, ma’am!” exclaimed Mr. Bumble; “who has dared to—? I know!” + +said Mr. Bumble, checking himself, with native majesty, “this is them + +wicious paupers!” + + + +“It’s dreadful to think of!” said the lady, shuddering. + + + +“Then _don’t_ think of it, ma’am,” rejoined Mr. Bumble. + + + +“I can’t help it,” whimpered the lady. + + + +“Then take something, ma’am,” said Mr. Bumble soothingly. “A little of + +the wine?” + + + +“Not for the world!” replied Mrs. Corney. “I couldn’t,—oh! The top + +shelf in the right-hand corner—oh!” Uttering these words, the good lady + +pointed, distractedly, to the cupboard, and underwent a convulsion from + +internal spasms. Mr. Bumble rushed to the closet; and, snatching a pint + +green-glass bottle from the shelf thus incoherently indicated, filled a + +tea-cup with its contents, and held it to the lady’s lips. + + + +“I’m better now,” said Mrs. Corney, falling back, after drinking half + +of it. + + + +Mr. Bumble raised his eyes piously to the ceiling in thankfulness; and, + +bringing them down again to the brim of the cup, lifted it to his nose. + + + +“Peppermint,” exclaimed Mrs. Corney, in a faint voice, smiling gently + +on the beadle as she spoke. “Try it! There’s a little—a little + +something else in it.” + + + +Mr. Bumble tasted the medicine with a doubtful look; smacked his lips; + +took another taste; and put the cup down empty. + + + +“It’s very comforting,” said Mrs. Corney. + + + +“Very much so indeed, ma’am,” said the beadle. As he spoke, he drew a + +chair beside the matron, and tenderly inquired what had happened to + +distress her. + + + +“Nothing,” replied Mrs. Corney. “I am a foolish, excitable, weak + +creetur.” + + + +“Not weak, ma’am,” retorted Mr. Bumble, drawing his chair a little + +closer. “Are you a weak creetur, Mrs. Corney?” + + + +“We are all weak creeturs,” said Mrs. Corney, laying down a general + +principle. + + + +“So we are,” said the beadle. + + + +Nothing was said on either side, for a minute or two afterwards. By the + +expiration of that time, Mr. Bumble had illustrated the position by + +removing his left arm from the back of Mrs. Corney’s chair, where it + +had previously rested, to Mrs. Corney’s apron-string, round which it + +gradually became entwined. + + + +“We are all weak creeturs,” said Mr. Bumble. + + + +Mrs. Corney sighed. + + + +“Don’t sigh, Mrs. Corney,” said Mr. Bumble. + + + +“I can’t help it,” said Mrs. Corney. And she sighed again. + + + +“This is a very comfortable room, ma’am,” said Mr. Bumble looking + +round. “Another room, and this, ma’am, would be a complete thing.” + + + +“It would be too much for one,” murmured the lady. + + + +“But not for two, ma’am,” rejoined Mr. Bumble, in soft accents. “Eh, + +Mrs. Corney?” + + + +Mrs. Corney drooped her head, when the beadle said this; the beadle + +drooped his, to get a view of Mrs. Corney’s face. Mrs. Corney, with + +great propriety, turned her head away, and released her hand to get at + +her pocket-handkerchief; but insensibly replaced it in that of Mr. + +Bumble. + + + +“The board allows you coals, don’t they, Mrs. Corney?” inquired the + +beadle, affectionately pressing her hand. + + + +“And candles,” replied Mrs. Corney, slightly returning the pressure. + + + +“Coals, candles, and house-rent free,” said Mr. Bumble. “Oh, Mrs. + +Corney, what an Angel you are!” + + + +The lady was not proof against this burst of feeling. She sank into Mr. + +Bumble’s arms; and that gentleman in his agitation, imprinted a + +passionate kiss upon her chaste nose. + + + +“Such porochial perfection!” exclaimed Mr. Bumble, rapturously. “You + +know that Mr. Slout is worse tonight, my fascinator?” + + + +“Yes,” replied Mrs. Corney, bashfully. + + + +“He can’t live a week, the doctor says,” pursued Mr. Bumble. “He is the + +master of this establishment; his death will cause a wacancy; that + +wacancy must be filled up. Oh, Mrs. Corney, what a prospect this opens! + +What a opportunity for a jining of hearts and housekeepings!” + + + +Mrs. Corney sobbed. + + + +“The little word?” said Mr. Bumble, bending over the bashful beauty. + +“The one little, little, little word, my blessed Corney?” + + + +“Ye—ye—yes!” sighed out the matron. + + + +“One more,” pursued the beadle; “compose your darling feelings for only + +one more. When is it to come off?” + + + +Mrs. Corney twice essayed to speak: and twice failed. At length + +summoning up courage, she threw her arms around Mr. Bumble’s neck, and + +said, it might be as soon as ever he pleased, and that he was “a + +irresistible duck.” + + + +Matters being thus amicably and satisfactorily arranged, the contract + +was solemnly ratified in another teacupful of the peppermint mixture; + +which was rendered the more necessary, by the flutter and agitation of + +the lady’s spirits. While it was being disposed of, she acquainted Mr. + +Bumble with the old woman’s decease. + + + +“Very good,” said that gentleman, sipping his peppermint; “I’ll call at + +Sowerberry’s as I go home, and tell him to send tomorrow morning. Was + +it that as frightened you, love?” + + + +“It wasn’t anything particular, dear,” said the lady evasively. + + + +“It must have been something, love,” urged Mr. Bumble. “Won’t you tell + +your own B.?” + + + +“Not now,” rejoined the lady; “one of these days. After we’re married, + +dear.” + + + +“After we’re married!” exclaimed Mr. Bumble. “It wasn’t any impudence + +from any of them male paupers as—” + + + +“No, no, love!” interposed the lady, hastily. + + + +“If I thought it was,” continued Mr. Bumble; “if I thought as any one + +of ’em had dared to lift his wulgar eyes to that lovely countenance—” + + + +“They wouldn’t have dared to do it, love,” responded the lady. + + + +“They had better not!” said Mr. Bumble, clenching his fist. “Let me see + +any man, porochial or extra-porochial, as would presume to do it; and I + +can tell him that he wouldn’t do it a second time!” + + + +Unembellished by any violence of gesticulation, this might have seemed + +no very high compliment to the lady’s charms; but, as Mr. Bumble + +accompanied the threat with many warlike gestures, she was much touched + +with this proof of his devotion, and protested, with great admiration, + +that he was indeed a dove. + + + +The dove then turned up his coat-collar, and put on his cocked hat; + +and, having exchanged a long and affectionate embrace with his future + +partner, once again braved the cold wind of the night: merely pausing, + +for a few minutes, in the male paupers’ ward, to abuse them a little, + +with the view of satisfying himself that he could fill the office of + +workhouse-master with needful acerbity. Assured of his qualifications, + +Mr. Bumble left the building with a light heart, and bright visions of + +his future promotion: which served to occupy his mind until he reached + +the shop of the undertaker. + + + +Now, Mr. and Mrs. Sowerberry having gone out to tea and supper: and + +Noah Claypole not being at any time disposed to take upon himself a + +greater amount of physical exertion than is necessary to a convenient + +performance of the two functions of eating and drinking, the shop was + +not closed, although it was past the usual hour of shutting-up. Mr. + +Bumble tapped with his cane on the counter several times; but, + +attracting no attention, and beholding a light shining through the + +glass-window of the little parlour at the back of the shop, he made + +bold to peep in and see what was going forward; and when he saw what + +was going forward, he was not a little surprised. + + + +The cloth was laid for supper; the table was covered with bread and + +butter, plates and glasses; a porter-pot and a wine-bottle. At the + +upper end of the table, Mr. Noah Claypole lolled negligently in an + +easy-chair, with his legs thrown over one of the arms: an open + +clasp-knife in one hand, and a mass of buttered bread in the other. + +Close beside him stood Charlotte, opening oysters from a barrel: which + +Mr. Claypole condescended to swallow, with remarkable avidity. A more + +than ordinary redness in the region of the young gentleman’s nose, and + +a kind of fixed wink in his right eye, denoted that he was in a slight + +degree intoxicated; these symptoms were confirmed by the intense relish + +with which he took his oysters, for which nothing but a strong + +appreciation of their cooling properties, in cases of internal fever, + +could have sufficiently accounted. + + + +“Here’s a delicious fat one, Noah, dear!” said Charlotte; “try him, do; + +only this one.” + + + +“What a delicious thing is a oyster!” remarked Mr. Claypole, after he + +had swallowed it. “What a pity it is, a number of ’em should ever make + +you feel uncomfortable; isn’t it, Charlotte?” + + + +“It’s quite a cruelty,” said Charlotte. + + + +“So it is,” acquiesced Mr. Claypole. “An’t yer fond of oysters?” + + + +“Not overmuch,” replied Charlotte. “I like to see you eat ’em, Noah + +dear, better than eating ’em myself.” + + + +“Lor!” said Noah, reflectively; “how queer!” + + + +“Have another,” said Charlotte. “Here’s one with such a beautiful, + +delicate beard!” + + + +“I can’t manage any more,” said Noah. “I’m very sorry. Come here, + +Charlotte, and I’ll kiss yer.” + + + +“What!” said Mr. Bumble, bursting into the room. “Say that again, sir.” + + + +Charlotte uttered a scream, and hid her face in her apron. Mr. + +Claypole, without making any further change in his position than + +suffering his legs to reach the ground, gazed at the beadle in drunken + +terror. + + + +“Say it again, you wile, owdacious fellow!” said Mr. Bumble. “How dare + +you mention such a thing, sir? And how dare you encourage him, you + +insolent minx? Kiss her!” exclaimed Mr. Bumble, in strong indignation. + +“Faugh!” + + + +“I didn’t mean to do it!” said Noah, blubbering. “She’s always + +a-kissing of me, whether I like it, or not.” + + + +“Oh, Noah,” cried Charlotte, reproachfully. + + + +“Yer are; yer know yer are!” retorted Noah. “She’s always a-doin’ of + +it, Mr. Bumble, sir; she chucks me under the chin, please, sir; and + +makes all manner of love!” + + + +“Silence!” cried Mr. Bumble, sternly. “Take yourself downstairs, ma’am. + +Noah, you shut up the shop; say another word till your master comes + +home, at your peril; and, when he does come home, tell him that Mr. + +Bumble said he was to send a old woman’s shell after breakfast + +tomorrow morning. Do you hear sir? Kissing!” cried Mr. Bumble, holding + +up his hands. “The sin and wickedness of the lower orders in this + +porochial district is frightful! If Parliament don’t take their + +abominable courses under consideration, this country’s ruined, and the + +character of the peasantry gone for ever!” With these words, the beadle + +strode, with a lofty and gloomy air, from the undertaker’s premises. + + + +And now that we have accompanied him so far on his road home, and have + +made all necessary preparations for the old woman’s funeral, let us set + +on foot a few inquires after young Oliver Twist, and ascertain whether + +he be still lying in the ditch where Toby Crackit left him. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XXVIII. + +LOOKS AFTER OLIVER, AND PROCEEDS WITH HIS ADVENTURES + + + + + +“Wolves tear your throats!” muttered Sikes, grinding his teeth. “I wish + +I was among some of you; you’d howl the hoarser for it.” + + + +As Sikes growled forth this imprecation, with the most desperate + +ferocity that his desperate nature was capable of, he rested the body + +of the wounded boy across his bended knee; and turned his head, for an + +instant, to look back at his pursuers. + + + +There was little to be made out, in the mist and darkness; but the loud + +shouting of men vibrated through the air, and the barking of the + +neighbouring dogs, roused by the sound of the alarm bell, resounded in + +every direction. + + + +“Stop, you white-livered hound!” cried the robber, shouting after Toby + +Crackit, who, making the best use of his long legs, was already ahead. + +“Stop!” + + + +The repetition of the word, brought Toby to a dead stand-still. For he + +was not quite satisfied that he was beyond the range of pistol-shot; + +and Sikes was in no mood to be played with. + + + +“Bear a hand with the boy,” cried Sikes, beckoning furiously to his + +confederate. “Come back!” + + + +Toby made a show of returning; but ventured, in a low voice, broken for + +want of breath, to intimate considerable reluctance as he came slowly + +along. + + + +“Quicker!” cried Sikes, laying the boy in a dry ditch at his feet, and + +drawing a pistol from his pocket. “Don’t play booty with me.” + + + +At this moment the noise grew louder. Sikes, again looking round, could + +discern that the men who had given chase were already climbing the gate + +of the field in which he stood; and that a couple of dogs were some + +paces in advance of them. + + + +“It’s all up, Bill!” cried Toby; “drop the kid, and show ’em your + +heels.” With this parting advice, Mr. Crackit, preferring the chance of + +being shot by his friend, to the certainty of being taken by his + +enemies, fairly turned tail, and darted off at full speed. Sikes + +clenched his teeth; took one look around; threw over the prostrate form + +of Oliver, the cape in which he had been hurriedly muffled; ran along + +the front of the hedge, as if to distract the attention of those + +behind, from the spot where the boy lay; paused, for a second, before + +another hedge which met it at right angles; and whirling his pistol + +high into the air, cleared it at a bound, and was gone. + + + +“Ho, ho, there!” cried a tremulous voice in the rear. “Pincher! + +Neptune! Come here, come here!” + + + +The dogs, who, in common with their masters, seemed to have no + +particular relish for the sport in which they were engaged, readily + +answered to the command. Three men, who had by this time advanced some + +distance into the field, stopped to take counsel together. + + + +“My advice, or, leastways, I should say, my _orders_, is,” said the + +fattest man of the party, “that we ’mediately go home again.” + + + +“I am agreeable to anything which is agreeable to Mr. Giles,” said a + +shorter man; who was by no means of a slim figure, and who was very + +pale in the face, and very polite: as frightened men frequently are. + + + +“I shouldn’t wish to appear ill-mannered, gentlemen,” said the third, + +who had called the dogs back, “Mr. Giles ought to know.” + + + +“Certainly,” replied the shorter man; “and whatever Mr. Giles says, it + +isn’t our place to contradict him. No, no, I know my sitiwation! Thank + +my stars, I know my sitiwation.” To tell the truth, the little man + +_did_ seem to know his situation, and to know perfectly well that it + +was by no means a desirable one; for his teeth chattered in his head as + +he spoke. + + + +“You are afraid, Brittles,” said Mr. Giles. + + + +“I an’t,” said Brittles. + + + +“You are,” said Giles. + + + +“You’re a falsehood, Mr. Giles,” said Brittles. + + + +“You’re a lie, Brittles,” said Mr. Giles. + + + +Now, these four retorts arose from Mr. Giles’s taunt; and Mr. Giles’s + +taunt had arisen from his indignation at having the responsibility of + +going home again, imposed upon himself under cover of a compliment. The + +third man brought the dispute to a close, most philosophically. + + + +“I’ll tell you what it is, gentlemen,” said he, “we’re all afraid.” + + + +“Speak for yourself, sir,” said Mr. Giles, who was the palest of the + +party. + + + +“So I do,” replied the man. “It’s natural and proper to be afraid, + +under such circumstances. I am.” + + + +“So am I,” said Brittles; “only there’s no call to tell a man he is, so + +bounceably.” + + + +These frank admissions softened Mr. Giles, who at once owned that _he_ + +was afraid; upon which, they all three faced about, and ran back again + +with the completest unanimity, until Mr. Giles (who had the shortest + +wind of the party, as was encumbered with a pitchfork) most handsomely + +insisted on stopping, to make an apology for his hastiness of speech. + + + +“But it’s wonderful,” said Mr. Giles, when he had explained, “what a + +man will do, when his blood is up. I should have committed murder—I + +know I should—if we’d caught one of them rascals.” + + + +As the other two were impressed with a similar presentiment; and as + +their blood, like his, had all gone down again; some speculation ensued + +upon the cause of this sudden change in their temperament. + + + +“I know what it was,” said Mr. Giles; “it was the gate.” + + + +“I shouldn’t wonder if it was,” exclaimed Brittles, catching at the + +idea. + + + +“You may depend upon it,” said Giles, “that that gate stopped the flow + +of the excitement. I felt all mine suddenly going away, as I was + +climbing over it.” + + + +By a remarkable coincidence, the other two had been visited with the + +same unpleasant sensation at that precise moment. It was quite obvious, + +therefore, that it was the gate; especially as there was no doubt + +regarding the time at which the change had taken place, because all + +three remembered that they had come in sight of the robbers at the + +instant of its occurance. + + + +This dialogue was held between the two men who had surprised the + +burglars, and a travelling tinker who had been sleeping in an outhouse, + +and who had been roused, together with his two mongrel curs, to join in + +the pursuit. Mr. Giles acted in the double capacity of butler and + +steward to the old lady of the mansion; Brittles was a lad of all-work: + +who, having entered her service a mere child, was treated as a + +promising young boy still, though he was something past thirty. + + + +Encouraging each other with such converse as this; but, keeping very + +close together, notwithstanding, and looking apprehensively round, + +whenever a fresh gust rattled through the boughs; the three men hurried + +back to a tree, behind which they had left their lantern, lest its + +light should inform the thieves in what direction to fire. Catching up + +the light, they made the best of their way home, at a good round trot; + +and long after their dusky forms had ceased to be discernible, the + +light might have been seen twinkling and dancing in the distance, like + +some exhalation of the damp and gloomy atmosphere through which it was + +swiftly borne. + + + +The air grew colder, as day came slowly on; and the mist rolled along + +the ground like a dense cloud of smoke. The grass was wet; the + +pathways, and low places, were all mire and water; the damp breath of + +an unwholesome wind went languidly by, with a hollow moaning. Still, + +Oliver lay motionless and insensible on the spot where Sikes had left + +him. + + + +Morning drew on apace. The air became more sharp and piercing, as its + +first dull hue—the death of night, rather than the birth of + +day—glimmered faintly in the sky. The objects which had looked dim and + +terrible in the darkness, grew more and more defined, and gradually + +resolved into their familiar shapes. The rain came down, thick and + +fast, and pattered noisily among the leafless bushes. But, Oliver felt + +it not, as it beat against him; for he still lay stretched, helpless + +and unconscious, on his bed of clay. + + + +At length, a low cry of pain broke the stillness that prevailed; and + +uttering it, the boy awoke. His left arm, rudely bandaged in a shawl, + +hung heavy and useless at his side; the bandage was saturated with + +blood. He was so weak, that he could scarcely raise himself into a + +sitting posture; when he had done so, he looked feebly round for help, + +and groaned with pain. Trembling in every joint, from cold and + +exhaustion, he made an effort to stand upright; but, shuddering from + +head to foot, fell prostrate on the ground. + + + +After a short return of the stupor in which he had been so long + +plunged, Oliver: urged by a creeping sickness at his heart, which + +seemed to warn him that if he lay there, he must surely die: got upon + +his feet, and essayed to walk. His head was dizzy, and he staggered to + +and fro like a drunken man. But he kept up, nevertheless, and, with his + +head drooping languidly on his breast, went stumbling onward, he knew + +not whither. + + + +And now, hosts of bewildering and confused ideas came crowding on his + +mind. He seemed to be still walking between Sikes and Crackit, who were + +angrily disputing—for the very words they said, sounded in his ears; + +and when he caught his own attention, as it were, by making some + +violent effort to save himself from falling, he found that he was + +talking to them. Then, he was alone with Sikes, plodding on as on the + +previous day; and as shadowy people passed them, he felt the robber’s + +grasp upon his wrist. Suddenly, he started back at the report of + +firearms; there rose into the air, loud cries and shouts; lights + +gleamed before his eyes; all was noise and tumult, as some unseen hand + +bore him hurriedly away. Through all these rapid visions, there ran an + +undefined, uneasy consciousness of pain, which wearied and tormented + +him incessantly. + + + +Thus he staggered on, creeping, almost mechanically, between the bars + +of gates, or through hedge-gaps as they came in his way, until he + +reached a road. Here the rain began to fall so heavily, that it roused + +him. + + + +He looked about, and saw that at no great distance there was a house, + +which perhaps he could reach. Pitying his condition, they might have + +compassion on him; and if they did not, it would be better, he thought, + +to die near human beings, than in the lonely open fields. He summoned + +up all his strength for one last trial, and bent his faltering steps + +towards it. + + + +As he drew nearer to this house, a feeling come over him that he had + +seen it before. He remembered nothing of its details; but the shape and + +aspect of the building seemed familiar to him. + + + +That garden wall! On the grass inside, he had fallen on his knees last + +night, and prayed the two men’s mercy. It was the very house they had + +attempted to rob. + + + +Oliver felt such fear come over him when he recognised the place, that, + +for the instant, he forgot the agony of his wound, and thought only of + +flight. Flight! He could scarcely stand: and if he were in full + +possession of all the best powers of his slight and youthful frame, + +whither could he fly? He pushed against the garden-gate; it was + +unlocked, and swung open on its hinges. He tottered across the lawn; + +climbed the steps; knocked faintly at the door; and, his whole strength + +failing him, sunk down against one of the pillars of the little + +portico. + + + +It happened that about this time, Mr. Giles, Brittles, and the tinker, + +were recruiting themselves, after the fatigues and terrors of the + +night, with tea and sundries, in the kitchen. Not that it was Mr. + +Giles’s habit to admit to too great familiarity the humbler servants: + +towards whom it was rather his wont to deport himself with a lofty + +affability, which, while it gratified, could not fail to remind them of + +his superior position in society. But, death, fires, and burglary, make + +all men equals; so Mr. Giles sat with his legs stretched out before the + +kitchen fender, leaning his left arm on the table, while, with his + +right, he illustrated a circumstantial and minute account of the + +robbery, to which his hearers (but especially the cook and housemaid, + +who were of the party) listened with breathless interest. + + + +“It was about half-past two,” said Mr. Giles, “or I wouldn’t swear that + +it mightn’t have been a little nearer three, when I woke up, and, + +turning round in my bed, as it might be so, (here Mr. Giles turned + +round in his chair, and pulled the corner of the table-cloth over him + +to imitate bed-clothes,) I fancied I heerd a noise.” + + + +At this point of the narrative the cook turned pale, and asked the + +housemaid to shut the door: who asked Brittles, who asked the tinker, + +who pretended not to hear. + + + +“—Heerd a noise,” continued Mr. Giles. “I says, at first, ‘This is + +illusion’; and was composing myself off to sleep, when I heerd the + +noise again, distinct.” + + + +“What sort of a noise?” asked the cook. + + + +“A kind of a busting noise,” replied Mr. Giles, looking round him. + + + +“More like the noise of powdering a iron bar on a nutmeg-grater,” + +suggested Brittles. + + + +“It was, when _you_ heerd it, sir,” rejoined Mr. Giles; “but, at this + +time, it had a busting sound. I turned down the clothes”; continued + +Giles, rolling back the table-cloth, “sat up in bed; and listened.” + + + +The cook and housemaid simultaneously ejaculated “Lor!” and drew their + +chairs closer together. + + + +“I heerd it now, quite apparent,” resumed Mr. Giles. “‘Somebody,’ I + +says, ‘is forcing of a door, or window; what’s to be done? I’ll call up + +that poor lad, Brittles, and save him from being murdered in his bed; + +or his throat,’ I says, ‘may be cut from his right ear to his left, + +without his ever knowing it.’” + + + +Here, all eyes were turned upon Brittles, who fixed his upon the + +speaker, and stared at him, with his mouth wide open, and his face + +expressive of the most unmitigated horror. + + + +“I tossed off the clothes,” said Giles, throwing away the table-cloth, + +and looking very hard at the cook and housemaid, “got softly out of + +bed; drew on a pair of—” + + + +“Ladies present, Mr. Giles,” murmured the tinker. + + + +“—Of _shoes_, sir,” said Giles, turning upon him, and laying great + +emphasis on the word; “seized the loaded pistol that always goes + +upstairs with the plate-basket; and walked on tiptoes to his room. + +‘Brittles,’ I says, when I had woke him, ‘don’t be frightened!’” + + + +“So you did,” observed Brittles, in a low voice. + + + +“‘We’re dead men, I think, Brittles,’ I says,” continued Giles; “‘but + +don’t be frightened.’” + + + +“_Was_ he frightened?” asked the cook. + + + +“Not a bit of it,” replied Mr. Giles. “He was as firm—ah! pretty near + +as firm as I was.” + + + +“I should have died at once, I’m sure, if it had been me,” observed the + +housemaid. + + + +“You’re a woman,” retorted Brittles, plucking up a little. + + + +“Brittles is right,” said Mr. Giles, nodding his head, approvingly; + +“from a woman, nothing else was to be expected. We, being men, took a + +dark lantern that was standing on Brittle’s hob, and groped our way + +downstairs in the pitch dark,—as it might be so.” + + + +Mr. Giles had risen from his seat, and taken two steps with his eyes + +shut, to accompany his description with appropriate action, when he + +started violently, in common with the rest of the company, and hurried + +back to his chair. The cook and housemaid screamed. + + + +“It was a knock,” said Mr. Giles, assuming perfect serenity. “Open the + +door, somebody.” + + + +Nobody moved. + + + +“It seems a strange sort of a thing, a knock coming at such a time in + +the morning,” said Mr. Giles, surveying the pale faces which surrounded + +him, and looking very blank himself; “but the door must be opened. Do + +you hear, somebody?” + + + +Mr. Giles, as he spoke, looked at Brittles; but that young man, being + +naturally modest, probably considered himself nobody, and so held that + +the inquiry could not have any application to him; at all events, he + +tendered no reply. Mr. Giles directed an appealing glance at the + +tinker; but he had suddenly fallen asleep. The women were out of the + +question. + + + +“If Brittles would rather open the door, in the presence of witnesses,” + +said Mr. Giles, after a short silence, “I am ready to make one.” + + + +“So am I,” said the tinker, waking up, as suddenly as he had fallen + +asleep. + + + +Brittles capitulated on these terms; and the party being somewhat + +re-assured by the discovery (made on throwing open the shutters) that + +it was now broad day, took their way upstairs; with the dogs in front. + +The two women, who were afraid to stay below, brought up the rear. By + +the advice of Mr. Giles, they all talked very loud, to warn any + +evil-disposed person outside, that they were strong in numbers; and by + +a master-stoke of policy, originating in the brain of the same + +ingenious gentleman, the dogs’ tails were well pinched, in the hall, to + +make them bark savagely. + + + +These precautions having been taken, Mr. Giles held on fast by the + +tinker’s arm (to prevent his running away, as he pleasantly said), and + +gave the word of command to open the door. Brittles obeyed; the group, + +peeping timorously over each other’s shoulders, beheld no more + +formidable object than poor little Oliver Twist, speechless and + +exhausted, who raised his heavy eyes, and mutely solicited their + +compassion. + + + +“A boy!” exclaimed Mr. Giles, valiantly, pushing the tinker into the + +background. “What’s the matter with the—eh?—Why—Brittles—look + +here—don’t you know?” + + + +Brittles, who had got behind the door to open it, no sooner saw Oliver, + +than he uttered a loud cry. Mr. Giles, seizing the boy by one leg and + +one arm (fortunately not the broken limb) lugged him straight into the + +hall, and deposited him at full length on the floor thereof. + + + +“Here he is!” bawled Giles, calling in a state of great excitement, up + +the staircase; “here’s one of the thieves, ma’am! Here’s a thief, miss! + +Wounded, miss! I shot him, miss; and Brittles held the light.” + + + +“—In a lantern, miss,” cried Brittles, applying one hand to the side of + +his mouth, so that his voice might travel the better. + + + +The two women-servants ran upstairs to carry the intelligence that Mr. + +Giles had captured a robber; and the tinker busied himself in + +endeavouring to restore Oliver, lest he should die before he could be + +hanged. In the midst of all this noise and commotion, there was heard a + +sweet female voice, which quelled it in an instant. + + + +“Giles!” whispered the voice from the stair-head. + + + +“I’m here, miss,” replied Mr. Giles. “Don’t be frightened, miss; I + +ain’t much injured. He didn’t make a very desperate resistance, miss! I + +was soon too many for him.” + + + +“Hush!” replied the young lady; “you frighten my aunt as much as the + +thieves did. Is the poor creature much hurt?” + + + +“Wounded desperate, miss,” replied Giles, with indescribable + +complacency. + + + +“He looks as if he was a-going, miss,” bawled Brittles, in the same + +manner as before. “Wouldn’t you like to come and look at him, miss, in + +case he should?” + + + +“Hush, pray; there’s a good man!” rejoined the lady. “Wait quietly only + +one instant, while I speak to aunt.” + + + +With a footstep as soft and gentle as the voice, the speaker tripped + +away. She soon returned, with the direction that the wounded person was + +to be carried, carefully, upstairs to Mr. Giles’s room; and that + +Brittles was to saddle the pony and betake himself instantly to + +Chertsey: from which place, he was to despatch, with all speed, a + +constable and doctor. + + + +“But won’t you take one look at him, first, miss?” asked Mr. Giles, + +with as much pride as if Oliver were some bird of rare plumage, that he + +had skilfully brought down. “Not one little peep, miss?” + + + +“Not now, for the world,” replied the young lady. “Poor fellow! Oh! + +treat him kindly, Giles for my sake!” + + + +The old servant looked up at the speaker, as she turned away, with a + +glance as proud and admiring as if she had been his own child. Then, + +bending over Oliver, he helped to carry him upstairs, with the care and + +solicitude of a woman. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XXIX. + +HAS AN INTRODUCTORY ACCOUNT OF THE INMATES OF THE HOUSE, TO WHICH + +OLIVER RESORTED + + + + + +In a handsome room: though its furniture had rather the air of + +old-fashioned comfort, than of modern elegance: there sat two ladies at + +a well-spread breakfast-table. Mr. Giles, dressed with scrupulous care + +in a full suit of black, was in attendance upon them. He had taken his + +station some half-way between the side-board and the breakfast-table; + +and, with his body drawn up to its full height, his head thrown back, + +and inclined the merest trifle on one side, his left leg advanced, and + +his right hand thrust into his waist-coat, while his left hung down by + +his side, grasping a waiter, looked like one who laboured under a very + +agreeable sense of his own merits and importance. + + + +Of the two ladies, one was well advanced in years; but the high-backed + +oaken chair in which she sat, was not more upright than she. Dressed + +with the utmost nicety and precision, in a quaint mixture of by-gone + +costume, with some slight concessions to the prevailing taste, which + +rather served to point the old style pleasantly than to impair its + +effect, she sat, in a stately manner, with her hands folded on the + +table before her. Her eyes (and age had dimmed but little of their + +brightness) were attentively upon her young companion. + + + +The younger lady was in the lovely bloom and spring-time of womanhood; + +at that age, when, if ever angels be for God’s good purposes enthroned + +in mortal forms, they may be, without impiety, supposed to abide in + +such as hers. + + + +She was not past seventeen. Cast in so slight and exquisite a mould; so + +mild and gentle; so pure and beautiful; that earth seemed not her + +element, nor its rough creatures her fit companions. The very + +intelligence that shone in her deep blue eye, and was stamped upon her + +noble head, seemed scarcely of her age, or of the world; and yet the + +changing expression of sweetness and good humour, the thousand lights + +that played about the face, and left no shadow there; above all, the + +smile, the cheerful, happy smile, were made for Home, and fireside + +peace and happiness. + + + +She was busily engaged in the little offices of the table. Chancing to + +raise her eyes as the elder lady was regarding her, she playfully put + +back her hair, which was simply braided on her forehead; and threw into + +her beaming look, such an expression of affection and artless + +loveliness, that blessed spirits might have smiled to look upon her. + + + +“And Brittles has been gone upwards of an hour, has he?” asked the old + +lady, after a pause. + + + +“An hour and twelve minutes, ma’am,” replied Mr. Giles, referring to a + +silver watch, which he drew forth by a black ribbon. + + + +“He is always slow,” remarked the old lady. + + + +“Brittles always was a slow boy, ma’am,” replied the attendant. And + +seeing, by the bye, that Brittles had been a slow boy for upwards of + +thirty years, there appeared no great probability of his ever being a + +fast one. + + + +“He gets worse instead of better, I think,” said the elder lady. + + + +“It is very inexcusable in him if he stops to play with any other + +boys,” said the young lady, smiling. + + + +Mr. Giles was apparently considering the propriety of indulging in a + +respectful smile himself, when a gig drove up to the garden-gate: out + +of which there jumped a fat gentleman, who ran straight up to the door: + +and who, getting quickly into the house by some mysterious process, + +burst into the room, and nearly overturned Mr. Giles and the + +breakfast-table together. + + + +“I never heard of such a thing!” exclaimed the fat gentleman. “My dear + +Mrs. Maylie—bless my soul—in the silence of the night, too—I _never_ + +heard of such a thing!” + + + +With these expressions of condolence, the fat gentleman shook hands + +with both ladies, and drawing up a chair, inquired how they found + +themselves. + + + +“You ought to be dead; positively dead with the fright,” said the fat + +gentleman. “Why didn’t you send? Bless me, my man should have come in a + +minute; and so would I; and my assistant would have been delighted; or + +anybody, I’m sure, under such circumstances. Dear, dear! So unexpected! + +In the silence of the night, too!” + + + +The doctor seemed especially troubled by the fact of the robbery having + +been unexpected, and attempted in the night-time; as if it were the + +established custom of gentlemen in the housebreaking way to transact + +business at noon, and to make an appointment, by post, a day or two + +previous. + + + +“And you, Miss Rose,” said the doctor, turning to the young lady, “I—” + + + +“Oh! very much so, indeed,” said Rose, interrupting him; “but there is + +a poor creature upstairs, whom aunt wishes you to see.” + + + +“Ah! to be sure,” replied the doctor, “so there is. That was your + +handiwork, Giles, I understand.” + + + +Mr. Giles, who had been feverishly putting the tea-cups to rights, + +blushed very red, and said that he had had that honour. + + + +“Honour, eh?” said the doctor; “well, I don’t know; perhaps it’s as + +honourable to hit a thief in a back kitchen, as to hit your man at + +twelve paces. Fancy that he fired in the air, and you’ve fought a duel, + +Giles.” + + + +Mr. Giles, who thought this light treatment of the matter an unjust + +attempt at diminishing his glory, answered respectfully, that it was + +not for the like of him to judge about that; but he rather thought it + +was no joke to the opposite party. + + + +“Gad, that’s true!” said the doctor. “Where is he? Show me the way. + +I’ll look in again, as I come down, Mrs. Maylie. That’s the little + +window that he got in at, eh? Well, I couldn’t have believed it!” + + + +Talking all the way, he followed Mr. Giles upstairs; and while he is + +going upstairs, the reader may be informed, that Mr. Losberne, a + +surgeon in the neighbourhood, known through a circuit of ten miles + +round as “the doctor,” had grown fat, more from good-humour than from + +good living: and was as kind and hearty, and withal as eccentric an old + +bachelor, as will be found in five times that space, by any explorer + +alive. + + + +The doctor was absent, much longer than either he or the ladies had + +anticipated. A large flat box was fetched out of the gig; and a bedroom + +bell was rung very often; and the servants ran up and down stairs + +perpetually; from which tokens it was justly concluded that something + +important was going on above. At length he returned; and in reply to an + +anxious inquiry after his patient; looked very mysterious, and closed + +the door, carefully. + + + +“This is a very extraordinary thing, Mrs. Maylie,” said the doctor, + +standing with his back to the door, as if to keep it shut. + + + +“He is not in danger, I hope?” said the old lady. + + + +“Why, that would _not_ be an extraordinary thing, under the + +circumstances,” replied the doctor; “though I don’t think he is. Have + +you seen the thief?” + + + +“No,” rejoined the old lady. + + + +“Nor heard anything about him?” + + + +“No.” + + + +“I beg your pardon, ma’am,” interposed Mr. Giles; “but I was going to + +tell you about him when Doctor Losberne came in.” + + + +The fact was, that Mr. Giles had not, at first, been able to bring his + +mind to the avowal, that he had only shot a boy. Such commendations had + +been bestowed upon his bravery, that he could not, for the life of him, + +help postponing the explanation for a few delicious minutes; during + +which he had flourished, in the very zenith of a brief reputation for + +undaunted courage. + + + +“Rose wished to see the man,” said Mrs. Maylie, “but I wouldn’t hear of + +it.” + + + +“Humph!” rejoined the doctor. “There is nothing very alarming in his + +appearance. Have you any objection to see him in my presence?” + + + +“If it be necessary,” replied the old lady, “certainly not.” + + + +“Then I think it is necessary,” said the doctor; “at all events, I am + +quite sure that you would deeply regret not having done so, if you + +postponed it. He is perfectly quiet and comfortable now. Allow me—Miss + +Rose, will you permit me? Not the slightest fear, I pledge you my + +honour!” + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XXX. + +RELATES WHAT OLIVER’S NEW VISITORS THOUGHT OF HIM + + + + + +With many loquacious assurances that they would be agreeably surprised + +in the aspect of the criminal, the doctor drew the young lady’s arm + +through one of his; and offering his disengaged hand to Mrs. Maylie, + +led them, with much ceremony and stateliness, upstairs. + + + +“Now,” said the doctor, in a whisper, as he softly turned the handle of + +a bedroom-door, “let us hear what you think of him. He has not been + +shaved very recently, but he don’t look at all ferocious + +notwithstanding. Stop, though! Let me first see that he is in visiting + +order.” + + + +Stepping before them, he looked into the room. Motioning them to + +advance, he closed the door when they had entered; and gently drew back + +the curtains of the bed. Upon it, in lieu of the dogged, black-visaged + +ruffian they had expected to behold, there lay a mere child: worn with + +pain and exhaustion, and sunk into a deep sleep. His wounded arm, bound + +and splintered up, was crossed upon his breast; his head reclined upon + +the other arm, which was half hidden by his long hair, as it streamed + +over the pillow. + + + +The honest gentleman held the curtain in his hand, and looked on, for a + +minute or so, in silence. Whilst he was watching the patient thus, the + +younger lady glided softly past, and seating herself in a chair by the + +bedside, gathered Oliver’s hair from his face. As she stooped over him, + +her tears fell upon his forehead. + + + +The boy stirred, and smiled in his sleep, as though these marks of pity + +and compassion had awakened some pleasant dream of a love and affection + +he had never known. Thus, a strain of gentle music, or the rippling of + +water in a silent place, or the odour of a flower, or the mention of a + +familiar word, will sometimes call up sudden dim remembrances of scenes + +that never were, in this life; which vanish like a breath; which some + +brief memory of a happier existence, long gone by, would seem to have + +awakened; which no voluntary exertion of the mind can ever recall. + + + +“What can this mean?” exclaimed the elder lady. “This poor child can + +never have been the pupil of robbers!” + + + +“Vice,” said the surgeon, replacing the curtain, “takes up her abode in + +many temples; and who can say that a fair outside shall not enshrine + +her?” + + + +“But at so early an age!” urged Rose. + + + +“My dear young lady,” rejoined the surgeon, mournfully shaking his + +head; “crime, like death, is not confined to the old and withered + +alone. The youngest and fairest are too often its chosen victims.” + + + +“But, can you—oh! can you really believe that this delicate boy has + +been the voluntary associate of the worst outcasts of society?” said + +Rose. + + + +The surgeon shook his head, in a manner which intimated that he feared + +it was very possible; and observing that they might disturb the + +patient, led the way into an adjoining apartment. + + + +“But even if he has been wicked,” pursued Rose, “think how young he is; + +think that he may never have known a mother’s love, or the comfort of a + +home; that ill-usage and blows, or the want of bread, may have driven + +him to herd with men who have forced him to guilt. Aunt, dear aunt, for + +mercy’s sake, think of this, before you let them drag this sick child + +to a prison, which in any case must be the grave of all his chances of + +amendment. Oh! as you love me, and know that I have never felt the want + +of parents in your goodness and affection, but that I might have done + +so, and might have been equally helpless and unprotected with this poor + +child, have pity upon him before it is too late!” + + + +“My dear love,” said the elder lady, as she folded the weeping girl to + +her bosom, “do you think I would harm a hair of his head?” + + + +“Oh, no!” replied Rose, eagerly. + + + +“No, surely,” said the old lady; “my days are drawing to their close: + +and may mercy be shown to me as I show it to others! What can I do to + +save him, sir?” + + + +“Let me think, ma’am,” said the doctor; “let me think.” + + + +Mr. Losberne thrust his hands into his pockets, and took several turns + +up and down the room; often stopping, and balancing himself on his + +toes, and frowning frightfully. After various exclamations of “I’ve got + +it now” and “no, I haven’t,” and as many renewals of the walking and + +frowning, he at length made a dead halt, and spoke as follows: + + + +“I think if you give me a full and unlimited commission to bully Giles, + +and that little boy, Brittles, I can manage it. Giles is a faithful + +fellow and an old servant, I know; but you can make it up to him in a + +thousand ways, and reward him for being such a good shot besides. You + +don’t object to that?” + + + +“Unless there is some other way of preserving the child,” replied Mrs. + +Maylie. + + + +“There is no other,” said the doctor. “No other, take my word for it.” + + + +“Then my aunt invests you with full power,” said Rose, smiling through + +her tears; “but pray don’t be harder upon the poor fellows than is + +indispensably necessary.” + + + +“You seem to think,” retorted the doctor, “that everybody is disposed + +to be hard-hearted today, except yourself, Miss Rose. I only hope, for + +the sake of the rising male sex generally, that you may be found in as + +vulnerable and soft-hearted a mood by the first eligible young fellow + +who appeals to your compassion; and I wish I were a young fellow, that + +I might avail myself, on the spot, of such a favourable opportunity for + +doing so, as the present.” + + + +“You are as great a boy as poor Brittles himself,” returned Rose, + +blushing. + + + +“Well,” said the doctor, laughing heartily, “that is no very difficult + +matter. But to return to this boy. The great point of our agreement is + +yet to come. He will wake in an hour or so, I dare say; and although I + +have told that thick-headed constable-fellow downstairs that he musn’t + +be moved or spoken to, on peril of his life, I think we may converse + +with him without danger. Now I make this stipulation—that I shall + +examine him in your presence, and that, if, from what he says, we + +judge, and I can show to the satisfaction of your cool reason, that he + +is a real and thorough bad one (which is more than possible), he shall + +be left to his fate, without any farther interference on my part, at + +all events.” + + + +“Oh no, aunt!” entreated Rose. + + + +“Oh yes, aunt!” said the doctor. “Is it a bargain?” + + + +“He cannot be hardened in vice,” said Rose; “It is impossible.” + + + +“Very good,” retorted the doctor; “then so much the more reason for + +acceding to my proposition.” + + + +Finally the treaty was entered into; and the parties thereunto sat down + +to wait, with some impatience, until Oliver should awake. + + + +The patience of the two ladies was destined to undergo a longer trial + +than Mr. Losberne had led them to expect; for hour after hour passed + +on, and still Oliver slumbered heavily. It was evening, indeed, before + +the kind-hearted doctor brought them the intelligence, that he was at + +length sufficiently restored to be spoken to. The boy was very ill, he + +said, and weak from the loss of blood; but his mind was so troubled + +with anxiety to disclose something, that he deemed it better to give + +him the opportunity, than to insist upon his remaining quiet until next + +morning: which he should otherwise have done. + + + +The conference was a long one. Oliver told them all his simple history, + +and was often compelled to stop, by pain and want of strength. It was a + +solemn thing, to hear, in the darkened room, the feeble voice of the + +sick child recounting a weary catalogue of evils and calamities which + +hard men had brought upon him. Oh! if when we oppress and grind our + +fellow-creatures, we bestowed but one thought on the dark evidences of + +human error, which, like dense and heavy clouds, are rising, slowly it + +is true, but not less surely, to Heaven, to pour their after-vengeance + +on our heads; if we heard but one instant, in imagination, the deep + +testimony of dead men’s voices, which no power can stifle, and no pride + +shut out; where would be the injury and injustice, the suffering, + +misery, cruelty, and wrong, that each day’s life brings with it! + + + +Oliver’s pillow was smoothed by gentle hands that night; and loveliness + +and virtue watched him as he slept. He felt calm and happy, and could + +have died without a murmur. + + + +The momentous interview was no sooner concluded, and Oliver composed to + +rest again, than the doctor, after wiping his eyes, and condemning them + +for being weak all at once, betook himself downstairs to open upon Mr. + +Giles. And finding nobody about the parlours, it occurred to him, that + +he could perhaps originate the proceedings with better effect in the + +kitchen; so into the kitchen he went. + + + +There were assembled, in that lower house of the domestic parliament, + +the women-servants, Mr. Brittles, Mr. Giles, the tinker (who had + +received a special invitation to regale himself for the remainder of + +the day, in consideration of his services), and the constable. The + +latter gentleman had a large staff, a large head, large features, and + +large half-boots; and he looked as if he had been taking a + +proportionate allowance of ale—as indeed he had. + + + +The adventures of the previous night were still under discussion; for + +Mr. Giles was expatiating upon his presence of mind, when the doctor + +entered; Mr. Brittles, with a mug of ale in his hand, was corroborating + +everything, before his superior said it. + + + +“Sit still!” said the doctor, waving his hand. + + + +“Thank you, sir,” said Mr. Giles. “Misses wished some ale to be given + +out, sir; and as I felt no ways inclined for my own little room, sir, + +and was disposed for company, I am taking mine among ’em here.” + + + +Brittles headed a low murmur, by which the ladies and gentlemen + +generally were understood to express the gratification they derived + +from Mr. Giles’s condescension. Mr. Giles looked round with a + +patronising air, as much as to say that so long as they behaved + +properly, he would never desert them. + + + +“How is the patient tonight, sir?” asked Giles. + + + +“So-so”; returned the doctor. “I am afraid you have got yourself into a + +scrape there, Mr. Giles.” + + + +“I hope you don’t mean to say, sir,” said Mr. Giles, trembling, “that + +he’s going to die. If I thought it, I should never be happy again. I + +wouldn’t cut a boy off: no, not even Brittles here; not for all the + +plate in the county, sir.” + + + +“That’s not the point,” said the doctor, mysteriously. “Mr. Giles, are + +you a Protestant?” + + + +“Yes, sir, I hope so,” faltered Mr. Giles, who had turned very pale. + + + +“And what are _you_, boy?” said the doctor, turning sharply upon + +Brittles. + + + +“Lord bless me, sir!” replied Brittles, starting violently; “I’m the + +same as Mr. Giles, sir.” + + + +“Then tell me this,” said the doctor, “both of you, both of you! Are + +you going to take upon yourselves to swear, that that boy upstairs is + +the boy that was put through the little window last night? Out with it! + +Come! We are prepared for you!” + + + +The doctor, who was universally considered one of the best-tempered + +creatures on earth, made this demand in such a dreadful tone of anger, + +that Giles and Brittles, who were considerably muddled by ale and + +excitement, stared at each other in a state of stupefaction. + + + +“Pay attention to the reply, constable, will you?” said the doctor, + +shaking his forefinger with great solemnity of manner, and tapping the + +bridge of his nose with it, to bespeak the exercise of that worthy’s + +utmost acuteness. “Something may come of this before long.” + + + +The constable looked as wise as he could, and took up his staff of + +office: which had been reclining indolently in the chimney-corner. + + + +“It’s a simple question of identity, you will observe,” said the + +doctor. + + + +“That’s what it is, sir,” replied the constable, coughing with great + +violence; for he had finished his ale in a hurry, and some of it had + +gone the wrong way. + + + +“Here’s the house broken into,” said the doctor, “and a couple of men + +catch one moment’s glimpse of a boy, in the midst of gunpowder smoke, + +and in all the distraction of alarm and darkness. Here’s a boy comes to + +that very same house, next morning, and because he happens to have his + +arm tied up, these men lay violent hands upon him—by doing which, they + +place his life in great danger—and swear he is the thief. Now, the + +question is, whether these men are justified by the fact; if not, in + +what situation do they place themselves?” + + + +The constable nodded profoundly. He said, if that wasn’t law, he would + +be glad to know what was. + + + +“I ask you again,” thundered the doctor, “are you, on your solemn + +oaths, able to identify that boy?” + + + +Brittles looked doubtfully at Mr. Giles; Mr. Giles looked doubtfully at + +Brittles; the constable put his hand behind his ear, to catch the + +reply; the two women and the tinker leaned forward to listen; the + +doctor glanced keenly round; when a ring was heard at the gate, and at + +the same moment, the sound of wheels. + + + +“It’s the runners!” cried Brittles, to all appearance much relieved. + + + +“The what?” exclaimed the doctor, aghast in his turn. + + + +“The Bow Street officers, sir,” replied Brittles, taking up a candle; + +“me and Mr. Giles sent for ’em this morning.” + + + +“What?” cried the doctor. + + + +“Yes,” replied Brittles; “I sent a message up by the coachman, and I + +only wonder they weren’t here before, sir.” + + + +“You did, did you? Then confound your—slow coaches down here; that’s + +all,” said the doctor, walking away. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XXXI. + +INVOLVES A CRITICAL POSITION + + + + + +“Who’s that?” inquired Brittles, opening the door a little way, with + +the chain up, and peeping out, shading the candle with his hand. + + + +“Open the door,” replied a man outside; “it’s the officers from Bow + +Street, as was sent to today.” + + + +Much comforted by this assurance, Brittles opened the door to its full + +width, and confronted a portly man in a great-coat; who walked in, + +without saying anything more, and wiped his shoes on the mat, as coolly + +as if he lived there. + + + +“Just send somebody out to relieve my mate, will you, young man?” said + +the officer; “he’s in the gig, a-minding the prad. Have you got a coach + +’us here, that you could put it up in, for five or ten minutes?” + + + +Brittles replying in the affirmative, and pointing out the building, + +the portly man stepped back to the garden-gate, and helped his + +companion to put up the gig: while Brittles lighted them, in a state of + +great admiration. This done, they returned to the house, and, being + +shown into a parlour, took off their great-coats and hats, and showed + +like what they were. + + + +The man who had knocked at the door, was a stout personage of middle + +height, aged about fifty: with shiny black hair, cropped pretty close; + +half-whiskers, a round face, and sharp eyes. The other was a + +red-headed, bony man, in top-boots; with a rather ill-favoured + +countenance, and a turned-up sinister-looking nose. + + + +“Tell your governor that Blathers and Duff is here, will you?” said the + +stouter man, smoothing down his hair, and laying a pair of handcuffs on + +the table. “Oh! Good-evening, master. Can I have a word or two with you + +in private, if you please?” + + + +This was addressed to Mr. Losberne, who now made his appearance; that + +gentleman, motioning Brittles to retire, brought in the two ladies, and + +shut the door. + + + +“This is the lady of the house,” said Mr. Losberne, motioning towards + +Mrs. Maylie. + + + +Mr. Blathers made a bow. Being desired to sit down, he put his hat on + +the floor, and taking a chair, motioned to Duff to do the same. The + +latter gentleman, who did not appear quite so much accustomed to good + +society, or quite so much at his ease in it—one of the two—seated + +himself, after undergoing several muscular affections of the limbs, and + +the head of his stick into his mouth, with some embarrassment. + + + +“Now, with regard to this here robbery, master,” said Blathers. “What + +are the circumstances?” + + + +Mr. Losberne, who appeared desirous of gaining time, recounted them at + +great length, and with much circumlocution. Messrs. Blathers and Duff + +looked very knowing meanwhile, and occasionally exchanged a nod. + + + +“I can’t say, for certain, till I see the work, of course,” said + +Blathers; “but my opinion at once is,—I don’t mind committing myself to + +that extent,—that this wasn’t done by a yokel; eh, Duff?” + + + +“Certainly not,” replied Duff. + + + +“And, translating the word yokel for the benefit of the ladies, I + +apprehend your meaning to be, that this attempt was not made by a + +countryman?” said Mr. Losberne, with a smile. + + + +“That’s it, master,” replied Blathers. “This is all about the robbery, + +is it?” + + + +“All,” replied the doctor. + + + +“Now, what is this, about this here boy that the servants are a-talking + +on?” said Blathers. + + + +“Nothing at all,” replied the doctor. “One of the frightened servants + +chose to take it into his head, that he had something to do with this + +attempt to break into the house; but it’s nonsense: sheer absurdity.” + + + +“Wery easy disposed of, if it is,” remarked Duff. + + + +“What he says is quite correct,” observed Blathers, nodding his head in + +a confirmatory way, and playing carelessly with the handcuffs, as if + +they were a pair of castanets. “Who is the boy? What account does he + +give of himself? Where did he come from? He didn’t drop out of the + +clouds, did he, master?” + + + +“Of course not,” replied the doctor, with a nervous glance at the two + +ladies. “I know his whole history: but we can talk about that + +presently. You would like, first, to see the place where the thieves + +made their attempt, I suppose?” + + + +“Certainly,” rejoined Mr. Blathers. “We had better inspect the premises + +first, and examine the servants afterwards. That’s the usual way of + +doing business.” + + + +Lights were then procured; and Messrs. Blathers and Duff, attended by + +the native constable, Brittles, Giles, and everybody else in short, + +went into the little room at the end of the passage and looked out at + +the window; and afterwards went round by way of the lawn, and looked in + +at the window; and after that, had a candle handed out to inspect the + +shutter with; and after that, a lantern to trace the footsteps with; + +and after that, a pitchfork to poke the bushes with. This done, amidst + +the breathless interest of all beholders, they came in again; and Mr. + +Giles and Brittles were put through a melodramatic representation of + +their share in the previous night’s adventures: which they performed + +some six times over: contradicting each other, in not more than one + +important respect, the first time, and in not more than a dozen the + +last. This consummation being arrived at, Blathers and Duff cleared the + +room, and held a long council together, compared with which, for + +secrecy and solemnity, a consultation of great doctors on the knottiest + +point in medicine, would be mere child’s play. + + + +Meanwhile, the doctor walked up and down the next room in a very uneasy + +state; and Mrs. Maylie and Rose looked on, with anxious faces. + + + +“Upon my word,” he said, making a halt, after a great number of very + +rapid turns, “I hardly know what to do.” + + + +“Surely,” said Rose, “the poor child’s story, faithfully repeated to + +these men, will be sufficient to exonerate him.” + + + +“I doubt it, my dear young lady,” said the doctor, shaking his head. “I + +don’t think it would exonerate him, either with them, or with legal + +functionaries of a higher grade. What is he, after all, they would say? + +A runaway. Judged by mere worldly considerations and probabilities, his + +story is a very doubtful one.” + + + +“You believe it, surely?” interrupted Rose. + + + +“_I_ believe it, strange as it is; and perhaps I may be an old fool for + +doing so,” rejoined the doctor; “but I don’t think it is exactly the + +tale for a practical police-officer, nevertheless.” + + + +“Why not?” demanded Rose. + + + +“Because, my pretty cross-examiner,” replied the doctor: “because, + +viewed with their eyes, there are many ugly points about it; he can + +only prove the parts that look ill, and none of those that look well. + +Confound the fellows, they _will_ have the why and the wherefore, and + +will take nothing for granted. On his own showing, you see, he has been + +the companion of thieves for some time past; he has been carried to a + +police-officer, on a charge of picking a gentleman’s pocket; he has + +been taken away, forcibly, from that gentleman’s house, to a place + +which he cannot describe or point out, and of the situation of which he + +has not the remotest idea. He is brought down to Chertsey, by men who + +seem to have taken a violent fancy to him, whether he will or no; and + +is put through a window to rob a house; and then, just at the very + +moment when he is going to alarm the inmates, and so do the very thing + +that would set him all to rights, there rushes into the way, a + +blundering dog of a half-bred butler, and shoots him! As if on purpose + +to prevent his doing any good for himself! Don’t you see all this?” + + + +“I see it, of course,” replied Rose, smiling at the doctor’s + +impetuosity; “but still I do not see anything in it, to criminate the + +poor child.” + + + +“No,” replied the doctor; “of course not! Bless the bright eyes of your + +sex! They never see, whether for good or bad, more than one side of any + +question; and that is, always, the one which first presents itself to + +them.” + + + +Having given vent to this result of experience, the doctor put his + +hands into his pockets, and walked up and down the room with even + +greater rapidity than before. + + + +“The more I think of it,” said the doctor, “the more I see that it will + +occasion endless trouble and difficulty if we put these men in + +possession of the boy’s real story. I am certain it will not be + +believed; and even if they can do nothing to him in the end, still the + +dragging it forward, and giving publicity to all the doubts that will + +be cast upon it, must interfere, materially, with your benevolent plan + +of rescuing him from misery.” + + + +“Oh! what is to be done?” cried Rose. “Dear, dear! why did they send + +for these people?” + + + +“Why, indeed!” exclaimed Mrs. Maylie. “I would not have had them here, + +for the world.” + + + +“All I know is,” said Mr. Losberne, at last: sitting down with a kind + +of desperate calmness, “that we must try and carry it off with a bold + +face. The object is a good one, and that must be our excuse. The boy + +has strong symptoms of fever upon him, and is in no condition to be + +talked to any more; that’s one comfort. We must make the best of it; + +and if bad be the best, it is no fault of ours. Come in!” + + + +“Well, master,” said Blathers, entering the room followed by his + +colleague, and making the door fast, before he said any more. “This + +warn’t a put-up thing.” + + + +“And what the devil’s a put-up thing?” demanded the doctor, + +impatiently. + + + +“We call it a put-up robbery, ladies,” said Blathers, turning to them, + +as if he pitied their ignorance, but had a contempt for the doctor’s, + +“when the servants is in it.” + + + +“Nobody suspected them, in this case,” said Mrs. Maylie. + + + +“Wery likely not, ma’am,” replied Blathers; “but they might have been + +in it, for all that.” + + + +“More likely on that wery account,” said Duff. + + + +“We find it was a town hand,” said Blathers, continuing his report; + +“for the style of work is first-rate.” + + + +“Wery pretty indeed it is,” remarked Duff, in an undertone. + + + +“There was two of ’em in it,” continued Blathers; “and they had a boy + +with ’em; that’s plain from the size of the window. That’s all to be + +said at present. We’ll see this lad that you’ve got upstairs at once, + +if you please.” + + + +“Perhaps they will take something to drink first, Mrs. Maylie?” said + +the doctor: his face brightening, as if some new thought had occurred + +to him. + + + +“Oh! to be sure!” exclaimed Rose, eagerly. “You shall have it + +immediately, if you will.” + + + +“Why, thank you, miss!” said Blathers, drawing his coat-sleeve across + +his mouth; “it’s dry work, this sort of duty. Anythink that’s handy, + +miss; don’t put yourself out of the way, on our accounts.” + + + +“What shall it be?” asked the doctor, following the young lady to the + +sideboard. + + + +“A little drop of spirits, master, if it’s all the same,” replied + +Blathers. “It’s a cold ride from London, ma’am; and I always find that + +spirits comes home warmer to the feelings.” + + + +This interesting communication was addressed to Mrs. Maylie, who + +received it very graciously. While it was being conveyed to her, the + +doctor slipped out of the room. + + + +“Ah!” said Mr. Blathers: not holding his wine-glass by the stem, but + +grasping the bottom between the thumb and forefinger of his left hand: + +and placing it in front of his chest; “I have seen a good many pieces + +of business like this, in my time, ladies.” + + + +“That crack down in the back lane at Edmonton, Blathers,” said Mr. + +Duff, assisting his colleague’s memory. + + + +“That was something in this way, warn’t it?” rejoined Mr. Blathers; + +“that was done by Conkey Chickweed, that was.” + + + +“You always gave that to him” replied Duff. “It was the Family Pet, I + +tell you. Conkey hadn’t any more to do with it than I had.” + + + +“Get out!” retorted Mr. Blathers; “I know better. Do you mind that time + +when Conkey was robbed of his money, though? What a start that was! + +Better than any novel-book _I_ ever see!” + + + +“What was that?” inquired Rose: anxious to encourage any symptoms of + +good-humour in the unwelcome visitors. + + + +“It was a robbery, miss, that hardly anybody would have been down + +upon,” said Blathers. “This here Conkey Chickweed—” + + + +“Conkey means Nosey, ma’am,” interposed Duff. + + + +“Of course the lady knows that, don’t she?” demanded Mr. Blathers. + +“Always interrupting, you are, partner! This here Conkey Chickweed, + +miss, kept a public-house over Battlebridge way, and he had a cellar, + +where a good many young lords went to see cock-fighting, and + +badger-drawing, and that; and a wery intellectual manner the sports was + +conducted in, for I’ve seen ’em off’en. He warn’t one of the family, at + +that time; and one night he was robbed of three hundred and + +twenty-seven guineas in a canvas bag, that was stole out of his bedroom + +in the dead of night, by a tall man with a black patch over his eye, + +who had concealed himself under the bed, and after committing the + +robbery, jumped slap out of window: which was only a story high. He was + +wery quick about it. But Conkey was quick, too; for he fired a + +blunderbuss arter him, and roused the neighbourhood. They set up a + +hue-and-cry, directly, and when they came to look about ’em, found that + +Conkey had hit the robber; for there was traces of blood, all the way + +to some palings a good distance off; and there they lost ’em. However, + +he had made off with the blunt; and, consequently, the name of Mr. + +Chickweed, licensed witler, appeared in the Gazette among the other + +bankrupts; and all manner of benefits and subscriptions, and I don’t + +know what all, was got up for the poor man, who was in a wery low state + +of mind about his loss, and went up and down the streets, for three or + +four days, a pulling his hair off in such a desperate manner that many + +people was afraid he might be going to make away with himself. One day + +he came up to the office, all in a hurry, and had a private interview + +with the magistrate, who, after a deal of talk, rings the bell, and + +orders Jem Spyers in (Jem was a active officer), and tells him to go + +and assist Mr. Chickweed in apprehending the man as robbed his house. + +‘I see him, Spyers,’ said Chickweed, ‘pass my house yesterday morning,’ + +‘Why didn’t you up, and collar him!’ says Spyers. ‘I was so struck all + +of a heap, that you might have fractured my skull with a toothpick,’ + +says the poor man; ‘but we’re sure to have him; for between ten and + +eleven o’clock at night he passed again.’ Spyers no sooner heard this, + +than he put some clean linen and a comb, in his pocket, in case he + +should have to stop a day or two; and away he goes, and sets himself + +down at one of the public-house windows behind the little red curtain, + +with his hat on, all ready to bolt out, at a moment’s notice. He was + +smoking his pipe here, late at night, when all of a sudden Chickweed + +roars out, ‘Here he is! Stop thief! Murder!’ Jem Spyers dashes out; and + +there he sees Chickweed, a-tearing down the street full cry. Away goes + +Spyers; on goes Chickweed; round turns the people; everybody roars out, + +‘Thieves!’ and Chickweed himself keeps on shouting, all the time, like + +mad. Spyers loses sight of him a minute as he turns a corner; shoots + +round; sees a little crowd; dives in; ‘Which is the man?’ ‘D—me!’ says + +Chickweed, ‘I’ve lost him again!’ It was a remarkable occurrence, but + +he warn’t to be seen nowhere, so they went back to the public-house. + +Next morning, Spyers took his old place, and looked out, from behind + +the curtain, for a tall man with a black patch over his eye, till his + +own two eyes ached again. At last, he couldn’t help shutting ’em, to + +ease ’em a minute; and the very moment he did so, he hears Chickweed + +a-roaring out, ‘Here he is!’ Off he starts once more, with Chickweed + +half-way down the street ahead of him; and after twice as long a run as + +the yesterday’s one, the man’s lost again! This was done, once or twice + +more, till one-half the neighbours gave out that Mr. Chickweed had been + +robbed by the devil, who was playing tricks with him arterwards; and + +the other half, that poor Mr. Chickweed had gone mad with grief.” + + + +“What did Jem Spyers say?” inquired the doctor; who had returned to the + +room shortly after the commencement of the story. + + + +“Jem Spyers,” resumed the officer, “for a long time said nothing at + +all, and listened to everything without seeming to, which showed he + +understood his business. But, one morning, he walked into the bar, and + +taking out his snuffbox, says ‘Chickweed, I’ve found out who done this + +here robbery.’ ‘Have you?’ said Chickweed. ‘Oh, my dear Spyers, only + +let me have wengeance, and I shall die contented! Oh, my dear Spyers, + +where is the villain!’ ‘Come!’ said Spyers, offering him a pinch of + +snuff, ‘none of that gammon! You did it yourself.’ So he had; and a + +good bit of money he had made by it, too; and nobody would never have + +found it out, if he hadn’t been so precious anxious to keep up + +appearances!” said Mr. Blathers, putting down his wine-glass, and + +clinking the handcuffs together. + + + +“Very curious, indeed,” observed the doctor. “Now, if you please, you + +can walk upstairs.” + + + +“If _you_ please, sir,” returned Mr. Blathers. Closely following Mr. + +Losberne, the two officers ascended to Oliver’s bedroom; Mr. Giles + +preceding the party, with a lighted candle. + + + +Oliver had been dozing; but looked worse, and was more feverish than he + +had appeared yet. Being assisted by the doctor, he managed to sit up in + +bed for a minute or so; and looked at the strangers without at all + +understanding what was going forward—in fact, without seeming to + +recollect where he was, or what had been passing. + + + +“This,” said Mr. Losberne, speaking softly, but with great vehemence + +notwithstanding, “this is the lad, who, being accidently wounded by a + +spring-gun in some boyish trespass on Mr. What-d’ ye-call-him’s + +grounds, at the back here, comes to the house for assistance this + +morning, and is immediately laid hold of and maltreated, by that + +ingenious gentleman with the candle in his hand: who has placed his + +life in considerable danger, as I can professionally certify.” + + + +Messrs. Blathers and Duff looked at Mr. Giles, as he was thus + +recommended to their notice. The bewildered butler gazed from them + +towards Oliver, and from Oliver towards Mr. Losberne, with a most + +ludicrous mixture of fear and perplexity. + + + +“You don’t mean to deny that, I suppose?” said the doctor, laying + +Oliver gently down again. + + + +“It was all done for the—for the best, sir,” answered Giles. “I am sure + +I thought it was the boy, or I wouldn’t have meddled with him. I am not + +of an inhuman disposition, sir.” + + + +“Thought it was what boy?” inquired the senior officer. + + + +“The housebreaker’s boy, sir!” replied Giles. “They—they certainly had + +a boy.” + + + +“Well? Do you think so now?” inquired Blathers. + + + +“Think what, now?” replied Giles, looking vacantly at his questioner. + + + +“Think it’s the same boy, Stupid-head?” rejoined Blathers, impatiently. + + + +“I don’t know; I really don’t know,” said Giles, with a rueful + +countenance. “I couldn’t swear to him.” + + + +“What do you think?” asked Mr. Blathers. + + + +“I don’t know what to think,” replied poor Giles. “I don’t think it is + +the boy; indeed, I’m almost certain that it isn’t. You know it can’t + +be.” + + + +“Has this man been a-drinking, sir?” inquired Blathers, turning to the + +doctor. + + + +“What a precious muddle-headed chap you are!” said Duff, addressing Mr. + +Giles, with supreme contempt. + + + +Mr. Losberne had been feeling the patient’s pulse during this short + +dialogue; but he now rose from the chair by the bedside, and remarked, + +that if the officers had any doubts upon the subject, they would + +perhaps like to step into the next room, and have Brittles before them. + + + +Acting upon this suggestion, they adjourned to a neighbouring + +apartment, where Mr. Brittles, being called in, involved himself and + +his respected superior in such a wonderful maze of fresh contradictions + +and impossibilities, as tended to throw no particular light on + +anything, but the fact of his own strong mystification; except, indeed, + +his declarations that he shouldn’t know the real boy, if he were put + +before him that instant; that he had only taken Oliver to be he, + +because Mr. Giles had said he was; and that Mr. Giles had, five minutes + +previously, admitted in the kitchen, that he began to be very much + +afraid he had been a little too hasty. + + + +Among other ingenious surmises, the question was then raised, whether + +Mr. Giles had really hit anybody; and upon examination of the fellow + +pistol to that which he had fired, it turned out to have no more + +destructive loading than gunpowder and brown paper: a discovery which + +made a considerable impression on everybody but the doctor, who had + +drawn the ball about ten minutes before. Upon no one, however, did it + +make a greater impression than on Mr. Giles himself; who, after + +labouring, for some hours, under the fear of having mortally wounded a + +fellow-creature, eagerly caught at this new idea, and favoured it to + +the utmost. Finally, the officers, without troubling themselves very + +much about Oliver, left the Chertsey constable in the house, and took + +up their rest for that night in the town; promising to return the next + +morning. + + + +With the next morning, there came a rumour, that two men and a boy were + +in the cage at Kingston, who had been apprehended over night under + +suspicious circumstances; and to Kingston Messrs. Blathers and Duff + +journeyed accordingly. The suspicious circumstances, however, resolving + +themselves, on investigation, into the one fact, that they had been + +discovered sleeping under a haystack; which, although a great crime, is + +only punishable by imprisonment, and is, in the merciful eye of the + +English law, and its comprehensive love of all the King’s subjects, + +held to be no satisfactory proof, in the absence of all other evidence, + +that the sleeper, or sleepers, have committed burglary accompanied with + +violence, and have therefore rendered themselves liable to the + +punishment of death; Messrs. Blathers and Duff came back again, as wise + +as they went. + + + +In short, after some more examination, and a great deal more + +conversation, a neighbouring magistrate was readily induced to take the + +joint bail of Mrs. Maylie and Mr. Losberne for Oliver’s appearance if + +he should ever be called upon; and Blathers and Duff, being rewarded + +with a couple of guineas, returned to town with divided opinions on the + +subject of their expedition: the latter gentleman on a mature + +consideration of all the circumstances, inclining to the belief that + +the burglarious attempt had originated with the Family Pet; and the + +former being equally disposed to concede the full merit of it to the + +great Mr. Conkey Chickweed. + + + +Meanwhile, Oliver gradually throve and prospered under the united care + +of Mrs. Maylie, Rose, and the kind-hearted Mr. Losberne. If fervent + +prayers, gushing from hearts overcharged with gratitude, be heard in + +heaven—and if they be not, what prayers are!—the blessings which the + +orphan child called down upon them, sunk into their souls, diffusing + +peace and happiness. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XXXII. + +OF THE HAPPY LIFE OLIVER BEGAN TO LEAD WITH HIS KIND FRIENDS + + + + + +Oliver’s ailings were neither slight nor few. In addition to the pain + +and delay attendant on a broken limb, his exposure to the wet and cold + +had brought on fever and ague: which hung about him for many weeks, and + +reduced him sadly. But, at length, he began, by slow degrees, to get + +better, and to be able to say sometimes, in a few tearful words, how + +deeply he felt the goodness of the two sweet ladies, and how ardently + +he hoped that when he grew strong and well again, he could do something + +to show his gratitude; only something, which would let them see the + +love and duty with which his breast was full; something, however + +slight, which would prove to them that their gentle kindness had not + +been cast away; but that the poor boy whom their charity had rescued + +from misery, or death, was eager to serve them with his whole heart and + +soul. + + + +“Poor fellow!” said Rose, when Oliver had been one day feebly + +endeavouring to utter the words of thankfulness that rose to his pale + +lips; “you shall have many opportunities of serving us, if you will. We + +are going into the country, and my aunt intends that you shall + +accompany us. The quiet place, the pure air, and all the pleasure and + +beauties of spring, will restore you in a few days. We will employ you + +in a hundred ways, when you can bear the trouble.” + + + +“The trouble!” cried Oliver. “Oh! dear lady, if I could but work for + +you; if I could only give you pleasure by watering your flowers, or + +watching your birds, or running up and down the whole day long, to make + +you happy; what would I give to do it!” + + + +“You shall give nothing at all,” said Miss Maylie, smiling; “for, as I + +told you before, we shall employ you in a hundred ways; and if you only + +take half the trouble to please us, that you promise now, you will make + +me very happy indeed.” + + + +“Happy, ma’am!” cried Oliver; “how kind of you to say so!” + + + +“You will make me happier than I can tell you,” replied the young lady. + +“To think that my dear good aunt should have been the means of rescuing + +any one from such sad misery as you have described to us, would be an + +unspeakable pleasure to me; but to know that the object of her goodness + +and compassion was sincerely grateful and attached, in consequence, + +would delight me, more than you can well imagine. Do you understand + +me?” she inquired, watching Oliver’s thoughtful face. + + + +“Oh yes, ma’am, yes!” replied Oliver eagerly; “but I was thinking that + +I am ungrateful now.” + + + +“To whom?” inquired the young lady. + + + +“To the kind gentleman, and the dear old nurse, who took so much care + +of me before,” rejoined Oliver. “If they knew how happy I am, they + +would be pleased, I am sure.” + + + +“I am sure they would,” rejoined Oliver’s benefactress; “and Mr. + +Losberne has already been kind enough to promise that when you are well + +enough to bear the journey, he will carry you to see them.” + + + +“Has he, ma’am?” cried Oliver, his face brightening with pleasure. “I + +don’t know what I shall do for joy when I see their kind faces once + +again!” + + + +In a short time Oliver was sufficiently recovered to undergo the + +fatigue of this expedition. One morning he and Mr. Losberne set out, + +accordingly, in a little carriage which belonged to Mrs. Maylie. When + +they came to Chertsey Bridge, Oliver turned very pale, and uttered a + +loud exclamation. + + + +“What’s the matter with the boy?” cried the doctor, as usual, all in a + +bustle. “Do you see anything—hear anything—feel anything—eh?” + + + +“That, sir,” cried Oliver, pointing out of the carriage window. “That + +house!” + + + +“Yes; well, what of it? Stop coachman. Pull up here,” cried the doctor. + +“What of the house, my man; eh?” + + + +“The thieves—the house they took me to!” whispered Oliver. + + + +“The devil it is!” cried the doctor. “Hallo, there! let me out!” + + + +But, before the coachman could dismount from his box, he had tumbled + +out of the coach, by some means or other; and, running down to the + +deserted tenement, began kicking at the door like a madman. + + + +“Halloa?” said a little ugly hump-backed man: opening the door so + +suddenly, that the doctor, from the very impetus of his last kick, + +nearly fell forward into the passage. “What’s the matter here?” + + + +“Matter!” exclaimed the other, collaring him, without a moment’s + +reflection. “A good deal. Robbery is the matter.” + + + +“There’ll be Murder the matter, too,” replied the hump-backed man, + +coolly, “if you don’t take your hands off. Do you hear me?” + + + +“I hear you,” said the doctor, giving his captive a hearty shake. + + + +“Where’s—confound the fellow, what’s his rascally name—Sikes; that’s + +it. Where’s Sikes, you thief?” + + + +The hump-backed man stared, as if in excess of amazement and + +indignation; then, twisting himself, dexterously, from the doctor’s + +grasp, growled forth a volley of horrid oaths, and retired into the + +house. Before he could shut the door, however, the doctor had passed + +into the parlour, without a word of parley. + + + +He looked anxiously round; not an article of furniture; not a vestige + +of anything, animate or inanimate; not even the position of the + +cupboards; answered Oliver’s description! + + + +“Now!” said the hump-backed man, who had watched him keenly, “what do + +you mean by coming into my house, in this violent way? Do you want to + +rob me, or to murder me? Which is it?” + + + +“Did you ever know a man come out to do either, in a chariot and pair, + +you ridiculous old vampire?” said the irritable doctor. + + + +“What do you want, then?” demanded the hunchback. “Will you take + +yourself off, before I do you a mischief? Curse you!” + + + +“As soon as I think proper,” said Mr. Losberne, looking into the other + +parlour; which, like the first, bore no resemblance whatever to + +Oliver’s account of it. “I shall find you out, some day, my friend.” + + + +“Will you?” sneered the ill-favoured cripple. “If you ever want me, I’m + +here. I haven’t lived here mad and all alone, for five-and-twenty + +years, to be scared by you. You shall pay for this; you shall pay for + +this.” And so saying, the mis-shapen little demon set up a yell, and + +danced upon the ground, as if wild with rage. + + + +“Stupid enough, this,” muttered the doctor to himself; “the boy must + +have made a mistake. Here! Put that in your pocket, and shut yourself + +up again.” With these words he flung the hunchback a piece of money, + +and returned to the carriage. + + + +The man followed to the chariot door, uttering the wildest imprecations + +and curses all the way; but as Mr. Losberne turned to speak to the + +driver, he looked into the carriage, and eyed Oliver for an instant + +with a glance so sharp and fierce and at the same time so furious and + +vindictive, that, waking or sleeping, he could not forget it for months + +afterwards. He continued to utter the most fearful imprecations, until + +the driver had resumed his seat; and when they were once more on their + +way, they could see him some distance behind: beating his feet upon the + +ground, and tearing his hair, in transports of real or pretended rage. + + + +“I am an ass!” said the doctor, after a long silence. “Did you know + +that before, Oliver?” + + + +“No, sir.” + + + +“Then don’t forget it another time.” + + + +“An ass,” said the doctor again, after a further silence of some + +minutes. “Even if it had been the right place, and the right fellows + +had been there, what could I have done, single-handed? And if I had had + +assistance, I see no good that I should have done, except leading to my + +own exposure, and an unavoidable statement of the manner in which I + +have hushed up this business. That would have served me right, though. + +I am always involving myself in some scrape or other, by acting on + +impulse. It might have done me good.” + + + +Now, the fact was that the excellent doctor had never acted upon + +anything but impulse all through his life, and it was no bad compliment + +to the nature of the impulses which governed him, that so far from + +being involved in any peculiar troubles or misfortunes, he had the + +warmest respect and esteem of all who knew him. If the truth must be + +told, he was a little out of temper, for a minute or two, at being + +disappointed in procuring corroborative evidence of Oliver’s story on + +the very first occasion on which he had a chance of obtaining any. He + +soon came round again, however; and finding that Oliver’s replies to + +his questions, were still as straightforward and consistent, and still + +delivered with as much apparent sincerity and truth, as they had ever + +been, he made up his mind to attach full credence to them, from that + +time forth. + + + +As Oliver knew the name of the street in which Mr. Brownlow resided, + +they were enabled to drive straight thither. When the coach turned into + +it, his heart beat so violently, that he could scarcely draw his + +breath. + + + +“Now, my boy, which house is it?” inquired Mr. Losberne. + + + +“That! That!” replied Oliver, pointing eagerly out of the window. “The + +white house. Oh! make haste! Pray make haste! I feel as if I should + +die: it makes me tremble so.” + + + +“Come, come!” said the good doctor, patting him on the shoulder. “You + +will see them directly, and they will be overjoyed to find you safe and + +well.” + + + +“Oh! I hope so!” cried Oliver. “They were so good to me; so very, very + +good to me.” + + + +The coach rolled on. It stopped. No; that was the wrong house; the next + +door. It went on a few paces, and stopped again. Oliver looked up at + +the windows, with tears of happy expectation coursing down his face. + + + +Alas! the white house was empty, and there was a bill in the window. + +“To Let.” + + + +“Knock at the next door,” cried Mr. Losberne, taking Oliver’s arm in + +his. “What has become of Mr. Brownlow, who used to live in the + +adjoining house, do you know?” + + + +The servant did not know; but would go and inquire. She presently + +returned, and said, that Mr. Brownlow had sold off his goods, and gone + +to the West Indies, six weeks before. Oliver clasped his hands, and + +sank feebly backward. + + + +“Has his housekeeper gone too?” inquired Mr. Losberne, after a moment’s + +pause. + + + +“Yes, sir”; replied the servant. “The old gentleman, the housekeeper, + +and a gentleman who was a friend of Mr. Brownlow’s, all went together.” + + + +“Then turn towards home again,” said Mr. Losberne to the driver; “and + +don’t stop to bait the horses, till you get out of this confounded + +London!” + + + +“The book-stall keeper, sir?” said Oliver. “I know the way there. See + +him, pray, sir! Do see him!” + + + +“My poor boy, this is disappointment enough for one day,” said the + +doctor. “Quite enough for both of us. If we go to the book-stall + +keeper’s, we shall certainly find that he is dead, or has set his house + +on fire, or run away. No; home again straight!” And in obedience to the + +doctor’s impulse, home they went. + + + +This bitter disappointment caused Oliver much sorrow and grief, even in + +the midst of his happiness; for he had pleased himself, many times + +during his illness, with thinking of all that Mr. Brownlow and Mrs. + +Bedwin would say to him: and what delight it would be to tell them how + +many long days and nights he had passed in reflecting on what they had + +done for him, and in bewailing his cruel separation from them. The hope + +of eventually clearing himself with them, too, and explaining how he + +had been forced away, had buoyed him up, and sustained him, under many + +of his recent trials; and now, the idea that they should have gone so + +far, and carried with them the belief that he was an impostor and a + +robber—a belief which might remain uncontradicted to his dying day—was + +almost more than he could bear. + + + +The circumstance occasioned no alteration, however, in the behaviour of + +his benefactors. After another fortnight, when the fine warm weather + +had fairly begun, and every tree and flower was putting forth its young + +leaves and rich blossoms, they made preparations for quitting the house + +at Chertsey, for some months. + + + +Sending the plate, which had so excited Fagin’s cupidity, to the + +banker’s; and leaving Giles and another servant in care of the house, + +they departed to a cottage at some distance in the country, and took + +Oliver with them. + + + +Who can describe the pleasure and delight, the peace of mind and soft + +tranquillity, the sickly boy felt in the balmy air, and among the green + +hills and rich woods, of an inland village! Who can tell how scenes of + +peace and quietude sink into the minds of pain-worn dwellers in close + +and noisy places, and carry their own freshness, deep into their jaded + +hearts! Men who have lived in crowded, pent-up streets, through lives + +of toil, and who have never wished for change; men, to whom custom has + +indeed been second nature, and who have come almost to love each brick + +and stone that formed the narrow boundaries of their daily walks; even + +they, with the hand of death upon them, have been known to yearn at + +last for one short glimpse of Nature’s face; and, carried far from the + +scenes of their old pains and pleasures, have seemed to pass at once + +into a new state of being. Crawling forth, from day to day, to some + +green sunny spot, they have had such memories wakened up within them by + +the sight of the sky, and hill and plain, and glistening water, that a + +foretaste of heaven itself has soothed their quick decline, and they + +have sunk into their tombs, as peacefully as the sun whose setting they + +watched from their lonely chamber window but a few hours before, faded + +from their dim and feeble sight! The memories which peaceful country + +scenes call up, are not of this world, nor of its thoughts and hopes. + +Their gentle influence may teach us how to weave fresh garlands for the + +graves of those we loved: may purify our thoughts, and bear down before + +it old enmity and hatred; but beneath all this, there lingers, in the + +least reflective mind, a vague and half-formed consciousness of having + +held such feelings long before, in some remote and distant time, which + +calls up solemn thoughts of distant times to come, and bends down pride + +and worldliness beneath it. + + + +It was a lovely spot to which they repaired. Oliver, whose days had + +been spent among squalid crowds, and in the midst of noise and + +brawling, seemed to enter on a new existence there. The rose and + +honeysuckle clung to the cottage walls; the ivy crept round the trunks + +of the trees; and the garden-flowers perfumed the air with delicious + +odours. Hard by, was a little churchyard; not crowded with tall + +unsightly gravestones, but full of humble mounds, covered with fresh + +turf and moss: beneath which, the old people of the village lay at + +rest. Oliver often wandered here; and, thinking of the wretched grave + +in which his mother lay, would sometimes sit him down and sob unseen; + +but, when he raised his eyes to the deep sky overhead, he would cease + +to think of her as lying in the ground, and would weep for her, sadly, + +but without pain. + + + +It was a happy time. The days were peaceful and serene; the nights + +brought with them neither fear nor care; no languishing in a wretched + +prison, or associating with wretched men; nothing but pleasant and + +happy thoughts. Every morning he went to a white-headed old gentleman, + +who lived near the little church: who taught him to read better, and to + +write: and who spoke so kindly, and took such pains, that Oliver could + +never try enough to please him. Then, he would walk with Mrs. Maylie + +and Rose, and hear them talk of books; or perhaps sit near them, in + +some shady place, and listen whilst the young lady read: which he could + +have done, until it grew too dark to see the letters. Then, he had his + +own lesson for the next day to prepare; and at this, he would work + +hard, in a little room which looked into the garden, till evening came + +slowly on, when the ladies would walk out again, and he with them: + +listening with such pleasure to all they said: and so happy if they + +wanted a flower that he could climb to reach, or had forgotten anything + +he could run to fetch: that he could never be quick enough about it. + +When it became quite dark, and they returned home, the young lady would + +sit down to the piano, and play some pleasant air, or sing, in a low + +and gentle voice, some old song which it pleased her aunt to hear. + +There would be no candles lighted at such times as these; and Oliver + +would sit by one of the windows, listening to the sweet music, in a + +perfect rapture. + + + +And when Sunday came, how differently the day was spent, from any way + +in which he had ever spent it yet! and how happily too; like all the + +other days in that most happy time! There was the little church, in the + +morning, with the green leaves fluttering at the windows: the birds + +singing without: and the sweet-smelling air stealing in at the low + +porch, and filling the homely building with its fragrance. The poor + +people were so neat and clean, and knelt so reverently in prayer, that + +it seemed a pleasure, not a tedious duty, their assembling there + +together; and though the singing might be rude, it was real, and + +sounded more musical (to Oliver’s ears at least) than any he had ever + +heard in church before. Then, there were the walks as usual, and many + +calls at the clean houses of the labouring men; and at night, Oliver + +read a chapter or two from the Bible, which he had been studying all + +the week, and in the performance of which duty he felt more proud and + +pleased, than if he had been the clergyman himself. + + + +In the morning, Oliver would be a-foot by six o’clock, roaming the + +fields, and plundering the hedges, far and wide, for nosegays of wild + +flowers, with which he would return laden, home; and which it took + +great care and consideration to arrange, to the best advantage, for the + +embellishment of the breakfast-table. There was fresh groundsel, too, + +for Miss Maylie’s birds, with which Oliver, who had been studying the + +subject under the able tuition of the village clerk, would decorate the + +cages, in the most approved taste. When the birds were made all spruce + +and smart for the day, there was usually some little commission of + +charity to execute in the village; or, failing that, there was rare + +cricket-playing, sometimes, on the green; or, failing that, there was + +always something to do in the garden, or about the plants, to which + +Oliver (who had studied this science also, under the same master, who + +was a gardener by trade,) applied himself with hearty good-will, until + +Miss Rose made her appearance: when there were a thousand commendations + +to be bestowed on all he had done. + + + +So three months glided away; three months which, in the life of the + +most blessed and favoured of mortals, might have been unmingled + +happiness, and which, in Oliver’s were true felicity. With the purest + +and most amiable generosity on one side; and the truest, warmest, + +soul-felt gratitude on the other; it is no wonder that, by the end of + +that short time, Oliver Twist had become completely domesticated with + +the old lady and her niece, and that the fervent attachment of his + +young and sensitive heart, was repaid by their pride in, and attachment + +to, himself. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XXXIII. + +WHEREIN THE HAPPINESS OF OLIVER AND HIS FRIENDS, EXPERIENCES A SUDDEN + +CHECK + + + + + +Spring flew swiftly by, and summer came. If the village had been + +beautiful at first it was now in the full glow and luxuriance of its + +richness. The great trees, which had looked shrunken and bare in the + +earlier months, had now burst into strong life and health; and + +stretching forth their green arms over the thirsty ground, converted + +open and naked spots into choice nooks, where was a deep and pleasant + +shade from which to look upon the wide prospect, steeped in sunshine, + +which lay stretched beyond. The earth had donned her mantle of + +brightest green; and shed her richest perfumes abroad. It was the prime + +and vigour of the year; all things were glad and flourishing. + + + +Still, the same quiet life went on at the little cottage, and the same + +cheerful serenity prevailed among its inmates. Oliver had long since + +grown stout and healthy; but health or sickness made no difference in + +his warm feelings of a great many people. He was still the same gentle, + +attached, affectionate creature that he had been when pain and + +suffering had wasted his strength, and when he was dependent for every + +slight attention, and comfort on those who tended him. + + + +One beautiful night, when they had taken a longer walk than was + +customary with them: for the day had been unusually warm, and there was + +a brilliant moon, and a light wind had sprung up, which was unusually + +refreshing. Rose had been in high spirits, too, and they had walked on, + +in merry conversation, until they had far exceeded their ordinary + +bounds. Mrs. Maylie being fatigued, they returned more slowly home. The + +young lady merely throwing off her simple bonnet, sat down to the piano + +as usual. After running abstractedly over the keys for a few minutes, + +she fell into a low and very solemn air; and as she played it, they + +heard a sound as if she were weeping. + + + +“Rose, my dear!” said the elder lady. + + + +Rose made no reply, but played a little quicker, as though the words + +had roused her from some painful thoughts. + + + +“Rose, my love!” cried Mrs. Maylie, rising hastily, and bending over + +her. “What is this? In tears! My dear child, what distresses you?” + + + +“Nothing, aunt; nothing,” replied the young lady. “I don’t know what it + +is; I can’t describe it; but I feel—” + + + +“Not ill, my love?” interposed Mrs. Maylie. + + + +“No, no! Oh, not ill!” replied Rose: shuddering as though some deadly + +chillness were passing over her, while she spoke; “I shall be better + +presently. Close the window, pray!” + + + +Oliver hastened to comply with her request. The young lady, making an + +effort to recover her cheerfulness, strove to play some livelier tune; + +but her fingers dropped powerless over the keys. Covering her face with + +her hands, she sank upon a sofa, and gave vent to the tears which she + +was now unable to repress. + + + +“My child!” said the elderly lady, folding her arms about her, “I never + +saw you so before.” + + + +“I would not alarm you if I could avoid it,” rejoined Rose; “but indeed + +I have tried very hard, and cannot help this. I fear I _am_ ill, aunt.” + + + +She was, indeed; for, when candles were brought, they saw that in the + +very short time which had elapsed since their return home, the hue of + +her countenance had changed to a marble whiteness. Its expression had + +lost nothing of its beauty; but it was changed; and there was an + +anxious haggard look about the gentle face, which it had never worn + +before. Another minute, and it was suffused with a crimson flush: and a + +heavy wildness came over the soft blue eye. Again this disappeared, + +like the shadow thrown by a passing cloud; and she was once more deadly + +pale. + + + +Oliver, who watched the old lady anxiously, observed that she was + +alarmed by these appearances; and so in truth, was he; but seeing that + +she affected to make light of them, he endeavoured to do the same, and + +they so far succeeded, that when Rose was persuaded by her aunt to + +retire for the night, she was in better spirits; and appeared even in + +better health: assuring them that she felt certain she should rise in + +the morning, quite well. + + + +“I hope,” said Oliver, when Mrs. Maylie returned, “that nothing is the + +matter? She don’t look well tonight, but—” + + + +The old lady motioned to him not to speak; and sitting herself down in + +a dark corner of the room, remained silent for some time. At length, + +she said, in a trembling voice: + + + +“I hope not, Oliver. I have been very happy with her for some years: + +too happy, perhaps. It may be time that I should meet with some + +misfortune; but I hope it is not this.” + + + +“What?” inquired Oliver. + + + +“The heavy blow,” said the old lady, “of losing the dear girl who has + +so long been my comfort and happiness.” + + + +“Oh! God forbid!” exclaimed Oliver, hastily. + + + +“Amen to that, my child!” said the old lady, wringing her hands. + + + +“Surely there is no danger of anything so dreadful?” said Oliver. “Two + +hours ago, she was quite well.” + + + +“She is very ill now,” rejoined Mrs. Maylie; “and will be worse, I am + +sure. My dear, dear Rose! Oh, what shall I do without her!” + + + +She gave way to such great grief, that Oliver, suppressing his own + +emotion, ventured to remonstrate with her; and to beg, earnestly, that, + +for the sake of the dear young lady herself, she would be more calm. + + + +“And consider, ma’am,” said Oliver, as the tears forced themselves into + +his eyes, despite of his efforts to the contrary. “Oh! consider how + +young and good she is, and what pleasure and comfort she gives to all + +about her. I am sure—certain—quite certain—that, for your sake, who are + +so good yourself; and for her own; and for the sake of all she makes so + +happy; she will not die. Heaven will never let her die so young.” + + + +“Hush!” said Mrs. Maylie, laying her hand on Oliver’s head. “You think + +like a child, poor boy. But you teach me my duty, notwithstanding. I + +had forgotten it for a moment, Oliver, but I hope I may be pardoned, + +for I am old, and have seen enough of illness and death to know the + +agony of separation from the objects of our love. I have seen enough, + +too, to know that it is not always the youngest and best who are spared + +to those that love them; but this should give us comfort in our sorrow; + +for Heaven is just; and such things teach us, impressively, that there + +is a brighter world than this; and that the passage to it is speedy. + +God’s will be done! I love her; and He knows how well!” + + + +Oliver was surprised to see that as Mrs. Maylie said these words, she + +checked her lamentations as though by one effort; and drawing herself + +up as she spoke, became composed and firm. He was still more astonished + +to find that this firmness lasted; and that, under all the care and + +watching which ensued, Mrs. Maylie was ever ready and collected: + +performing all the duties which had devolved upon her, steadily, and, + +to all external appearances, even cheerfully. But he was young, and did + +not know what strong minds are capable of, under trying circumstances. + +How should he, when their possessors so seldom know themselves? + + + +An anxious night ensued. When morning came, Mrs. Maylie’s predictions + +were but too well verified. Rose was in the first stage of a high and + +dangerous fever. + + + +“We must be active, Oliver, and not give way to useless grief,” said + +Mrs. Maylie, laying her finger on her lip, as she looked steadily into + +his face; “this letter must be sent, with all possible expedition, to + +Mr. Losberne. It must be carried to the market-town: which is not more + +than four miles off, by the footpath across the field: and thence + +dispatched, by an express on horseback, straight to Chertsey. The + +people at the inn will undertake to do this: and I can trust to you to + +see it done, I know.” + + + +Oliver could make no reply, but looked his anxiety to be gone at once. + + + +“Here is another letter,” said Mrs. Maylie, pausing to reflect; “but + +whether to send it now, or wait until I see how Rose goes on, I + +scarcely know. I would not forward it, unless I feared the worst.” + + + +“Is it for Chertsey, too, ma’am?” inquired Oliver; impatient to execute + +his commission, and holding out his trembling hand for the letter. + + + +“No,” replied the old lady, giving it to him mechanically. Oliver + +glanced at it, and saw that it was directed to Harry Maylie, Esquire, + +at some great lord’s house in the country; where, he could not make + +out. + + + +“Shall it go, ma’am?” asked Oliver, looking up, impatiently. + + + +“I think not,” replied Mrs. Maylie, taking it back. “I will wait until + +tomorrow.” + + + +With these words, she gave Oliver her purse, and he started off, + +without more delay, at the greatest speed he could muster. + + + +Swiftly he ran across the fields, and down the little lanes which + +sometimes divided them: now almost hidden by the high corn on either + +side, and now emerging on an open field, where the mowers and haymakers + +were busy at their work: nor did he stop once, save now and then, for a + +few seconds, to recover breath, until he came, in a great heat, and + +covered with dust, on the little market-place of the market-town. + + + +Here he paused, and looked about for the inn. There were a white bank, + +and a red brewery, and a yellow town-hall; and in one corner there was + +a large house, with all the wood about it painted green: before which + +was the sign of “The George.” To this he hastened, as soon as it caught + +his eye. + + + +He spoke to a postboy who was dozing under the gateway; and who, after + +hearing what he wanted, referred him to the ostler; who after hearing + +all he had to say again, referred him to the landlord; who was a tall + +gentleman in a blue neckcloth, a white hat, drab breeches, and boots + +with tops to match, leaning against a pump by the stable-door, picking + +his teeth with a silver toothpick. + + + +This gentleman walked with much deliberation into the bar to make out + +the bill: which took a long time making out: and after it was ready, + +and paid, a horse had to be saddled, and a man to be dressed, which + +took up ten good minutes more. Meanwhile Oliver was in such a desperate + +state of impatience and anxiety, that he felt as if he could have + +jumped upon the horse himself, and galloped away, full tear, to the + +next stage. At length, all was ready; and the little parcel having been + +handed up, with many injunctions and entreaties for its speedy + +delivery, the man set spurs to his horse, and rattling over the uneven + +paving of the market-place, was out of the town, and galloping along + +the turnpike-road, in a couple of minutes. + + + +As it was something to feel certain that assistance was sent for, and + +that no time had been lost, Oliver hurried up the inn-yard, with a + +somewhat lighter heart. He was turning out of the gateway when he + +accidently stumbled against a tall man wrapped in a cloak, who was at + +that moment coming out of the inn door. + + + +“Hah!” cried the man, fixing his eyes on Oliver, and suddenly + +recoiling. “What the devil’s this?” + + + +“I beg your pardon, sir,” said Oliver; “I was in a great hurry to get + +home, and didn’t see you were coming.” + + + +“Death!” muttered the man to himself, glaring at the boy with his large + +dark eyes. “Who would have thought it! Grind him to ashes! He’d start + +up from a stone coffin, to come in my way!” + + + +“I am sorry,” stammered Oliver, confused by the strange man’s wild + +look. “I hope I have not hurt you!” + + + +“Rot you!” murmured the man, in a horrible passion; between his + +clenched teeth; “if I had only had the courage to say the word, I might + +have been free of you in a night. Curses on your head, and black death + +on your heart, you imp! What are you doing here?” + + + +The man shook his fist, as he uttered these words incoherently. He + +advanced towards Oliver, as if with the intention of aiming a blow at + +him, but fell violently on the ground: writhing and foaming, in a fit. + + + +Oliver gazed, for a moment, at the struggles of the madman (for such he + +supposed him to be); and then darted into the house for help. Having + +seen him safely carried into the hotel, he turned his face homewards, + +running as fast as he could, to make up for lost time: and recalling + +with a great deal of astonishment and some fear, the extraordinary + +behaviour of the person from whom he had just parted. + + + +The circumstance did not dwell in his recollection long, however: for + +when he reached the cottage, there was enough to occupy his mind, and + +to drive all considerations of self completely from his memory. + + + +Rose Maylie had rapidly grown worse; before mid-night she was + +delirious. A medical practitioner, who resided on the spot, was in + +constant attendance upon her; and after first seeing the patient, he + +had taken Mrs. Maylie aside, and pronounced her disorder to be one of a + +most alarming nature. “In fact,” he said, “it would be little short of + +a miracle, if she recovered.” + + + +How often did Oliver start from his bed that night, and stealing out, + +with noiseless footstep, to the staircase, listen for the slightest + +sound from the sick chamber! How often did a tremble shake his frame, + +and cold drops of terror start upon his brow, when a sudden trampling + +of feet caused him to fear that something too dreadful to think of, had + +even then occurred! And what had been the fervency of all the prayers + +he had ever muttered, compared with those he poured forth, now, in the + +agony and passion of his supplication for the life and health of the + +gentle creature, who was tottering on the deep grave’s verge! + + + +Oh! the suspense, the fearful, acute suspense, of standing idly by + +while the life of one we dearly love, is trembling in the balance! Oh! + +the racking thoughts that crowd upon the mind, and make the heart beat + +violently, and the breath come thick, by the force of the images they + +conjure up before it; the desperate anxiety _to be doing something_ to + +relieve the pain, or lessen the danger, which we have no power to + +alleviate; the sinking of soul and spirit, which the sad remembrance of + +our helplessness produces; what tortures can equal these; what + +reflections or endeavours can, in the full tide and fever of the time, + +allay them! + + + +Morning came; and the little cottage was lonely and still. People spoke + +in whispers; anxious faces appeared at the gate, from time to time; + +women and children went away in tears. All the livelong day, and for + +hours after it had grown dark, Oliver paced softly up and down the + +garden, raising his eyes every instant to the sick chamber, and + +shuddering to see the darkened window, looking as if death lay + +stretched inside. Late that night, Mr. Losberne arrived. “It is hard,” + +said the good doctor, turning away as he spoke; “so young; so much + +beloved; but there is very little hope.” + + + +Another morning. The sun shone brightly; as brightly as if it looked + +upon no misery or care; and, with every leaf and flower in full bloom + +about her; with life, and health, and sounds and sights of joy, + +surrounding her on every side: the fair young creature lay, wasting + +fast. Oliver crept away to the old churchyard, and sitting down on one + +of the green mounds, wept and prayed for her, in silence. + + + +There was such peace and beauty in the scene; so much of brightness and + +mirth in the sunny landscape; such blithesome music in the songs of the + +summer birds; such freedom in the rapid flight of the rook, careering + +overhead; so much of life and joyousness in all; that, when the boy + +raised his aching eyes, and looked about, the thought instinctively + +occurred to him, that this was not a time for death; that Rose could + +surely never die when humbler things were all so glad and gay; that + +graves were for cold and cheerless winter: not for sunlight and + +fragrance. He almost thought that shrouds were for the old and + +shrunken; and that they never wrapped the young and graceful form in + +their ghastly folds. + + + +A knell from the church bell broke harshly on these youthful thoughts. + +Another! Again! It was tolling for the funeral service. A group of + +humble mourners entered the gate: wearing white favours; for the corpse + +was young. They stood uncovered by a grave; and there was a mother—a + +mother once—among the weeping train. But the sun shone brightly, and + +the birds sang on. + + + +Oliver turned homeward, thinking on the many kindnesses he had received + +from the young lady, and wishing that the time could come again, that + +he might never cease showing her how grateful and attached he was. He + +had no cause for self-reproach on the score of neglect, or want of + +thought, for he had been devoted to her service; and yet a hundred + +little occasions rose up before him, on which he fancied he might have + +been more zealous, and more earnest, and wished he had been. We need be + +careful how we deal with those about us, when every death carries to + +some small circle of survivors, thoughts of so much omitted, and so + +little done—of so many things forgotten, and so many more which might + +have been repaired! There is no remorse so deep as that which is + +unavailing; if we would be spared its tortures, let us remember this, + +in time. + + + +When he reached home Mrs. Maylie was sitting in the little parlour. + +Oliver’s heart sank at sight of her; for she had never left the bedside + +of her niece; and he trembled to think what change could have driven + +her away. He learnt that she had fallen into a deep sleep, from which + +she would waken, either to recovery and life, or to bid them farewell, + +and die. + + + +They sat, listening, and afraid to speak, for hours. The untasted meal + +was removed, with looks which showed that their thoughts were + +elsewhere, they watched the sun as he sank lower and lower, and, at + +length, cast over sky and earth those brilliant hues which herald his + +departure. Their quick ears caught the sound of an approaching + +footstep. They both involuntarily darted to the door, as Mr. Losberne + +entered. + + + +“What of Rose?” cried the old lady. “Tell me at once! I can bear it; + +anything but suspense! Oh, tell me! in the name of Heaven!” + + + +“You must compose yourself,” said the doctor supporting her. “Be calm, + +my dear ma’am, pray.” + + + +“Let me go, in God’s name! My dear child! She is dead! She is dying!” + + + +“No!” cried the doctor, passionately. “As He is good and merciful, she + +will live to bless us all, for years to come.” + + + +The lady fell upon her knees, and tried to fold her hands together; but + +the energy which had supported her so long, fled up to Heaven with her + +first thanksgiving; and she sank into the friendly arms which were + +extended to receive her. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XXXIV. + +CONTAINS SOME INTRODUCTORY PARTICULARS RELATIVE TO A YOUNG GENTLEMAN + +WHO NOW ARRIVES UPON THE SCENE; AND A NEW ADVENTURE WHICH HAPPENED TO + +OLIVER + + + + + +It was almost too much happiness to bear. Oliver felt stunned and + +stupefied by the unexpected intelligence; he could not weep, or speak, + +or rest. He had scarcely the power of understanding anything that had + +passed, until, after a long ramble in the quiet evening air, a burst of + +tears came to his relief, and he seemed to awaken, all at once, to a + +full sense of the joyful change that had occurred, and the almost + +insupportable load of anguish which had been taken from his breast. + + + +The night was fast closing in, when he returned homeward: laden with + +flowers which he had culled, with peculiar care, for the adornment of + +the sick chamber. As he walked briskly along the road, he heard behind + +him, the noise of some vehicle, approaching at a furious pace. Looking + +round, he saw that it was a post-chaise, driven at great speed; and as + +the horses were galloping, and the road was narrow, he stood leaning + +against a gate until it should have passed him. + + + +As it dashed on, Oliver caught a glimpse of a man in a white nightcap, + +whose face seemed familiar to him, although his view was so brief that + +he could not identify the person. In another second or two, the + +nightcap was thrust out of the chaise-window, and a stentorian voice + +bellowed to the driver to stop: which he did, as soon as he could pull + +up his horses. Then, the nightcap once again appeared: and the same + +voice called Oliver by his name. + + + +“Here!” cried the voice. “Oliver, what’s the news? Miss Rose! Master + +O-li-ver!” + + + +“Is it you, Giles?” cried Oliver, running up to the chaise-door. + + + +Giles popped out his nightcap again, preparatory to making some reply, + +when he was suddenly pulled back by a young gentleman who occupied the + +other corner of the chaise, and who eagerly demanded what was the news. + + + +“In a word!” cried the gentleman, “Better or worse?” + + + +“Better—much better!” replied Oliver, hastily. + + + +“Thank Heaven!” exclaimed the gentleman. “You are sure?” + + + +“Quite, sir,” replied Oliver. “The change took place only a few hours + +ago; and Mr. Losberne says, that all danger is at an end.” + + + +The gentleman said not another word, but, opening the chaise-door, + +leaped out, and taking Oliver hurriedly by the arm, led him aside. + + + +“You are quite certain? There is no possibility of any mistake on your + +part, my boy, is there?” demanded the gentleman in a tremulous voice. + +“Do not deceive me, by awakening hopes that are not to be fulfilled.” + + + +“I would not for the world, sir,” replied Oliver. “Indeed you may + +believe me. Mr. Losberne’s words were, that she would live to bless us + +all for many years to come. I heard him say so.” + + + +The tears stood in Oliver’s eyes as he recalled the scene which was the + +beginning of so much happiness; and the gentleman turned his face away, + +and remained silent, for some minutes. Oliver thought he heard him sob, + +more than once; but he feared to interrupt him by any fresh remark—for + +he could well guess what his feelings were—and so stood apart, feigning + +to be occupied with his nosegay. + + + +All this time, Mr. Giles, with the white nightcap on, had been sitting + +on the steps of the chaise, supporting an elbow on each knee, and + +wiping his eyes with a blue cotton pocket-handkerchief dotted with + +white spots. That the honest fellow had not been feigning emotion, was + +abundantly demonstrated by the very red eyes with which he regarded the + +young gentleman, when he turned round and addressed him. + + + +“I think you had better go on to my mother’s in the chaise, Giles,” + +said he. “I would rather walk slowly on, so as to gain a little time + +before I see her. You can say I am coming.” + + + +“I beg your pardon, Mr. Harry,” said Giles: giving a final polish to + +his ruffled countenance with the handkerchief; “but if you would leave + +the postboy to say that, I should be very much obliged to you. It + +wouldn’t be proper for the maids to see me in this state, sir; I should + +never have any more authority with them if they did.” + + + +“Well,” rejoined Harry Maylie, smiling, “you can do as you like. Let + +him go on with the luggage, if you wish it, and do you follow with us. + +Only first exchange that nightcap for some more appropriate covering, + +or we shall be taken for madmen.” + + + +Mr. Giles, reminded of his unbecoming costume, snatched off and + +pocketed his nightcap; and substituted a hat, of grave and sober shape, + +which he took out of the chaise. This done, the postboy drove off; + +Giles, Mr. Maylie, and Oliver, followed at their leisure. + + + +As they walked along, Oliver glanced from time to time with much + +interest and curiosity at the new comer. He seemed about + +five-and-twenty years of age, and was of the middle height; his + +countenance was frank and handsome; and his demeanor easy and + +prepossessing. Notwithstanding the difference between youth and age, he + +bore so strong a likeness to the old lady, that Oliver would have had + +no great difficulty in imagining their relationship, if he had not + +already spoken of her as his mother. + + + +Mrs. Maylie was anxiously waiting to receive her son when he reached + +the cottage. The meeting did not take place without great emotion on + +both sides. + + + +“Mother!” whispered the young man; “why did you not write before?” + + + +“I did,” replied Mrs. Maylie; “but, on reflection, I determined to keep + +back the letter until I had heard Mr. Losberne’s opinion.” + + + +“But why,” said the young man, “why run the chance of that occurring + +which so nearly happened? If Rose had—I cannot utter that word now—if + +this illness had terminated differently, how could you ever have + +forgiven yourself! How could I ever have know happiness again!” + + + +“If that _had_ been the case, Harry,” said Mrs. Maylie, “I fear your + +happiness would have been effectually blighted, and that your arrival + +here, a day sooner or a day later, would have been of very, very little + +import.” + + + +“And who can wonder if it be so, mother?” rejoined the young man; “or + +why should I say, _if?_—It is—it is—you know it, mother—you must know + +it!” + + + +“I know that she deserves the best and purest love the heart of man can + +offer,” said Mrs. Maylie; “I know that the devotion and affection of + +her nature require no ordinary return, but one that shall be deep and + +lasting. If I did not feel this, and know, besides, that a changed + +behaviour in one she loved would break her heart, I should not feel my + +task so difficult of performance, or have to encounter so many + +struggles in my own bosom, when I take what seems to me to be the + +strict line of duty.” + + + +“This is unkind, mother,” said Harry. “Do you still suppose that I am a + +boy ignorant of my own mind, and mistaking the impulses of my own + +soul?” + + + +“I think, my dear son,” returned Mrs. Maylie, laying her hand upon his + +shoulder, “that youth has many generous impulses which do not last; and + +that among them are some, which, being gratified, become only the more + +fleeting. Above all, I think” said the lady, fixing her eyes on her + +son’s face, “that if an enthusiastic, ardent, and ambitious man marry a + +wife on whose name there is a stain, which, though it originate in no + +fault of hers, may be visited by cold and sordid people upon her, and + +upon his children also: and, in exact proportion to his success in the + +world, be cast in his teeth, and made the subject of sneers against + +him: he may, no matter how generous and good his nature, one day repent + +of the connection he formed in early life. And she may have the pain of + +knowing that he does so.” + + + +“Mother,” said the young man, impatiently, “he would be a selfish + +brute, unworthy alike of the name of man and of the woman you describe, + +who acted thus.” + + + +“You think so now, Harry,” replied his mother. + + + +“And ever will!” said the young man. “The mental agony I have suffered, + +during the last two days, wrings from me the avowal to you of a passion + +which, as you well know, is not one of yesterday, nor one I have + +lightly formed. On Rose, sweet, gentle girl! my heart is set, as firmly + +as ever heart of man was set on woman. I have no thought, no view, no + +hope in life, beyond her; and if you oppose me in this great stake, you + +take my peace and happiness in your hands, and cast them to the wind. + +Mother, think better of this, and of me, and do not disregard the + +happiness of which you seem to think so little.” + + + +“Harry,” said Mrs. Maylie, “it is because I think so much of warm and + +sensitive hearts, that I would spare them from being wounded. But we + +have said enough, and more than enough, on this matter, just now.” + + + +“Let it rest with Rose, then,” interposed Harry. “You will not press + +these overstrained opinions of yours, so far, as to throw any obstacle + +in my way?” + + + +“I will not,” rejoined Mrs. Maylie; “but I would have you consider—” + + + +“I _have_ considered!” was the impatient reply; “Mother, I have + +considered, years and years. I have considered, ever since I have been + +capable of serious reflection. My feelings remain unchanged, as they + +ever will; and why should I suffer the pain of a delay in giving them + +vent, which can be productive of no earthly good? No! Before I leave + +this place, Rose shall hear me.” + + + +“She shall,” said Mrs. Maylie. + + + +“There is something in your manner, which would almost imply that she + +will hear me coldly, mother,” said the young man. + + + +“Not coldly,” rejoined the old lady; “far from it.” + + + +“How then?” urged the young man. “She has formed no other attachment?” + + + +“No, indeed,” replied his mother; “you have, or I mistake, too strong a + +hold on her affections already. What I would say,” resumed the old + +lady, stopping her son as he was about to speak, “is this. Before you + +stake your all on this chance; before you suffer yourself to be carried + +to the highest point of hope; reflect for a few moments, my dear child, + +on Rose’s history, and consider what effect the knowledge of her + +doubtful birth may have on her decision: devoted as she is to us, with + +all the intensity of her noble mind, and with that perfect sacrifice of + +self which, in all matters, great or trifling, has always been her + +characteristic.” + + + +“What do you mean?” + + + +“That I leave you to discover,” replied Mrs. Maylie. “I must go back to + +her. God bless you!” + + + +“I shall see you again tonight?” said the young man, eagerly. + + + +“By and by,” replied the lady; “when I leave Rose.” + + + +“You will tell her I am here?” said Harry. + + + +“Of course,” replied Mrs. Maylie. + + + +“And say how anxious I have been, and how much I have suffered, and how + +I long to see her. You will not refuse to do this, mother?” + + + +“No,” said the old lady; “I will tell her all.” And pressing her son’s + +hand, affectionately, she hastened from the room. + + + +Mr. Losberne and Oliver had remained at another end of the apartment + +while this hurried conversation was proceeding. The former now held out + +his hand to Harry Maylie; and hearty salutations were exchanged between + +them. The doctor then communicated, in reply to multifarious questions + +from his young friend, a precise account of his patient’s situation; + +which was quite as consolatory and full of promise, as Oliver’s + +statement had encouraged him to hope; and to the whole of which, Mr. + +Giles, who affected to be busy about the luggage, listened with greedy + +ears. + + + +“Have you shot anything particular, lately, Giles?” inquired the + +doctor, when he had concluded. + + + +“Nothing particular, sir,” replied Mr. Giles, colouring up to the eyes. + + + +“Nor catching any thieves, nor identifying any house-breakers?” said + +the doctor. + + + +“None at all, sir,” replied Mr. Giles, with much gravity. + + + +“Well,” said the doctor, “I am sorry to hear it, because you do that + +sort of thing admirably. Pray, how is Brittles?” + + + +“The boy is very well, sir,” said Mr. Giles, recovering his usual tone + +of patronage; “and sends his respectful duty, sir.” + + + +“That’s well,” said the doctor. “Seeing you here, reminds me, Mr. + +Giles, that on the day before that on which I was called away so + +hurriedly, I executed, at the request of your good mistress, a small + +commission in your favour. Just step into this corner a moment, will + +you?” + + + +Mr. Giles walked into the corner with much importance, and some wonder, + +and was honoured with a short whispering conference with the doctor, on + +the termination of which, he made a great many bows, and retired with + +steps of unusual stateliness. The subject matter of this conference was + +not disclosed in the parlour, but the kitchen was speedily enlightened + +concerning it; for Mr. Giles walked straight thither, and having called + +for a mug of ale, announced, with an air of majesty, which was highly + +effective, that it had pleased his mistress, in consideration of his + +gallant behaviour on the occasion of that attempted robbery, to + +deposit, in the local savings-bank, the sum of five-and-twenty pounds, + +for his sole use and benefit. At this, the two women-servants lifted up + +their hands and eyes, and supposed that Mr. Giles, pulling out his + +shirt-frill, replied, “No, no”; and that if they observed that he was + +at all haughty to his inferiors, he would thank them to tell him so. + +And then he made a great many other remarks, no less illustrative of + +his humility, which were received with equal favour and applause, and + +were, withal, as original and as much to the purpose, as the remarks of + +great men commonly are. + + + +Above stairs, the remainder of the evening passed cheerfully away; for + +the doctor was in high spirits; and however fatigued or thoughtful + +Harry Maylie might have been at first, he was not proof against the + +worthy gentleman’s good humour, which displayed itself in a great + +variety of sallies and professional recollections, and an abundance of + +small jokes, which struck Oliver as being the drollest things he had + +ever heard, and caused him to laugh proportionately; to the evident + +satisfaction of the doctor, who laughed immoderately at himself, and + +made Harry laugh almost as heartily, by the very force of sympathy. So, + +they were as pleasant a party as, under the circumstances, they could + +well have been; and it was late before they retired, with light and + +thankful hearts, to take that rest of which, after the doubt and + +suspense they had recently undergone, they stood much in need. + + + +Oliver rose next morning, in better heart, and went about his usual + +occupations, with more hope and pleasure than he had known for many + +days. The birds were once more hung out, to sing, in their old places; + +and the sweetest wild flowers that could be found, were once more + +gathered to gladden Rose with their beauty. The melancholy which had + +seemed to the sad eyes of the anxious boy to hang, for days past, over + +every object, beautiful as all were, was dispelled by magic. The dew + +seemed to sparkle more brightly on the green leaves; the air to rustle + +among them with a sweeter music; and the sky itself to look more blue + +and bright. Such is the influence which the condition of our own + +thoughts, exercise, even over the appearance of external objects. Men + +who look on nature, and their fellow-men, and cry that all is dark and + +gloomy, are in the right; but the sombre colours are reflections from + +their own jaundiced eyes and hearts. The real hues are delicate, and + +need a clearer vision. + + + +It is worthy of remark, and Oliver did not fail to note it at the time, + +that his morning expeditions were no longer made alone. Harry Maylie, + +after the very first morning when he met Oliver coming laden home, was + +seized with such a passion for flowers, and displayed such a taste in + +their arrangement, as left his young companion far behind. If Oliver + +were behindhand in these respects, he knew where the best were to be + +found; and morning after morning they scoured the country together, and + +brought home the fairest that blossomed. The window of the young lady’s + +chamber was opened now; for she loved to feel the rich summer air + +stream in, and revive her with its freshness; but there always stood in + +water, just inside the lattice, one particular little bunch, which was + +made up with great care, every morning. Oliver could not help noticing + +that the withered flowers were never thrown away, although the little + +vase was regularly replenished; nor, could he help observing, that + +whenever the doctor came into the garden, he invariably cast his eyes + +up to that particular corner, and nodded his head most expressively, as + +he set forth on his morning’s walk. Pending these observations, the + +days were flying by; and Rose was rapidly recovering. + + + +Nor did Oliver’s time hang heavy on his hands, although the young lady + +had not yet left her chamber, and there were no evening walks, save now + +and then, for a short distance, with Mrs. Maylie. He applied himself, + +with redoubled assiduity, to the instructions of the white-headed old + +gentleman, and laboured so hard that his quick progress surprised even + +himself. It was while he was engaged in this pursuit, that he was + +greatly startled and distressed by a most unexpected occurrence. + + + +The little room in which he was accustomed to sit, when busy at his + +books, was on the ground-floor, at the back of the house. It was quite + +a cottage-room, with a lattice-window: around which were clusters of + +jessamine and honeysuckle, that crept over the casement, and filled the + +place with their delicious perfume. It looked into a garden, whence a + +wicket-gate opened into a small paddock; all beyond, was fine + +meadow-land and wood. There was no other dwelling near, in that + +direction; and the prospect it commanded was very extensive. + + + +One beautiful evening, when the first shades of twilight were beginning + +to settle upon the earth, Oliver sat at this window, intent upon his + +books. He had been poring over them for some time; and, as the day had + +been uncommonly sultry, and he had exerted himself a great deal, it is + +no disparagement to the authors, whoever they may have been, to say, + +that gradually and by slow degrees, he fell asleep. + + + +There is a kind of sleep that steals upon us sometimes, which, while it + +holds the body prisoner, does not free the mind from a sense of things + +about it, and enable it to ramble at its pleasure. So far as an + +overpowering heaviness, a prostration of strength, and an utter + +inability to control our thoughts or power of motion, can be called + +sleep, this is it; and yet, we have a consciousness of all that is + +going on about us, and, if we dream at such a time, words which are + +really spoken, or sounds which really exist at the moment, accommodate + +themselves with surprising readiness to our visions, until reality and + +imagination become so strangely blended that it is afterwards almost + +matter of impossibility to separate the two. Nor is this, the most + +striking phenomenon incidental to such a state. It is an undoubted + +fact, that although our senses of touch and sight be for the time dead, + +yet our sleeping thoughts, and the visionary scenes that pass before + +us, will be influenced and materially influenced, by the _mere silent + +presence_ of some external object; which may not have been near us when + +we closed our eyes: and of whose vicinity we have had no waking + +consciousness. + + + +Oliver knew, perfectly well, that he was in his own little room; that + +his books were lying on the table before him; that the sweet air was + +stirring among the creeping plants outside. And yet he was asleep. + +Suddenly, the scene changed; the air became close and confined; and he + +thought, with a glow of terror, that he was in the Jew’s house again. + +There sat the hideous old man, in his accustomed corner, pointing at + +him, and whispering to another man, with his face averted, who sat + +beside him. + + + +“Hush, my dear!” he thought he heard the Jew say; “it is he, sure + +enough. Come away.” + + + +“He!” the other man seemed to answer; “could I mistake him, think you? + +If a crowd of ghosts were to put themselves into his exact shape, and + +he stood amongst them, there is something that would tell me how to + +point him out. If you buried him fifty feet deep, and took me across + +his grave, I fancy I should know, if there wasn’t a mark above it, that + +he lay buried there?” + + + +The man seemed to say this, with such dreadful hatred, that Oliver + +awoke with the fear, and started up. + + + +Good Heaven! what was that, which sent the blood tingling to his heart, + +and deprived him of his voice, and of power to move! There—there—at the + +window—close before him—so close, that he could have almost touched him + +before he started back: with his eyes peering into the room, and + +meeting his: there stood the Jew! And beside him, white with rage or + +fear, or both, were the scowling features of the man who had accosted + +him in the inn-yard. + + + +It was but an instant, a glance, a flash, before his eyes; and they + +were gone. But they had recognised him, and he them; and their look was + +as firmly impressed upon his memory, as if it had been deeply carved in + +stone, and set before him from his birth. He stood transfixed for a + +moment; then, leaping from the window into the garden, called loudly + +for help. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XXXV. + +CONTAINING THE UNSATISFACTORY RESULT OF OLIVER’S ADVENTURE; AND A + +CONVERSATION OF SOME IMPORTANCE BETWEEN HARRY MAYLIE AND ROSE + + + + + +When the inmates of the house, attracted by Oliver’s cries, hurried to + +the spot from which they proceeded, they found him, pale and agitated, + +pointing in the direction of the meadows behind the house, and scarcely + +able to articulate the words, “The Jew! the Jew!” + + + +Mr. Giles was at a loss to comprehend what this outcry meant; but Harry + +Maylie, whose perceptions were something quicker, and who had heard + +Oliver’s history from his mother, understood it at once. + + + +“What direction did he take?” he asked, catching up a heavy stick which + +was standing in a corner. + + + +“That,” replied Oliver, pointing out the course the man had taken; “I + +missed them in an instant.” + + + +“Then, they are in the ditch!” said Harry. “Follow! And keep as near + +me, as you can.” So saying, he sprang over the hedge, and darted off + +with a speed which rendered it matter of exceeding difficulty for the + +others to keep near him. + + + +Giles followed as well as he could; and Oliver followed too; and in the + +course of a minute or two, Mr. Losberne, who had been out walking, and + +just then returned, tumbled over the hedge after them, and picking + +himself up with more agility than he could have been supposed to + +possess, struck into the same course at no contemptible speed, shouting + +all the while, most prodigiously, to know what was the matter. + + + +On they all went; nor stopped they once to breathe, until the leader, + +striking off into an angle of the field indicated by Oliver, began to + +search, narrowly, the ditch and hedge adjoining; which afforded time + +for the remainder of the party to come up; and for Oliver to + +communicate to Mr. Losberne the circumstances that had led to so + +vigorous a pursuit. + + + +The search was all in vain. There were not even the traces of recent + +footsteps, to be seen. They stood now, on the summit of a little hill, + +commanding the open fields in every direction for three or four miles. + +There was the village in the hollow on the left; but, in order to gain + +that, after pursuing the track Oliver had pointed out, the men must + +have made a circuit of open ground, which it was impossible they could + +have accomplished in so short a time. A thick wood skirted the + +meadow-land in another direction; but they could not have gained that + +covert for the same reason. + + + +“It must have been a dream, Oliver,” said Harry Maylie. + + + +“Oh no, indeed, sir,” replied Oliver, shuddering at the very + +recollection of the old wretch’s countenance; “I saw him too plainly + +for that. I saw them both, as plainly as I see you now.” + + + +“Who was the other?” inquired Harry and Mr. Losberne, together. + + + +“The very same man I told you of, who came so suddenly upon me at the + +inn,” said Oliver. “We had our eyes fixed full upon each other; and I + +could swear to him.” + + + +“They took this way?” demanded Harry: “are you sure?” + + + +“As I am that the men were at the window,” replied Oliver, pointing + +down, as he spoke, to the hedge which divided the cottage-garden from + +the meadow. “The tall man leaped over, just there; and the Jew, running + +a few paces to the right, crept through that gap.” + + + +The two gentlemen watched Oliver’s earnest face, as he spoke, and + +looking from him to each other, seemed to feel satisfied of the + +accuracy of what he said. Still, in no direction were there any + +appearances of the trampling of men in hurried flight. The grass was + +long; but it was trodden down nowhere, save where their own feet had + +crushed it. The sides and brinks of the ditches were of damp clay; but + +in no one place could they discern the print of men’s shoes, or the + +slightest mark which would indicate that any feet had pressed the + +ground for hours before. + + + +“This is strange!” said Harry. + + + +“Strange?” echoed the doctor. “Blathers and Duff, themselves, could + +make nothing of it.” + + + +Notwithstanding the evidently useless nature of their search, they did + +not desist until the coming on of night rendered its further + +prosecution hopeless; and even then, they gave it up with reluctance. + +Giles was dispatched to the different ale-houses in the village, + +furnished with the best description Oliver could give of the appearance + +and dress of the strangers. Of these, the Jew was, at all events, + +sufficiently remarkable to be remembered, supposing he had been seen + +drinking, or loitering about; but Giles returned without any + +intelligence, calculated to dispel or lessen the mystery. + + + +On the next day, fresh search was made, and the inquiries renewed; but + +with no better success. On the day following, Oliver and Mr. Maylie + +repaired to the market-town, in the hope of seeing or hearing something + +of the men there; but this effort was equally fruitless. After a few + +days, the affair began to be forgotten, as most affairs are, when + +wonder, having no fresh food to support it, dies away of itself. + + + +Meanwhile, Rose was rapidly recovering. She had left her room: was able + +to go out; and mixing once more with the family, carried joy into the + +hearts of all. + + + +But, although this happy change had a visible effect on the little + +circle; and although cheerful voices and merry laughter were once more + +heard in the cottage; there was at times, an unwonted restraint upon + +some there: even upon Rose herself: which Oliver could not fail to + +remark. Mrs. Maylie and her son were often closeted together for a long + +time; and more than once Rose appeared with traces of tears upon her + +face. After Mr. Losberne had fixed a day for his departure to Chertsey, + +these symptoms increased; and it became evident that something was in + +progress which affected the peace of the young lady, and of somebody + +else besides. + + + +At length, one morning, when Rose was alone in the breakfast-parlour, + +Harry Maylie entered; and, with some hesitation, begged permission to + +speak with her for a few moments. + + + +“A few—a very few—will suffice, Rose,” said the young man, drawing his + +chair towards her. “What I shall have to say, has already presented + +itself to your mind; the most cherished hopes of my heart are not + +unknown to you, though from my lips you have not heard them stated.” + + + +Rose had been very pale from the moment of his entrance; but that might + +have been the effect of her recent illness. She merely bowed; and + +bending over some plants that stood near, waited in silence for him to + +proceed. + + + +“I—I—ought to have left here, before,” said Harry. + + + +“You should, indeed,” replied Rose. “Forgive me for saying so, but I + +wish you had.” + + + +“I was brought here, by the most dreadful and agonising of all + +apprehensions,” said the young man; “the fear of losing the one dear + +being on whom my every wish and hope are fixed. You had been dying; + +trembling between earth and heaven. We know that when the young, the + +beautiful, and good, are visited with sickness, their pure spirits + +insensibly turn towards their bright home of lasting rest; we know, + +Heaven help us! that the best and fairest of our kind, too often fade + +in blooming.” + + + +There were tears in the eyes of the gentle girl, as these words were + +spoken; and when one fell upon the flower over which she bent, and + +glistened brightly in its cup, making it more beautiful, it seemed as + +though the outpouring of her fresh young heart, claimed kindred + +naturally, with the loveliest things in nature. + + + +“A creature,” continued the young man, passionately, “a creature as + +fair and innocent of guile as one of God’s own angels, fluttered + +between life and death. Oh! who could hope, when the distant world to + +which she was akin, half opened to her view, that she would return to + +the sorrow and calamity of this! Rose, Rose, to know that you were + +passing away like some soft shadow, which a light from above, casts + +upon the earth; to have no hope that you would be spared to those who + +linger here; hardly to know a reason why you should be; to feel that + +you belonged to that bright sphere whither so many of the fairest and + +the best have winged their early flight; and yet to pray, amid all + +these consolations, that you might be restored to those who loved + +you—these were distractions almost too great to bear. They were mine, + +by day and night; and with them, came such a rushing torrent of fears, + +and apprehensions, and selfish regrets, lest you should die, and never + +know how devotedly I loved you, as almost bore down sense and reason in + +its course. You recovered. Day by day, and almost hour by hour, some + +drop of health came back, and mingling with the spent and feeble stream + +of life which circulated languidly within you, swelled it again to a + +high and rushing tide. I have watched you change almost from death, to + +life, with eyes that turned blind with their eagerness and deep + +affection. Do not tell me that you wish I had lost this; for it has + +softened my heart to all mankind.” + + + +“I did not mean that,” said Rose, weeping; “I only wish you had left + +here, that you might have turned to high and noble pursuits again; to + +pursuits well worthy of you.” + + + +“There is no pursuit more worthy of me: more worthy of the highest + +nature that exists: than the struggle to win such a heart as yours,” + +said the young man, taking her hand. “Rose, my own dear Rose! For + +years—for years—I have loved you; hoping to win my way to fame, and + +then come proudly home and tell you it had been pursued only for you to + +share; thinking, in my daydreams, how I would remind you, in that happy + +moment, of the many silent tokens I had given of a boy’s attachment, + +and claim your hand, as in redemption of some old mute contract that + +had been sealed between us! That time has not arrived; but here, with + +not fame won, and no young vision realised, I offer you the heart so + +long your own, and stake my all upon the words with which you greet the + +offer.” + + + +“Your behaviour has ever been kind and noble.” said Rose, mastering the + +emotions by which she was agitated. “As you believe that I am not + +insensible or ungrateful, so hear my answer.” + + + +“It is, that I may endeavour to deserve you; it is, dear Rose?” + + + +“It is,” replied Rose, “that you must endeavour to forget me; not as + +your old and dearly-attached companion, for that would wound me deeply; + +but, as the object of your love. Look into the world; think how many + +hearts you would be proud to gain, are there. Confide some other + +passion to me, if you will; I will be the truest, warmest, and most + +faithful friend you have.” + + + +There was a pause, during which, Rose, who had covered her face with + +one hand, gave free vent to her tears. Harry still retained the other. + + + +“And your reasons, Rose,” he said, at length, in a low voice; “your + +reasons for this decision?” + + + +“You have a right to know them,” rejoined Rose. “You can say nothing to + +alter my resolution. It is a duty that I must perform. I owe it, alike + +to others, and to myself.” + + + +“To yourself?” + + + +“Yes, Harry. I owe it to myself, that I, a friendless, portionless, + +girl, with a blight upon my name, should not give your friends reason + +to suspect that I had sordidly yielded to your first passion, and + +fastened myself, a clog, on all your hopes and projects. I owe it to + +you and yours, to prevent you from opposing, in the warmth of your + +generous nature, this great obstacle to your progress in the world.” + + + +“If your inclinations chime with your sense of duty—” Harry began. + + + +“They do not,” replied Rose, colouring deeply. + + + +“Then you return my love?” said Harry. “Say but that, dear Rose; say + +but that; and soften the bitterness of this hard disappointment!” + + + +“If I could have done so, without doing heavy wrong to him I loved,” + +rejoined Rose, “I could have—” + + + +“Have received this declaration very differently?” said Harry. “Do not + +conceal that from me, at least, Rose.” + + + +“I could,” said Rose. “Stay!” she added, disengaging her hand, “why + +should we prolong this painful interview? Most painful to me, and yet + +productive of lasting happiness, notwithstanding; for it _will_ be + +happiness to know that I once held the high place in your regard which + +I now occupy, and every triumph you achieve in life will animate me + +with new fortitude and firmness. Farewell, Harry! As we have met + +today, we meet no more; but in other relations than those in which + +this conversation have placed us, we may be long and happily entwined; + +and may every blessing that the prayers of a true and earnest heart can + +call down from the source of all truth and sincerity, cheer and prosper + +you!” + + + +“Another word, Rose,” said Harry. “Your reason in your own words. From + +your own lips, let me hear it!” + + + +“The prospect before you,” answered Rose, firmly, “is a brilliant one. + +All the honours to which great talents and powerful connections can + +help men in public life, are in store for you. But those connections + +are proud; and I will neither mingle with such as may hold in scorn the + +mother who gave me life; nor bring disgrace or failure on the son of + +her who has so well supplied that mother’s place. In a word,” said the + +young lady, turning away, as her temporary firmness forsook her, “there + +is a stain upon my name, which the world visits on innocent heads. I + +will carry it into no blood but my own; and the reproach shall rest + +alone on me.” + + + +“One word more, Rose. Dearest Rose! one more!” cried Harry, throwing + +himself before her. “If I had been less—less fortunate, the world would + +call it—if some obscure and peaceful life had been my destiny—if I had + +been poor, sick, helpless—would you have turned from me then? Or has my + +probable advancement to riches and honour, given this scruple birth?” + + + +“Do not press me to reply,” answered Rose. “The question does not + +arise, and never will. It is unfair, almost unkind, to urge it.” + + + +“If your answer be what I almost dare to hope it is,” retorted Harry, + +“it will shed a gleam of happiness upon my lonely way, and light the + +path before me. It is not an idle thing to do so much, by the utterance + +of a few brief words, for one who loves you beyond all else. Oh, Rose: + +in the name of my ardent and enduring attachment; in the name of all I + +have suffered for you, and all you doom me to undergo; answer me this + +one question!” + + + +“Then, if your lot had been differently cast,” rejoined Rose; “if you + +had been even a little, but not so far, above me; if I could have been + +a help and comfort to you in any humble scene of peace and retirement, + +and not a blot and drawback in ambitious and distinguished crowds; I + +should have been spared this trial. I have every reason to be happy, + +very happy, now; but then, Harry, I own I should have been happier.” + + + +Busy recollections of old hopes, cherished as a girl, long ago, crowded + +into the mind of Rose, while making this avowal; but they brought tears + +with them, as old hopes will when they come back withered; and they + +relieved her. + + + +“I cannot help this weakness, and it makes my purpose stronger,” said + +Rose, extending her hand. “I must leave you now, indeed.” + + + +“I ask one promise,” said Harry. “Once, and only once more,—say within + +a year, but it may be much sooner,—I may speak to you again on this + +subject, for the last time.” + + + +“Not to press me to alter my right determination,” replied Rose, with a + +melancholy smile; “it will be useless.” + + + +“No,” said Harry; “to hear you repeat it, if you will—finally repeat + +it! I will lay at your feet, whatever of station of fortune I may + +possess; and if you still adhere to your present resolution, will not + +seek, by word or act, to change it.” + + + +“Then let it be so,” rejoined Rose; “it is but one pang the more, and + +by that time I may be enabled to bear it better.” + + + +She extended her hand again. But the young man caught her to his bosom; + +and imprinting one kiss on her beautiful forehead, hurried from the + +room. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XXXVI. + +IS A VERY SHORT ONE, AND MAY APPEAR OF NO GREAT IMPORTANCE IN ITS + +PLACE, BUT IT SHOULD BE READ NOTWITHSTANDING, AS A SEQUEL TO THE LAST, + +AND A KEY TO ONE THAT WILL FOLLOW WHEN ITS TIME ARRIVES + + + + + +“And so you are resolved to be my travelling companion this morning; + +eh?” said the doctor, as Harry Maylie joined him and Oliver at the + +breakfast-table. “Why, you are not in the same mind or intention two + +half-hours together!” + + + +“You will tell me a different tale one of these days,” said Harry, + +colouring without any perceptible reason. + + + +“I hope I may have good cause to do so,” replied Mr. Losberne; “though + +I confess I don’t think I shall. But yesterday morning you had made up + +your mind, in a great hurry, to stay here, and to accompany your + +mother, like a dutiful son, to the sea-side. Before noon, you announce + +that you are going to do me the honour of accompanying me as far as I + +go, on your road to London. And at night, you urge me, with great + +mystery, to start before the ladies are stirring; the consequence of + +which is, that young Oliver here is pinned down to his breakfast when + +he ought to be ranging the meadows after botanical phenomena of all + +kinds. Too bad, isn’t it, Oliver?” + + + +“I should have been very sorry not to have been at home when you and + +Mr. Maylie went away, sir,” rejoined Oliver. + + + +“That’s a fine fellow,” said the doctor; “you shall come and see me + +when you return. But, to speak seriously, Harry; has any communication + +from the great nobs produced this sudden anxiety on your part to be + +gone?” + + + +“The great nobs,” replied Harry, “under which designation, I presume, + +you include my most stately uncle, have not communicated with me at + +all, since I have been here; nor, at this time of the year, is it + +likely that anything would occur to render necessary my immediate + +attendance among them.” + + + +“Well,” said the doctor, “you are a queer fellow. But of course they + +will get you into parliament at the election before Christmas, and + +these sudden shiftings and changes are no bad preparation for political + +life. There’s something in that. Good training is always desirable, + +whether the race be for place, cup, or sweepstakes.” + + + +Harry Maylie looked as if he could have followed up this short dialogue + +by one or two remarks that would have staggered the doctor not a + +little; but he contented himself with saying, “We shall see,” and + +pursued the subject no farther. The post-chaise drove up to the door + +shortly afterwards; and Giles coming in for the luggage, the good + +doctor bustled out, to see it packed. + + + +“Oliver,” said Harry Maylie, in a low voice, “let me speak a word with + +you.” + + + +Oliver walked into the window-recess to which Mr. Maylie beckoned him; + +much surprised at the mixture of sadness and boisterous spirits, which + +his whole behaviour displayed. + + + +“You can write well now?” said Harry, laying his hand upon his arm. + + + +“I hope so, sir,” replied Oliver. + + + +“I shall not be at home again, perhaps for some time; I wish you would + +write to me—say once a fort-night: every alternate Monday: to the + +General Post Office in London. Will you?” + + + +“Oh! certainly, sir; I shall be proud to do it,” exclaimed Oliver, + +greatly delighted with the commission. + + + +“I should like to know how—how my mother and Miss Maylie are,” said the + +young man; “and you can fill up a sheet by telling me what walks you + +take, and what you talk about, and whether she—they, I mean—seem happy + +and quite well. You understand me?” + + + +“Oh! quite, sir, quite,” replied Oliver. + + + +“I would rather you did not mention it to them,” said Harry, hurrying + +over his words; “because it might make my mother anxious to write to me + +oftener, and it is a trouble and worry to her. Let it be a secret + +between you and me; and mind you tell me everything! I depend upon + +you.” + + + +Oliver, quite elated and honoured by a sense of his importance, + +faithfully promised to be secret and explicit in his communications. + +Mr. Maylie took leave of him, with many assurances of his regard and + +protection. + + + +The doctor was in the chaise; Giles (who, it had been arranged, should + +be left behind) held the door open in his hand; and the women-servants + +were in the garden, looking on. Harry cast one slight glance at the + +latticed window, and jumped into the carriage. + + + +“Drive on!” he cried, “hard, fast, full gallop! Nothing short of flying + +will keep pace with me, today.” + + + +“Halloa!” cried the doctor, letting down the front glass in a great + +hurry, and shouting to the postillion; “something very short of flying + +will keep pace with _me_. Do you hear?” + + + +Jingling and clattering, till distance rendered its noise inaudible, + +and its rapid progress only perceptible to the eye, the vehicle wound + +its way along the road, almost hidden in a cloud of dust: now wholly + +disappearing, and now becoming visible again, as intervening objects, + +or the intricacies of the way, permitted. It was not until even the + +dusty cloud was no longer to be seen, that the gazers dispersed. + + + +And there was one looker-on, who remained with eyes fixed upon the spot + +where the carriage had disappeared, long after it was many miles away; + +for, behind the white curtain which had shrouded her from view when + +Harry raised his eyes towards the window, sat Rose herself. + + + +“He seems in high spirits and happy,” she said, at length. “I feared + +for a time he might be otherwise. I was mistaken. I am very, very + +glad.” + + + +Tears are signs of gladness as well as grief; but those which coursed + +down Rose’s face, as she sat pensively at the window, still gazing in + +the same direction, seemed to tell more of sorrow than of joy. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XXXVII. + +IN WHICH THE READER MAY PERCEIVE A CONTRAST, NOT UNCOMMON IN + +MATRIMONIAL CASES + + + + + +Mr. Bumble sat in the workhouse parlour, with his eyes moodily fixed on + +the cheerless grate, whence, as it was summer time, no brighter gleam + +proceeded, than the reflection of certain sickly rays of the sun, which + +were sent back from its cold and shining surface. A paper fly-cage + +dangled from the ceiling, to which he occasionally raised his eyes in + +gloomy thought; and, as the heedless insects hovered round the gaudy + +net-work, Mr. Bumble would heave a deep sigh, while a more gloomy + +shadow overspread his countenance. Mr. Bumble was meditating; it might + +be that the insects brought to mind, some painful passage in his own + +past life. + + + +Nor was Mr. Bumble’s gloom the only thing calculated to awaken a + +pleasing melancholy in the bosom of a spectator. There were not wanting + +other appearances, and those closely connected with his own person, + +which announced that a great change had taken place in the position of + +his affairs. The laced coat, and the cocked hat; where were they? He + +still wore knee-breeches, and dark cotton stockings on his nether + +limbs; but they were not _the_ breeches. The coat was wide-skirted; and + +in that respect like _the_ coat, but, oh how different! The mighty + +cocked hat was replaced by a modest round one. Mr. Bumble was no longer + +a beadle. + + + +There are some promotions in life, which, independent of the more + +substantial rewards they offer, require peculiar value and dignity from + +the coats and waistcoats connected with them. A field-marshal has his + +uniform; a bishop his silk apron; a counsellor his silk gown; a beadle + +his cocked hat. Strip the bishop of his apron, or the beadle of his hat + +and lace; what are they? Men. Mere men. Dignity, and even holiness too, + +sometimes, are more questions of coat and waistcoat than some people + +imagine. + + + +Mr. Bumble had married Mrs. Corney, and was master of the workhouse. + +Another beadle had come into power. On him the cocked hat, gold-laced + +coat, and staff, had all three descended. + + + +“And tomorrow two months it was done!” said Mr. Bumble, with a sigh. + +“It seems a age.” + + + +Mr. Bumble might have meant that he had concentrated a whole existence + +of happiness into the short space of eight weeks; but the sigh—there + +was a vast deal of meaning in the sigh. + + + +“I sold myself,” said Mr. Bumble, pursuing the same train of + +reflection, “for six teaspoons, a pair of sugar-tongs, and a milk-pot; + +with a small quantity of second-hand furniture, and twenty pound in + +money. I went very reasonable. Cheap, dirt cheap!” + + + +“Cheap!” cried a shrill voice in Mr. Bumble’s ear: “you would have been + +dear at any price; and dear enough I paid for you, Lord above knows + +that!” + + + +Mr. Bumble turned, and encountered the face of his interesting consort, + +who, imperfectly comprehending the few words she had overheard of his + +complaint, had hazarded the foregoing remark at a venture. + + + +“Mrs. Bumble, ma’am!” said Mr. Bumble, with a sentimental sternness. + + + +“Well!” cried the lady. + + + +“Have the goodness to look at me,” said Mr. Bumble, fixing his eyes + +upon her. + + + +“If she stands such a eye as that,” said Mr. Bumble to himself, “she + +can stand anything. It is a eye I never knew to fail with paupers. If + +it fails with her, my power is gone.” + + + +Whether an exceedingly small expansion of eye be sufficient to quell + +paupers, who, being lightly fed, are in no very high condition; or + +whether the late Mrs. Corney was particularly proof against eagle + +glances; are matters of opinion. The matter of fact, is, that the + +matron was in no way overpowered by Mr. Bumble’s scowl, but, on the + +contrary, treated it with great disdain, and even raised a laugh + +thereat, which sounded as though it were genuine. + + + +On hearing this most unexpected sound, Mr. Bumble looked, first + +incredulous, and afterwards amazed. He then relapsed into his former + +state; nor did he rouse himself until his attention was again awakened + +by the voice of his partner. + + + +“Are you going to sit snoring there, all day?” inquired Mrs. Bumble. + + + +“I am going to sit here, as long as I think proper, ma’am,” rejoined + +Mr. Bumble; “and although I was _not_ snoring, I shall snore, gape, + +sneeze, laugh, or cry, as the humour strikes me; such being my + +prerogative.” + + + +“_Your_ prerogative!” sneered Mrs. Bumble, with ineffable contempt. + + + +“I said the word, ma’am,” said Mr. Bumble. “The prerogative of a man is + +to command.” + + + +“And what’s the prerogative of a woman, in the name of Goodness?” cried + +the relict of Mr. Corney deceased. + + + +“To obey, ma’am,” thundered Mr. Bumble. “Your late unfortunate husband + +should have taught it you; and then, perhaps, he might have been alive + +now. I wish he was, poor man!” + + + +Mrs. Bumble, seeing at a glance, that the decisive moment had now + +arrived, and that a blow struck for the mastership on one side or + +other, must necessarily be final and conclusive, no sooner heard this + +allusion to the dead and gone, than she dropped into a chair, and with + +a loud scream that Mr. Bumble was a hard-hearted brute, fell into a + +paroxysm of tears. + + + +But, tears were not the things to find their way to Mr. Bumble’s soul; + +his heart was waterproof. Like washable beaver hats that improve with + +rain, his nerves were rendered stouter and more vigorous, by showers of + +tears, which, being tokens of weakness, and so far tacit admissions of + +his own power, pleased and exalted him. He eyed his good lady with + +looks of great satisfaction, and begged, in an encouraging manner, that + +she should cry her hardest: the exercise being looked upon, by the + +faculty, as strongly conducive to health. + + + +“It opens the lungs, washes the countenance, exercises the eyes, and + +softens down the temper,” said Mr. Bumble. “So cry away.” + + + +As he discharged himself of this pleasantry, Mr. Bumble took his hat + +from a peg, and putting it on, rather rakishly, on one side, as a man + +might, who felt he had asserted his superiority in a becoming manner, + +thrust his hands into his pockets, and sauntered towards the door, with + +much ease and waggishness depicted in his whole appearance. + + + +Now, Mrs. Corney that was, had tried the tears, because they were less + +troublesome than a manual assault; but, she was quite prepared to make + +trial of the latter mode of proceeding, as Mr. Bumble was not long in + +discovering. + + + +The first proof he experienced of the fact, was conveyed in a hollow + +sound, immediately succeeded by the sudden flying off of his hat to the + +opposite end of the room. This preliminary proceeding laying bare his + +head, the expert lady, clasping him tightly round the throat with one + +hand, inflicted a shower of blows (dealt with singular vigour and + +dexterity) upon it with the other. This done, she created a little + +variety by scratching his face, and tearing his hair; and, having, by + +this time, inflicted as much punishment as she deemed necessary for the + +offence, she pushed him over a chair, which was luckily well situated + +for the purpose: and defied him to talk about his prerogative again, if + +he dared. + + + +“Get up!” said Mrs. Bumble, in a voice of command. “And take yourself + +away from here, unless you want me to do something desperate.” + + + +Mr. Bumble rose with a very rueful countenance: wondering much what + +something desperate might be. Picking up his hat, he looked towards the + +door. + + + +“Are you going?” demanded Mrs. Bumble. + + + +“Certainly, my dear, certainly,” rejoined Mr. Bumble, making a quicker + +motion towards the door. “I didn’t intend to—I’m going, my dear! You + +are so very violent, that really I—” + + + +At this instant, Mrs. Bumble stepped hastily forward to replace the + +carpet, which had been kicked up in the scuffle. Mr. Bumble immediately + +darted out of the room, without bestowing another thought on his + +unfinished sentence: leaving the late Mrs. Corney in full possession of + +the field. + + + +Mr. Bumble was fairly taken by surprise, and fairly beaten. He had a + +decided propensity for bullying: derived no inconsiderable pleasure + +from the exercise of petty cruelty; and, consequently, was (it is + +needless to say) a coward. This is by no means a disparagement to his + +character; for many official personages, who are held in high respect + +and admiration, are the victims of similar infirmities. The remark is + +made, indeed, rather in his favour than otherwise, and with a view of + +impressing the reader with a just sense of his qualifications for + +office. + + + +But, the measure of his degradation was not yet full. After making a + +tour of the house, and thinking, for the first time, that the poor-laws + +really were too hard on people; and that men who ran away from their + +wives, leaving them chargeable to the parish, ought, in justice to be + +visited with no punishment at all, but rather rewarded as meritorious + +individuals who had suffered much; Mr. Bumble came to a room where some + +of the female paupers were usually employed in washing the parish + +linen: when the sound of voices in conversation, now proceeded. + + + +“Hem!” said Mr. Bumble, summoning up all his native dignity. “These + +women at least shall continue to respect the prerogative. Hallo! hallo + +there! What do you mean by this noise, you hussies?” + + + +With these words, Mr. Bumble opened the door, and walked in with a very + +fierce and angry manner: which was at once exchanged for a most + +humiliated and cowering air, as his eyes unexpectedly rested on the + +form of his lady wife. + + + +“My dear,” said Mr. Bumble, “I didn’t know you were here.” + + + +“Didn’t know I was here!” repeated Mrs. Bumble. “What do _you_ do + +here?” + + + +“I thought they were talking rather too much to be doing their work + +properly, my dear,” replied Mr. Bumble: glancing distractedly at a + +couple of old women at the wash-tub, who were comparing notes of + +admiration at the workhouse-master’s humility. + + + +“_You_ thought they were talking too much?” said Mrs. Bumble. “What + +business is it of yours?” + + + +“Why, my dear—” urged Mr. Bumble submissively. + + + +“What business is it of yours?” demanded Mrs. Bumble, again. + + + +“It’s very true, you’re matron here, my dear,” submitted Mr. Bumble; + +“but I thought you mightn’t be in the way just then.” + + + +“I’ll tell you what, Mr. Bumble,” returned his lady. “We don’t want any + +of your interference. You’re a great deal too fond of poking your nose + +into things that don’t concern you, making everybody in the house + +laugh, the moment your back is turned, and making yourself look like a + +fool every hour in the day. Be off; come!” + + + +Mr. Bumble, seeing with excruciating feelings, the delight of the two + +old paupers, who were tittering together most rapturously, hesitated + +for an instant. Mrs. Bumble, whose patience brooked no delay, caught up + +a bowl of soap-suds, and motioning him towards the door, ordered him + +instantly to depart, on pain of receiving the contents upon his portly + +person. + + + +What could Mr. Bumble do? He looked dejectedly round, and slunk away; + +and, as he reached the door, the titterings of the paupers broke into a + +shrill chuckle of irrepressible delight. It wanted but this. He was + +degraded in their eyes; he had lost caste and station before the very + +paupers; he had fallen from all the height and pomp of beadleship, to + +the lowest depth of the most snubbed hen-peckery. + + + +“All in two months!” said Mr. Bumble, filled with dismal thoughts. “Two + +months! No more than two months ago, I was not only my own master, but + +everybody else’s, so far as the porochial workhouse was concerned, and + +now!—” + + + +It was too much. Mr. Bumble boxed the ears of the boy who opened the + +gate for him (for he had reached the portal in his reverie); and + +walked, distractedly, into the street. + + + +He walked up one street, and down another, until exercise had abated + +the first passion of his grief; and then the revulsion of feeling made + +him thirsty. He passed a great many public-houses; but, at length + +paused before one in a by-way, whose parlour, as he gathered from a + +hasty peep over the blinds, was deserted, save by one solitary + +customer. It began to rain, heavily, at the moment. This determined + +him. Mr. Bumble stepped in; and ordering something to drink, as he + +passed the bar, entered the apartment into which he had looked from the + +street. + + + +The man who was seated there, was tall and dark, and wore a large + +cloak. He had the air of a stranger; and seemed, by a certain + +haggardness in his look, as well as by the dusty soils on his dress, to + +have travelled some distance. He eyed Bumble askance, as he entered, + +but scarcely deigned to nod his head in acknowledgment of his + +salutation. + + + +Mr. Bumble had quite dignity enough for two; supposing even that the + +stranger had been more familiar: so he drank his gin-and-water in + +silence, and read the paper with great show of pomp and circumstance. + + + +It so happened, however: as it will happen very often, when men fall + +into company under such circumstances: that Mr. Bumble felt, every now + +and then, a powerful inducement, which he could not resist, to steal a + +look at the stranger: and that whenever he did so, he withdrew his + +eyes, in some confusion, to find that the stranger was at that moment + +stealing a look at him. Mr. Bumble’s awkwardness was enhanced by the + +very remarkable expression of the stranger’s eye, which was keen and + +bright, but shadowed by a scowl of distrust and suspicion, unlike + +anything he had ever observed before, and repulsive to behold. + + + +When they had encountered each other’s glance several times in this + +way, the stranger, in a harsh, deep voice, broke silence. + + + +“Were you looking for me,” he said, “when you peered in at the window?” + + + +“Not that I am aware of, unless you’re Mr.—” Here Mr. Bumble stopped + +short; for he was curious to know the stranger’s name, and thought in + +his impatience, he might supply the blank. + + + +“I see you were not,” said the stranger; an expression of quiet sarcasm + +playing about his mouth; “or you have known my name. You don’t know it. + +I would recommend you not to ask for it.” + + + +“I meant no harm, young man,” observed Mr. Bumble, majestically. + + + +“And have done none,” said the stranger. + + + +Another silence succeeded this short dialogue: which was again broken + +by the stranger. + + + +“I have seen you before, I think?” said he. “You were differently + +dressed at that time, and I only passed you in the street, but I should + +know you again. You were beadle here, once; were you not?” + + + +“I was,” said Mr. Bumble, in some surprise; “porochial beadle.” + + + +“Just so,” rejoined the other, nodding his head. “It was in that + +character I saw you. What are you now?” + + + +“Master of the workhouse,” rejoined Mr. Bumble, slowly and + +impressively, to check any undue familiarity the stranger might + +otherwise assume. “Master of the workhouse, young man!” + + + +“You have the same eye to your own interest, that you always had, I + +doubt not?” resumed the stranger, looking keenly into Mr. Bumble’s + +eyes, as he raised them in astonishment at the question. + + + +“Don’t scruple to answer freely, man. I know you pretty well, you see.” + + + +“I suppose, a married man,” replied Mr. Bumble, shading his eyes with + +his hand, and surveying the stranger, from head to foot, in evident + +perplexity, “is not more averse to turning an honest penny when he can, + +than a single one. Porochial officers are not so well paid that they + +can afford to refuse any little extra fee, when it comes to them in a + +civil and proper manner.” + + + +The stranger smiled, and nodded his head again: as much to say, he had + +not mistaken his man; then rang the bell. + + + +“Fill this glass again,” he said, handing Mr. Bumble’s empty tumbler to + +the landlord. “Let it be strong and hot. You like it so, I suppose?” + + + +“Not too strong,” replied Mr. Bumble, with a delicate cough. + + + +“You understand what that means, landlord!” said the stranger, drily. + + + +The host smiled, disappeared, and shortly afterwards returned with a + +steaming jorum: of which, the first gulp brought the water into Mr. + +Bumble’s eyes. + + + +“Now listen to me,” said the stranger, after closing the door and + +window. “I came down to this place, today, to find you out; and, by + +one of those chances which the devil throws in the way of his friends + +sometimes, you walked into the very room I was sitting in, while you + +were uppermost in my mind. I want some information from you. I don’t + +ask you to give it for nothing, slight as it is. Put up that, to begin + +with.” + + + +As he spoke, he pushed a couple of sovereigns across the table to his + +companion, carefully, as though unwilling that the chinking of money + +should be heard without. When Mr. Bumble had scrupulously examined the + +coins, to see that they were genuine, and had put them up, with much + +satisfaction, in his waistcoat-pocket, he went on: + + + +“Carry your memory back—let me see—twelve years, last winter.” + + + +“It’s a long time,” said Mr. Bumble. “Very good. I’ve done it.” + + + +“The scene, the workhouse.” + + + +“Good!” + + + +“And the time, night.” + + + +“Yes.” + + + +“And the place, the crazy hole, wherever it was, in which miserable + +drabs brought forth the life and health so often denied to + +themselves—gave birth to puling children for the parish to rear; and + +hid their shame, rot ’em in the grave!” + + + +“The lying-in room, I suppose?” said Mr. Bumble, not quite following + +the stranger’s excited description. + + + +“Yes,” said the stranger. “A boy was born there.” + + + +“A many boys,” observed Mr. Bumble, shaking his head, despondingly. + + + +“A murrain on the young devils!” cried the stranger; “I speak of one; a + +meek-looking, pale-faced boy, who was apprenticed down here, to a + +coffin-maker—I wish he had made his coffin, and screwed his body in + +it—and who afterwards ran away to London, as it was supposed.” + + + +“Why, you mean Oliver! Young Twist!” said Mr. Bumble; “I remember him, + +of course. There wasn’t a obstinater young rascal—” + + + +“It’s not of him I want to hear; I’ve heard enough of him,” said the + +stranger, stopping Mr. Bumble in the outset of a tirade on the subject + +of poor Oliver’s vices. “It’s of a woman; the hag that nursed his + +mother. Where is she?” + + + +“Where is she?” said Mr. Bumble, whom the gin-and-water had rendered + +facetious. “It would be hard to tell. There’s no midwifery there, + +whichever place she’s gone to; so I suppose she’s out of employment, + +anyway.” + + + +“What do you mean?” demanded the stranger, sternly. + + + +“That she died last winter,” rejoined Mr. Bumble. + + + +The man looked fixedly at him when he had given this information, and + +although he did not withdraw his eyes for some time afterwards, his + +gaze gradually became vacant and abstracted, and he seemed lost in + +thought. For some time, he appeared doubtful whether he ought to be + +relieved or disappointed by the intelligence; but at length he breathed + +more freely; and withdrawing his eyes, observed that it was no great + +matter. With that he rose, as if to depart. + + + +But Mr. Bumble was cunning enough; and he at once saw that an + +opportunity was opened, for the lucrative disposal of some secret in + +the possession of his better half. He well remembered the night of old + +Sally’s death, which the occurrences of that day had given him good + +reason to recollect, as the occasion on which he had proposed to Mrs. + +Corney; and although that lady had never confided to him the disclosure + +of which she had been the solitary witness, he had heard enough to know + +that it related to something that had occurred in the old woman’s + +attendance, as workhouse nurse, upon the young mother of Oliver Twist. + +Hastily calling this circumstance to mind, he informed the stranger, + +with an air of mystery, that one woman had been closeted with the old + +harridan shortly before she died; and that she could, as he had reason + +to believe, throw some light on the subject of his inquiry. + + + +“How can I find her?” said the stranger, thrown off his guard; and + +plainly showing that all his fears (whatever they were) were aroused + +afresh by the intelligence. + + + +“Only through me,” rejoined Mr. Bumble. + + + +“When?” cried the stranger, hastily. + + + +“Tomorrow,” rejoined Bumble. + + + +“At nine in the evening,” said the stranger, producing a scrap of + +paper, and writing down upon it, an obscure address by the water-side, + +in characters that betrayed his agitation; “at nine in the evening, + +bring her to me there. I needn’t tell you to be secret. It’s your + +interest.” + + + +With these words, he led the way to the door, after stopping to pay for + +the liquor that had been drunk. Shortly remarking that their roads were + +different, he departed, without more ceremony than an emphatic + +repetition of the hour of appointment for the following night. + + + +On glancing at the address, the parochial functionary observed that it + +contained no name. The stranger had not gone far, so he made after him + +to ask it. + + + +“What do you want?” cried the man, turning quickly round, as Bumble + +touched him on the arm. “Following me?” + + + +“Only to ask a question,” said the other, pointing to the scrap of + +paper. “What name am I to ask for?” + + + +“Monks!” rejoined the man; and strode hastily away. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XXXVIII. + +CONTAINING AN ACCOUNT OF WHAT PASSED BETWEEN MR. AND MRS. BUMBLE, AND + +MR. MONKS, AT THEIR NOCTURNAL INTERVIEW + + + + + +It was a dull, close, overcast summer evening. The clouds, which had + +been threatening all day, spread out in a dense and sluggish mass of + +vapour, already yielded large drops of rain, and seemed to presage a + +violent thunder-storm, when Mr. and Mrs. Bumble, turning out of the + +main street of the town, directed their course towards a scattered + +little colony of ruinous houses, distant from it some mile and a-half, + +or thereabouts, and erected on a low unwholesome swamp, bordering upon + +the river. + + + +They were both wrapped in old and shabby outer garments, which might, + +perhaps, serve the double purpose of protecting their persons from the + +rain, and sheltering them from observation. The husband carried a + +lantern, from which, however, no light yet shone; and trudged on, a few + +paces in front, as though—the way being dirty—to give his wife the + +benefit of treading in his heavy footprints. They went on, in profound + +silence; every now and then, Mr. Bumble relaxed his pace, and turned + +his head as if to make sure that his helpmate was following; then, + +discovering that she was close at his heels, he mended his rate of + +walking, and proceeded, at a considerable increase of speed, towards + +their place of destination. + + + +This was far from being a place of doubtful character; for it had long + +been known as the residence of none but low ruffians, who, under + +various pretences of living by their labour, subsisted chiefly on + +plunder and crime. It was a collection of mere hovels: some, hastily + +built with loose bricks: others, of old worm-eaten ship-timber: jumbled + +together without any attempt at order or arrangement, and planted, for + +the most part, within a few feet of the river’s bank. A few leaky boats + +drawn up on the mud, and made fast to the dwarf wall which skirted it: + +and here and there an oar or coil of rope: appeared, at first, to + +indicate that the inhabitants of these miserable cottages pursued some + +avocation on the river; but a glance at the shattered and useless + +condition of the articles thus displayed, would have led a passer-by, + +without much difficulty, to the conjecture that they were disposed + +there, rather for the preservation of appearances, than with any view + +to their being actually employed. + + + +In the heart of this cluster of huts; and skirting the river, which its + +upper stories overhung; stood a large building, formerly used as a + +manufactory of some kind. It had, in its day, probably furnished + +employment to the inhabitants of the surrounding tenements. But it had + +long since gone to ruin. The rat, the worm, and the action of the damp, + +had weakened and rotted the piles on which it stood; and a considerable + +portion of the building had already sunk down into the water; while the + +remainder, tottering and bending over the dark stream, seemed to wait a + +favourable opportunity of following its old companion, and involving + +itself in the same fate. + + + +It was before this ruinous building that the worthy couple paused, as + +the first peal of distant thunder reverberated in the air, and the rain + +commenced pouring violently down. + + + +“The place should be somewhere here,” said Bumble, consulting a scrap + +of paper he held in his hand. + + + +“Halloa there!” cried a voice from above. + + + +Following the sound, Mr. Bumble raised his head and descried a man + +looking out of a door, breast-high, on the second story. + + + +“Stand still, a minute,” cried the voice; “I’ll be with you directly.” + +With which the head disappeared, and the door closed. + + + +“Is that the man?” asked Mr. Bumble’s good lady. + + + +Mr. Bumble nodded in the affirmative. + + + +“Then, mind what I told you,” said the matron: “and be careful to say + +as little as you can, or you’ll betray us at once.” + + + +Mr. Bumble, who had eyed the building with very rueful looks, was + +apparently about to express some doubts relative to the advisability of + +proceeding any further with the enterprise just then, when he was + +prevented by the appearance of Monks: who opened a small door, near + +which they stood, and beckoned them inwards. + + + +“Come in!” he cried impatiently, stamping his foot upon the ground. + +“Don’t keep me here!” + + + +The woman, who had hesitated at first, walked boldly in, without any + +other invitation. Mr. Bumble, who was ashamed or afraid to lag behind, + +followed: obviously very ill at ease and with scarcely any of that + +remarkable dignity which was usually his chief characteristic. + + + +“What the devil made you stand lingering there, in the wet?” said + +Monks, turning round, and addressing Bumble, after he had bolted the + +door behind them. + + + +“We—we were only cooling ourselves,” stammered Bumble, looking + +apprehensively about him. + + + +“Cooling yourselves!” retorted Monks. “Not all the rain that ever fell, + +or ever will fall, will put as much of hell’s fire out, as a man can + +carry about with him. You won’t cool yourself so easily; don’t think + +it!” + + + +With this agreeable speech, Monks turned short upon the matron, and + +bent his gaze upon her, till even she, who was not easily cowed, was + +fain to withdraw her eyes, and turn them towards the ground. + + + +“This is the woman, is it?” demanded Monks. + + + +“Hem! That is the woman,” replied Mr. Bumble, mindful of his wife’s + +caution. + + + +“You think women never can keep secrets, I suppose?” said the matron, + +interposing, and returning, as she spoke, the searching look of Monks. + + + +“I know they will always keep _one_ till it’s found out,” said Monks. + + + +“And what may that be?” asked the matron. + + + +“The loss of their own good name,” replied Monks. “So, by the same + +rule, if a woman’s a party to a secret that might hang or transport + +her, I’m not afraid of her telling it to anybody; not I! Do you + +understand, mistress?” + + + +“No,” rejoined the matron, slightly colouring as she spoke. + + + +“Of course you don’t!” said Monks. “How should you?” + + + +Bestowing something half-way between a smile and a frown upon his two + +companions, and again beckoning them to follow him, the man hastened + +across the apartment, which was of considerable extent, but low in the + +roof. He was preparing to ascend a steep staircase, or rather ladder, + +leading to another floor of warehouses above: when a bright flash of + +lightning streamed down the aperture, and a peal of thunder followed, + +which shook the crazy building to its centre. + + + +“Hear it!” he cried, shrinking back. “Hear it! Rolling and crashing on + +as if it echoed through a thousand caverns where the devils were hiding + +from it. I hate the sound!” + + + +He remained silent for a few moments; and then, removing his hands + +suddenly from his face, showed, to the unspeakable discomposure of Mr. + +Bumble, that it was much distorted and discoloured. + + + +“These fits come over me, now and then,” said Monks, observing his + +alarm; “and thunder sometimes brings them on. Don’t mind me now; it’s + +all over for this once.” + + + +Thus speaking, he led the way up the ladder; and hastily closing the + +window-shutter of the room into which it led, lowered a lantern which + +hung at the end of a rope and pulley passed through one of the heavy + +beams in the ceiling: and which cast a dim light upon an old table and + +three chairs that were placed beneath it. + + + +“Now,” said Monks, when they had all three seated themselves, “the + +sooner we come to our business, the better for all. The woman know what + +it is, does she?” + + + +The question was addressed to Bumble; but his wife anticipated the + +reply, by intimating that she was perfectly acquainted with it. + + + +“He is right in saying that you were with this hag the night she died; + +and that she told you something—” + + + +“About the mother of the boy you named,” replied the matron + +interrupting him. “Yes.” + + + +“The first question is, of what nature was her communication?” said + +Monks. + + + +“That’s the second,” observed the woman with much deliberation. “The + +first is, what may the communication be worth?” + + + +“Who the devil can tell that, without knowing of what kind it is?” + +asked Monks. + + + +“Nobody better than you, I am persuaded,” answered Mrs. Bumble: who did + +not want for spirit, as her yoke-fellow could abundantly testify. + + + +“Humph!” said Monks significantly, and with a look of eager inquiry; + +“there may be money’s worth to get, eh?” + + + +“Perhaps there may,” was the composed reply. + + + +“Something that was taken from her,” said Monks. “Something that she + +wore. Something that—” + + + +“You had better bid,” interrupted Mrs. Bumble. “I have heard enough, + +already, to assure me that you are the man I ought to talk to.” + + + +Mr. Bumble, who had not yet been admitted by his better half into any + +greater share of the secret than he had originally possessed, listened + +to this dialogue with outstretched neck and distended eyes: which he + +directed towards his wife and Monks, by turns, in undisguised + +astonishment; increased, if possible, when the latter sternly demanded, + +what sum was required for the disclosure. + + + +“What’s it worth to you?” asked the woman, as collectedly as before. + + + +“It may be nothing; it may be twenty pounds,” replied Monks. “Speak + +out, and let me know which.” + + + +“Add five pounds to the sum you have named; give me five-and-twenty + +pounds in gold,” said the woman; “and I’ll tell you all I know. Not + +before.” + + + +“Five-and-twenty pounds!” exclaimed Monks, drawing back. + + + +“I spoke as plainly as I could,” replied Mrs. Bumble. “It’s not a large + +sum, either.” + + + +“Not a large sum for a paltry secret, that may be nothing when it’s + +told!” cried Monks impatiently; “and which has been lying dead for + +twelve years past or more!” + + + +“Such matters keep well, and, like good wine, often double their value + +in course of time,” answered the matron, still preserving the resolute + +indifference she had assumed. “As to lying dead, there are those who + +will lie dead for twelve thousand years to come, or twelve million, for + +anything you or I know, who will tell strange tales at last!” + + + +“What if I pay it for nothing?” asked Monks, hesitating. + + + +“You can easily take it away again,” replied the matron. “I am but a + +woman; alone here; and unprotected.” + + + +“Not alone, my dear, nor unprotected, neither,” submitted Mr. Bumble, + +in a voice tremulous with fear: “_I_ am here, my dear. And besides,” + +said Mr. Bumble, his teeth chattering as he spoke, “Mr. Monks is too + +much of a gentleman to attempt any violence on porochial persons. Mr. + +Monks is aware that I am not a young man, my dear, and also that I am a + +little run to seed, as I may say; but he has heerd: I say I have no + +doubt Mr. Monks has heerd, my dear: that I am a very determined + +officer, with very uncommon strength, if I’m once roused. I only want a + +little rousing; that’s all.” + + + +As Mr. Bumble spoke, he made a melancholy feint of grasping his lantern + +with fierce determination; and plainly showed, by the alarmed + +expression of every feature, that he _did_ want a little rousing, and + +not a little, prior to making any very warlike demonstration: unless, + +indeed, against paupers, or other person or persons trained down for + +the purpose. + + + +“You are a fool,” said Mrs. Bumble, in reply; “and had better hold your + +tongue.” + + + +“He had better have cut it out, before he came, if he can’t speak in a + +lower tone,” said Monks, grimly. “So! He’s your husband, eh?” + + + +“He my husband!” tittered the matron, parrying the question. + + + +“I thought as much, when you came in,” rejoined Monks, marking the + +angry glance which the lady darted at her spouse as she spoke. “So much + +the better; I have less hesitation in dealing with two people, when I + +find that there’s only one will between them. I’m in earnest. See + +here!” + + + +He thrust his hand into a side-pocket; and producing a canvas bag, told + +out twenty-five sovereigns on the table, and pushed them over to the + +woman. + + + +“Now,” he said, “gather them up; and when this cursed peal of thunder, + +which I feel is coming up to break over the house-top, is gone, let’s + +hear your story.” + + + +The thunder, which seemed in fact much nearer, and to shiver and break + +almost over their heads, having subsided, Monks, raising his face from + +the table, bent forward to listen to what the woman should say. The + +faces of the three nearly touched, as the two men leant over the small + +table in their eagerness to hear, and the woman also leant forward to + +render her whisper audible. The sickly rays of the suspended lantern + +falling directly upon them, aggravated the paleness and anxiety of + +their countenances: which, encircled by the deepest gloom and darkness, + +looked ghastly in the extreme. + + + +“When this woman, that we called old Sally, died,” the matron began, + +“she and I were alone.” + + + +“Was there no one by?” asked Monks, in the same hollow whisper; “No + +sick wretch or idiot in some other bed? No one who could hear, and + +might, by possibility, understand?” + + + +“Not a soul,” replied the woman; “we were alone. _I_ stood alone beside + +the body when death came over it.” + + + +“Good,” said Monks, regarding her attentively. “Go on.” + + + +“She spoke of a young creature,” resumed the matron, “who had brought a + +child into the world some years before; not merely in the same room, + +but in the same bed, in which she then lay dying.” + + + +“Ay?” said Monks, with quivering lip, and glancing over his shoulder, + +“Blood! How things come about!” + + + +“The child was the one you named to him last night,” said the matron, + +nodding carelessly towards her husband; “the mother this nurse had + +robbed.” + + + +“In life?” asked Monks. + + + +“In death,” replied the woman, with something like a shudder. “She + +stole from the corpse, when it had hardly turned to one, that which the + +dead mother had prayed her, with her last breath, to keep for the + +infant’s sake.” + + + +“She sold it,” cried Monks, with desperate eagerness; “did she sell it? + +Where? When? To whom? How long before?” + + + +“As she told me, with great difficulty, that she had done this,” said + +the matron, “she fell back and died.” + + + +“Without saying more?” cried Monks, in a voice which, from its very + +suppression, seemed only the more furious. “It’s a lie! I’ll not be + +played with. She said more. I’ll tear the life out of you both, but + +I’ll know what it was.” + + + +“She didn’t utter another word,” said the woman, to all appearance + +unmoved (as Mr. Bumble was very far from being) by the strange man’s + +violence; “but she clutched my gown, violently, with one hand, which + +was partly closed; and when I saw that she was dead, and so removed the + +hand by force, I found it clasped a scrap of dirty paper.” + + + +“Which contained—” interposed Monks, stretching forward. + + + +“Nothing,” replied the woman; “it was a pawnbroker’s duplicate.” + + + +“For what?” demanded Monks. + + + +“In good time I’ll tell you.” said the woman. “I judge that she had + +kept the trinket, for some time, in the hope of turning it to better + +account; and then had pawned it; and had saved or scraped together + +money to pay the pawnbroker’s interest year by year, and prevent its + +running out; so that if anything came of it, it could still be + +redeemed. Nothing had come of it; and, as I tell you, she died with the + +scrap of paper, all worn and tattered, in her hand. The time was out in + +two days; I thought something might one day come of it too; and so + +redeemed the pledge.” + + + +“Where is it now?” asked Monks quickly. + + + +“_There_,” replied the woman. And, as if glad to be relieved of it, she + +hastily threw upon the table a small kid bag scarcely large enough for + +a French watch, which Monks pouncing upon, tore open with trembling + +hands. It contained a little gold locket: in which were two locks of + +hair, and a plain gold wedding-ring. + + + +“It has the word ‘Agnes’ engraved on the inside,” said the woman. + + + +“There is a blank left for the surname; and then follows the date; + +which is within a year before the child was born. I found out that.” + + + +“And this is all?” said Monks, after a close and eager scrutiny of the + +contents of the little packet. + + + +“All,” replied the woman. + + + +Mr. Bumble drew a long breath, as if he were glad to find that the + +story was over, and no mention made of taking the five-and-twenty + +pounds back again; and now he took courage to wipe the perspiration + +which had been trickling over his nose, unchecked, during the whole of + +the previous dialogue. + + + +“I know nothing of the story, beyond what I can guess at,” said his + +wife addressing Monks, after a short silence; “and I want to know + +nothing; for it’s safer not. But I may ask you two questions, may I?” + + + +“You may ask,” said Monks, with some show of surprise; “but whether I + +answer or not is another question.” + + + +“—Which makes three,” observed Mr. Bumble, essaying a stroke of + +facetiousness. + + + +“Is that what you expected to get from me?” demanded the matron. + + + +“It is,” replied Monks. “The other question?” + + + +“What do you propose to do with it? Can it be used against me?” + + + +“Never,” rejoined Monks; “nor against me either. See here! But don’t + +move a step forward, or your life is not worth a bulrush.” + + + +With these words, he suddenly wheeled the table aside, and pulling an + +iron ring in the boarding, threw back a large trap-door which opened + +close at Mr. Bumble’s feet, and caused that gentleman to retire several + +paces backward, with great precipitation. + + + +“Look down,” said Monks, lowering the lantern into the gulf. “Don’t + +fear me. I could have let you down, quietly enough, when you were + +seated over it, if that had been my game.” + + + +Thus encouraged, the matron drew near to the brink; and even Mr. Bumble + +himself, impelled by curiousity, ventured to do the same. The turbid + +water, swollen by the heavy rain, was rushing rapidly on below; and all + +other sounds were lost in the noise of its plashing and eddying against + +the green and slimy piles. There had once been a water-mill beneath; + +the tide foaming and chafing round the few rotten stakes, and fragments + +of machinery that yet remained, seemed to dart onward, with a new + +impulse, when freed from the obstacles which had unavailingly attempted + +to stem its headlong course. + + + +“If you flung a man’s body down there, where would it be tomorrow + +morning?” said Monks, swinging the lantern to and fro in the dark well. + + + +“Twelve miles down the river, and cut to pieces besides,” replied + +Bumble, recoiling at the thought. + + + +Monks drew the little packet from his breast, where he had hurriedly + +thrust it; and tying it to a leaden weight, which had formed a part of + +some pulley, and was lying on the floor, dropped it into the stream. It + +fell straight, and true as a die; clove the water with a scarcely + +audible splash; and was gone. + + + +The three looking into each other’s faces, seemed to breathe more + +freely. + + + +“There!” said Monks, closing the trap-door, which fell heavily back + +into its former position. “If the sea ever gives up its dead, as books + +say it will, it will keep its gold and silver to itself, and that trash + +among it. We have nothing more to say, and may break up our pleasant + +party.” + + + +“By all means,” observed Mr. Bumble, with great alacrity. + + + +“You’ll keep a quiet tongue in your head, will you?” said Monks, with a + +threatening look. “I am not afraid of your wife.” + + + +“You may depend upon me, young man,” answered Mr. Bumble, bowing + +himself gradually towards the ladder, with excessive politeness. “On + +everybody’s account, young man; on my own, you know, Mr. Monks.” + + + +“I am glad, for your sake, to hear it,” remarked Monks. “Light your + +lantern! And get away from here as fast as you can.” + + + +It was fortunate that the conversation terminated at this point, or Mr. + +Bumble, who had bowed himself to within six inches of the ladder, would + +infallibly have pitched headlong into the room below. He lighted his + +lantern from that which Monks had detached from the rope, and now + +carried in his hand; and making no effort to prolong the discourse, + +descended in silence, followed by his wife. Monks brought up the rear, + +after pausing on the steps to satisfy himself that there were no other + +sounds to be heard than the beating of the rain without, and the + +rushing of the water. + + + +They traversed the lower room, slowly, and with caution; for Monks + +started at every shadow; and Mr. Bumble, holding his lantern a foot + +above the ground, walked not only with remarkable care, but with a + +marvellously light step for a gentleman of his figure: looking + +nervously about him for hidden trap-doors. The gate at which they had + +entered, was softly unfastened and opened by Monks; merely exchanging a + +nod with their mysterious acquaintance, the married couple emerged into + +the wet and darkness outside. + + + +They were no sooner gone, than Monks, who appeared to entertain an + +invincible repugnance to being left alone, called to a boy who had been + +hidden somewhere below. Bidding him go first, and bear the light, he + +returned to the chamber he had just quitted. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XXXIX. + +INTRODUCES SOME RESPECTABLE CHARACTERS WITH WHOM THE READER IS ALREADY + +ACQUAINTED, AND SHOWS HOW MONKS AND THE JEW LAID THEIR WORTHY HEADS + +TOGETHER + + + + + +On the evening following that upon which the three worthies mentioned + +in the last chapter, disposed of their little matter of business as + +therein narrated, Mr. William Sikes, awakening from a nap, drowsily + +growled forth an inquiry what time of night it was. + + + +The room in which Mr. Sikes propounded this question, was not one of + +those he had tenanted, previous to the Chertsey expedition, although it + +was in the same quarter of the town, and was situated at no great + +distance from his former lodgings. It was not, in appearance, so + +desirable a habitation as his old quarters: being a mean and + +badly-furnished apartment, of very limited size; lighted only by one + +small window in the shelving roof, and abutting on a close and dirty + +lane. Nor were there wanting other indications of the good gentleman’s + +having gone down in the world of late: for a great scarcity of + +furniture, and total absence of comfort, together with the + +disappearance of all such small moveables as spare clothes and linen, + +bespoke a state of extreme poverty; while the meagre and attenuated + +condition of Mr. Sikes himself would have fully confirmed these + +symptoms, if they had stood in any need of corroboration. + + + +The housebreaker was lying on the bed, wrapped in his white great-coat, + +by way of dressing-gown, and displaying a set of features in no degree + +improved by the cadaverous hue of illness, and the addition of a soiled + +nightcap, and a stiff, black beard of a week’s growth. The dog sat at + +the bedside: now eyeing his master with a wistful look, and now + +pricking his ears, and uttering a low growl as some noise in the + +street, or in the lower part of the house, attracted his attention. + +Seated by the window, busily engaged in patching an old waistcoat which + +formed a portion of the robber’s ordinary dress, was a female: so pale + +and reduced with watching and privation, that there would have been + +considerable difficulty in recognising her as the same Nancy who has + +already figured in this tale, but for the voice in which she replied to + +Mr. Sikes’s question. + + + +“Not long gone seven,” said the girl. “How do you feel tonight, Bill?” + + + +“As weak as water,” replied Mr. Sikes, with an imprecation on his eyes + +and limbs. “Here; lend us a hand, and let me get off this thundering + +bed anyhow.” + + + +Illness had not improved Mr. Sikes’s temper; for, as the girl raised + +him up and led him to a chair, he muttered various curses on her + +awkwardness, and struck her. + + + +“Whining are you?” said Sikes. “Come! Don’t stand snivelling there. If + +you can’t do anything better than that, cut off altogether. D’ye hear + +me?” + + + +“I hear you,” replied the girl, turning her face aside, and forcing a + +laugh. “What fancy have you got in your head now?” + + + +“Oh! you’ve thought better of it, have you?” growled Sikes, marking the + +tear which trembled in her eye. “All the better for you, you have.” + + + +“Why, you don’t mean to say, you’d be hard upon me tonight, Bill,” + +said the girl, laying her hand upon his shoulder. + + + +“No!” cried Mr. Sikes. “Why not?” + + + +“Such a number of nights,” said the girl, with a touch of woman’s + +tenderness, which communicated something like sweetness of tone, even + +to her voice: “such a number of nights as I’ve been patient with you, + +nursing and caring for you, as if you had been a child: and this the + +first that I’ve seen you like yourself; you wouldn’t have served me as + +you did just now, if you’d thought of that, would you? Come, come; say + +you wouldn’t.” + + + +“Well, then,” rejoined Mr. Sikes, “I wouldn’t. Why, damme, now, the + +girls’s whining again!” + + + +“It’s nothing,” said the girl, throwing herself into a chair. “Don’t + +you seem to mind me. It’ll soon be over.” + + + +“What’ll be over?” demanded Mr. Sikes in a savage voice. “What foolery + +are you up to, now, again? Get up and bustle about, and don’t come over + +me with your woman’s nonsense.” + + + +At any other time, this remonstrance, and the tone in which it was + +delivered, would have had the desired effect; but the girl being really + +weak and exhausted, dropped her head over the back of the chair, and + +fainted, before Mr. Sikes could get out a few of the appropriate oaths + +with which, on similar occasions, he was accustomed to garnish his + +threats. Not knowing, very well, what to do, in this uncommon + +emergency; for Miss Nancy’s hysterics were usually of that violent kind + +which the patient fights and struggles out of, without much assistance; + +Mr. Sikes tried a little blasphemy: and finding that mode of treatment + +wholly ineffectual, called for assistance. + + + +“What’s the matter here, my dear?” said Fagin, looking in. + + + +“Lend a hand to the girl, can’t you?” replied Sikes impatiently. “Don’t + +stand chattering and grinning at me!” + + + +With an exclamation of surprise, Fagin hastened to the girl’s + +assistance, while Mr. John Dawkins (otherwise the Artful Dodger), who + +had followed his venerable friend into the room, hastily deposited on + +the floor a bundle with which he was laden; and snatching a bottle from + +the grasp of Master Charles Bates who came close at his heels, uncorked + +it in a twinkling with his teeth, and poured a portion of its contents + +down the patient’s throat: previously taking a taste, himself, to + +prevent mistakes. + + + +“Give her a whiff of fresh air with the bellows, Charley,” said Mr. + +Dawkins; “and you slap her hands, Fagin, while Bill undoes the + +petticuts.” + + + +These united restoratives, administered with great energy: especially + +that department consigned to Master Bates, who appeared to consider his + +share in the proceedings, a piece of unexampled pleasantry: were not + +long in producing the desired effect. The girl gradually recovered her + +senses; and, staggering to a chair by the bedside, hid her face upon + +the pillow: leaving Mr. Sikes to confront the new comers, in some + +astonishment at their unlooked-for appearance. + + + +“Why, what evil wind has blowed you here?” he asked Fagin. + + + +“No evil wind at all, my dear, for evil winds blow nobody any good; and + +I’ve brought something good with me, that you’ll be glad to see. + +Dodger, my dear, open the bundle; and give Bill the little trifles that + +we spent all our money on, this morning.” + + + +In compliance with Mr. Fagin’s request, the Artful untied this bundle, + +which was of large size, and formed of an old table-cloth; and handed + +the articles it contained, one by one, to Charley Bates: who placed + +them on the table, with various encomiums on their rarity and + +excellence. + + + +“Sitch a rabbit pie, Bill,” exclaimed that young gentleman, disclosing + +to view a huge pasty; “sitch delicate creeturs, with sitch tender + +limbs, Bill, that the wery bones melt in your mouth, and there’s no + +occasion to pick ’em; half a pound of seven and six-penny green, so + +precious strong that if you mix it with biling water, it’ll go nigh to + +blow the lid of the tea-pot off; a pound and a half of moist sugar that + +the niggers didn’t work at all at, afore they got it up to sitch a + +pitch of goodness,—oh no! Two half-quartern brans; pound of best fresh; + +piece of double Glo’ster; and, to wind up all, some of the richest sort + +you ever lushed!” + + + +Uttering this last panegyric, Master Bates produced, from one of his + +extensive pockets, a full-sized wine-bottle, carefully corked; while + +Mr. Dawkins, at the same instant, poured out a wine-glassful of raw + +spirits from the bottle he carried: which the invalid tossed down his + +throat without a moment’s hesitation. + + + +“Ah!” said Fagin, rubbing his hands with great satisfaction. “You’ll + +do, Bill; you’ll do now.” + + + +“Do!” exclaimed Mr. Sikes; “I might have been done for, twenty times + +over, afore you’d have done anything to help me. What do you mean by + +leaving a man in this state, three weeks and more, you false-hearted + +wagabond?” + + + +“Only hear him, boys!” said Fagin, shrugging his shoulders. “And us + +come to bring him all these beau-ti-ful things.” + + + +“The things is well enough in their way,” observed Mr. Sikes: a little + +soothed as he glanced over the table; “but what have you got to say for + +yourself, why you should leave me here, down in the mouth, health, + +blunt, and everything else; and take no more notice of me, all this + +mortal time, than if I was that ’ere dog.—Drive him down, Charley!” + + + +“I never see such a jolly dog as that,” cried Master Bates, doing as he + +was desired. “Smelling the grub like a old lady a going to market! He’d + +make his fortun’ on the stage that dog would, and rewive the drayma + +besides.” + + + +“Hold your din,” cried Sikes, as the dog retreated under the bed: still + +growling angrily. “What have you got to say for yourself, you withered + +old fence, eh?” + + + +“I was away from London, a week and more, my dear, on a plant,” replied + +the Jew. + + + +“And what about the other fortnight?” demanded Sikes. “What about the + +other fortnight that you’ve left me lying here, like a sick rat in his + +hole?” + + + +“I couldn’t help it, Bill. I can’t go into a long explanation before + +company; but I couldn’t help it, upon my honour.” + + + +“Upon your what?” growled Sikes, with excessive disgust. “Here! Cut me + +off a piece of that pie, one of you boys, to take the taste of that out + +of my mouth, or it’ll choke me dead.” + + + +“Don’t be out of temper, my dear,” urged Fagin, submissively. “I have + +never forgot you, Bill; never once.” + + + +“No! I’ll pound it that you han’t,” replied Sikes, with a bitter grin. + +“You’ve been scheming and plotting away, every hour that I have laid + +shivering and burning here; and Bill was to do this; and Bill was to do + +that; and Bill was to do it all, dirt cheap, as soon as he got well: + +and was quite poor enough for your work. If it hadn’t been for the + +girl, I might have died.” + + + +“There now, Bill,” remonstrated Fagin, eagerly catching at the word. + +“If it hadn’t been for the girl! Who but poor ould Fagin was the means + +of your having such a handy girl about you?” + + + +“He says true enough there!” said Nancy, coming hastily forward. “Let + +him be; let him be.” + + + +Nancy’s appearance gave a new turn to the conversation; for the boys, + +receiving a sly wink from the wary old Jew, began to ply her with + +liquor: of which, however, she took very sparingly; while Fagin, + +assuming an unusual flow of spirits, gradually brought Mr. Sikes into a + +better temper, by affecting to regard his threats as a little pleasant + +banter; and, moreover, by laughing very heartily at one or two rough + +jokes, which, after repeated applications to the spirit-bottle, he + +condescended to make. + + + +“It’s all very well,” said Mr. Sikes; “but I must have some blunt from + +you tonight.” + + + +“I haven’t a piece of coin about me,” replied the Jew. + + + +“Then you’ve got lots at home,” retorted Sikes; “and I must have some + +from there.” + + + +“Lots!” cried Fagin, holding up his hands. “I haven’t so much as would—” + + + +“I don’t know how much you’ve got, and I dare say you hardly know + +yourself, as it would take a pretty long time to count it,” said Sikes; + +“but I must have some tonight; and that’s flat.” + + + +“Well, well,” said Fagin, with a sigh, “I’ll send the Artful round + +presently.” + + + +“You won’t do nothing of the kind,” rejoined Mr. Sikes. “The Artful’s a + +deal too artful, and would forget to come, or lose his way, or get + +dodged by traps and so be perwented, or anything for an excuse, if you + +put him up to it. Nancy shall go to the ken and fetch it, to make all + +sure; and I’ll lie down and have a snooze while she’s gone.” + + + +After a great deal of haggling and squabbling, Fagin beat down the + +amount of the required advance from five pounds to three pounds four + +and sixpence: protesting with many solemn asseverations that that would + +only leave him eighteen-pence to keep house with; Mr. Sikes sullenly + +remarking that if he couldn’t get any more he must accompany him home; + +with the Dodger and Master Bates put the eatables in the cupboard. The + +Jew then, taking leave of his affectionate friend, returned homeward, + +attended by Nancy and the boys: Mr. Sikes, meanwhile, flinging himself + +on the bed, and composing himself to sleep away the time until the + +young lady’s return. + + + +In due course, they arrived at Fagin’s abode, where they found Toby + +Crackit and Mr. Chitling intent upon their fifteenth game at cribbage, + +which it is scarcely necessary to say the latter gentleman lost, and + +with it, his fifteenth and last sixpence: much to the amusement of his + +young friends. Mr. Crackit, apparently somewhat ashamed at being found + +relaxing himself with a gentleman so much his inferior in station and + +mental endowments, yawned, and inquiring after Sikes, took up his hat + +to go. + + + +“Has nobody been, Toby?” asked Fagin. + + + +“Not a living leg,” answered Mr. Crackit, pulling up his collar; “it’s + +been as dull as swipes. You ought to stand something handsome, Fagin, + +to recompense me for keeping house so long. Damme, I’m as flat as a + +juryman; and should have gone to sleep, as fast as Newgate, if I hadn’t + +had the good natur’ to amuse this youngster. Horrid dull, I’m blessed + +if I an’t!” + + + +With these and other ejaculations of the same kind, Mr. Toby Crackit + +swept up his winnings, and crammed them into his waistcoat pocket with + +a haughty air, as though such small pieces of silver were wholly + +beneath the consideration of a man of his figure; this done, he + +swaggered out of the room, with so much elegance and gentility, that + +Mr. Chitling, bestowing numerous admiring glances on his legs and boots + +till they were out of sight, assured the company that he considered his + +acquaintance cheap at fifteen sixpences an interview, and that he + +didn’t value his losses the snap of his little finger. + + + +“Wot a rum chap you are, Tom!” said Master Bates, highly amused by this + +declaration. + + + +“Not a bit of it,” replied Mr. Chitling. “Am I, Fagin?” + + + +“A very clever fellow, my dear,” said Fagin, patting him on the + +shoulder, and winking to his other pupils. + + + +“And Mr. Crackit is a heavy swell; an’t he, Fagin?” asked Tom. + + + +“No doubt at all of that, my dear.” + + + +“And it is a creditable thing to have his acquaintance; an’t it, + +Fagin?” pursued Tom. + + + +“Very much so, indeed, my dear. They’re only jealous, Tom, because he + +won’t give it to them.” + + + +“Ah!” cried Tom, triumphantly, “that’s where it is! He has cleaned me + +out. But I can go and earn some more, when I like; can’t I, Fagin?” + + + +“To be sure you can, and the sooner you go the better, Tom; so make up + +your loss at once, and don’t lose any more time. Dodger! Charley! It’s + +time you were on the lay. Come! It’s near ten, and nothing done yet.” + + + +In obedience to this hint, the boys, nodding to Nancy, took up their + +hats, and left the room; the Dodger and his vivacious friend indulging, + +as they went, in many witticisms at the expense of Mr. Chitling; in + +whose conduct, it is but justice to say, there was nothing very + +conspicuous or peculiar: inasmuch as there are a great number of + +spirited young bloods upon town, who pay a much higher price than Mr. + +Chitling for being seen in good society: and a great number of fine + +gentlemen (composing the good society aforesaid) who established their + +reputation upon very much the same footing as flash Toby Crackit. + + + +“Now,” said Fagin, when they had left the room, “I’ll go and get you + +that cash, Nancy. This is only the key of a little cupboard where I + +keep a few odd things the boys get, my dear. I never lock up my money, + +for I’ve got none to lock up, my dear—ha! ha! ha!—none to lock up. It’s + +a poor trade, Nancy, and no thanks; but I’m fond of seeing the young + +people about me; and I bear it all, I bear it all. Hush!” he said, + +hastily concealing the key in his breast; “who’s that? Listen!” + + + +The girl, who was sitting at the table with her arms folded, appeared + +in no way interested in the arrival: or to care whether the person, + +whoever he was, came or went: until the murmur of a man’s voice reached + +her ears. The instant she caught the sound, she tore off her bonnet and + +shawl, with the rapidity of lightning, and thrust them under the table. + +The Jew, turning round immediately afterwards, she muttered a complaint + +of the heat: in a tone of languor that contrasted, very remarkably, + +with the extreme haste and violence of this action: which, however, had + +been unobserved by Fagin, who had his back towards her at the time. + + + +“Bah!” he whispered, as though nettled by the interruption; “it’s the + +man I expected before; he’s coming downstairs. Not a word about the + +money while he’s here, Nance. He won’t stop long. Not ten minutes, my + +dear.” + + + +Laying his skinny forefinger upon his lip, the Jew carried a candle to + +the door, as a man’s step was heard upon the stairs without. He reached + +it, at the same moment as the visitor, who, coming hastily into the + +room, was close upon the girl before he observed her. + + + +It was Monks. + + + +“Only one of my young people,” said Fagin, observing that Monks drew + +back, on beholding a stranger. “Don’t move, Nancy.” + + + +The girl drew closer to the table, and glancing at Monks with an air of + +careless levity, withdrew her eyes; but as he turned towards Fagin, she + +stole another look; so keen and searching, and full of purpose, that if + +there had been any bystander to observe the change, he could hardly + +have believed the two looks to have proceeded from the same person. + + + +“Any news?” inquired Fagin. + + + +“Great.” + + + +“And—and—good?” asked Fagin, hesitating as though he feared to vex the + +other man by being too sanguine. + + + +“Not bad, any way,” replied Monks with a smile. “I have been prompt + +enough this time. Let me have a word with you.” + + + +The girl drew closer to the table, and made no offer to leave the room, + +although she could see that Monks was pointing to her. The Jew: perhaps + +fearing she might say something aloud about the money, if he + +endeavoured to get rid of her: pointed upward, and took Monks out of + +the room. + + + +“Not that infernal hole we were in before,” she could hear the man say + +as they went upstairs. Fagin laughed; and making some reply which did + +not reach her, seemed, by the creaking of the boards, to lead his + +companion to the second story. + + + +Before the sound of their footsteps had ceased to echo through the + +house, the girl had slipped off her shoes; and drawing her gown loosely + +over her head, and muffling her arms in it, stood at the door, + +listening with breathless interest. The moment the noise ceased, she + +glided from the room; ascended the stairs with incredible softness and + +silence; and was lost in the gloom above. + + + +The room remained deserted for a quarter of an hour or more; the girl + +glided back with the same unearthly tread; and, immediately afterwards, + +the two men were heard descending. Monks went at once into the street; + +and the Jew crawled upstairs again for the money. When he returned, the + +girl was adjusting her shawl and bonnet, as if preparing to be gone. + + + +“Why, Nance!” exclaimed the Jew, starting back as he put down the + +candle, “how pale you are!” + + + +“Pale!” echoed the girl, shading her eyes with her hands, as if to look + +steadily at him. + + + +“Quite horrible. What have you been doing to yourself?” + + + +“Nothing that I know of, except sitting in this close place for I don’t + +know how long and all,” replied the girl carelessly. “Come! Let me get + +back; that’s a dear.” + + + +With a sigh for every piece of money, Fagin told the amount into her + +hand. They parted without more conversation, merely interchanging a + +“good-night.” + + + +When the girl got into the open street, she sat down upon a doorstep; + +and seemed, for a few moments, wholly bewildered and unable to pursue + +her way. Suddenly she arose; and hurrying on, in a direction quite + +opposite to that in which Sikes was awaiting her return, quickened + +her pace, until it gradually resolved into a violent run. After + +completely exhausting herself, she stopped to take breath: and, as if + +suddenly recollecting herself, and deploring her inability to do + +something she was bent upon, wrung her hands, and burst into tears. + + + +It might be that her tears relieved her, or that she felt the full + +hopelessness of her condition; but she turned back; and hurrying with + +nearly as great rapidity in the contrary direction; partly to recover + +lost time, and partly to keep pace with the violent current of her own + +thoughts: soon reached the dwelling where she had left the + +housebreaker. + + + +If she betrayed any agitation, when she presented herself to Mr. Sikes, + +he did not observe it; for merely inquiring if she had brought the + +money, and receiving a reply in the affirmative, he uttered a growl of + +satisfaction, and replacing his head upon the pillow, resumed the + +slumbers which her arrival had interrupted. + + + +It was fortunate for her that the possession of money occasioned him so + +much employment next day in the way of eating and drinking; and withal + +had so beneficial an effect in smoothing down the asperities of his + +temper; that he had neither time nor inclination to be very critical + +upon her behaviour and deportment. That she had all the abstracted and + +nervous manner of one who is on the eve of some bold and hazardous + +step, which it has required no common struggle to resolve upon, would + +have been obvious to the lynx-eyed Fagin, who would most probably have + +taken the alarm at once; but Mr. Sikes lacking the niceties of + +discrimination, and being troubled with no more subtle misgivings than + +those which resolve themselves into a dogged roughness of behaviour + +towards everybody; and being, furthermore, in an unusually amiable + +condition, as has been already observed; saw nothing unusual in her + +demeanor, and indeed, troubled himself so little about her, that, had + +her agitation been far more perceptible than it was, it would have been + +very unlikely to have awakened his suspicions. + + + +As that day closed in, the girl’s excitement increased; and, when night + +came on, and she sat by, watching until the housebreaker should drink + +himself asleep, there was an unusual paleness in her cheek, and a fire + +in her eye, that even Sikes observed with astonishment. + + + +Mr. Sikes being weak from the fever, was lying in bed, taking hot water + +with his gin to render it less inflammatory; and had pushed his glass + +towards Nancy to be replenished for the third or fourth time, when + +these symptoms first struck him. + + + +“Why, burn my body!” said the man, raising himself on his hands as he + +stared the girl in the face. “You look like a corpse come to life + +again. What’s the matter?” + + + +“Matter!” replied the girl. “Nothing. What do you look at me so hard + +for?” + + + +“What foolery is this?” demanded Sikes, grasping her by the arm, and + +shaking her roughly. “What is it? What do you mean? What are you + +thinking of?” + + + +“Of many things, Bill,” replied the girl, shivering, and as she did so, + +pressing her hands upon her eyes. “But, Lord! What odds in that?” + + + +The tone of forced gaiety in which the last words were spoken, seemed + +to produce a deeper impression on Sikes than the wild and rigid look + +which had preceded them. + + + +“I tell you wot it is,” said Sikes; “if you haven’t caught the fever, + +and got it comin’ on, now, there’s something more than usual in the + +wind, and something dangerous too. You’re not a-going to—. No, damme! + +you wouldn’t do that!” + + + +“Do what?” asked the girl. + + + +“There ain’t,” said Sikes, fixing his eyes upon her, and muttering the + +words to himself; “there ain’t a stauncher-hearted gal going, or I’d + +have cut her throat three months ago. She’s got the fever coming on; + +that’s it.” + + + +Fortifying himself with this assurance, Sikes drained the glass to the + +bottom, and then, with many grumbling oaths, called for his physic. The + +girl jumped up, with great alacrity; poured it quickly out, but with + +her back towards him; and held the vessel to his lips, while he drank + +off the contents. + + + +“Now,” said the robber, “come and sit aside of me, and put on your own + +face; or I’ll alter it so, that you won’t know it agin when you do want + +it.” + + + +The girl obeyed. Sikes, locking her hand in his, fell back upon the + +pillow: turning his eyes upon her face. They closed; opened again; + +closed once more; again opened. He shifted his position restlessly; + +and, after dozing again, and again, for two or three minutes, and as + +often springing up with a look of terror, and gazing vacantly about + +him, was suddenly stricken, as it were, while in the very attitude of + +rising, into a deep and heavy sleep. The grasp of his hand relaxed; the + +upraised arm fell languidly by his side; and he lay like one in a + +profound trance. + + + +“The laudanum has taken effect at last,” murmured the girl, as she rose + +from the bedside. “I may be too late, even now.” + + + +She hastily dressed herself in her bonnet and shawl: looking fearfully + +round, from time to time, as if, despite the sleeping draught, she + +expected every moment to feel the pressure of Sikes’s heavy hand upon + +her shoulder; then, stooping softly over the bed, she kissed the + +robber’s lips; and then opening and closing the room-door with + +noiseless touch, hurried from the house. + + + +A watchman was crying half-past nine, down a dark passage through which + +she had to pass, in gaining the main thoroughfare. + + + +“Has it long gone the half-hour?” asked the girl. + + + +“It’ll strike the hour in another quarter,” said the man: raising his + +lantern to her face. + + + +“And I cannot get there in less than an hour or more,” muttered Nancy: + +brushing swiftly past him, and gliding rapidly down the street. + + + +Many of the shops were already closing in the back lanes and avenues + +through which she tracked her way, in making from Spitalfields towards + +the West-End of London. The clock struck ten, increasing her + +impatience. She tore along the narrow pavement: elbowing the passengers + +from side to side; and darting almost under the horses’ heads, crossed + +crowded streets, where clusters of persons were eagerly watching their + +opportunity to do the like. + + + +“The woman is mad!” said the people, turning to look after her as she + +rushed away. + + + +When she reached the more wealthy quarter of the town, the streets were + +comparatively deserted; and here her headlong progress excited a still + +greater curiosity in the stragglers whom she hurried past. Some + +quickened their pace behind, as though to see whither she was hastening + +at such an unusual rate; and a few made head upon her, and looked back, + +surprised at her undiminished speed; but they fell off one by one; and + +when she neared her place of destination, she was alone. + + + +It was a family hotel in a quiet but handsome street near Hyde Park. As + +the brilliant light of the lamp which burnt before its door, guided her + +to the spot, the clock struck eleven. She had loitered for a few paces + +as though irresolute, and making up her mind to advance; but the sound + +determined her, and she stepped into the hall. The porter’s seat was + +vacant. She looked round with an air of incertitude, and advanced + +towards the stairs. + + + +“Now, young woman!” said a smartly-dressed female, looking out from a + +door behind her, “who do you want here?” + + + +“A lady who is stopping in this house,” answered the girl. + + + +“A lady!” was the reply, accompanied with a scornful look. “What lady?” + + + +“Miss Maylie,” said Nancy. + + + +The young woman, who had by this time, noted her appearance, replied + +only by a look of virtuous disdain; and summoned a man to answer her. + +To him, Nancy repeated her request. + + + +“What name am I to say?” asked the waiter. + + + +“It’s of no use saying any,” replied Nancy. + + + +“Nor business?” said the man. + + + +“No, nor that neither,” rejoined the girl. “I must see the lady.” + + + +“Come!” said the man, pushing her towards the door. “None of this. Take + +yourself off.” + + + +“I shall be carried out if I go!” said the girl violently; “and I can + +make that a job that two of you won’t like to do. Isn’t there anybody + +here,” she said, looking round, “that will see a simple message carried + +for a poor wretch like me?” + + + +This appeal produced an effect on a good-tempered-faced man-cook, who + +with some of the other servants was looking on, and who stepped forward + +to interfere. + + + +“Take it up for her, Joe; can’t you?” said this person. + + + +“What’s the good?” replied the man. “You don’t suppose the young lady + +will see such as her; do you?” + + + +This allusion to Nancy’s doubtful character, raised a vast quantity of + +chaste wrath in the bosoms of four housemaids, who remarked, with great + +fervour, that the creature was a disgrace to her sex; and strongly + +advocated her being thrown, ruthlessly, into the kennel. + + + +“Do what you like with me,” said the girl, turning to the men again; + +“but do what I ask you first, and I ask you to give this message for + +God Almighty’s sake.” + + + +The soft-hearted cook added his intercession, and the result was that + +the man who had first appeared undertook its delivery. + + + +“What’s it to be?” said the man, with one foot on the stairs. + + + +“That a young woman earnestly asks to speak to Miss Maylie alone,” said + +Nancy; “and that if the lady will only hear the first word she has to + +say, she will know whether to hear her business, or to have her turned + +out of doors as an impostor.” + + + +“I say,” said the man, “you’re coming it strong!” + + + +“You give the message,” said the girl firmly; “and let me hear the + +answer.” + + + +The man ran upstairs. Nancy remained, pale and almost breathless, + +listening with quivering lip to the very audible expressions of scorn, + +of which the chaste housemaids were very prolific; and of which they + +became still more so, when the man returned, and said the young woman + +was to walk upstairs. + + + +“It’s no good being proper in this world,” said the first housemaid. + + + +“Brass can do better than the gold what has stood the fire,” said the + +second. + + + +The third contented herself with wondering “what ladies was made of”; + +and the fourth took the first in a quartette of “Shameful!” with which + +the Dianas concluded. + + + +Regardless of all this: for she had weightier matters at heart: Nancy + +followed the man, with trembling limbs, to a small ante-chamber, + +lighted by a lamp from the ceiling. Here he left her, and retired. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XL. + +A STRANGE INTERVIEW, WHICH IS A SEQUEL TO THE LAST CHAMBER + + + + + +The girl’s life had been squandered in the streets, and among the most + +noisome of the stews and dens of London, but there was something of the + +woman’s original nature left in her still; and when she heard a light + +step approaching the door opposite to that by which she had entered, + +and thought of the wide contrast which the small room would in another + +moment contain, she felt burdened with the sense of her own deep shame, + +and shrunk as though she could scarcely bear the presence of her with + +whom she had sought this interview. + + + +But struggling with these better feelings was pride,—the vice of the + +lowest and most debased creatures no less than of the high and + +self-assured. The miserable companion of thieves and ruffians, the + +fallen outcast of low haunts, the associate of the scourings of the + +jails and hulks, living within the shadow of the gallows itself,—even + +this degraded being felt too proud to betray a feeble gleam of the + +womanly feeling which she thought a weakness, but which alone connected + +her with that humanity, of which her wasting life had obliterated so + +many, many traces when a very child. + + + +She raised her eyes sufficiently to observe that the figure which + +presented itself was that of a slight and beautiful girl; then, bending + +them on the ground, she tossed her head with affected carelessness as + +she said: + + + +“It’s a hard matter to get to see you, lady. If I had taken offence, + +and gone away, as many would have done, you’d have been sorry for it + +one day, and not without reason either.” + + + +“I am very sorry if any one has behaved harshly to you,” replied Rose. + +“Do not think of that. Tell me why you wished to see me. I am the + +person you inquired for.” + + + +The kind tone of this answer, the sweet voice, the gentle manner, the + +absence of any accent of haughtiness or displeasure, took the girl + +completely by surprise, and she burst into tears. + + + +“Oh, lady, lady!” she said, clasping her hands passionately before her + +face, “if there was more like you, there would be fewer like me,—there + +would—there would!” + + + +“Sit down,” said Rose, earnestly. “If you are in poverty or affliction + +I shall be truly glad to relieve you if I can,—I shall indeed. Sit + +down.” + + + +“Let me stand, lady,” said the girl, still weeping, “and do not speak + +to me so kindly till you know me better. It is growing late. Is—is—that + +door shut?” + + + +“Yes,” said Rose, recoiling a few steps, as if to be nearer assistance + +in case she should require it. “Why?” + + + +“Because,” said the girl, “I am about to put my life and the lives of + +others in your hands. I am the girl that dragged little Oliver back to + +old Fagin’s on the night he went out from the house in Pentonville.” + + + +“You!” said Rose Maylie. + + + +“I, lady!” replied the girl. “I am the infamous creature you have heard + +of, that lives among the thieves, and that never from the first moment + +I can recollect my eyes and senses opening on London streets have known + +any better life, or kinder words than they have given me, so help me + +God! Do not mind shrinking openly from me, lady. I am younger than you + +would think, to look at me, but I am well used to it. The poorest women + +fall back, as I make my way along the crowded pavement.” + + + +“What dreadful things are these!” said Rose, involuntarily falling from + +her strange companion. + + + +“Thank Heaven upon your knees, dear lady,” cried the girl, “that you + +had friends to care for and keep you in your childhood, and that you + +were never in the midst of cold and hunger, and riot and drunkenness, + +and—and—something worse than all—as I have been from my cradle. I may + +use the word, for the alley and the gutter were mine, as they will be + +my deathbed.” + + + +“I pity you!” said Rose, in a broken voice. “It wrings my heart to hear + +you!” + + + +“Heaven bless you for your goodness!” rejoined the girl. “If you knew + +what I am sometimes, you would pity me, indeed. But I have stolen away + +from those who would surely murder me, if they knew I had been here, to + +tell you what I have overheard. Do you know a man named Monks?” + + + +“No,” said Rose. + + + +“He knows you,” replied the girl; “and knew you were here, for it was + +by hearing him tell the place that I found you out.” + + + +“I never heard the name,” said Rose. + + + +“Then he goes by some other amongst us,” rejoined the girl, “which I + +more than thought before. Some time ago, and soon after Oliver was put + +into your house on the night of the robbery, I—suspecting this + +man—listened to a conversation held between him and Fagin in the dark. + +I found out, from what I heard, that Monks—the man I asked you about, + +you know—” + + + +“Yes,” said Rose, “I understand.” + + + +“—That Monks,” pursued the girl, “had seen him accidently with two of + +our boys on the day we first lost him, and had known him directly to be + +the same child that he was watching for, though I couldn’t make out + +why. A bargain was struck with Fagin, that if Oliver was got back he + +should have a certain sum; and he was to have more for making him a + +thief, which this Monks wanted for some purpose of his own.” + + + +“For what purpose?” asked Rose. + + + +“He caught sight of my shadow on the wall as I listened, in the hope of + +finding out,” said the girl; “and there are not many people besides me + +that could have got out of their way in time to escape discovery. But I + +did; and I saw him no more till last night.” + + + +“And what occurred then?” + + + +“I’ll tell you, lady. Last night he came again. Again they went + +upstairs, and I, wrapping myself up so that my shadow would not betray + +me, again listened at the door. The first words I heard Monks say were + +these: ‘So the only proofs of the boy’s identity lie at the bottom of + +the river, and the old hag that received them from the mother is + +rotting in her coffin.’ They laughed, and talked of his success in + +doing this; and Monks, talking on about the boy, and getting very wild, + +said that though he had got the young devil’s money safely now, he’d + +rather have had it the other way; for, what a game it would have been + +to have brought down the boast of the father’s will, by driving him + +through every jail in town, and then hauling him up for some capital + +felony which Fagin could easily manage, after having made a good profit + +of him besides.” + + + +“What is all this!” said Rose. + + + +“The truth, lady, though it comes from my lips,” replied the girl. + +“Then, he said, with oaths common enough in my ears, but strange to + +yours, that if he could gratify his hatred by taking the boy’s life + +without bringing his own neck in danger, he would; but, as he couldn’t, + +he’d be upon the watch to meet him at every turn in life; and if he + +took advantage of his birth and history, he might harm him yet. ‘In + +short, Fagin,’ he says, ‘Jew as you are, you never laid such snares as + +I’ll contrive for my young brother, Oliver.’” + + + +“His brother!” exclaimed Rose. + + + +“Those were his words,” said Nancy, glancing uneasily round, as she had + +scarcely ceased to do, since she began to speak, for a vision of Sikes + +haunted her perpetually. “And more. When he spoke of you and the other + +lady, and said it seemed contrived by Heaven, or the devil, against + +him, that Oliver should come into your hands, he laughed, and said + +there was some comfort in that too, for how many thousands and hundreds + +of thousands of pounds would you not give, if you had them, to know who + +your two-legged spaniel was.” + + + +“You do not mean,” said Rose, turning very pale, “to tell me that this + +was said in earnest?” + + + +“He spoke in hard and angry earnest, if a man ever did,” replied the + +girl, shaking her head. “He is an earnest man when his hatred is up. I + +know many who do worse things; but I’d rather listen to them all a + +dozen times, than to that Monks once. It is growing late, and I have to + +reach home without suspicion of having been on such an errand as this. + +I must get back quickly.” + + + +“But what can I do?” said Rose. “To what use can I turn this + +communication without you? Back! Why do you wish to return to + +companions you paint in such terrible colors? If you repeat this + +information to a gentleman whom I can summon in an instant from the + +next room, you can be consigned to some place of safety without half an + +hour’s delay.” + + + +“I wish to go back,” said the girl. “I must go back, because—how can I + +tell such things to an innocent lady like you?—because among the men I + +have told you of, there is one: the most desperate among them all; that + +I can’t leave: no, not even to be saved from the life I am leading + +now.” + + + +“Your having interfered in this dear boy’s behalf before,” said Rose; + +“your coming here, at so great a risk, to tell me what you have heard; + +your manner, which convinces me of the truth of what you say; your + +evident contrition, and sense of shame; all lead me to believe that you + +might yet be reclaimed. Oh!” said the earnest girl, folding her hands + +as the tears coursed down her face, “do not turn a deaf ear to the + +entreaties of one of your own sex; the first—the first, I do believe, + +who ever appealed to you in the voice of pity and compassion. Do hear + +my words, and let me save you yet, for better things.” + + + +“Lady,” cried the girl, sinking on her knees, “dear, sweet, angel lady, + +you _are_ the first that ever blessed me with such words as these, and + +if I had heard them years ago, they might have turned me from a life of + +sin and sorrow; but it is too late, it is too late!” + + + +“It is never too late,” said Rose, “for penitence and atonement.” + + + +“It is,” cried the girl, writhing in agony of her mind; “I cannot leave + +him now! I could not be his death.” + + + +“Why should you be?” asked Rose. + + + +“Nothing could save him,” cried the girl. “If I told others what I have + +told you, and led to their being taken, he would be sure to die. He is + +the boldest, and has been so cruel!” + + + +“Is it possible,” cried Rose, “that for such a man as this, you can + +resign every future hope, and the certainty of immediate rescue? It is + +madness.” + + + +“I don’t know what it is,” answered the girl; “I only know that it is + +so, and not with me alone, but with hundreds of others as bad and + +wretched as myself. I must go back. Whether it is God’s wrath for the + +wrong I have done, I do not know; but I am drawn back to him through + +every suffering and ill usage; and I should be, I believe, if I knew + +that I was to die by his hand at last.” + + + +“What am I to do?” said Rose. “I should not let you depart from me + +thus.” + + + +“You should, lady, and I know you will,” rejoined the girl, rising. + +“You will not stop my going because I have trusted in your goodness, + +and forced no promise from you, as I might have done.” + + + +“Of what use, then, is the communication you have made?” said Rose. + +“This mystery must be investigated, or how will its disclosure to me, + +benefit Oliver, whom you are anxious to serve?” + + + +“You must have some kind gentleman about you that will hear it as a + +secret, and advise you what to do,” rejoined the girl. + + + +“But where can I find you again when it is necessary?” asked Rose. “I + +do not seek to know where these dreadful people live, but where will + +you be walking or passing at any settled period from this time?” + + + +“Will you promise me that you will have my secret strictly kept, and + +come alone, or with the only other person that knows it; and that I + +shall not be watched or followed?” asked the girl. + + + +“I promise you solemnly,” answered Rose. + + + +“Every Sunday night, from eleven until the clock strikes twelve,” said + +the girl without hesitation, “I will walk on London Bridge if I am + +alive.” + + + +“Stay another moment,” interposed Rose, as the girl moved hurriedly + +towards the door. “Think once again on your own condition, and the + +opportunity you have of escaping from it. You have a claim on me: not + +only as the voluntary bearer of this intelligence, but as a woman lost + +almost beyond redemption. Will you return to this gang of robbers, and + +to this man, when a word can save you? What fascination is it that can + +take you back, and make you cling to wickedness and misery? Oh! is + +there no chord in your heart that I can touch! Is there nothing left, + +to which I can appeal against this terrible infatuation!” + + + +“When ladies as young, and good, and beautiful as you are,” replied the + +girl steadily, “give away your hearts, love will carry you all + +lengths—even such as you, who have home, friends, other admirers, + +everything, to fill them. When such as I, who have no certain roof but + +the coffinlid, and no friend in sickness or death but the hospital + +nurse, set our rotten hearts on any man, and let him fill the place + +that has been a blank through all our wretched lives, who can hope to + +cure us? Pity us, lady—pity us for having only one feeling of the woman + +left, and for having that turned, by a heavy judgment, from a comfort + +and a pride, into a new means of violence and suffering.” + + + +“You will,” said Rose, after a pause, “take some money from me, which + +may enable you to live without dishonesty—at all events until we meet + +again?” + + + +“Not a penny,” replied the girl, waving her hand. + + + +“Do not close your heart against all my efforts to help you,” said + +Rose, stepping gently forward. “I wish to serve you indeed.” + + + +“You would serve me best, lady,” replied the girl, wringing her hands, + +“if you could take my life at once; for I have felt more grief to think + +of what I am, tonight, than I ever did before, and it would be + +something not to die in the hell in which I have lived. God bless you, + +sweet lady, and send as much happiness on your head as I have brought + +shame on mine!” + + + +Thus speaking, and sobbing aloud, the unhappy creature turned away; + +while Rose Maylie, overpowered by this extraordinary interview, which + +had more the semblance of a rapid dream than an actual occurrence, sank + +into a chair, and endeavoured to collect her wandering thoughts. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XLI. + +CONTAINING FRESH DISCOVERIES, AND SHOWING THAT SUPRISES, LIKE + +MISFORTUNES, SELDOM COME ALONE + + + + + +Her situation was, indeed, one of no common trial and difficulty. While + +she felt the most eager and burning desire to penetrate the mystery in + +which Oliver’s history was enveloped, she could not but hold sacred the + +confidence which the miserable woman with whom she had just conversed, + +had reposed in her, as a young and guileless girl. Her words and manner + +had touched Rose Maylie’s heart; and, mingled with her love for her + +young charge, and scarcely less intense in its truth and fervour, was + +her fond wish to win the outcast back to repentance and hope. + + + +They purposed remaining in London only three days, prior to departing + +for some weeks to a distant part of the coast. It was now midnight of + +the first day. What course of action could she determine upon, which + +could be adopted in eight-and-forty hours? Or how could she postpone + +the journey without exciting suspicion? + + + +Mr. Losberne was with them, and would be for the next two days; but + +Rose was too well acquainted with the excellent gentleman’s + +impetuosity, and foresaw too clearly the wrath with which, in the first + +explosion of his indignation, he would regard the instrument of + +Oliver’s recapture, to trust him with the secret, when her + +representations in the girl’s behalf could be seconded by no + +experienced person. These were all reasons for the greatest caution and + +most circumspect behaviour in communicating it to Mrs. Maylie, whose + +first impulse would infallibly be to hold a conference with the worthy + +doctor on the subject. As to resorting to any legal adviser, even if + +she had known how to do so, it was scarcely to be thought of, for the + +same reason. Once the thought occurred to her of seeking assistance + +from Harry; but this awakened the recollection of their last parting, + +and it seemed unworthy of her to call him back, when—the tears rose to + +her eyes as she pursued this train of reflection—he might have by this + +time learnt to forget her, and to be happier away. + + + +Disturbed by these different reflections; inclining now to one course + +and then to another, and again recoiling from all, as each successive + +consideration presented itself to her mind; Rose passed a sleepless and + +anxious night. After more communing with herself next day, she arrived + +at the desperate conclusion of consulting Harry. + + + +“If it be painful to him,” she thought, “to come back here, how painful + +it will be to me! But perhaps he will not come; he may write, or he may + +come himself, and studiously abstain from meeting me—he did when he + +went away. I hardly thought he would; but it was better for us both.” + +And here Rose dropped the pen, and turned away, as though the very + +paper which was to be her messenger should not see her weep. + + + +She had taken up the same pen, and laid it down again fifty times, and + +had considered and reconsidered the first line of her letter without + +writing the first word, when Oliver, who had been walking in the + +streets, with Mr. Giles for a body-guard, entered the room in such + +breathless haste and violent agitation, as seemed to betoken some new + +cause of alarm. + + + +“What makes you look so flurried?” asked Rose, advancing to meet him. + + + +“I hardly know how; I feel as if I should be choked,” replied the boy. + +“Oh dear! To think that I should see him at last, and you should be + +able to know that I have told you the truth!” + + + +“I never thought you had told us anything but the truth,” said Rose, + +soothing him. “But what is this?—of whom do you speak?” + + + +“I have seen the gentleman,” replied Oliver, scarcely able to + +articulate, “the gentleman who was so good to me—Mr. Brownlow, that we + +have so often talked about.” + + + +“Where?” asked Rose. + + + +“Getting out of a coach,” replied Oliver, shedding tears of delight, + +“and going into a house. I didn’t speak to him—I couldn’t speak to him, + +for he didn’t see me, and I trembled so, that I was not able to go up + +to him. But Giles asked, for me, whether he lived there, and they said + +he did. Look here,” said Oliver, opening a scrap of paper, “here it is; + +here’s where he lives—I’m going there directly! Oh, dear me, dear me! + +What shall I do when I come to see him and hear him speak again!” + + + +With her attention not a little distracted by these and a great many + +other incoherent exclamations of joy, Rose read the address, which was + +Craven Street, in the Strand. She very soon determined upon turning the + +discovery to account. + + + +“Quick!” she said. “Tell them to fetch a hackney-coach, and be ready to + +go with me. I will take you there directly, without a minute’s loss of + +time. I will only tell my aunt that we are going out for an hour, and + +be ready as soon as you are.” + + + +Oliver needed no prompting to despatch, and in little more than five + +minutes they were on their way to Craven Street. When they arrived + +there, Rose left Oliver in the coach, under pretence of preparing the + +old gentleman to receive him; and sending up her card by the servant, + +requested to see Mr. Brownlow on very pressing business. The servant + +soon returned, to beg that she would walk upstairs; and following him + +into an upper room, Miss Maylie was presented to an elderly gentleman + +of benevolent appearance, in a bottle-green coat. At no great distance + +from whom, was seated another old gentleman, in nankeen breeches and + +gaiters; who did not look particularly benevolent, and who was sitting + +with his hands clasped on the top of a thick stick, and his chin + +propped thereupon. + + + +“Dear me,” said the gentleman, in the bottle-green coat, hastily rising + +with great politeness, “I beg your pardon, young lady—I imagined it was + +some importunate person who—I beg you will excuse me. Be seated, pray.” + + + +“Mr. Brownlow, I believe, sir?” said Rose, glancing from the other + +gentleman to the one who had spoken. + + + +“That is my name,” said the old gentleman. “This is my friend, Mr. + +Grimwig. Grimwig, will you leave us for a few minutes?” + + + +“I believe,” interposed Miss Maylie, “that at this period of our + +interview, I need not give that gentleman the trouble of going away. If + +I am correctly informed, he is cognizant of the business on which I + +wish to speak to you.” + + + +Mr. Brownlow inclined his head. Mr. Grimwig, who had made one very + +stiff bow, and risen from his chair, made another very stiff bow, and + +dropped into it again. + + + +“I shall surprise you very much, I have no doubt,” said Rose, naturally + +embarrassed; “but you once showed great benevolence and goodness to a + +very dear young friend of mine, and I am sure you will take an interest + +in hearing of him again.” + + + +“Indeed!” said Mr. Brownlow. + + + +“Oliver Twist you knew him as,” replied Rose. + + + +The words no sooner escaped her lips, than Mr. Grimwig, who had been + +affecting to dip into a large book that lay on the table, upset it with + +a great crash, and falling back in his chair, discharged from his + +features every expression but one of unmitigated wonder, and indulged + +in a prolonged and vacant stare; then, as if ashamed of having betrayed + +so much emotion, he jerked himself, as it were, by a convulsion into + +his former attitude, and looking out straight before him emitted a long + +deep whistle, which seemed, at last, not to be discharged on empty air, + +but to die away in the innermost recesses of his stomach. + + + +Mr. Browlow was no less surprised, although his astonishment was not + +expressed in the same eccentric manner. He drew his chair nearer to + +Miss Maylie’s, and said, + + + +“Do me the favour, my dear young lady, to leave entirely out of the + +question that goodness and benevolence of which you speak, and of which + +nobody else knows anything; and if you have it in your power to produce + +any evidence which will alter the unfavourable opinion I was once + +induced to entertain of that poor child, in Heaven’s name put me in + +possession of it.” + + + +“A bad one! I’ll eat my head if he is not a bad one,” growled Mr. + +Grimwig, speaking by some ventriloquial power, without moving a muscle + +of his face. + + + +“He is a child of a noble nature and a warm heart,” said Rose, + +colouring; “and that Power which has thought fit to try him beyond his + +years, has planted in his breast affections and feelings which would do + +honour to many who have numbered his days six times over.” + + + +“I’m only sixty-one,” said Mr. Grimwig, with the same rigid face. “And, + +as the devil’s in it if this Oliver is not twelve years old at least, I + +don’t see the application of that remark.” + + + +“Do not heed my friend, Miss Maylie,” said Mr. Brownlow; “he does not + +mean what he says.” + + + +“Yes, he does,” growled Mr. Grimwig. + + + +“No, he does not,” said Mr. Brownlow, obviously rising in wrath as he + +spoke. + + + +“He’ll eat his head, if he doesn’t,” growled Mr. Grimwig. + + + +“He would deserve to have it knocked off, if he does,” said Mr. + +Brownlow. + + + +“And he’d uncommonly like to see any man offer to do it,” responded Mr. + +Grimwig, knocking his stick upon the floor. + + + +Having gone thus far, the two old gentlemen severally took snuff, and + +afterwards shook hands, according to their invariable custom. + + + +“Now, Miss Maylie,” said Mr. Brownlow, “to return to the subject in + +which your humanity is so much interested. Will you let me know what + +intelligence you have of this poor child: allowing me to promise that I + +exhausted every means in my power of discovering him, and that since I + +have been absent from this country, my first impression that he had + +imposed upon me, and had been persuaded by his former associates to rob + +me, has been considerably shaken.” + + + +Rose, who had had time to collect her thoughts, at once related, in a + +few natural words, all that had befallen Oliver since he left Mr. + +Brownlow’s house; reserving Nancy’s information for that gentleman’s + +private ear, and concluding with the assurance that his only sorrow, + +for some months past, had been not being able to meet with his former + +benefactor and friend. + + + +“Thank God!” said the old gentleman. “This is great happiness to me, + +great happiness. But you have not told me where he is now, Miss Maylie. + +You must pardon my finding fault with you,—but why not have brought + +him?” + + + +“He is waiting in a coach at the door,” replied Rose. + + + +“At this door!” cried the old gentleman. With which he hurried out of + +the room, down the stairs, up the coachsteps, and into the coach, + +without another word. + + + +When the room-door closed behind him, Mr. Grimwig lifted up his head, + +and converting one of the hind legs of his chair into a pivot, + +described three distinct circles with the assistance of his stick and + +the table; sitting in it all the time. After performing this evolution, + +he rose and limped as fast as he could up and down the room at least a + +dozen times, and then stopping suddenly before Rose, kissed her without + +the slightest preface. + + + +“Hush!” he said, as the young lady rose in some alarm at this unusual + +proceeding. “Don’t be afraid. I’m old enough to be your grandfather. + +You’re a sweet girl. I like you. Here they are!” + + + +In fact, as he threw himself at one dexterous dive into his former + +seat, Mr. Brownlow returned, accompanied by Oliver, whom Mr. Grimwig + +received very graciously; and if the gratification of that moment had + +been the only reward for all her anxiety and care in Oliver’s behalf, + +Rose Maylie would have been well repaid. + + + +“There is somebody else who should not be forgotten, by the bye,” said + +Mr. Brownlow, ringing the bell. “Send Mrs. Bedwin here, if you please.” + + + +The old housekeeper answered the summons with all dispatch; and + +dropping a curtsey at the door, waited for orders. + + + +“Why, you get blinder every day, Bedwin,” said Mr. Brownlow, rather + +testily. + + + +“Well, that I do, sir,” replied the old lady. “People’s eyes, at my + +time of life, don’t improve with age, sir.” + + + +“I could have told you that,” rejoined Mr. Brownlow; “but put on your + +glasses, and see if you can’t find out what you were wanted for, will + +you?” + + + +The old lady began to rummage in her pocket for her spectacles. But + +Oliver’s patience was not proof against this new trial; and yielding to + +his first impulse, he sprang into her arms. + + + +“God be good to me!” cried the old lady, embracing him; “it is my + +innocent boy!” + + + +“My dear old nurse!” cried Oliver. + + + +“He would come back—I knew he would,” said the old lady, holding him in + +her arms. “How well he looks, and how like a gentleman’s son he is + +dressed again! Where have you been, this long, long while? Ah! the same + +sweet face, but not so pale; the same soft eye, but not so sad. I have + +never forgotten them or his quiet smile, but have seen them every day, + +side by side with those of my own dear children, dead and gone since I + +was a lightsome young creature.” Running on thus, and now holding + +Oliver from her to mark how he had grown, now clasping him to her and + +passing her fingers fondly through his hair, the good soul laughed and + +wept upon his neck by turns. + + + +Leaving her and Oliver to compare notes at leisure, Mr. Brownlow led + +the way into another room; and there, heard from Rose a full narration + +of her interview with Nancy, which occasioned him no little surprise + +and perplexity. Rose also explained her reasons for not confiding in + +her friend Mr. Losberne in the first instance. The old gentleman + +considered that she had acted prudently, and readily undertook to hold + +solemn conference with the worthy doctor himself. To afford him an + +early opportunity for the execution of this design, it was arranged + +that he should call at the hotel at eight o’clock that evening, and + +that in the meantime Mrs. Maylie should be cautiously informed of all + +that had occurred. These preliminaries adjusted, Rose and Oliver + +returned home. + + + +Rose had by no means overrated the measure of the good doctor’s wrath. + +Nancy’s history was no sooner unfolded to him, than he poured forth a + +shower of mingled threats and execrations; threatened to make her the + +first victim of the combined ingenuity of Messrs. Blathers and Duff; + +and actually put on his hat preparatory to sallying forth to obtain the + +assistance of those worthies. And, doubtless, he would, in this first + +outbreak, have carried the intention into effect without a moment’s + +consideration of the consequences, if he had not been restrained, in + +part, by corresponding violence on the side of Mr. Brownlow, who was + +himself of an irascible temperament, and partly by such arguments and + +representations as seemed best calculated to dissuade him from his + +hotbrained purpose. + + + +“Then what the devil is to be done?” said the impetuous doctor, when + +they had rejoined the two ladies. “Are we to pass a vote of thanks to + +all these vagabonds, male and female, and beg them to accept a hundred + +pounds, or so, apiece, as a trifling mark of our esteem, and some + +slight acknowledgment of their kindness to Oliver?” + + + +“Not exactly that,” rejoined Mr. Brownlow, laughing; “but we must + +proceed gently and with great care.” + + + +“Gentleness and care,” exclaimed the doctor. “I’d send them one and all + +to—” + + + +“Never mind where,” interposed Mr. Brownlow. “But reflect whether + +sending them anywhere is likely to attain the object we have in view.” + + + +“What object?” asked the doctor. + + + +“Simply, the discovery of Oliver’s parentage, and regaining for him the + +inheritance of which, if this story be true, he has been fraudulently + +deprived.” + + + +“Ah!” said Mr. Losberne, cooling himself with his pocket-handkerchief; + +“I almost forgot that.” + + + +“You see,” pursued Mr. Brownlow; “placing this poor girl entirely out + +of the question, and supposing it were possible to bring these + +scoundrels to justice without compromising her safety, what good should + +we bring about?” + + + +“Hanging a few of them at least, in all probability,” suggested the + +doctor, “and transporting the rest.” + + + +“Very good,” replied Mr. Brownlow, smiling; “but no doubt they will + +bring that about for themselves in the fulness of time, and if we step + +in to forestall them, it seems to me that we shall be performing a very + +Quixotic act, in direct opposition to our own interest—or at least to + +Oliver’s, which is the same thing.” + + + +“How?” inquired the doctor. + + + +“Thus. It is quite clear that we shall have extreme difficulty in + +getting to the bottom of this mystery, unless we can bring this man, + +Monks, upon his knees. That can only be done by stratagem, and by + +catching him when he is not surrounded by these people. For, suppose he + +were apprehended, we have no proof against him. He is not even (so far + +as we know, or as the facts appear to us) concerned with the gang in + +any of their robberies. If he were not discharged, it is very unlikely + +that he could receive any further punishment than being committed to + +prison as a rogue and vagabond; and of course ever afterwards his mouth + +would be so obstinately closed that he might as well, for our purposes, + +be deaf, dumb, blind, and an idiot.” + + + +“Then,” said the doctor impetuously, “I put it to you again, whether + +you think it reasonable that this promise to the girl should be + +considered binding; a promise made with the best and kindest + +intentions, but really—” + + + +“Do not discuss the point, my dear young lady, pray,” said Mr. + +Brownlow, interrupting Rose as she was about to speak. “The promise + +shall be kept. I don’t think it will, in the slightest degree, + +interfere with our proceedings. But, before we can resolve upon any + +precise course of action, it will be necessary to see the girl; to + +ascertain from her whether she will point out this Monks, on the + +understanding that he is to be dealt with by us, and not by the law; + +or, if she will not, or cannot do that, to procure from her such an + +account of his haunts and description of his person, as will enable us + +to identify him. She cannot be seen until next Sunday night; this is + +Tuesday. I would suggest that in the meantime, we remain perfectly + +quiet, and keep these matters secret even from Oliver himself.” + + + +Although Mr. Losberne received with many wry faces a proposal involving + +a delay of five whole days, he was fain to admit that no better course + +occurred to him just then; and as both Rose and Mrs. Maylie sided very + +strongly with Mr. Brownlow, that gentleman’s proposition was carried + +unanimously. + + + +“I should like,” he said, “to call in the aid of my friend Grimwig. He + +is a strange creature, but a shrewd one, and might prove of material + +assistance to us; I should say that he was bred a lawyer, and quitted + +the Bar in disgust because he had only one brief and a motion of + +course, in twenty years, though whether that is recommendation or not, + +you must determine for yourselves.” + + + +“I have no objection to your calling in your friend if I may call in + +mine,” said the doctor. + + + +“We must put it to the vote,” replied Mr. Brownlow, “who may he be?” + + + +“That lady’s son, and this young lady’s—very old friend,” said the + +doctor, motioning towards Mrs. Maylie, and concluding with an + +expressive glance at her niece. + + + +Rose blushed deeply, but she did not make any audible objection to this + +motion (possibly she felt in a hopeless minority); and Harry Maylie and + +Mr. Grimwig were accordingly added to the committee. + + + +“We stay in town, of course,” said Mrs. Maylie, “while there remains + +the slightest prospect of prosecuting this inquiry with a chance of + +success. I will spare neither trouble nor expense in behalf of the + +object in which we are all so deeply interested, and I am content to + +remain here, if it be for twelve months, so long as you assure me that + +any hope remains.” + + + +“Good!” rejoined Mr. Brownlow. “And as I see on the faces about me, a + +disposition to inquire how it happened that I was not in the way to + +corroborate Oliver’s tale, and had so suddenly left the kingdom, let me + +stipulate that I shall be asked no questions until such time as I may + +deem it expedient to forestall them by telling my own story. Believe + +me, I make this request with good reason, for I might otherwise excite + +hopes destined never to be realised, and only increase difficulties and + +disappointments already quite numerous enough. Come! Supper has been + +announced, and young Oliver, who is all alone in the next room, will + +have begun to think, by this time, that we have wearied of his company, + +and entered into some dark conspiracy to thrust him forth upon the + +world.” + + + +With these words, the old gentleman gave his hand to Mrs. Maylie, and + +escorted her into the supper-room. Mr. Losberne followed, leading Rose; + +and the council was, for the present, effectually broken up. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XLII. + +AN OLD ACQUAINTANCE OF OLIVER’S, EXHIBITING DECIDED MARKS OF GENIUS, + +BECOMES A PUBLIC CHARACTER IN THE METROPOLIS + + + + + +Upon the night when Nancy, having lulled Mr. Sikes to sleep, hurried on + +her self-imposed mission to Rose Maylie, there advanced towards London, + +by the Great North Road, two persons, upon whom it is expedient that + +this history should bestow some attention. + + + +They were a man and woman; or perhaps they would be better described as + +a male and female: for the former was one of those long-limbed, + +knock-kneed, shambling, bony people, to whom it is difficult to assign + +any precise age,—looking as they do, when they are yet boys, like + +undergrown men, and when they are almost men, like overgrown boys. The + +woman was young, but of a robust and hardy make, as she need have been + +to bear the weight of the heavy bundle which was strapped to her back. + +Her companion was not encumbered with much luggage, as there merely + +dangled from a stick which he carried over his shoulder, a small parcel + +wrapped in a common handkerchief, and apparently light enough. This + +circumstance, added to the length of his legs, which were of unusual + +extent, enabled him with much ease to keep some half-dozen paces in + +advance of his companion, to whom he occasionally turned with an + +impatient jerk of the head: as if reproaching her tardiness, and urging + +her to greater exertion. + + + +Thus, they had toiled along the dusty road, taking little heed of any + +object within sight, save when they stepped aside to allow a wider + +passage for the mail-coaches which were whirling out of town, until + +they passed through Highgate archway; when the foremost traveller + +stopped and called impatiently to his companion, + + + +“Come on, can’t yer? What a lazybones yer are, Charlotte.” + + + +“It’s a heavy load, I can tell you,” said the female, coming up, almost + +breathless with fatigue. + + + +“Heavy! What are yer talking about? What are yer made for?” rejoined + +the male traveller, changing his own little bundle as he spoke, to the + +other shoulder. “Oh, there yer are, resting again! Well, if yer ain’t + +enough to tire anybody’s patience out, I don’t know what is!” + + + +“Is it much farther?” asked the woman, resting herself against a bank, + +and looking up with the perspiration streaming from her face. + + + +“Much farther! Yer as good as there,” said the long-legged tramper, + +pointing out before him. “Look there! Those are the lights of London.” + + + +“They’re a good two mile off, at least,” said the woman despondingly. + + + +“Never mind whether they’re two mile off, or twenty,” said Noah + +Claypole; for he it was; “but get up and come on, or I’ll kick yer, and + +so I give yer notice.” + + + +As Noah’s red nose grew redder with anger, and as he crossed the road + +while speaking, as if fully prepared to put his threat into execution, + +the woman rose without any further remark, and trudged onward by his + +side. + + + +“Where do you mean to stop for the night, Noah?” she asked, after they + +had walked a few hundred yards. + + + +“How should I know?” replied Noah, whose temper had been considerably + +impaired by walking. + + + +“Near, I hope,” said Charlotte. + + + +“No, not near,” replied Mr. Claypole. “There! Not near; so don’t think + +it.” + + + +“Why not?” + + + +“When I tell yer that I don’t mean to do a thing, that’s enough, + +without any why or because either,” replied Mr. Claypole with dignity. + + + +“Well, you needn’t be so cross,” said his companion. + + + +“A pretty thing it would be, wouldn’t it to go and stop at the very + +first public-house outside the town, so that Sowerberry, if he come up + +after us, might poke in his old nose, and have us taken back in a cart + +with handcuffs on,” said Mr. Claypole in a jeering tone. “No! I shall + +go and lose myself among the narrowest streets I can find, and not stop + +till we come to the very out-of-the-wayest house I can set eyes on. + +Cod, yer may thanks yer stars I’ve got a head; for if we hadn’t gone, + +at first, the wrong road a purpose, and come back across country, yer’d + +have been locked up hard and fast a week ago, my lady. And serve yer + +right for being a fool.” + + + +“I know I ain’t as cunning as you are,” replied Charlotte; “but don’t + +put all the blame on me, and say I should have been locked up. You + +would have been if I had been, any way.” + + + +“Yer took the money from the till, yer know yer did,” said Mr. + +Claypole. + + + +“I took it for you, Noah, dear,” rejoined Charlotte. + + + +“Did I keep it?” asked Mr. Claypole. + + + +“No; you trusted in me, and let me carry it like a dear, and so you + +are,” said the lady, chucking him under the chin, and drawing her arm + +through his. + + + +This was indeed the case; but as it was not Mr. Claypole’s habit to + +repose a blind and foolish confidence in anybody, it should be + +observed, in justice to that gentleman, that he had trusted Charlotte + +to this extent, in order that, if they were pursued, the money might be + +found on her: which would leave him an opportunity of asserting his + +innocence of any theft, and would greatly facilitate his chances of + +escape. Of course, he entered at this juncture, into no explanation of + +his motives, and they walked on very lovingly together. + + + +In pursuance of this cautious plan, Mr. Claypole went on, without + +halting, until he arrived at the Angel at Islington, where he wisely + +judged, from the crowd of passengers and numbers of vehicles, that + +London began in earnest. Just pausing to observe which appeared the + +most crowded streets, and consequently the most to be avoided, he + +crossed into Saint John’s Road, and was soon deep in the obscurity of + +the intricate and dirty ways, which, lying between Gray’s Inn Lane and + +Smithfield, render that part of the town one of the lowest and worst + +that improvement has left in the midst of London. + + + +Through these streets, Noah Claypole walked, dragging Charlotte after + +him; now stepping into the kennel to embrace at a glance the whole + +external character of some small public-house; now jogging on again, as + +some fancied appearance induced him to believe it too public for his + +purpose. At length, he stopped in front of one, more humble in + +appearance and more dirty than any he had yet seen; and, having crossed + +over and surveyed it from the opposite pavement, graciously announced + +his intention of putting up there, for the night. + + + +“So give us the bundle,” said Noah, unstrapping it from the woman’s + +shoulders, and slinging it over his own; “and don’t yer speak, except + +when yer spoke to. What’s the name of the house—t-h-r—three what?” + + + +“Cripples,” said Charlotte. + + + +“Three Cripples,” repeated Noah, “and a very good sign too. Now, then! + +Keep close at my heels, and come along.” With these injunctions, he + +pushed the rattling door with his shoulder, and entered the house, + +followed by his companion. + + + +There was nobody in the bar but a young Jew, who, with his two elbows + +on the counter, was reading a dirty newspaper. He stared very hard at + +Noah, and Noah stared very hard at him. + + + +If Noah had been attired in his charity-boy’s dress, there might have + +been some reason for the Jew opening his eyes so wide; but as he had + +discarded the coat and badge, and wore a short smock-frock over his + +leathers, there seemed no particular reason for his appearance exciting + +so much attention in a public-house. + + + +“Is this the Three Cripples?” asked Noah. + + + +“That is the dabe of this ’ouse,” replied the Jew. + + + +“A gentleman we met on the road, coming up from the country, + +recommended us here,” said Noah, nudging Charlotte, perhaps to call her + +attention to this most ingenious device for attracting respect, and + +perhaps to warn her to betray no surprise. “We want to sleep here + +tonight.” + + + +“I’b dot certaid you cad,” said Barney, who was the attendant sprite; + +“but I’ll idquire.” + + + +“Show us the tap, and give us a bit of cold meat and a drop of beer + +while yer inquiring, will yer?” said Noah. + + + +Barney complied by ushering them into a small back-room, and setting + +the required viands before them; having done which, he informed the + +travellers that they could be lodged that night, and left the amiable + +couple to their refreshment. + + + +Now, this back-room was immediately behind the bar, and some steps + +lower, so that any person connected with the house, undrawing a small + +curtain which concealed a single pane of glass fixed in the wall of the + +last-named apartment, about five feet from its flooring, could not only + +look down upon any guests in the back-room without any great hazard of + +being observed (the glass being in a dark angle of the wall, between + +which and a large upright beam the observer had to thrust himself), but + +could, by applying his ear to the partition, ascertain with tolerable + +distinctness, their subject of conversation. The landlord of the house + +had not withdrawn his eye from this place of espial for five minutes, + +and Barney had only just returned from making the communication above + +related, when Fagin, in the course of his evening’s business, came into + +the bar to inquire after some of his young pupils. + + + +“Hush!” said Barney: “stradegers id the next roob.” + + + +“Strangers!” repeated the old man in a whisper. + + + +“Ah! Ad rub uds too,” added Barney. “Frob the cuttry, but subthig in + +your way, or I’b bistaked.” + + + +Fagin appeared to receive this communication with great interest. + + + +Mounting a stool, he cautiously applied his eye to the pane of glass, + +from which secret post he could see Mr. Claypole taking cold beef from + +the dish, and porter from the pot, and administering homeopathic doses + +of both to Charlotte, who sat patiently by, eating and drinking at his + +pleasure. + + + +“Aha!” he whispered, looking round to Barney, “I like that fellow’s + +looks. He’d be of use to us; he knows how to train the girl already. + +Don’t make as much noise as a mouse, my dear, and let me hear ’em + +talk—let me hear ’em.” + + + +He again applied his eye to the glass, and turning his ear to the + +partition, listened attentively: with a subtle and eager look upon his + +face, that might have appertained to some old goblin. + + + +“So I mean to be a gentleman,” said Mr. Claypole, kicking out his legs, + +and continuing a conversation, the commencement of which Fagin had + +arrived too late to hear. “No more jolly old coffins, Charlotte, but a + +gentleman’s life for me: and, if yer like, yer shall be a lady.” + + + +“I should like that well enough, dear,” replied Charlotte; “but tills + +ain’t to be emptied every day, and people to get clear off after it.” + + + +“Tills be blowed!” said Mr. Claypole; “there’s more things besides + +tills to be emptied.” + + + +“What do you mean?” asked his companion. + + + +“Pockets, women’s ridicules, houses, mail-coaches, banks!” said Mr. + +Claypole, rising with the porter. + + + +“But you can’t do all that, dear,” said Charlotte. + + + +“I shall look out to get into company with them as can,” replied Noah. + +“They’ll be able to make us useful some way or another. Why, you + +yourself are worth fifty women; I never see such a precious sly and + +deceitful creetur as yer can be when I let yer.” + + + +“Lor, how nice it is to hear yer say so!” exclaimed Charlotte, + +imprinting a kiss upon his ugly face. + + + +“There, that’ll do: don’t yer be too affectionate, in case I’m cross + +with yer,” said Noah, disengaging himself with great gravity. “I should + +like to be the captain of some band, and have the whopping of ’em, and + +follering ’em about, unbeknown to themselves. That would suit me, if + +there was good profit; and if we could only get in with some gentleman + +of this sort, I say it would be cheap at that twenty-pound note you’ve + +got,—especially as we don’t very well know how to get rid of it + +ourselves.” + + + +After expressing this opinion, Mr. Claypole looked into the porter-pot + +with an aspect of deep wisdom; and having well shaken its contents, + +nodded condescendingly to Charlotte, and took a draught, wherewith he + +appeared greatly refreshed. He was meditating another, when the sudden + +opening of the door, and the appearance of a stranger, interrupted him. + + + +The stranger was Mr. Fagin. And very amiable he looked, and a very low + +bow he made, as he advanced, and setting himself down at the nearest + +table, ordered something to drink of the grinning Barney. + + + +“A pleasant night, sir, but cool for the time of year,” said Fagin, + +rubbing his hands. “From the country, I see, sir?” + + + +“How do yer see that?” asked Noah Claypole. + + + +“We have not so much dust as that in London,” replied Fagin, pointing + +from Noah’s shoes to those of his companion, and from them to the two + +bundles. + + + +“Yer a sharp feller,” said Noah. “Ha! ha! only hear that, Charlotte!” + + + +“Why, one need be sharp in this town, my dear,” replied the Jew, + +sinking his voice to a confidential whisper; “and that’s the truth.” + + + +Fagin followed up this remark by striking the side of his nose with his + +right forefinger,—a gesture which Noah attempted to imitate, though not + +with complete success, in consequence of his own nose not being large + +enough for the purpose. However, Mr. Fagin seemed to interpret the + +endeavour as expressing a perfect coincidence with his opinion, and put + +about the liquor which Barney reappeared with, in a very friendly + +manner. + + + +“Good stuff that,” observed Mr. Claypole, smacking his lips. + + + +“Dear!” said Fagin. “A man need be always emptying a till, or a pocket, + +or a woman’s reticule, or a house, or a mail-coach, or a bank, if he + +drinks it regularly.” + + + +Mr. Claypole no sooner heard this extract from his own remarks than he + +fell back in his chair, and looked from the Jew to Charlotte with a + +countenance of ashy paleness and excessive terror. + + + +“Don’t mind me, my dear,” said Fagin, drawing his chair closer. “Ha! + +ha! it was lucky it was only me that heard you by chance. It was very + +lucky it was only me.” + + + +“I didn’t take it,” stammered Noah, no longer stretching out his legs + +like an independent gentleman, but coiling them up as well as he could + +under his chair; “it was all her doing; yer’ve got it now, Charlotte, + +yer know yer have.” + + + +“No matter who’s got it, or who did it, my dear,” replied Fagin, + +glancing, nevertheless, with a hawk’s eye at the girl and the two + +bundles. “I’m in that way myself, and I like you for it.” + + + +“In what way?” asked Mr. Claypole, a little recovering. + + + +“In that way of business,” rejoined Fagin; “and so are the people of + +the house. You’ve hit the right nail upon the head, and are as safe + +here as you could be. There is not a safer place in all this town than + +is the Cripples; that is, when I like to make it so. And I have taken a + +fancy to you and the young woman; so I’ve said the word, and you may + +make your minds easy.” + + + +Noah Claypole’s mind might have been at ease after this assurance, but + +his body certainly was not; for he shuffled and writhed about, into + +various uncouth positions: eyeing his new friend meanwhile with mingled + +fear and suspicion. + + + +“I’ll tell you more,” said Fagin, after he had reassured the girl, by + +dint of friendly nods and muttered encouragements. “I have got a friend + +that I think can gratify your darling wish, and put you in the right + +way, where you can take whatever department of the business you think + +will suit you best at first, and be taught all the others.” + + + +“Yer speak as if yer were in earnest,” replied Noah. + + + +“What advantage would it be to me to be anything else?” inquired Fagin, + +shrugging his shoulders. “Here! Let me have a word with you outside.” + + + +“There’s no occasion to trouble ourselves to move,” said Noah, getting + +his legs by gradual degrees abroad again. “She’ll take the luggage + +upstairs the while. Charlotte, see to them bundles.” + + + +This mandate, which had been delivered with great majesty, was obeyed + +without the slightest demur; and Charlotte made the best of her way off + +with the packages while Noah held the door open and watched her out. + + + +“She’s kept tolerably well under, ain’t she?” he asked as he resumed + +his seat: in the tone of a keeper who had tamed some wild animal. + + + +“Quite perfect,” rejoined Fagin, clapping him on the shoulder. “You’re + +a genius, my dear.” + + + +“Why, I suppose if I wasn’t, I shouldn’t be here,” replied Noah. “But, + +I say, she’ll be back if yer lose time.” + + + +“Now, what do you think?” said Fagin. “If you was to like my friend, + +could you do better than join him?” + + + +“Is he in a good way of business; that’s where it is!” responded Noah, + +winking one of his little eyes. + + + +“The top of the tree; employs a power of hands; has the very best + +society in the profession.” + + + +“Regular town-maders?” asked Mr. Claypole. + + + +“Not a countryman among ’em; and I don’t think he’d take you, even on + +my recommendation, if he didn’t run rather short of assistants just + +now,” replied Fagin. + + + +“Should I have to hand over?” said Noah, slapping his breeches-pocket. + + + +“It couldn’t possibly be done without,” replied Fagin, in a most + +decided manner. + + + +“Twenty pound, though—it’s a lot of money!” + + + +“Not when it’s in a note you can’t get rid of,” retorted Fagin. “Number + +and date taken, I suppose? Payment stopped at the Bank? Ah! It’s not + +worth much to him. It’ll have to go abroad, and he couldn’t sell it for + +a great deal in the market.” + + + +“When could I see him?” asked Noah doubtfully. + + + +“Tomorrow morning.” + + + +“Where?” + + + +“Here.” + + + +“Um!” said Noah. “What’s the wages?” + + + +“Live like a gentleman—board and lodging, pipes and spirits free—half + +of all you earn, and half of all the young woman earns,” replied Mr. + +Fagin. + + + +Whether Noah Claypole, whose rapacity was none of the least + +comprehensive, would have acceded even to these glowing terms, had he + +been a perfectly free agent, is very doubtful; but as he recollected + +that, in the event of his refusal, it was in the power of his new + +acquaintance to give him up to justice immediately (and more unlikely + +things had come to pass), he gradually relented, and said he thought + +that would suit him. + + + +“But, yer see,” observed Noah, “as she will be able to do a good deal, + +I should like to take something very light.” + + + +“A little fancy work?” suggested Fagin. + + + +“Ah! something of that sort,” replied Noah. “What do you think would + +suit me now? Something not too trying for the strength, and not very + +dangerous, you know. That’s the sort of thing!” + + + +“I heard you talk of something in the spy way upon the others, my + +dear,” said Fagin. “My friend wants somebody who would do that well, + +very much.” + + + +“Why, I did mention that, and I shouldn’t mind turning my hand to it + +sometimes,” rejoined Mr. Claypole slowly; “but it wouldn’t pay by + +itself, you know.” + + + +“That’s true!” observed the Jew, ruminating or pretending to ruminate. + +“No, it might not.” + + + +“What do you think, then?” asked Noah, anxiously regarding him. + +“Something in the sneaking way, where it was pretty sure work, and not + +much more risk than being at home.” + + + +“What do you think of the old ladies?” asked Fagin. “There’s a good + +deal of money made in snatching their bags and parcels, and running + +round the corner.” + + + +“Don’t they holler out a good deal, and scratch sometimes?” asked Noah, + +shaking his head. “I don’t think that would answer my purpose. Ain’t + +there any other line open?” + + + +“Stop!” said Fagin, laying his hand on Noah’s knee. “The kinchin lay.” + + + +“What’s that?” demanded Mr. Claypole. + + + +“The kinchins, my dear,” said Fagin, “is the young children that’s sent + +on errands by their mothers, with sixpences and shillings; and the lay + +is just to take their money away—they’ve always got it ready in their + +hands,—then knock ’em into the kennel, and walk off very slow, as if + +there were nothing else the matter but a child fallen down and hurt + +itself. Ha! ha! ha!” + + + +“Ha! ha!” roared Mr. Claypole, kicking up his legs in an ecstasy. + +“Lord, that’s the very thing!” + + + +“To be sure it is,” replied Fagin; “and you can have a few good beats + +chalked out in Camden Town, and Battle Bridge, and neighborhoods like + +that, where they’re always going errands; and you can upset as many + +kinchins as you want, any hour in the day. Ha! ha! ha!” + + + +With this, Fagin poked Mr. Claypole in the side, and they joined in a + +burst of laughter both long and loud. + + + +“Well, that’s all right!” said Noah, when he had recovered himself, and + +Charlotte had returned. “What time tomorrow shall we say?” + + + +“Will ten do?” asked Fagin, adding, as Mr. Claypole nodded assent, + +“What name shall I tell my good friend.” + + + +“Mr. Bolter,” replied Noah, who had prepared himself for such + +emergency. “Mr. Morris Bolter. This is Mrs. Bolter.” + + + +“Mrs. Bolter’s humble servant,” said Fagin, bowing with grotesque + +politeness. “I hope I shall know her better very shortly.” + + + +“Do you hear the gentleman, Charlotte?” thundered Mr. Claypole. + + + +“Yes, Noah, dear!” replied Mrs. Bolter, extending her hand. + + + +“She calls me Noah, as a sort of fond way of talking,” said Mr. Morris + +Bolter, late Claypole, turning to Fagin. “You understand?” + + + +“Oh yes, I understand—perfectly,” replied Fagin, telling the truth for + +once. “Good-night! Good-night!” + + + +With many adieus and good wishes, Mr. Fagin went his way. Noah + +Claypole, bespeaking his good lady’s attention, proceeded to enlighten + +her relative to the arrangement he had made, with all that haughtiness + +and air of superiority, becoming, not only a member of the sterner sex, + +but a gentleman who appreciated the dignity of a special appointment on + +the kinchin lay, in London and its vicinity. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XLIII. + +WHEREIN IS SHOWN HOW THE ARTFUL DODGER GOT INTO TROUBLE + + + + + +“And so it was you that was your own friend, was it?” asked Mr. + +Claypole, otherwise Bolter, when, by virtue of the compact entered into + +between them, he had removed next day to Fagin’s house. “Cod, I thought + +as much last night!” + + + +“Every man’s his own friend, my dear,” replied Fagin, with his most + +insinuating grin. “He hasn’t as good a one as himself anywhere.” + + + +“Except sometimes,” replied Morris Bolter, assuming the air of a man of + +the world. “Some people are nobody’s enemies but their own, yer know.” + + + +“Don’t believe that,” said Fagin. “When a man’s his own enemy, it’s + +only because he’s too much his own friend; not because he’s careful for + +everybody but himself. Pooh! pooh! There ain’t such a thing in nature.” + + + +“There oughn’t to be, if there is,” replied Mr. Bolter. + + + +“That stands to reason. Some conjurers say that number three is the + +magic number, and some say number seven. It’s neither, my friend, + +neither. It’s number one.” + + + +“Ha! ha!” cried Mr. Bolter. “Number one for ever.” + + + +“In a little community like ours, my dear,” said Fagin, who felt it + +necessary to qualify this position, “we have a general number one, + +without considering me too as the same, and all the other young + +people.” + + + +“Oh, the devil!” exclaimed Mr. Bolter. + + + +“You see,” pursued Fagin, affecting to disregard this interruption, “we + +are so mixed up together, and identified in our interests, that it must + +be so. For instance, it’s your object to take care of number + +one—meaning yourself.” + + + +“Certainly,” replied Mr. Bolter. “Yer about right there.” + + + +“Well! You can’t take care of yourself, number one, without taking care + +of me, number one.” + + + +“Number two, you mean,” said Mr. Bolter, who was largely endowed with + +the quality of selfishness. + + + +“No, I don’t!” retorted Fagin. “I’m of the same importance to you, as + +you are to yourself.” + + + +“I say,” interrupted Mr. Bolter, “yer a very nice man, and I’m very + +fond of yer; but we ain’t quite so thick together, as all that comes + +to.” + + + +“Only think,” said Fagin, shrugging his shoulders, and stretching out + +his hands; “only consider. You’ve done what’s a very pretty thing, and + +what I love you for doing; but what at the same time would put the + +cravat round your throat, that’s so very easily tied and so very + +difficult to unloose—in plain English, the halter!” + + + +Mr. Bolter put his hand to his neckerchief, as if he felt it + +inconveniently tight; and murmured an assent, qualified in tone but not + +in substance. + + + +“The gallows,” continued Fagin, “the gallows, my dear, is an ugly + +finger-post, which points out a very short and sharp turning that has + +stopped many a bold fellow’s career on the broad highway. To keep in + +the easy road, and keep it at a distance, is object number one with + +you.” + + + +“Of course it is,” replied Mr. Bolter. “What do yer talk about such + +things for?” + + + +“Only to show you my meaning clearly,” said the Jew, raising his + +eyebrows. “To be able to do that, you depend upon me. To keep my little + +business all snug, I depend upon you. The first is your number one, the + +second my number one. The more you value your number one, the more + +careful you must be of mine; so we come at last to what I told you at + +first—that a regard for number one holds us all together, and must do + +so, unless we would all go to pieces in company.” + + + +“That’s true,” rejoined Mr. Bolter, thoughtfully. “Oh! yer a cunning + +old codger!” + + + +Mr. Fagin saw, with delight, that this tribute to his powers was no + +mere compliment, but that he had really impressed his recruit with a + +sense of his wily genius, which it was most important that he should + +entertain in the outset of their acquaintance. To strengthen an + +impression so desirable and useful, he followed up the blow by + +acquainting him, in some detail, with the magnitude and extent of his + +operations; blending truth and fiction together, as best served his + +purpose; and bringing both to bear, with so much art, that Mr. Bolter’s + +respect visibly increased, and became tempered, at the same time, with + +a degree of wholesome fear, which it was highly desirable to awaken. + + + +“It’s this mutual trust we have in each other that consoles me under + +heavy losses,” said Fagin. “My best hand was taken from me, yesterday + +morning.” + + + +“You don’t mean to say he died?” cried Mr. Bolter. + + + +“No, no,” replied Fagin, “not so bad as that. Not quite so bad.” + + + +“What, I suppose he was—” + + + +“Wanted,” interposed Fagin. “Yes, he was wanted.” + + + +“Very particular?” inquired Mr. Bolter. + + + +“No,” replied Fagin, “not very. He was charged with attempting to pick + +a pocket, and they found a silver snuff-box on him,—his own, my dear, + +his own, for he took snuff himself, and was very fond of it. They + +remanded him till today, for they thought they knew the owner. Ah! he + +was worth fifty boxes, and I’d give the price of as many to have him + +back. You should have known the Dodger, my dear; you should have known + +the Dodger.” + + + +“Well, but I shall know him, I hope; don’t yer think so?” said Mr. + +Bolter. + + + +“I’m doubtful about it,” replied Fagin, with a sigh. “If they don’t get + +any fresh evidence, it’ll only be a summary conviction, and we shall + +have him back again after six weeks or so; but, if they do, it’s a case + +of lagging. They know what a clever lad he is; he’ll be a lifer. + +They’ll make the Artful nothing less than a lifer.” + + + +“What do you mean by lagging and a lifer?” demanded Mr. Bolter. “What’s + +the good of talking in that way to me; why don’t yer speak so as I can + +understand yer?” + + + +Fagin was about to translate these mysterious expressions into the + +vulgar tongue; and, being interpreted, Mr. Bolter would have been + +informed that they represented that combination of words, + +“transportation for life,” when the dialogue was cut short by the entry + +of Master Bates, with his hands in his breeches-pockets, and his face + +twisted into a look of semi-comical woe. + + + +“It’s all up, Fagin,” said Charley, when he and his new companion had + +been made known to each other. + + + +“What do you mean?” + + + +“They’ve found the gentleman as owns the box; two or three more’s a + +coming to ’dentify him; and the Artful’s booked for a passage out,” + +replied Master Bates. “I must have a full suit of mourning, Fagin, and + +a hatband, to wisit him in, afore he sets out upon his travels. To + +think of Jack Dawkins—lummy Jack—the Dodger—the Artful Dodger—going + +abroad for a common twopenny-halfpenny sneeze-box! I never thought he’d + +a done it under a gold watch, chain, and seals, at the lowest. Oh, why + +didn’t he rob some rich old gentleman of all his walables, and go out + +as a gentleman, and not like a common prig, without no honour nor + +glory!” + + + +With this expression of feeling for his unfortunate friend, Master + +Bates sat himself on the nearest chair with an aspect of chagrin and + +despondency. + + + +“What do you talk about his having neither honour nor glory for!” + +exclaimed Fagin, darting an angry look at his pupil. “Wasn’t he always + +the top-sawyer among you all! Is there one of you that could touch him + +or come near him on any scent! Eh?” + + + +“Not one,” replied Master Bates, in a voice rendered husky by regret; + +“not one.” + + + +“Then what do you talk of?” replied Fagin angrily; “what are you + +blubbering for?” + + + +“’Cause it isn’t on the rec-ord, is it?” said Charley, chafed into + +perfect defiance of his venerable friend by the current of his regrets; + +“’cause it can’t come out in the ’dictment; ’cause nobody will never + +know half of what he was. How will he stand in the Newgate Calendar? + +P’raps not be there at all. Oh, my eye, my eye, wot a blow it is!” + + + +“Ha! ha!” cried Fagin, extending his right hand, and turning to Mr. + +Bolter in a fit of chuckling which shook him as though he had the + +palsy; “see what a pride they take in their profession, my dear. Ain’t + +it beautiful?” + + + +Mr. Bolter nodded assent, and Fagin, after contemplating the grief of + +Charley Bates for some seconds with evident satisfaction, stepped up to + +that young gentleman and patted him on the shoulder. + + + +“Never mind, Charley,” said Fagin soothingly; “it’ll come out, it’ll be + +sure to come out. They’ll all know what a clever fellow he was; he’ll + +show it himself, and not disgrace his old pals and teachers. Think how + +young he is too! What a distinction, Charley, to be lagged at his time + +of life!” + + + +“Well, it is a honour that is!” said Charley, a little consoled. + + + +“He shall have all he wants,” continued the Jew. “He shall be kept in + +the Stone Jug, Charley, like a gentleman. Like a gentleman! With his + +beer every day, and money in his pocket to pitch and toss with, if he + +can’t spend it.” + + + +“No, shall he though?” cried Charley Bates. + + + +“Ay, that he shall,” replied Fagin, “and we’ll have a big-wig, Charley: + +one that’s got the greatest gift of the gab: to carry on his defence; + +and he shall make a speech for himself too, if he likes; and we’ll read + +it all in the papers—‘Artful Dodger—shrieks of laughter—here the court + +was convulsed’—eh, Charley, eh?” + + + +“Ha! ha!” laughed Master Bates, “what a lark that would be, wouldn’t + +it, Fagin? I say, how the Artful would bother ’em wouldn’t he?” + + + +“Would!” cried Fagin. “He shall—he will!” + + + +“Ah, to be sure, so he will,” repeated Charley, rubbing his hands. + + + +“I think I see him now,” cried the Jew, bending his eyes upon his + +pupil. + + + +“So do I,” cried Charley Bates. “Ha! ha! ha! so do I. I see it all + +afore me, upon my soul I do, Fagin. What a game! What a regular game! + +All the big-wigs trying to look solemn, and Jack Dawkins addressing of + +’em as intimate and comfortable as if he was the judge’s own son making + +a speech arter dinner—ha! ha! ha!” + + + +In fact, Mr. Fagin had so well humoured his young friend’s eccentric + +disposition, that Master Bates, who had at first been disposed to + +consider the imprisoned Dodger rather in the light of a victim, now + +looked upon him as the chief actor in a scene of most uncommon and + +exquisite humour, and felt quite impatient for the arrival of the time + +when his old companion should have so favourable an opportunity of + +displaying his abilities. + + + +“We must know how he gets on today, by some handy means or other,” + +said Fagin. “Let me think.” + + + +“Shall I go?” asked Charley. + + + +“Not for the world,” replied Fagin. “Are you mad, my dear, stark mad, + +that you’d walk into the very place where—No, Charley, no. One is + +enough to lose at a time.” + + + +“You don’t mean to go yourself, I suppose?” said Charley with a + +humorous leer. + + + +“That wouldn’t quite fit,” replied Fagin shaking his head. + + + +“Then why don’t you send this new cove?” asked Master Bates, laying his + +hand on Noah’s arm. “Nobody knows him.” + + + +“Why, if he didn’t mind—” observed Fagin. + + + +“Mind!” interposed Charley. “What should he have to mind?” + + + +“Really nothing, my dear,” said Fagin, turning to Mr. Bolter, “really + +nothing.” + + + +“Oh, I dare say about that, yer know,” observed Noah, backing towards + +the door, and shaking his head with a kind of sober alarm. “No, no—none + +of that. It’s not in my department, that ain’t.” + + + +“Wot department has he got, Fagin?” inquired Master Bates, surveying + +Noah’s lank form with much disgust. “The cutting away when there’s + +anything wrong, and the eating all the wittles when there’s everything + +right; is that his branch?” + + + +“Never mind,” retorted Mr. Bolter; “and don’t yer take liberties with + +yer superiors, little boy, or yer’ll find yerself in the wrong shop.” + + + +Master Bates laughed so vehemently at this magnificent threat, that it + +was some time before Fagin could interpose, and represent to Mr. Bolter + +that he incurred no possible danger in visiting the police-office; + +that, inasmuch as no account of the little affair in which he had + +engaged, nor any description of his person, had yet been forwarded to + +the metropolis, it was very probable that he was not even suspected of + +having resorted to it for shelter; and that, if he were properly + +disguised, it would be as safe a spot for him to visit as any in + +London, inasmuch as it would be, of all places, the very last, to which + +he could be supposed likely to resort of his own free will. + + + +Persuaded, in part, by these representations, but overborne in a much + +greater degree by his fear of Fagin, Mr. Bolter at length consented, + +with a very bad grace, to undertake the expedition. By Fagin’s + +directions, he immediately substituted for his own attire, a waggoner’s + +frock, velveteen breeches, and leather leggings: all of which articles + +the Jew had at hand. He was likewise furnished with a felt hat well + +garnished with turnpike tickets; and a carter’s whip. Thus equipped, he + +was to saunter into the office, as some country fellow from Covent + +Garden market might be supposed to do for the gratification of his + +curiousity; and as he was as awkward, ungainly, and raw-boned a fellow + +as need be, Mr. Fagin had no fear but that he would look the part to + +perfection. + + + +These arrangements completed, he was informed of the necessary signs + +and tokens by which to recognise the Artful Dodger, and was conveyed by + +Master Bates through dark and winding ways to within a very short + +distance of Bow Street. Having described the precise situation of the + +office, and accompanied it with copious directions how he was to walk + +straight up the passage, and when he got into the side, and pull off + +his hat as he went into the room, Charley Bates bade him hurry on + +alone, and promised to bide his return on the spot of their parting. + + + +Noah Claypole, or Morris Bolter as the reader pleases, punctually + +followed the directions he had received, which—Master Bates being + +pretty well acquainted with the locality—were so exact that he was + +enabled to gain the magisterial presence without asking any question, + +or meeting with any interruption by the way. + + + +He found himself jostled among a crowd of people, chiefly women, who + +were huddled together in a dirty frowsy room, at the upper end of which + +was a raised platform railed off from the rest, with a dock for the + +prisoners on the left hand against the wall, a box for the witnesses in + +the middle, and a desk for the magistrates on the right; the awful + +locality last named, being screened off by a partition which concealed + +the bench from the common gaze, and left the vulgar to imagine (if they + +could) the full majesty of justice. + + + +There were only a couple of women in the dock, who were nodding to + +their admiring friends, while the clerk read some depositions to a + +couple of policemen and a man in plain clothes who leant over the + +table. A jailer stood reclining against the dock-rail, tapping his nose + +listlessly with a large key, except when he repressed an undue tendency + +to conversation among the idlers, by proclaiming silence; or looked + +sternly up to bid some woman “Take that baby out,” when the gravity of + +justice was disturbed by feeble cries, half-smothered in the mother’s + +shawl, from some meagre infant. The room smelt close and unwholesome; + +the walls were dirt-discoloured; and the ceiling blackened. There was + +an old smoky bust over the mantel-shelf, and a dusty clock above the + +dock—the only thing present, that seemed to go on as it ought; for + +depravity, or poverty, or an habitual acquaintance with both, had left + +a taint on all the animate matter, hardly less unpleasant than the + +thick greasy scum on every inanimate object that frowned upon it. + + + +Noah looked eagerly about him for the Dodger; but although there were + +several women who would have done very well for that distinguished + +character’s mother or sister, and more than one man who might be + +supposed to bear a strong resemblance to his father, nobody at all + +answering the description given him of Mr. Dawkins was to be seen. He + +waited in a state of much suspense and uncertainty until the women, + +being committed for trial, went flaunting out; and then was quickly + +relieved by the appearance of another prisoner who he felt at once + +could be no other than the object of his visit. + + + +It was indeed Mr. Dawkins, who, shuffling into the office with the big + +coat sleeves tucked up as usual, his left hand in his pocket, and his + +hat in his right hand, preceded the jailer, with a rolling gait + +altogether indescribable, and, taking his place in the dock, requested + +in an audible voice to know what he was placed in that ’ere disgraceful + +sitivation for. + + + +“Hold your tongue, will you?” said the jailer. + + + +“I’m an Englishman, ain’t I?” rejoined the Dodger. “Where are my + +priwileges?” + + + +“You’ll get your privileges soon enough,” retorted the jailer, “and + +pepper with ’em.” + + + +“We’ll see wot the Secretary of State for the Home Affairs has got to + +say to the beaks, if I don’t,” replied Mr. Dawkins. “Now then! Wot is + +this here business? I shall thank the madg’strates to dispose of this + +here little affair, and not to keep me while they read the paper, for + +I’ve got an appointment with a genelman in the City, and as I am a man + +of my word and wery punctual in business matters, he’ll go away if I + +ain’t there to my time, and then pr’aps ther won’t be an action for + +damage against them as kep me away. Oh no, certainly not!” + + + +At this point, the Dodger, with a show of being very particular with a + +view to proceedings to be had thereafter, desired the jailer to + +communicate “the names of them two files as was on the bench.” Which so + +tickled the spectators, that they laughed almost as heartily as Master + +Bates could have done if he had heard the request. + + + +“Silence there!” cried the jailer. + + + +“What is this?” inquired one of the magistrates. + + + +“A pick-pocketing case, your worship.” + + + +“Has the boy ever been here before?” + + + +“He ought to have been, a many times,” replied the jailer. “He has been + +pretty well everywhere else. _I_ know him well, your worship.” + + + +“Oh! you know me, do you?” cried the Artful, making a note of the + +statement. “Wery good. That’s a case of deformation of character, any + +way.” + + + +Here there was another laugh, and another cry of silence. + + + +“Now then, where are the witnesses?” said the clerk. + + + +“Ah! that’s right,” added the Dodger. “Where are they? I should like to + +see ’em.” + + + +This wish was immediately gratified, for a policeman stepped forward + +who had seen the prisoner attempt the pocket of an unknown gentleman in + +a crowd, and indeed take a handkerchief therefrom, which, being a very + +old one, he deliberately put back again, after trying it on his own + +countenance. For this reason, he took the Dodger into custody as soon + +as he could get near him, and the said Dodger, being searched, had upon + +his person a silver snuff-box, with the owner’s name engraved upon the + +lid. This gentleman had been discovered on reference to the Court + +Guide, and being then and there present, swore that the snuff-box was + +his, and that he had missed it on the previous day, the moment he had + +disengaged himself from the crowd before referred to. He had also + +remarked a young gentleman in the throng, particularly active in making + +his way about, and that young gentleman was the prisoner before him. + + + +“Have you anything to ask this witness, boy?” said the magistrate. + + + +“I wouldn’t abase myself by descending to hold no conversation with + +him,” replied the Dodger. + + + +“Have you anything to say at all?” + + + +“Do you hear his worship ask if you’ve anything to say?” inquired the + +jailer, nudging the silent Dodger with his elbow. + + + +“I beg your pardon,” said the Dodger, looking up with an air of + +abstraction. “Did you redress yourself to me, my man?” + + + +“I never see such an out-and-out young wagabond, your worship,” + +observed the officer with a grin. “Do you mean to say anything, you + +young shaver?” + + + +“No,” replied the Dodger, “not here, for this ain’t the shop for + +justice: besides which, my attorney is a-breakfasting this morning with + +the Wice President of the House of Commons; but I shall have something + +to say elsewhere, and so will he, and so will a wery numerous and + +’spectable circle of acquaintance as’ll make them beaks wish they’d + +never been born, or that they’d got their footmen to hang ’em up to + +their own hat-pegs, afore they let ’em come out this morning to try it + +on upon me. I’ll—” + + + +“There! He’s fully committed!” interposed the clerk. “Take him away.” + + + +“Come on,” said the jailer. + + + +“Oh ah! I’ll come on,” replied the Dodger, brushing his hat with the + +palm of his hand. “Ah! (to the Bench) it’s no use your looking + +frightened; I won’t show you no mercy, not a ha’porth of it. _You’ll_ + +pay for this, my fine fellers. I wouldn’t be you for something! I + +wouldn’t go free, now, if you was to fall down on your knees and ask + +me. Here, carry me off to prison! Take me away!” + + + +With these last words, the Dodger suffered himself to be led off by the + +collar; threatening, till he got into the yard, to make a parliamentary + +business of it; and then grinning in the officer’s face, with great + +glee and self-approval. + + + +Having seen him locked up by himself in a little cell, Noah made the + +best of his way back to where he had left Master Bates. After waiting + +here some time, he was joined by that young gentleman, who had + +prudently abstained from showing himself until he had looked carefully + +abroad from a snug retreat, and ascertained that his new friend had not + +been followed by any impertinent person. + + + +The two hastened back together, to bear to Mr. Fagin the animating news + +that the Dodger was doing full justice to his bringing-up, and + +establishing for himself a glorious reputation. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XLIV. + +THE TIME ARRIVES FOR NANCY TO REDEEM HER PLEDGE TO ROSE MAYLIE. SHE + +FAILS. + + + + + +Adept as she was, in all the arts of cunning and dissimulation, the + +girl Nancy could not wholly conceal the effect which the knowledge of + +the step she had taken, wrought upon her mind. She remembered that both + +the crafty Jew and the brutal Sikes had confided to her schemes, which + +had been hidden from all others: in the full confidence that she was + +trustworthy and beyond the reach of their suspicion. Vile as those + +schemes were, desperate as were their originators, and bitter as were + +her feelings towards Fagin, who had led her, step by step, deeper and + +deeper down into an abyss of crime and misery, whence was no escape; + +still, there were times when, even towards him, she felt some + +relenting, lest her disclosure should bring him within the iron grasp + +he had so long eluded, and he should fall at last—richly as he merited + +such a fate—by her hand. + + + +But, these were the mere wanderings of a mind unable wholly to detach + +itself from old companions and associations, though enabled to fix + +itself steadily on one object, and resolved not to be turned aside by + +any consideration. Her fears for Sikes would have been more powerful + +inducements to recoil while there was yet time; but she had stipulated + +that her secret should be rigidly kept, she had dropped no clue which + +could lead to his discovery, she had refused, even for his sake, a + +refuge from all the guilt and wretchedness that encompasses her—and + +what more could she do! She was resolved. + + + +Though all her mental struggles terminated in this conclusion, they + +forced themselves upon her, again and again, and left their traces too. + +She grew pale and thin, even within a few days. At times, she took no + +heed of what was passing before her, or no part in conversations where + +once, she would have been the loudest. At other times, she laughed + +without merriment, and was noisy without a moment afterwards—she sat + +silent and dejected, brooding with her head upon her hands, while the + +very effort by which she roused herself, told, more forcibly than even + +these indications, that she was ill at ease, and that her thoughts were + +occupied with matters very different and distant from those in the + +course of discussion by her companions. + + + +It was Sunday night, and the bell of the nearest church struck the + +hour. Sikes and the Jew were talking, but they paused to listen. The + +girl looked up from the low seat on which she crouched, and listened + +too. Eleven. + + + +“An hour this side of midnight,” said Sikes, raising the blind to look + +out and returning to his seat. “Dark and heavy it is too. A good night + +for business this.” + + + +“Ah!” replied Fagin. “What a pity, Bill, my dear, that there’s none + +quite ready to be done.” + + + +“You’re right for once,” replied Sikes gruffly. “It is a pity, for I’m + +in the humour too.” + + + +Fagin sighed, and shook his head despondingly. + + + +“We must make up for lost time when we’ve got things into a good train. + +That’s all I know,” said Sikes. + + + +“That’s the way to talk, my dear,” replied Fagin, venturing to pat him + +on the shoulder. “It does me good to hear you.” + + + +“Does you good, does it!” cried Sikes. “Well, so be it.” + + + +“Ha! ha! ha!” laughed Fagin, as if he were relieved by even this + +concession. “You’re like yourself tonight, Bill. Quite like yourself.” + + + +“I don’t feel like myself when you lay that withered old claw on my + +shoulder, so take it away,” said Sikes, casting off the Jew’s hand. + + + +“It make you nervous, Bill,—reminds you of being nabbed, does it?” said + +Fagin, determined not to be offended. + + + +“Reminds me of being nabbed by the devil,” returned Sikes. “There never + +was another man with such a face as yours, unless it was your father, + +and I suppose _he_ is singeing his grizzled red beard by this time, + +unless you came straight from the old ’un without any father at all + +betwixt you; which I shouldn’t wonder at, a bit.” + + + +Fagin offered no reply to this compliment: but, pulling Sikes by the + +sleeve, pointed his finger towards Nancy, who had taken advantage of + +the foregoing conversation to put on her bonnet, and was now leaving + +the room. + + + +“Hallo!” cried Sikes. “Nance. Where’s the gal going to at this time of + +night?” + + + +“Not far.” + + + +“What answer’s that?” retorted Sikes. “Do you hear me?” + + + +“I don’t know where,” replied the girl. + + + +“Then I do,” said Sikes, more in the spirit of obstinacy than because + +he had any real objection to the girl going where she listed. “Nowhere. + +Sit down.” + + + +“I’m not well. I told you that before,” rejoined the girl. “I want a + +breath of air.” + + + +“Put your head out of the winder,” replied Sikes. + + + +“There’s not enough there,” said the girl. “I want it in the street.” + + + +“Then you won’t have it,” replied Sikes. With which assurance he rose, + +locked the door, took the key out, and pulling her bonnet from her + +head, flung it up to the top of an old press. “There,” said the robber. + +“Now stop quietly where you are, will you?” + + + +“It’s not such a matter as a bonnet would keep me,” said the girl + +turning very pale. “What do you mean, Bill? Do you know what you’re + +doing?” + + + +“Know what I’m—Oh!” cried Sikes, turning to Fagin, “she’s out of her + +senses, you know, or she daren’t talk to me in that way.” + + + +“You’ll drive me on the something desperate,” muttered the girl placing + +both hands upon her breast, as though to keep down by force some + +violent outbreak. “Let me go, will you,—this minute—this instant.” + + + +“No!” said Sikes. + + + +“Tell him to let me go, Fagin. He had better. It’ll be better for him. + +Do you hear me?” cried Nancy stamping her foot upon the ground. + + + +“Hear you!” repeated Sikes turning round in his chair to confront her. + +“Aye! And if I hear you for half a minute longer, the dog shall have + +such a grip on your throat as’ll tear some of that screaming voice out. + +Wot has come over you, you jade! Wot is it?” + + + +“Let me go,” said the girl with great earnestness; then sitting herself + +down on the floor, before the door, she said, “Bill, let me go; you + +don’t know what you are doing. You don’t, indeed. For only one + +hour—do—do!” + + + +“Cut my limbs off one by one!” cried Sikes, seizing her roughly by the + +arm, “If I don’t think the gal’s stark raving mad. Get up.” + + + +“Not till you let me go—not till you let me go—Never—never!” screamed + +the girl. Sikes looked on, for a minute, watching his opportunity, and + +suddenly pinioning her hands dragged her, struggling and wrestling with + +him by the way, into a small room adjoining, where he sat himself on a + +bench, and thrusting her into a chair, held her down by force. She + +struggled and implored by turns until twelve o’clock had struck, and + +then, wearied and exhausted, ceased to contest the point any further. + +With a caution, backed by many oaths, to make no more efforts to go out + +that night, Sikes left her to recover at leisure and rejoined Fagin. + + + +“Whew!” said the housebreaker wiping the perspiration from his face. + +“Wot a precious strange gal that is!” + + + +“You may say that, Bill,” replied Fagin thoughtfully. “You may say + +that.” + + + +“Wot did she take it into her head to go out tonight for, do you + +think?” asked Sikes. “Come; you should know her better than me. Wot + +does it mean?” + + + +“Obstinacy; woman’s obstinacy, I suppose, my dear.” + + + +“Well, I suppose it is,” growled Sikes. “I thought I had tamed her, but + +she’s as bad as ever.” + + + +“Worse,” said Fagin thoughtfully. “I never knew her like this, for such + +a little cause.” + + + +“Nor I,” said Sikes. “I think she’s got a touch of that fever in her + +blood yet, and it won’t come out—eh?” + + + +“Like enough.” + + + +“I’ll let her a little blood, without troubling the doctor, if she’s + +took that way again,” said Sikes. + + + +Fagin nodded an expressive approval of this mode of treatment. + + + +“She was hanging about me all day, and night too, when I was stretched + +on my back; and you, like a blackhearted wolf as you are, kept yourself + +aloof,” said Sikes. “We was poor too, all the time, and I think, one + +way or other, it’s worried and fretted her; and that being shut up here + +so long has made her restless—eh?” + + + +“That’s it, my dear,” replied the Jew in a whisper. “Hush!” + + + +As he uttered these words, the girl herself appeared and resumed her + +former seat. Her eyes were swollen and red; she rocked herself to and + +fro; tossed her head; and, after a little time, burst out laughing. + + + +“Why, now she’s on the other tack!” exclaimed Sikes, turning a look of + +excessive surprise on his companion. + + + +Fagin nodded to him to take no further notice just then; and, in a few + +minutes, the girl subsided into her accustomed demeanour. Whispering + +Sikes that there was no fear of her relapsing, Fagin took up his hat + +and bade him good-night. He paused when he reached the room-door, and + +looking round, asked if somebody would light him down the dark stairs. + + + +“Light him down,” said Sikes, who was filling his pipe. “It’s a pity he + +should break his neck himself, and disappoint the sight-seers. Show him + +a light.” + + + +Nancy followed the old man downstairs, with a candle. When they reached + +the passage, he laid his finger on his lip, and drawing close to the + +girl, said, in a whisper. + + + +“What is it, Nancy, dear?” + + + +“What do you mean?” replied the girl, in the same tone. + + + +“The reason of all this,” replied Fagin. “If _he_”—he pointed with his + +skinny fore-finger up the stairs—“is so hard with you (he’s a brute, + +Nance, a brute-beast), why don’t you—” + + + +“Well?” said the girl, as Fagin paused, with his mouth almost touching + +her ear, and his eyes looking into hers. + + + +“No matter just now. We’ll talk of this again. You have a friend in me, + +Nance; a staunch friend. I have the means at hand, quiet and close. If + +you want revenge on those that treat you like a dog—like a dog! worse + +than his dog, for he humours him sometimes—come to me. I say, come to + +me. He is the mere hound of a day, but you know me of old, Nance.” + + + +“I know you well,” replied the girl, without manifesting the least + +emotion. “Good-night.” + + + +She shrank back, as Fagin offered to lay his hand on hers, but said + +good-night again, in a steady voice, and, answering his parting look + +with a nod of intelligence, closed the door between them. + + + +Fagin walked towards his home, intent upon the thoughts that were + +working within his brain. He had conceived the idea—not from what had + +just passed though that had tended to confirm him, but slowly and by + +degrees—that Nancy, wearied of the housebreaker’s brutality, had + +conceived an attachment for some new friend. Her altered manner, her + +repeated absences from home alone, her comparative indifference to the + +interests of the gang for which she had once been so zealous, and, + +added to these, her desperate impatience to leave home that night at a + +particular hour, all favoured the supposition, and rendered it, to him + +at least, almost matter of certainty. The object of this new liking was + +not among his myrmidons. He would be a valuable acquisition with such + +an assistant as Nancy, and must (thus Fagin argued) be secured without + +delay. + + + +There was another, and a darker object, to be gained. Sikes knew too + +much, and his ruffian taunts had not galled Fagin the less, because the + +wounds were hidden. The girl must know, well, that if she shook him + +off, she could never be safe from his fury, and that it would be surely + +wreaked—to the maiming of limbs, or perhaps the loss of life—on the + +object of her more recent fancy. + + + +“With a little persuasion,” thought Fagin, “what more likely than that + +she would consent to poison him? Women have done such things, and + +worse, to secure the same object before now. There would be the + +dangerous villain: the man I hate: gone; another secured in his place; + +and my influence over the girl, with a knowledge of this crime to back + +it, unlimited.” + + + +These things passed through the mind of Fagin, during the short time he + +sat alone, in the housebreaker’s room; and with them uppermost in his + +thoughts, he had taken the opportunity afterwards afforded him, of + +sounding the girl in the broken hints he threw out at parting. There + +was no expression of surprise, no assumption of an inability to + +understand his meaning. The girl clearly comprehended it. Her glance at + +parting showed _that_. + + + +But perhaps she would recoil from a plot to take the life of Sikes, and + +that was one of the chief ends to be attained. “How,” thought Fagin, as + +he crept homeward, “can I increase my influence with her? What new + +power can I acquire?” + + + +Such brains are fertile in expedients. If, without extracting a + +confession from herself, he laid a watch, discovered the object of her + +altered regard, and threatened to reveal the whole history to Sikes (of + +whom she stood in no common fear) unless she entered into his designs, + +could he not secure her compliance? + + + +“I can,” said Fagin, almost aloud. “She durst not refuse me then. Not + +for her life, not for her life! I have it all. The means are ready, and + +shall be set to work. I shall have you yet!” + + + +He cast back a dark look, and a threatening motion of the hand, towards + +the spot where he had left the bolder villain; and went on his way: + +busying his bony hands in the folds of his tattered garment, which he + +wrenched tightly in his grasp, as though there were a hated enemy + +crushed with every motion of his fingers. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XLV. + +NOAH CLAYPOLE IS EMPLOYED BY FAGIN ON A SECRET MISSION + + + + + +The old man was up, betimes, next morning, and waited impatiently for + +the appearance of his new associate, who after a delay that seemed + +interminable, at length presented himself, and commenced a voracious + +assault on the breakfast. + + + +“Bolter,” said Fagin, drawing up a chair and seating himself opposite + +Morris Bolter. + + + +“Well, here I am,” returned Noah. “What’s the matter? Don’t yer ask me + +to do anything till I have done eating. That’s a great fault in this + +place. Yer never get time enough over yer meals.” + + + +“You can talk as you eat, can’t you?” said Fagin, cursing his dear + +young friend’s greediness from the very bottom of his heart. + + + +“Oh yes, I can talk. I get on better when I talk,” said Noah, cutting a + +monstrous slice of bread. “Where’s Charlotte?” + + + +“Out,” said Fagin. “I sent her out this morning with the other young + +woman, because I wanted us to be alone.” + + + +“Oh!” said Noah. “I wish yer’d ordered her to make some buttered toast + +first. Well. Talk away. Yer won’t interrupt me.” + + + +There seemed, indeed, no great fear of anything interrupting him, as he + +had evidently sat down with a determination to do a great deal of + +business. + + + +“You did well yesterday, my dear,” said Fagin. “Beautiful! Six + +shillings and ninepence halfpenny on the very first day! The kinchin + +lay will be a fortune to you.” + + + +“Don’t you forget to add three pint-pots and a milk-can,” said Mr. + +Bolter. + + + +“No, no, my dear. The pint-pots were great strokes of genius: but the + +milk-can was a perfect masterpiece.” + + + +“Pretty well, I think, for a beginner,” remarked Mr. Bolter + +complacently. “The pots I took off airy railings, and the milk-can was + +standing by itself outside a public-house. I thought it might get rusty + +with the rain, or catch cold, yer know. Eh? Ha! ha! ha!” + + + +Fagin affected to laugh very heartily; and Mr. Bolter having had his + +laugh out, took a series of large bites, which finished his first hunk + +of bread and butter, and assisted himself to a second. + + + +“I want you, Bolter,” said Fagin, leaning over the table, “to do a + +piece of work for me, my dear, that needs great care and caution.” + + + +“I say,” rejoined Bolter, “don’t yer go shoving me into danger, or + +sending me any more o’ yer police-offices. That don’t suit me, that + +don’t; and so I tell yer.” + + + +“That’s not the smallest danger in it—not the very smallest,” said the + +Jew; “it’s only to dodge a woman.” + + + +“An old woman?” demanded Mr. Bolter. + + + +“A young one,” replied Fagin. + + + +“I can do that pretty well, I know,” said Bolter. “I was a regular + +cunning sneak when I was at school. What am I to dodge her for? Not + +to—” + + + +“Not to do anything, but to tell me where she goes, who she sees, and, + +if possible, what she says; to remember the street, if it is a street, + +or the house, if it is a house; and to bring me back all the + +information you can.” + + + +“What’ll yer give me?” asked Noah, setting down his cup, and looking + +his employer, eagerly, in the face. + + + +“If you do it well, a pound, my dear. One pound,” said Fagin, wishing + +to interest him in the scent as much as possible. “And that’s what I + +never gave yet, for any job of work where there wasn’t valuable + +consideration to be gained.” + + + +“Who is she?” inquired Noah. + + + +“One of us.” + + + +“Oh Lor!” cried Noah, curling up his nose. “Yer doubtful of her, are + +yer?” + + + +“She has found out some new friends, my dear, and I must know who they + +are,” replied Fagin. + + + +“I see,” said Noah. “Just to have the pleasure of knowing them, if + +they’re respectable people, eh? Ha! ha! ha! I’m your man.” + + + +“I knew you would be,” cried Fagin, elated by the success of his + +proposal. + + + +“Of course, of course,” replied Noah. “Where is she? Where am I to wait + +for her? Where am I to go?” + + + +“All that, my dear, you shall hear from me. I’ll point her out at the + +proper time,” said Fagin. “You keep ready, and leave the rest to me.” + + + +That night, and the next, and the next again, the spy sat booted and + +equipped in his carter’s dress: ready to turn out at a word from Fagin. + +Six nights passed—six long weary nights—and on each, Fagin came home + +with a disappointed face, and briefly intimated that it was not yet + +time. On the seventh, he returned earlier, and with an exultation he + +could not conceal. It was Sunday. + + + +“She goes abroad tonight,” said Fagin, “and on the right errand, I’m + +sure; for she has been alone all day, and the man she is afraid of will + +not be back much before daybreak. Come with me. Quick!” + + + +Noah started up without saying a word; for the Jew was in a state of + +such intense excitement that it infected him. They left the house + +stealthily, and hurrying through a labyrinth of streets, arrived at + +length before a public-house, which Noah recognised as the same in + +which he had slept, on the night of his arrival in London. + + + +It was past eleven o’clock, and the door was closed. It opened softly + +on its hinges as Fagin gave a low whistle. They entered, without noise; + +and the door was closed behind them. + + + +Scarcely venturing to whisper, but substituting dumb show for words, + +Fagin, and the young Jew who had admitted them, pointed out the pane of + +glass to Noah, and signed to him to climb up and observe the person in + +the adjoining room. + + + +“Is that the woman?” he asked, scarcely above his breath. + + + +Fagin nodded yes. + + + +“I can’t see her face well,” whispered Noah. “She is looking down, and + +the candle is behind her.” + + + +“Stay there,” whispered Fagin. He signed to Barney, who withdrew. In an + +instant, the lad entered the room adjoining, and, under pretence of + +snuffing the candle, moved it in the required position, and, speaking + +to the girl, caused her to raise her face. + + + +“I see her now,” cried the spy. + + + +“Plainly?” + + + +“I should know her among a thousand.” + + + +He hastily descended, as the room-door opened, and the girl came out. + +Fagin drew him behind a small partition which was curtained off, and + +they held their breaths as she passed within a few feet of their place + +of concealment, and emerged by the door at which they had entered. + + + +“Hist!” cried the lad who held the door. “Dow.” + + + +Noah exchanged a look with Fagin, and darted out. + + + +“To the left,” whispered the lad; “take the left had, and keep od the + +other side.” + + + +He did so; and, by the light of the lamps, saw the girl’s retreating + +figure, already at some distance before him. He advanced as near as he + +considered prudent, and kept on the opposite side of the street, the + +better to observe her motions. She looked nervously round, twice or + +thrice, and once stopped to let two men who were following close behind + +her, pass on. She seemed to gather courage as she advanced, and to walk + +with a steadier and firmer step. The spy preserved the same relative + +distance between them, and followed: with his eye upon her. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XLVI. + +THE APPOINTMENT KEPT + + + + + +The church clocks chimed three quarters past eleven, as two figures + +emerged on London Bridge. One, which advanced with a swift and rapid + +step, was that of a woman who looked eagerly about her as though in + +quest of some expected object; the other figure was that of a man, who + +slunk along in the deepest shadow he could find, and, at some distance, + +accommodated his pace to hers: stopping when she stopped: and as she + +moved again, creeping stealthily on: but never allowing himself, in the + +ardour of his pursuit, to gain upon her footsteps. Thus, they crossed + +the bridge, from the Middlesex to the Surrey shore, when the woman, + +apparently disappointed in her anxious scrutiny of the foot-passengers, + +turned back. The movement was sudden; but he who watched her, was not + +thrown off his guard by it; for, shrinking into one of the recesses + +which surmount the piers of the bridge, and leaning over the parapet + +the better to conceal his figure, he suffered her to pass on the + +opposite pavement. When she was about the same distance in advance as + +she had been before, he slipped quietly down, and followed her again. + +At nearly the centre of the bridge, she stopped. The man stopped too. + + + +It was a very dark night. The day had been unfavourable, and at that + +hour and place there were few people stirring. Such as there were, + +hurried quickly past: very possibly without seeing, but certainly + +without noticing, either the woman, or the man who kept her in view. + +Their appearance was not calculated to attract the importunate regards + +of such of London’s destitute population, as chanced to take their way + +over the bridge that night in search of some cold arch or doorless + +hovel wherein to lay their heads; they stood there in silence: neither + +speaking nor spoken to, by any one who passed. + + + +A mist hung over the river, deepening the red glare of the fires that + +burnt upon the small craft moored off the different wharfs, and + +rendering darker and more indistinct the murky buildings on the banks. + +The old smoke-stained storehouses on either side, rose heavy and dull + +from the dense mass of roofs and gables, and frowned sternly upon water + +too black to reflect even their lumbering shapes. The tower of old + +Saint Saviour’s Church, and the spire of Saint Magnus, so long the + +giant-warders of the ancient bridge, were visible in the gloom; but the + +forest of shipping below bridge, and the thickly scattered spires of + +churches above, were nearly all hidden from sight. + + + +The girl had taken a few restless turns to and fro—closely watched + +meanwhile by her hidden observer—when the heavy bell of St. Paul’s + +tolled for the death of another day. Midnight had come upon the crowded + +city. The palace, the night-cellar, the jail, the madhouse: the + +chambers of birth and death, of health and sickness, the rigid face of + +the corpse and the calm sleep of the child: midnight was upon them all. + + + +The hour had not struck two minutes, when a young lady, accompanied by + +a grey-haired gentleman, alighted from a hackney-carriage within a + +short distance of the bridge, and, having dismissed the vehicle, walked + +straight towards it. They had scarcely set foot upon its pavement, when + +the girl started, and immediately made towards them. + + + +They walked onward, looking about them with the air of persons who + +entertained some very slight expectation which had little chance of + +being realised, when they were suddenly joined by this new associate. + +They halted with an exclamation of surprise, but suppressed it + +immediately; for a man in the garments of a countryman came close + +up—brushed against them, indeed—at that precise moment. + + + +“Not here,” said Nancy hurriedly, “I am afraid to speak to you here. + +Come away—out of the public road—down the steps yonder!” + + + +As she uttered these words, and indicated, with her hand, the direction + +in which she wished them to proceed, the countryman looked round, and + +roughly asking what they took up the whole pavement for, passed on. + + + +The steps to which the girl had pointed, were those which, on the + +Surrey bank, and on the same side of the bridge as Saint Saviour’s + +Church, form a landing-stairs from the river. To this spot, the man + +bearing the appearance of a countryman, hastened unobserved; and after + +a moment’s survey of the place, he began to descend. + + + +These stairs are a part of the bridge; they consist of three flights. + +Just below the end of the second, going down, the stone wall on the + +left terminates in an ornamental pilaster facing towards the Thames. At + +this point the lower steps widen: so that a person turning that angle + +of the wall, is necessarily unseen by any others on the stairs who + +chance to be above him, if only a step. The countryman looked hastily + +round, when he reached this point; and as there seemed no better place + +of concealment, and, the tide being out, there was plenty of room, he + +slipped aside, with his back to the pilaster, and there waited: pretty + +certain that they would come no lower, and that even if he could not + +hear what was said, he could follow them again, with safety. + + + +So tardily stole the time in this lonely place, and so eager was the + +spy to penetrate the motives of an interview so different from what he + +had been led to expect, that he more than once gave the matter up for + +lost, and persuaded himself, either that they had stopped far above, or + +had resorted to some entirely different spot to hold their mysterious + +conversation. He was on the point of emerging from his hiding-place, + +and regaining the road above, when he heard the sound of footsteps, and + +directly afterwards of voices almost close at his ear. + + + +He drew himself straight upright against the wall, and, scarcely + +breathing, listened attentively. + + + +“This is far enough,” said a voice, which was evidently that of the + +gentleman. “I will not suffer the young lady to go any farther. Many + +people would have distrusted you too much to have come even so far, but + +you see I am willing to humour you.” + + + +“To humour me!” cried the voice of the girl whom he had followed. + +“You’re considerate, indeed, sir. To humour me! Well, well, it’s no + +matter.” + + + +“Why, for what,” said the gentleman in a kinder tone, “for what purpose + +can you have brought us to this strange place? Why not have let me + +speak to you, above there, where it is light, and there is something + +stirring, instead of bringing us to this dark and dismal hole?” + + + +“I told you before,” replied Nancy, “that I was afraid to speak to you + +there. I don’t know why it is,” said the girl, shuddering, “but I have + +such a fear and dread upon me tonight that I can hardly stand.” + + + +“A fear of what?” asked the gentleman, who seemed to pity her. + + + +“I scarcely know of what,” replied the girl. “I wish I did. Horrible + +thoughts of death, and shrouds with blood upon them, and a fear that + +has made me burn as if I was on fire, have been upon me all day. I was + +reading a book tonight, to wile the time away, and the same things + +came into the print.” + + + +“Imagination,” said the gentleman, soothing her. + + + +“No imagination,” replied the girl in a hoarse voice. “I’ll swear I saw + +‘coffin’ written in every page of the book in large black letters,—aye, + +and they carried one close to me, in the streets tonight.” + + + +“There is nothing unusual in that,” said the gentleman. “They have + +passed me often.” + + + +“_Real ones_,” rejoined the girl. “This was not.” + + + +There was something so uncommon in her manner, that the flesh of the + +concealed listener crept as he heard the girl utter these words, and + +the blood chilled within him. He had never experienced a greater relief + +than in hearing the sweet voice of the young lady as she begged her to + +be calm, and not allow herself to become the prey of such fearful + +fancies. + + + +“Speak to her kindly,” said the young lady to her companion. “Poor + +creature! She seems to need it.” + + + +“Your haughty religious people would have held their heads up to see me + +as I am tonight, and preached of flames and vengeance,” cried the + +girl. “Oh, dear lady, why ar’n’t those who claim to be God’s own folks + +as gentle and as kind to us poor wretches as you, who, having youth, + +and beauty, and all that they have lost, might be a little proud + +instead of so much humbler?” + + + +“Ah!” said the gentleman. “A Turk turns his face, after washing it + +well, to the East, when he says his prayers; these good people, after + +giving their faces such a rub against the World as to take the smiles + +off, turn with no less regularity, to the darkest side of Heaven. + +Between the Mussulman and the Pharisee, commend me to the first!” + + + +These words appeared to be addressed to the young lady, and were + +perhaps uttered with the view of affording Nancy time to recover + +herself. The gentleman, shortly afterwards, addressed himself to her. + + + +“You were not here last Sunday night,” he said. + + + +“I couldn’t come,” replied Nancy; “I was kept by force.” + + + +“By whom?” + + + +“Him that I told the young lady of before.” + + + +“You were not suspected of holding any communication with anybody on + +the subject which has brought us here tonight, I hope?” asked the old + +gentleman. + + + +“No,” replied the girl, shaking her head. “It’s not very easy for me to + +leave him unless he knows why; I couldn’t give him a drink of laudanum + +before I came away.” + + + +“Did he awake before you returned?” inquired the gentleman. + + + +“No; and neither he nor any of them suspect me.” + + + +“Good,” said the gentleman. “Now listen to me.” + + + +“I am ready,” replied the girl, as he paused for a moment. + + + +“This young lady,” the gentleman began, “has communicated to me, and to + +some other friends who can be safely trusted, what you told her nearly + +a fortnight since. I confess to you that I had doubts, at first, + +whether you were to be implicitly relied upon, but now I firmly believe + +you are.” + + + +“I am,” said the girl earnestly. + + + +“I repeat that I firmly believe it. To prove to you that I am disposed + +to trust you, I tell you without reserve, that we propose to extort the + +secret, whatever it may be, from the fear of this man Monks. But + +if—if—” said the gentleman, “he cannot be secured, or, if secured, + +cannot be acted upon as we wish, you must deliver up the Jew.” + + + +“Fagin,” cried the girl, recoiling. + + + +“That man must be delivered up by you,” said the gentleman. + + + +“I will not do it! I will never do it!” replied the girl. “Devil that + +he is, and worse than devil as he has been to me, I will never do + +that.” + + + +“You will not?” said the gentleman, who seemed fully prepared for this + +answer. + + + +“Never!” returned the girl. + + + +“Tell me why?” + + + +“For one reason,” rejoined the girl firmly, “for one reason, that the + +lady knows and will stand by me in, I know she will, for I have her + +promise: and for this other reason, besides, that, bad life as he has + +led, I have led a bad life too; there are many of us who have kept the + +same courses together, and I’ll not turn upon them, who might—any of + +them—have turned upon me, but didn’t, bad as they are.” + + + +“Then,” said the gentleman, quickly, as if this had been the point he + +had been aiming to attain; “put Monks into my hands, and leave him to + +me to deal with.” + + + +“What if he turns against the others?” + + + +“I promise you that in that case, if the truth is forced from him, + +there the matter will rest; there must be circumstances in Oliver’s + +little history which it would be painful to drag before the public eye, + +and if the truth is once elicited, they shall go scot free.” + + + +“And if it is not?” suggested the girl. + + + +“Then,” pursued the gentleman, “this Fagin shall not be brought to + +justice without your consent. In such a case I could show you reasons, + +I think, which would induce you to yield it.” + + + +“Have I the lady’s promise for that?” asked the girl. + + + +“You have,” replied Rose. “My true and faithful pledge.” + + + +“Monks would never learn how you knew what you do?” said the girl, + +after a short pause. + + + +“Never,” replied the gentleman. “The intelligence should be brought to + +bear upon him, that he could never even guess.” + + + +“I have been a liar, and among liars from a little child,” said the + +girl after another interval of silence, “but I will take your words.” + + + +After receiving an assurance from both, that she might safely do so, + +she proceeded in a voice so low that it was often difficult for the + +listener to discover even the purport of what she said, to describe, by + +name and situation, the public-house whence she had been followed that + +night. From the manner in which she occasionally paused, it appeared as + +if the gentleman were making some hasty notes of the information she + +communicated. When she had thoroughly explained the localities of the + +place, the best position from which to watch it without exciting + +observation, and the night and hour on which Monks was most in the + +habit of frequenting it, she seemed to consider for a few moments, for + +the purpose of recalling his features and appearances more forcibly to + +her recollection. + + + +“He is tall,” said the girl, “and a strongly made man, but not stout; + +he has a lurking walk; and as he walks, constantly looks over his + +shoulder, first on one side, and then on the other. Don’t forget that, + +for his eyes are sunk in his head so much deeper than any other man’s, + +that you might almost tell him by that alone. His face is dark, like + +his hair and eyes; and, although he can’t be more than six or eight and + +twenty, withered and haggard. His lips are often discoloured and + +disfigured with the marks of teeth; for he has desperate fits, and + +sometimes even bites his hands and covers them with wounds—why did you + +start?” said the girl, stopping suddenly. + + + +The gentleman replied, in a hurried manner, that he was not conscious + +of having done so, and begged her to proceed. + + + +“Part of this,” said the girl, “I have drawn out from other people at + +the house I tell you of, for I have only seen him twice, and both times + +he was covered up in a large cloak. I think that’s all I can give you + +to know him by. Stay though,” she added. “Upon his throat: so high that + +you can see a part of it below his neckerchief when he turns his face: + +there is—” + + + +“A broad red mark, like a burn or scald?” cried the gentleman. + + + +“How’s this?” said the girl. “You know him!” + + + +The young lady uttered a cry of surprise, and for a few moments they + +were so still that the listener could distinctly hear them breathe. + + + +“I think I do,” said the gentleman, breaking silence. “I should by your + +description. We shall see. Many people are singularly like each other. + +It may not be the same.” + + + +As he expressed himself to this effect, with assumed carelessness, he + +took a step or two nearer the concealed spy, as the latter could tell + +from the distinctness with which he heard him mutter, “It must be he!” + + + +“Now,” he said, returning: so it seemed by the sound: to the spot where + +he had stood before, “you have given us most valuable assistance, young + +woman, and I wish you to be the better for it. What can I do to serve + +you?” + + + +“Nothing,” replied Nancy. + + + +“You will not persist in saying that,” rejoined the gentleman, with a + +voice and emphasis of kindness that might have touched a much harder + +and more obdurate heart. “Think now. Tell me.” + + + +“Nothing, sir,” rejoined the girl, weeping. “You can do nothing to help + +me. I am past all hope, indeed.” + + + +“You put yourself beyond its pale,” said the gentleman. “The past has + +been a dreary waste with you, of youthful energies mis-spent, and such + +priceless treasures lavished, as the Creator bestows but once and never + +grants again, but, for the future, you may hope. I do not say that it + +is in our power to offer you peace of heart and mind, for that must + +come as you seek it; but a quiet asylum, either in England, or, if you + +fear to remain here, in some foreign country, it is not only within the + +compass of our ability but our most anxious wish to secure you. Before + +the dawn of morning, before this river wakes to the first glimpse of + +day-light, you shall be placed as entirely beyond the reach of your + +former associates, and leave as utter an absence of all trace behind + +you, as if you were to disappear from the earth this moment. Come! I + +would not have you go back to exchange one word with any old companion, + +or take one look at any old haunt, or breathe the very air which is + +pestilence and death to you. Quit them all, while there is time and + +opportunity!” + + + +“She will be persuaded now,” cried the young lady. “She hesitates, I am + +sure.” + + + +“I fear not, my dear,” said the gentleman. + + + +“No sir, I do not,” replied the girl, after a short struggle. “I am + +chained to my old life. I loathe and hate it now, but I cannot leave + +it. I must have gone too far to turn back,—and yet I don’t know, for if + +you had spoken to me so, some time ago, I should have laughed it off. + +But,” she said, looking hastily round, “this fear comes over me again. + +I must go home.” + + + +“Home!” repeated the young lady, with great stress upon the word. + + + +“Home, lady,” rejoined the girl. “To such a home as I have raised for + +myself with the work of my whole life. Let us part. I shall be watched + +or seen. Go! Go! If I have done you any service all I ask is, that you + +leave me, and let me go my way alone.” + + + +“It is useless,” said the gentleman, with a sigh. “We compromise her + +safety, perhaps, by staying here. We may have detained her longer than + +she expected already.” + + + +“Yes, yes,” urged the girl. “You have.” + + + +“What,” cried the young lady, “can be the end of this poor creature’s + +life!” + + + +“What!” repeated the girl. “Look before you, lady. Look at that dark + +water. How many times do you read of such as I who spring into the + +tide, and leave no living thing, to care for, or bewail them. It may be + +years hence, or it may be only months, but I shall come to that at + +last.” + + + +“Do not speak thus, pray,” returned the young lady, sobbing. + + + +“It will never reach your ears, dear lady, and God forbid such horrors + +should!” replied the girl. “Good-night, good-night!” + + + +The gentleman turned away. + + + +“This purse,” cried the young lady. “Take it for my sake, that you may + +have some resource in an hour of need and trouble.” + + + +“No!” replied the girl. “I have not done this for money. Let me have + +that to think of. And yet—give me something that you have worn: I + +should like to have something—no, no, not a ring—your gloves or + +handkerchief—anything that I can keep, as having belonged to you, sweet + +lady. There. Bless you! God bless you. Good-night, good-night!” + + + +The violent agitation of the girl, and the apprehension of some + +discovery which would subject her to ill-usage and violence, seemed to + +determine the gentleman to leave her, as she requested. + + + +The sound of retreating footsteps were audible and the voices ceased. + + + +The two figures of the young lady and her companion soon afterwards + +appeared upon the bridge. They stopped at the summit of the stairs. + + + +“Hark!” cried the young lady, listening. “Did she call! I thought I + +heard her voice.” + + + +“No, my love,” replied Mr. Brownlow, looking sadly back. “She has not + +moved, and will not till we are gone.” + + + +Rose Maylie lingered, but the old gentleman drew her arm through his, + +and led her, with gentle force, away. As they disappeared, the girl + +sunk down nearly at her full length upon one of the stone stairs, and + +vented the anguish of her heart in bitter tears. + + + +After a time she arose, and with feeble and tottering steps ascended + +the street. The astonished listener remained motionless on his post for + +some minutes afterwards, and having ascertained, with many cautious + +glances round him, that he was again alone, crept slowly from his + +hiding-place, and returned, stealthily and in the shade of the wall, in + +the same manner as he had descended. + + + +Peeping out, more than once, when he reached the top, to make sure that + +he was unobserved, Noah Claypole darted away at his utmost speed, and + +made for the Jew’s house as fast as his legs would carry him. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XLVII. + +FATAL CONSEQUENCES + + + + + +It was nearly two hours before day-break; that time which in the autumn + +of the year, may be truly called the dead of night; when the streets + +are silent and deserted; when even sounds appear to slumber, and + +profligacy and riot have staggered home to dream; it was at this still + +and silent hour, that Fagin sat watching in his old lair, with face so + +distorted and pale, and eyes so red and blood-shot, that he looked less + +like a man, than like some hideous phantom, moist from the grave, and + +worried by an evil spirit. + + + +He sat crouching over a cold hearth, wrapped in an old torn coverlet, + +with his face turned towards a wasting candle that stood upon a table + +by his side. His right hand was raised to his lips, and as, absorbed in + +thought, he bit his long black nails, he disclosed among his toothless + +gums a few such fangs as should have been a dog’s or rat’s. + + + +Stretched upon a mattress on the floor, lay Noah Claypole, fast asleep. + +Towards him the old man sometimes directed his eyes for an instant, and + +then brought them back again to the candle; which with a long-burnt + +wick drooping almost double, and hot grease falling down in clots upon + +the table, plainly showed that his thoughts were busy elsewhere. + + + +Indeed they were. Mortification at the overthrow of his notable scheme; + +hatred of the girl who had dared to palter with strangers; and utter + +distrust of the sincerity of her refusal to yield him up; bitter + +disappointment at the loss of his revenge on Sikes; the fear of + +detection, and ruin, and death; and a fierce and deadly rage kindled by + +all; these were the passionate considerations which, following close + +upon each other with rapid and ceaseless whirl, shot through the brain + +of Fagin, as every evil thought and blackest purpose lay working at his + +heart. + + + +He sat without changing his attitude in the least, or appearing to take + +the smallest heed of time, until his quick ear seemed to be attracted + +by a footstep in the street. + + + +“At last,” he muttered, wiping his dry and fevered mouth. “At last!” + + + +The bell rang gently as he spoke. He crept upstairs to the door, and + +presently returned accompanied by a man muffled to the chin, who + +carried a bundle under one arm. Sitting down and throwing back his + +outer coat, the man displayed the burly frame of Sikes. + + + +“There!” he said, laying the bundle on the table. “Take care of that, + +and do the most you can with it. It’s been trouble enough to get; I + +thought I should have been here, three hours ago.” + + + +Fagin laid his hand upon the bundle, and locking it in the cupboard, + +sat down again without speaking. But he did not take his eyes off the + +robber, for an instant, during this action; and now that they sat over + +against each other, face to face, he looked fixedly at him, with his + +lips quivering so violently, and his face so altered by the emotions + +which had mastered him, that the housebreaker involuntarily drew back + +his chair, and surveyed him with a look of real affright. + + + +“Wot now?” cried Sikes. “Wot do you look at a man so for?” + + + +Fagin raised his right hand, and shook his trembling forefinger in the + +air; but his passion was so great, that the power of speech was for the + +moment gone. + + + +“Damme!” said Sikes, feeling in his breast with a look of alarm. “He’s + +gone mad. I must look to myself here.” + + + +“No, no,” rejoined Fagin, finding his voice. “It’s not—you’re not the + +person, Bill. I’ve no—no fault to find with you.” + + + +“Oh, you haven’t, haven’t you?” said Sikes, looking sternly at him, and + +ostentatiously passing a pistol into a more convenient pocket. “That’s + +lucky—for one of us. Which one that is, don’t matter.” + + + +“I’ve got that to tell you, Bill,” said Fagin, drawing his chair + +nearer, “will make you worse than me.” + + + +“Aye?” returned the robber with an incredulous air. “Tell away! Look + +sharp, or Nance will think I’m lost.” + + + +“Lost!” cried Fagin. “She has pretty well settled that, in her own + +mind, already.” + + + +Sikes looked with an aspect of great perplexity into the Jew’s face, + +and reading no satisfactory explanation of the riddle there, clenched + +his coat collar in his huge hand and shook him soundly. + + + +“Speak, will you!” he said; “or if you don’t, it shall be for want of + +breath. Open your mouth and say wot you’ve got to say in plain words. + +Out with it, you thundering old cur, out with it!” + + + +“Suppose that lad that’s laying there—” Fagin began. + + + +Sikes turned round to where Noah was sleeping, as if he had not + +previously observed him. “Well!” he said, resuming his former position. + + + +“Suppose that lad,” pursued Fagin, “was to peach—to blow upon us + +all—first seeking out the right folks for the purpose, and then having + +a meeting with ’em in the street to paint our likenesses, describe + +every mark that they might know us by, and the crib where we might be + +most easily taken. Suppose he was to do all this, and besides to blow + +upon a plan we’ve all been in, more or less—of his own fancy; not + +grabbed, trapped, tried, earwigged by the parson and brought to it on + +bread and water,—but of his own fancy; to please his own taste; + +stealing out at nights to find those most interested against us, and + +peaching to them. Do you hear me?” cried the Jew, his eyes flashing + +with rage. “Suppose he did all this, what then?” + + + +“What then!” replied Sikes; with a tremendous oath. “If he was left + +alive till I came, I’d grind his skull under the iron heel of my boot + +into as many grains as there are hairs upon his head.” + + + +“What if I did it!” cried Fagin almost in a yell. “I, that knows so + +much, and could hang so many besides myself!” + + + +“I don’t know,” replied Sikes, clenching his teeth and turning white at + +the mere suggestion. “I’d do something in the jail that ’ud get me put + +in irons; and if I was tried along with you, I’d fall upon you with + +them in the open court, and beat your brains out afore the people. I + +should have such strength,” muttered the robber, poising his brawny + +arm, “that I could smash your head as if a loaded waggon had gone over + +it.” + + + +“You would?” + + + +“Would I!” said the housebreaker. “Try me.” + + + +“If it was Charley, or the Dodger, or Bet, or—” + + + +“I don’t care who,” replied Sikes impatiently. “Whoever it was, I’d + +serve them the same.” + + + +Fagin looked hard at the robber; and, motioning him to be silent, + +stooped over the bed upon the floor, and shook the sleeper to rouse + +him. Sikes leant forward in his chair: looking on with his hands upon + +his knees, as if wondering much what all this questioning and + +preparation was to end in. + + + +“Bolter, Bolter! Poor lad!” said Fagin, looking up with an expression + +of devilish anticipation, and speaking slowly and with marked emphasis. + +“He’s tired—tired with watching for her so long,—watching for _her_, + +Bill.” + + + +“Wot d’ye mean?” asked Sikes, drawing back. + + + +Fagin made no answer, but bending over the sleeper again, hauled him + +into a sitting posture. When his assumed name had been repeated several + +times, Noah rubbed his eyes, and, giving a heavy yawn, looked sleepily + +about him. + + + +“Tell me that again—once again, just for him to hear,” said the Jew, + +pointing to Sikes as he spoke. + + + +“Tell yer what?” asked the sleepy Noah, shaking himself pettishly. + + + +“That about— _Nancy_,” said Fagin, clutching Sikes by the wrist, as if + +to prevent his leaving the house before he had heard enough. “You + +followed her?” + + + +“Yes.” + + + +“To London Bridge?” + + + +“Yes.” + + + +“Where she met two people.” + + + +“So she did.” + + + +“A gentleman and a lady that she had gone to of her own accord before, + +who asked her to give up all her pals, and Monks first, which she + +did—and to describe him, which she did—and to tell her what house it + +was that we meet at, and go to, which she did—and where it could be + +best watched from, which she did—and what time the people went there, + +which she did. She did all this. She told it all every word without a + +threat, without a murmur—she did—did she not?” cried Fagin, half mad + +with fury. + + + +“All right,” replied Noah, scratching his head. “That’s just what it + +was!” + + + +“What did they say, about last Sunday?” + + + +“About last Sunday!” replied Noah, considering. “Why I told yer that + +before.” + + + +“Again. Tell it again!” cried Fagin, tightening his grasp on Sikes, and + +brandishing his other hand aloft, as the foam flew from his lips. + + + +“They asked her,” said Noah, who, as he grew more wakeful, seemed to + +have a dawning perception who Sikes was, “they asked her why she didn’t + +come, last Sunday, as she promised. She said she couldn’t.” + + + +“Why—why? Tell him that.” + + + +“Because she was forcibly kept at home by Bill, the man she had told + +them of before,” replied Noah. + + + +“What more of him?” cried Fagin. “What more of the man she had told + +them of before? Tell him that, tell him that.” + + + +“Why, that she couldn’t very easily get out of doors unless he knew + +where she was going to,” said Noah; “and so the first time she went to + +see the lady, she—ha! ha! ha! it made me laugh when she said it, that + +it did—she gave him a drink of laudanum.” + + + +“Hell’s fire!” cried Sikes, breaking fiercely from the Jew. “Let me + +go!” + + + +Flinging the old man from him, he rushed from the room, and darted, + +wildly and furiously, up the stairs. + + + +“Bill, Bill!” cried Fagin, following him hastily. “A word. Only a + +word.” + + + +The word would not have been exchanged, but that the housebreaker was + +unable to open the door: on which he was expending fruitless oaths and + +violence, when the Jew came panting up. + + + +“Let me out,” said Sikes. “Don’t speak to me; it’s not safe. Let me + +out, I say!” + + + +“Hear me speak a word,” rejoined Fagin, laying his hand upon the lock. + +“You won’t be—” + + + +“Well,” replied the other. + + + +“You won’t be—too—violent, Bill?” + + + +The day was breaking, and there was light enough for the men to see + +each other’s faces. They exchanged one brief glance; there was a fire + +in the eyes of both, which could not be mistaken. + + + +“I mean,” said Fagin, showing that he felt all disguise was now + +useless, “not too violent for safety. Be crafty, Bill, and not too + +bold.” + + + +Sikes made no reply; but, pulling open the door, of which Fagin had + +turned the lock, dashed into the silent streets. + + + +Without one pause, or moment’s consideration; without once turning his + +head to the right or left, or raising his eyes to the sky, or lowering + +them to the ground, but looking straight before him with savage + +resolution: his teeth so tightly compressed that the strained jaw + +seemed starting through his skin; the robber held on his headlong + +course, nor muttered a word, nor relaxed a muscle, until he reached his + +own door. He opened it, softly, with a key; strode lightly up the + +stairs; and entering his own room, double-locked the door, and lifting + +a heavy table against it, drew back the curtain of the bed. + + + +The girl was lying, half-dressed, upon it. He had roused her from her + +sleep, for she raised herself with a hurried and startled look. + + + +“Get up!” said the man. + + + +“It is you, Bill!” said the girl, with an expression of pleasure at his + +return. + + + +“It is,” was the reply. “Get up.” + + + +There was a candle burning, but the man hastily drew it from the + +candlestick, and hurled it under the grate. Seeing the faint light of + +early day without, the girl rose to undraw the curtain. + + + +“Let it be,” said Sikes, thrusting his hand before her. “There’s enough + +light for wot I’ve got to do.” + + + +“Bill,” said the girl, in the low voice of alarm, “why do you look like + +that at me!” + + + +The robber sat regarding her, for a few seconds, with dilated nostrils + +and heaving breast; and then, grasping her by the head and throat, + +dragged her into the middle of the room, and looking once towards the + +door, placed his heavy hand upon her mouth. + + + +“Bill, Bill!” gasped the girl, wrestling with the strength of mortal + +fear,—“I—I won’t scream or cry—not once—hear me—speak to me—tell me + +what I have done!” + + + +“You know, you she devil!” returned the robber, suppressing his breath. + +“You were watched tonight; every word you said was heard.” + + + +“Then spare my life for the love of Heaven, as I spared yours,” + +rejoined the girl, clinging to him. “Bill, dear Bill, you cannot have + +the heart to kill me. Oh! think of all I have given up, only this one + +night, for you. You _shall_ have time to think, and save yourself this + +crime; I will not loose my hold, you cannot throw me off. Bill, Bill, + +for dear God’s sake, for your own, for mine, stop before you spill my + +blood! I have been true to you, upon my guilty soul I have!” + + + +The man struggled violently, to release his arms; but those of the girl + +were clasped round his, and tear her as he would, he could not tear + +them away. + + + +“Bill,” cried the girl, striving to lay her head upon his breast, “the + +gentleman and that dear lady, told me tonight of a home in some + +foreign country where I could end my days in solitude and peace. Let me + +see them again, and beg them, on my knees, to show the same mercy and + +goodness to you; and let us both leave this dreadful place, and far + +apart lead better lives, and forget how we have lived, except in + +prayers, and never see each other more. It is never too late to repent. + +They told me so—I feel it now—but we must have time—a little, little + +time!” + + + +The housebreaker freed one arm, and grasped his pistol. The certainty + +of immediate detection if he fired, flashed across his mind even in the + +midst of his fury; and he beat it twice with all the force he could + +summon, upon the upturned face that almost touched his own. + + + +She staggered and fell: nearly blinded with the blood that rained down + +from a deep gash in her forehead; but raising herself, with difficulty, + +on her knees, drew from her bosom a white handkerchief—Rose Maylie’s + +own—and holding it up, in her folded hands, as high towards Heaven as + +her feeble strength would allow, breathed one prayer for mercy to her + +Maker. + + + +It was a ghastly figure to look upon. The murderer staggering backward + +to the wall, and shutting out the sight with his hand, seized a heavy + +club and struck her down. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XLVIII. + +THE FLIGHT OF SIKES + + + + + +Of all bad deeds that, under cover of the darkness, had been committed + +within wide London’s bounds since night hung over it, that was the + +worst. Of all the horrors that rose with an ill scent upon the morning + +air, that was the foulest and most cruel. + + + +The sun—the bright sun, that brings back, not light alone, but new + +life, and hope, and freshness to man—burst upon the crowded city in + +clear and radiant glory. Through costly-coloured glass and paper-mended + +window, through cathedral dome and rotten crevice, it shed its equal + +ray. It lighted up the room where the murdered woman lay. It did. He + +tried to shut it out, but it would stream in. If the sight had been a + +ghastly one in the dull morning, what was it, now, in all that + +brilliant light! + + + +He had not moved; he had been afraid to stir. There had been a moan and + +motion of the hand; and, with terror added to rage, he had struck and + +struck again. Once he threw a rug over it; but it was worse to fancy + +the eyes, and imagine them moving towards him, than to see them glaring + +upward, as if watching the reflection of the pool of gore that quivered + +and danced in the sunlight on the ceiling. He had plucked it off again. + +And there was the body—mere flesh and blood, no more—but such flesh, + +and so much blood! + + + +He struck a light, kindled a fire, and thrust the club into it. There + +was hair upon the end, which blazed and shrunk into a light cinder, + +and, caught by the air, whirled up the chimney. Even that frightened + +him, sturdy as he was; but he held the weapon till it broke, and then + +piled it on the coals to burn away, and smoulder into ashes. He washed + +himself, and rubbed his clothes; there were spots that would not be + +removed, but he cut the pieces out, and burnt them. How those stains + +were dispersed about the room! The very feet of the dog were bloody. + + + +All this time he had, never once, turned his back upon the corpse; no, + +not for a moment. Such preparations completed, he moved, backward, + +towards the door: dragging the dog with him, lest he should soil his + +feet anew and carry out new evidence of the crime into the streets. He + +shut the door softly, locked it, took the key, and left the house. + + + +He crossed over, and glanced up at the window, to be sure that nothing + +was visible from the outside. There was the curtain still drawn, which + +she would have opened to admit the light she never saw again. It lay + +nearly under there. _He_ knew that. God, how the sun poured down upon + +the very spot! + + + +The glance was instantaneous. It was a relief to have got free of the + +room. He whistled on the dog, and walked rapidly away. + + + +He went through Islington; strode up the hill at Highgate on which + +stands the stone in honour of Whittington; turned down to Highgate + +Hill, unsteady of purpose, and uncertain where to go; struck off to the + +right again, almost as soon as he began to descend it; and taking the + +foot-path across the fields, skirted Caen Wood, and so came on + +Hampstead Heath. Traversing the hollow by the Vale of Heath, he mounted + +the opposite bank, and crossing the road which joins the villages of + +Hampstead and Highgate, made along the remaining portion of the heath + +to the fields at North End, in one of which he laid himself down under + +a hedge, and slept. + + + +Soon he was up again, and away,—not far into the country, but back + +towards London by the high-road—then back again—then over another part + +of the same ground as he already traversed—then wandering up and down + +in fields, and lying on ditches’ brinks to rest, and starting up to + +make for some other spot, and do the same, and ramble on again. + + + +Where could he go, that was near and not too public, to get some meat + +and drink? Hendon. That was a good place, not far off, and out of most + +people’s way. Thither he directed his steps,—running sometimes, and + +sometimes, with a strange perversity, loitering at a snail’s pace, or + +stopping altogether and idly breaking the hedges with a stick. But when + +he got there, all the people he met—the very children at the + +doors—seemed to view him with suspicion. Back he turned again, without + +the courage to purchase bit or drop, though he had tasted no food for + +many hours; and once more he lingered on the Heath, uncertain where to + +go. + + + +He wandered over miles and miles of ground, and still came back to the + +old place. Morning and noon had passed, and the day was on the wane, + +and still he rambled to and fro, and up and down, and round and round, + +and still lingered about the same spot. At last he got away, and shaped + +his course for Hatfield. + + + +It was nine o’clock at night, when the man, quite tired out, and the + +dog, limping and lame from the unaccustomed exercise, turned down the + +hill by the church of the quiet village, and plodding along the little + +street, crept into a small public-house, whose scanty light had guided + +them to the spot. There was a fire in the tap-room, and some + +country-labourers were drinking before it. + + + +They made room for the stranger, but he sat down in the furthest + +corner, and ate and drank alone, or rather with his dog: to whom he + +cast a morsel of food from time to time. + + + +The conversation of the men assembled here, turned upon the + +neighbouring land, and farmers; and when those topics were exhausted, + +upon the age of some old man who had been buried on the previous + +Sunday; the young men present considering him very old, and the old men + +present declaring him to have been quite young—not older, one + +white-haired grandfather said, than he was—with ten or fifteen year of + +life in him at least—if he had taken care; if he had taken care. + + + +There was nothing to attract attention, or excite alarm in this. The + +robber, after paying his reckoning, sat silent and unnoticed in his + +corner, and had almost dropped asleep, when he was half wakened by the + +noisy entrance of a new comer. + + + +This was an antic fellow, half pedlar and half mountebank, who + +travelled about the country on foot to vend hones, strops, razors, + +washballs, harness-paste, medicine for dogs and horses, cheap + +perfumery, cosmetics, and such-like wares, which he carried in a case + +slung to his back. His entrance was the signal for various homely jokes + +with the countrymen, which slackened not until he had made his supper, + +and opened his box of treasures, when he ingeniously contrived to unite + +business with amusement. + + + +“And what be that stoof? Good to eat, Harry?” asked a grinning + +countryman, pointing to some composition-cakes in one corner. + + + +“This,” said the fellow, producing one, “this is the infallible and + +invaluable composition for removing all sorts of stain, rust, dirt, + +mildew, spick, speck, spot, or spatter, from silk, satin, linen, + +cambric, cloth, crape, stuff, carpet, merino, muslin, bombazeen, or + +woollen stuff. Wine-stains, fruit-stains, beer-stains, water-stains, + +paint-stains, pitch-stains, any stains, all come out at one rub with + +the infallible and invaluable composition. If a lady stains her honour, + +she has only need to swallow one cake and she’s cured at once—for it’s + +poison. If a gentleman wants to prove this, he has only need to bolt + +one little square, and he has put it beyond question—for it’s quite as + +satisfactory as a pistol-bullet, and a great deal nastier in the + +flavour, consequently the more credit in taking it. One penny a square. + +With all these virtues, one penny a square!” + + + +There were two buyers directly, and more of the listeners plainly + +hesitated. The vendor observing this, increased in loquacity. + + + +“It’s all bought up as fast as it can be made,” said the fellow. “There + +are fourteen water-mills, six steam-engines, and a galvanic battery, + +always a-working upon it, and they can’t make it fast enough, though + +the men work so hard that they die off, and the widows is pensioned + +directly, with twenty pound a-year for each of the children, and a + +premium of fifty for twins. One penny a square! Two half-pence is all + +the same, and four farthings is received with joy. One penny a square! + +Wine-stains, fruit-stains, beer-stains, water-stains, paint-stains, + +pitch-stains, mud-stains, blood-stains! Here is a stain upon the hat of + +a gentleman in company, that I’ll take clean out, before he can order + +me a pint of ale.” + + + +“Hah!” cried Sikes starting up. “Give that back.” + + + +“I’ll take it clean out, sir,” replied the man, winking to the company, + +“before you can come across the room to get it. Gentlemen all, observe + +the dark stain upon this gentleman’s hat, no wider than a shilling, but + +thicker than a half-crown. Whether it is a wine-stain, fruit-stain, + +beer-stain, water-stain, paint-stain, pitch-stain, mud-stain, or + +blood-stain—” + + + +The man got no further, for Sikes with a hideous imprecation overthrew + +the table, and tearing the hat from him, burst out of the house. + + + +With the same perversity of feeling and irresolution that had fastened + +upon him, despite himself, all day, the murderer, finding that he was + +not followed, and that they most probably considered him some drunken + +sullen fellow, turned back up the town, and getting out of the glare of + +the lamps of a stage-coach that was standing in the street, was walking + +past, when he recognised the mail from London, and saw that it was + +standing at the little post-office. He almost knew what was to come; + +but he crossed over, and listened. + + + +The guard was standing at the door, waiting for the letter-bag. A man, + +dressed like a game-keeper, came up at the moment, and he handed him a + +basket which lay ready on the pavement. + + + +“That’s for your people,” said the guard. “Now, look alive in there, + +will you. Damn that ’ere bag, it warn’t ready night afore last; this + +won’t do, you know!” + + + +“Anything new up in town, Ben?” asked the game-keeper, drawing back to + +the window-shutters, the better to admire the horses. + + + +“No, nothing that I knows on,” replied the man, pulling on his gloves. + +“Corn’s up a little. I heerd talk of a murder, too, down Spitalfields + +way, but I don’t reckon much upon it.” + + + +“Oh, that’s quite true,” said a gentleman inside, who was looking out + +of the window. “And a dreadful murder it was.” + + + +“Was it, sir?” rejoined the guard, touching his hat. “Man or woman, + +pray, sir?” + + + +“A woman,” replied the gentleman. “It is supposed—” + + + +“Now, Ben,” replied the coachman impatiently. + + + +“Damn that ’ere bag,” said the guard; “are you gone to sleep in there?” + + + +“Coming!” cried the office keeper, running out. + + + +“Coming,” growled the guard. “Ah, and so’s the young ’ooman of property + +that’s going to take a fancy to me, but I don’t know when. Here, give + +hold. All ri—ight!” + + + +The horn sounded a few cheerful notes, and the coach was gone. + + + +Sikes remained standing in the street, apparently unmoved by what he + +had just heard, and agitated by no stronger feeling than a doubt where + +to go. At length he went back again, and took the road which leads from + +Hatfield to St. Albans. + + + +He went on doggedly; but as he left the town behind him, and plunged + +into the solitude and darkness of the road, he felt a dread and awe + +creeping upon him which shook him to the core. Every object before him, + +substance or shadow, still or moving, took the semblance of some + +fearful thing; but these fears were nothing compared to the sense that + +haunted him of that morning’s ghastly figure following at his heels. He + +could trace its shadow in the gloom, supply the smallest item of the + +outline, and note how stiff and solemn it seemed to stalk along. He + +could hear its garments rustling in the leaves, and every breath of + +wind came laden with that last low cry. If he stopped it did the same. + +If he ran, it followed—not running too: that would have been a relief: + +but like a corpse endowed with the mere machinery of life, and borne on + +one slow melancholy wind that never rose or fell. + + + +At times, he turned, with desperate determination, resolved to beat + +this phantom off, though it should look him dead; but the hair rose on + +his head, and his blood stood still, for it had turned with him and was + +behind him then. He had kept it before him that morning, but it was + +behind now—always. He leaned his back against a bank, and felt that it + +stood above him, visibly out against the cold night-sky. He threw + +himself upon the road—on his back upon the road. At his head it stood, + +silent, erect, and still—a living grave-stone, with its epitaph in + +blood. + + + +Let no man talk of murderers escaping justice, and hint that Providence + +must sleep. There were twenty score of violent deaths in one long + +minute of that agony of fear. + + + +There was a shed in a field he passed, that offered shelter for the + +night. Before the door, were three tall poplar trees, which made it + +very dark within; and the wind moaned through them with a dismal wail. + +He _could not_ walk on, till daylight came again; and here he stretched + +himself close to the wall—to undergo new torture. + + + +For now, a vision came before him, as constant and more terrible than + +that from which he had escaped. Those widely staring eyes, so + +lustreless and so glassy, that he had better borne to see them than + +think upon them, appeared in the midst of the darkness: light in + +themselves, but giving light to nothing. There were but two, but they + +were everywhere. If he shut out the sight, there came the room with + +every well-known object—some, indeed, that he would have forgotten, if + +he had gone over its contents from memory—each in its accustomed place. + +The body was in _its_ place, and its eyes were as he saw them when he + +stole away. He got up, and rushed into the field without. The figure + +was behind him. He re-entered the shed, and shrunk down once more. The + +eyes were there, before he had laid himself along. + + + +And here he remained in such terror as none but he can know, trembling + +in every limb, and the cold sweat starting from every pore, when + +suddenly there arose upon the night-wind the noise of distant shouting, + +and the roar of voices mingled in alarm and wonder. Any sound of men in + +that lonely place, even though it conveyed a real cause of alarm, was + +something to him. He regained his strength and energy at the prospect + +of personal danger; and springing to his feet, rushed into the open + +air. + + + +The broad sky seemed on fire. Rising into the air with showers of + +sparks, and rolling one above the other, were sheets of flame, lighting + +the atmosphere for miles round, and driving clouds of smoke in the + +direction where he stood. The shouts grew louder as new voices swelled + +the roar, and he could hear the cry of Fire! mingled with the ringing + +of an alarm-bell, the fall of heavy bodies, and the crackling of flames + +as they twined round some new obstacle, and shot aloft as though + +refreshed by food. The noise increased as he looked. There were people + +there—men and women—light, bustle. It was like new life to him. He + +darted onward—straight, headlong—dashing through brier and brake, and + +leaping gate and fence as madly as his dog, who careered with loud and + +sounding bark before him. + + + +He came upon the spot. There were half-dressed figures tearing to and + +fro, some endeavouring to drag the frightened horses from the stables, + +others driving the cattle from the yard and out-houses, and others + +coming laden from the burning pile, amidst a shower of falling sparks, + +and the tumbling down of red-hot beams. The apertures, where doors and + +windows stood an hour ago, disclosed a mass of raging fire; walls + +rocked and crumbled into the burning well; the molten lead and iron + +poured down, white hot, upon the ground. Women and children shrieked, + +and men encouraged each other with noisy shouts and cheers. The + +clanking of the engine-pumps, and the spirting and hissing of the water + +as it fell upon the blazing wood, added to the tremendous roar. He + +shouted, too, till he was hoarse; and flying from memory and himself, + +plunged into the thickest of the throng. Hither and thither he dived + +that night: now working at the pumps, and now hurrying through the + +smoke and flame, but never ceasing to engage himself wherever noise and + +men were thickest. Up and down the ladders, upon the roofs of + +buildings, over floors that quaked and trembled with his weight, under + +the lee of falling bricks and stones, in every part of that great fire + +was he; but he bore a charmed life, and had neither scratch nor bruise, + +nor weariness nor thought, till morning dawned again, and only smoke + +and blackened ruins remained. + + + +This mad excitement over, there returned, with ten-fold force, the + +dreadful consciousness of his crime. He looked suspiciously about him, + +for the men were conversing in groups, and he feared to be the subject + +of their talk. The dog obeyed the significant beck of his finger, and + +they drew off, stealthily, together. He passed near an engine where + +some men were seated, and they called to him to share in their + +refreshment. He took some bread and meat; and as he drank a draught of + +beer, heard the firemen, who were from London, talking about the + +murder. “He has gone to Birmingham, they say,” said one: “but they’ll + +have him yet, for the scouts are out, and by tomorrow night there’ll + +be a cry all through the country.” + + + +He hurried off, and walked till he almost dropped upon the ground; then + +lay down in a lane, and had a long, but broken and uneasy sleep. He + +wandered on again, irresolute and undecided, and oppressed with the + +fear of another solitary night. + + + +Suddenly, he took the desperate resolution to going back to London. + + + +“There’s somebody to speak to there, at all event,” he thought. “A good + +hiding-place, too. They’ll never expect to nab me there, after this + +country scent. Why can’t I lie by for a week or so, and, forcing blunt + +from Fagin, get abroad to France? Damme, I’ll risk it.” + + + +He acted upon this impulse without delay, and choosing the least + +frequented roads began his journey back, resolved to lie concealed + +within a short distance of the metropolis, and, entering it at dusk by + +a circuitous route, to proceed straight to that part of it which he had + +fixed on for his destination. + + + +The dog, though. If any description of him were out, it would not be + +forgotten that the dog was missing, and had probably gone with him. + +This might lead to his apprehension as he passed along the streets. He + +resolved to drown him, and walked on, looking about for a pond: picking + +up a heavy stone and tying it to his handkerchief as he went. + + + +The animal looked up into his master’s face while these preparations + +were making; whether his instinct apprehended something of their + +purpose, or the robber’s sidelong look at him was sterner than + +ordinary, he skulked a little farther in the rear than usual, and + +cowered as he came more slowly along. When his master halted at the + +brink of a pool, and looked round to call him, he stopped outright. + + + +“Do you hear me call? Come here!” cried Sikes. + + + +The animal came up from the very force of habit; but as Sikes stooped + +to attach the handkerchief to his throat, he uttered a low growl and + +started back. + + + +“Come back!” said the robber. + + + +The dog wagged his tail, but moved not. Sikes made a running noose and + +called him again. + + + +The dog advanced, retreated, paused an instant, and scoured away at his + +hardest speed. + + + +The man whistled again and again, and sat down and waited in the + +expectation that he would return. But no dog appeared, and at length he + +resumed his journey. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER XLIX. + +MONKS AND MR. BROWNLOW AT LENGTH MEET. THEIR CONVERSATION, AND THE + +INTELLIGENCE THAT INTERRUPTS IT + + + + + +The twilight was beginning to close in, when Mr. Brownlow alighted from + +a hackney-coach at his own door, and knocked softly. The door being + +opened, a sturdy man got out of the coach and stationed himself on one + +side of the steps, while another man, who had been seated on the box, + +dismounted too, and stood upon the other side. At a sign from Mr. + +Brownlow, they helped out a third man, and taking him between them, + +hurried him into the house. This man was Monks. + + + +They walked in the same manner up the stairs without speaking, and Mr. + +Brownlow, preceding them, led the way into a back-room. At the door of + +this apartment, Monks, who had ascended with evident reluctance, + +stopped. The two men looked at the old gentleman as if for + +instructions. + + + +“He knows the alternative,” said Mr. Browlow. “If he hesitates or moves + +a finger but as you bid him, drag him into the street, call for the aid + +of the police, and impeach him as a felon in my name.” + + + +“How dare you say this of me?” asked Monks. + + + +“How dare you urge me to it, young man?” replied Mr. Brownlow, + +confronting him with a steady look. “Are you mad enough to leave this + +house? Unhand him. There, sir. You are free to go, and we to follow. + +But I warn you, by all I hold most solemn and most sacred, that instant + +will have you apprehended on a charge of fraud and robbery. I am + +resolute and immoveable. If you are determined to be the same, your + +blood be upon your own head!” + + + +“By what authority am I kidnapped in the street, and brought here by + +these dogs?” asked Monks, looking from one to the other of the men who + +stood beside him. + + + +“By mine,” replied Mr. Brownlow. “Those persons are indemnified by me. + +If you complain of being deprived of your liberty—you had power and + +opportunity to retrieve it as you came along, but you deemed it + +advisable to remain quiet—I say again, throw yourself for protection on + +the law. I will appeal to the law too; but when you have gone too far + +to recede, do not sue to me for leniency, when the power will have + +passed into other hands; and do not say I plunged you down the gulf + +into which you rushed, yourself.” + + + +Monks was plainly disconcerted, and alarmed besides. He hesitated. + + + +“You will decide quickly,” said Mr. Brownlow, with perfect firmness and + +composure. “If you wish me to prefer my charges publicly, and consign + +you to a punishment the extent of which, although I can, with a + +shudder, foresee, I cannot control, once more, I say, for you know the + +way. If not, and you appeal to my forbearance, and the mercy of those + +you have deeply injured, seat yourself, without a word, in that chair. + +It has waited for you two whole days.” + + + +Monks muttered some unintelligible words, but wavered still. + + + +“You will be prompt,” said Mr. Brownlow. “A word from me, and the + +alternative has gone for ever.” + + + +Still the man hesitated. + + + +“I have not the inclination to parley,” said Mr. Brownlow, “and, as I + +advocate the dearest interests of others, I have not the right.” + + + +“Is there—” demanded Monks with a faltering tongue,—“is there—no middle + +course?” + + + +“None.” + + + +Monks looked at the old gentleman, with an anxious eye; but, reading in + +his countenance nothing but severity and determination, walked into the + +room, and, shrugging his shoulders, sat down. + + + +“Lock the door on the outside,” said Mr. Brownlow to the attendants, + +“and come when I ring.” + + + +The men obeyed, and the two were left alone together. + + + +“This is pretty treatment, sir,” said Monks, throwing down his hat and + +cloak, “from my father’s oldest friend.” + + + +“It is because I was your father’s oldest friend, young man,” returned + +Mr. Brownlow; “it is because the hopes and wishes of young and happy + +years were bound up with him, and that fair creature of his blood and + +kindred who rejoined her God in youth, and left me here a solitary, + +lonely man: it is because he knelt with me beside his only sisters’s + +death-bed when he was yet a boy, on the morning that would—but Heaven + +willed otherwise—have made her my young wife; it is because my seared + +heart clung to him, from that time forth, through all his trials and + +errors, till he died; it is because old recollections and associations + +filled my heart, and even the sight of you brings with it old thoughts + +of him; it is because of all these things that I am moved to treat you + +gently now—yes, Edward Leeford, even now—and blush for your + +unworthiness who bear the name.” + + + +“What has the name to do with it?” asked the other, after + +contemplating, half in silence, and half in dogged wonder, the + +agitation of his companion. “What is the name to me?” + + + +“Nothing,” replied Mr. Brownlow, “nothing to you. But it was _hers_, + +and even at this distance of time brings back to me, an old man, the + +glow and thrill which I once felt, only to hear it repeated by a + +stranger. I am very glad you have changed it—very—very.” + + + +“This is all mighty fine,” said Monks (to retain his assumed + +designation) after a long silence, during which he had jerked himself + +in sullen defiance to and fro, and Mr. Brownlow had sat, shading his + +face with his hand. “But what do you want with me?” + + + +“You have a brother,” said Mr. Brownlow, rousing himself: “a brother, + +the whisper of whose name in your ear when I came behind you in the + +street, was, in itself, almost enough to make you accompany me hither, + +in wonder and alarm.” + + + +“I have no brother,” replied Monks. “You know I was an only child. Why + +do you talk to me of brothers? You know that, as well as I.” + + + +“Attend to what I do know, and you may not,” said Mr. Brownlow. “I + +shall interest you by and by. I know that of the wretched marriage, + +into which family pride, and the most sordid and narrowest of all + +ambition, forced your unhappy father when a mere boy, you were the sole + +and most unnatural issue.” + + + +“I don’t care for hard names,” interrupted Monks with a jeering laugh. + +“You know the fact, and that’s enough for me.” + + + +“But I also know,” pursued the old gentleman, “the misery, the slow + +torture, the protracted anguish of that ill-assorted union. I know how + +listlessly and wearily each of that wretched pair dragged on their + +heavy chain through a world that was poisoned to them both. I know how + +cold formalities were succeeded by open taunts; how indifference gave + +place to dislike, dislike to hate, and hate to loathing, until at last + +they wrenched the clanking bond asunder, and retiring a wide space + +apart, carried each a galling fragment, of which nothing but death + +could break the rivets, to hide it in new society beneath the gayest + +looks they could assume. Your mother succeeded; she forgot it soon. But + +it rusted and cankered at your father’s heart for years.” + + + +“Well, they were separated,” said Monks, “and what of that?” + + + +“When they had been separated for some time,” returned Mr. Brownlow, + +“and your mother, wholly given up to continental frivolities, had + +utterly forgotten the young husband ten good years her junior, who, + +with prospects blighted, lingered on at home, he fell among new + +friends. This circumstance, at least, you know already.” + + + +“Not I,” said Monks, turning away his eyes and beating his foot upon + +the ground, as a man who is determined to deny everything. “Not I.” + + + +“Your manner, no less than your actions, assures me that you have never + +forgotten it, or ceased to think of it with bitterness,” returned Mr. + +Brownlow. “I speak of fifteen years ago, when you were not more than + +eleven years old, and your father but one-and-thirty—for he was, I + +repeat, a boy, when _his_ father ordered him to marry. Must I go back + +to events which cast a shade upon the memory of your parent, or will + +you spare it, and disclose to me the truth?” + + + +“I have nothing to disclose,” rejoined Monks. “You must talk on if you + +will.” + + + +“These new friends, then,” said Mr. Brownlow, “were a naval officer + +retired from active service, whose wife had died some half-a-year + +before, and left him with two children—there had been more, but, of all + +their family, happily but two survived. They were both daughters; one a + +beautiful creature of nineteen, and the other a mere child of two or + +three years old.” + + + +“What’s this to me?” asked Monks. + + + +“They resided,” said Mr. Brownlow, without seeming to hear the + +interruption, “in a part of the country to which your father in his + +wandering had repaired, and where he had taken up his abode. + +Acquaintance, intimacy, friendship, fast followed on each other. Your + +father was gifted as few men are. He had his sister’s soul and person. + +As the old officer knew him more and more, he grew to love him. I would + +that it had ended there. His daughter did the same.” + + + +The old gentleman paused; Monks was biting his lips, with his eyes + +fixed upon the floor; seeing this, he immediately resumed: + + + +“The end of a year found him contracted, solemnly contracted, to that + +daughter; the object of the first, true, ardent, only passion of a + +guileless girl.” + + + +“Your tale is of the longest,” observed Monks, moving restlessly in his + +chair. + + + +“It is a true tale of grief and trial, and sorrow, young man,” returned + +Mr. Brownlow, “and such tales usually are; if it were one of unmixed + +joy and happiness, it would be very brief. At length one of those rich + +relations to strengthen whose interest and importance your father had + +been sacrificed, as others are often—it is no uncommon case—died, and + +to repair the misery he had been instrumental in occasioning, left him + +his panacea for all griefs—Money. It was necessary that he should + +immediately repair to Rome, whither this man had sped for health, and + +where he had died, leaving his affairs in great confusion. He went; was + +seized with mortal illness there; was followed, the moment the + +intelligence reached Paris, by your mother who carried you with her; he + +died the day after her arrival, leaving no will—_no will_—so that the + +whole property fell to her and you.” + + + +At this part of the recital Monks held his breath, and listened with a + +face of intense eagerness, though his eyes were not directed towards + +the speaker. As Mr. Brownlow paused, he changed his position with the + +air of one who has experienced a sudden relief, and wiped his hot face + +and hands. + + + +“Before he went abroad, and as he passed through London on his way,” + +said Mr. Brownlow, slowly, and fixing his eyes upon the other’s face, + +“he came to me.” + + + +“I never heard of that,” interrupted Monks in a tone intended to appear + +incredulous, but savouring more of disagreeable surprise. + + + +“He came to me, and left with me, among some other things, a picture—a + +portrait painted by himself—a likeness of this poor girl—which he did + +not wish to leave behind, and could not carry forward on his hasty + +journey. He was worn by anxiety and remorse almost to a shadow; talked + +in a wild, distracted way, of ruin and dishonour worked by himself; + +confided to me his intention to convert his whole property, at any + +loss, into money, and, having settled on his wife and you a portion of + +his recent acquisition, to fly the country—I guessed too well he would + +not fly alone—and never see it more. Even from me, his old and early + +friend, whose strong attachment had taken root in the earth that + +covered one most dear to both—even from me he withheld any more + +particular confession, promising to write and tell me all, and after + +that to see me once again, for the last time on earth. Alas! _That_ was + +the last time. I had no letter, and I never saw him more.” + + + +“I went,” said Mr. Brownlow, after a short pause, “I went, when all was + +over, to the scene of his—I will use the term the world would freely + +use, for worldly harshness or favour are now alike to him—of his guilty + +love, resolved that if my fears were realised that erring child should + +find one heart and home to shelter and compassionate her. The family + +had left that part a week before; they had called in such trifling + +debts as were outstanding, discharged them, and left the place by + +night. Why, or whither, none can tell.” + + + +Monks drew his breath yet more freely, and looked round with a smile of + +triumph. + + + +“When your brother,” said Mr. Brownlow, drawing nearer to the other’s + +chair, “When your brother: a feeble, ragged, neglected child: was cast + +in my way by a stronger hand than chance, and rescued by me from a life + +of vice and infamy—” + + + +“What?” cried Monks. + + + +“By me,” said Mr. Brownlow. “I told you I should interest you before + +long. I say by me—I see that your cunning associate suppressed my name, + +although for aught he knew, it would be quite strange to your ears. + +When he was rescued by me, then, and lay recovering from sickness in my + +house, his strong resemblance to this picture I have spoken of, struck + +me with astonishment. Even when I first saw him in all his dirt and + +misery, there was a lingering expression in his face that came upon me + +like a glimpse of some old friend flashing on one in a vivid dream. I + +need not tell you he was snared away before I knew his history—” + + + +“Why not?” asked Monks hastily. + + + +“Because you know it well.” + + + +“I!” + + + +“Denial to me is vain,” replied Mr. Brownlow. “I shall show you that I + +know more than that.” + + + +“You—you—can’t prove anything against me,” stammered Monks. “I defy you + +to do it!” + + + +“We shall see,” returned the old gentleman with a searching glance. “I + +lost the boy, and no efforts of mine could recover him. Your mother + +being dead, I knew that you alone could solve the mystery if anybody + +could, and as when I had last heard of you you were on your own estate + +in the West Indies—whither, as you well know, you retired upon your + +mother’s death to escape the consequences of vicious courses here—I + +made the voyage. You had left it, months before, and were supposed to + +be in London, but no one could tell where. I returned. Your agents had + +no clue to your residence. You came and went, they said, as strangely + +as you had ever done: sometimes for days together and sometimes not for + +months: keeping to all appearance the same low haunts and mingling with + +the same infamous herd who had been your associates when a fierce + +ungovernable boy. I wearied them with new applications. I paced the + +streets by night and day, but until two hours ago, all my efforts were + +fruitless, and I never saw you for an instant.” + + + +“And now you do see me,” said Monks, rising boldly, “what then? Fraud + +and robbery are high-sounding words—justified, you think, by a fancied + +resemblance in some young imp to an idle daub of a dead man’s Brother! + +You don’t even know that a child was born of this maudlin pair; you + +don’t even know that.” + + + +“I _did not_,” replied Mr. Brownlow, rising too; “but within the last + +fortnight I have learnt it all. You have a brother; you know it, and + +him. There was a will, which your mother destroyed, leaving the secret + +and the gain to you at her own death. It contained a reference to some + +child likely to be the result of this sad connection, which child was + +born, and accidentally encountered by you, when your suspicions were + +first awakened by his resemblance to your father. You repaired to the + +place of his birth. There existed proofs—proofs long suppressed—of his + +birth and parentage. Those proofs were destroyed by you, and now, in + +your own words to your accomplice the Jew, ‘_the only proofs of the + +boy’s identity lie at the bottom of the river, and the old hag that + +received them from the mother is rotting in her coffin_.’ Unworthy son, + +coward, liar,—you, who hold your councils with thieves and murderers in + +dark rooms at night,—you, whose plots and wiles have brought a violent + +death upon the head of one worth millions such as you,—you, who from + +your cradle were gall and bitterness to your own father’s heart, and in + +whom all evil passions, vice, and profligacy, festered, till they found + +a vent in a hideous disease which had made your face an index even to + +your mind—you, Edward Leeford, do you still brave me!” + + + +“No, no, no!” returned the coward, overwhelmed by these accumulated + +charges. + + + +“Every word!” cried the gentleman, “every word that has passed between + +you and this detested villain, is known to me. Shadows on the wall have + +caught your whispers, and brought them to my ear; the sight of the + +persecuted child has turned vice itself, and given it the courage and + +almost the attributes of virtue. Murder has been done, to which you + +were morally if not really a party.” + + + +“No, no,” interposed Monks. “I—I knew nothing of that; I was going to + +inquire the truth of the story when you overtook me. I didn’t know the + +cause. I thought it was a common quarrel.” + + + +“It was the partial disclosure of your secrets,” replied Mr. Brownlow. + +“Will you disclose the whole?” + + + +“Yes, I will.” + + + +“Set your hand to a statement of truth and facts, and repeat it before + +witnesses?” + + + +“That I promise too.” + + + +“Remain quietly here, until such a document is drawn up, and proceed + +with me to such a place as I may deem most advisable, for the purpose + +of attesting it?” + + + +“If you insist upon that, I’ll do that also,” replied Monks. + + + +“You must do more than that,” said Mr. Brownlow. “Make restitution to + +an innocent and unoffending child, for such he is, although the + +offspring of a guilty and most miserable love. You have not forgotten + +the provisions of the will. Carry them into execution so far as your + +brother is concerned, and then go where you please. In this world you + +need meet no more.” + + + +While Monks was pacing up and down, meditating with dark and evil looks + +on this proposal and the possibilities of evading it: torn by his fears + +on the one hand and his hatred on the other: the door was hurriedly + +unlocked, and a gentleman (Mr. Losberne) entered the room in violent + +agitation. + + + +“The man will be taken,” he cried. “He will be taken tonight!” + + + +“The murderer?” asked Mr. Brownlow. + + + +“Yes, yes,” replied the other. “His dog has been seen lurking about + +some old haunt, and there seems little doubt that his master either is, + +or will be, there, under cover of the darkness. Spies are hovering + +about in every direction. I have spoken to the men who are charged with + +his capture, and they tell me he cannot escape. A reward of a hundred + +pounds is proclaimed by Government tonight.” + + + +“I will give fifty more,” said Mr. Brownlow, “and proclaim it with my + +own lips upon the spot, if I can reach it. Where is Mr. Maylie?” + + + +“Harry? As soon as he had seen your friend here, safe in a coach with + +you, he hurried off to where he heard this,” replied the doctor, “and + +mounting his horse sallied forth to join the first party at some place + +in the outskirts agreed upon between them.” + + + +“Fagin,” said Mr. Brownlow; “what of him?” + + + +“When I last heard, he had not been taken, but he will be, or is, by + +this time. They’re sure of him.” + + + +“Have you made up your mind?” asked Mr. Brownlow, in a low voice, of + +Monks. + + + +“Yes,” he replied. “You—you—will be secret with me?” + + + +“I will. Remain here till I return. It is your only hope of safety.” + + + +They left the room, and the door was again locked. + + + +“What have you done?” asked the doctor in a whisper. + + + +“All that I could hope to do, and even more. Coupling the poor girl’s + +intelligence with my previous knowledge, and the result of our good + +friend’s inquiries on the spot, I left him no loophole of escape, and + +laid bare the whole villainy which by these lights became plain as day. + +Write and appoint the evening after tomorrow, at seven, for the + +meeting. We shall be down there, a few hours before, but shall require + +rest: especially the young lady, who _may_ have greater need of + +firmness than either you or I can quite foresee just now. But my blood + +boils to avenge this poor murdered creature. Which way have they + +taken?” + + + +“Drive straight to the office and you will be in time,” replied Mr. + +Losberne. “I will remain here.” + + + +The two gentlemen hastily separated; each in a fever of excitement + +wholly uncontrollable. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER L. + +THE PURSUIT AND ESCAPE + + + + + +Near to that part of the Thames on which the church at Rotherhithe + +abuts, where the buildings on the banks are dirtiest and the vessels on + +the river blackest with the dust of colliers and the smoke of + +close-built low-roofed houses, there exists the filthiest, the + +strangest, the most extraordinary of the many localities that are + +hidden in London, wholly unknown, even by name, to the great mass of + +its inhabitants. + + + +To reach this place, the visitor has to penetrate through a maze of + +close, narrow, and muddy streets, thronged by the roughest and poorest + +of waterside people, and devoted to the traffic they may be supposed to + +occasion. The cheapest and least delicate provisions are heaped in the + +shops; the coarsest and commonest articles of wearing apparel dangle at + +the salesman’s door, and stream from the house-parapet and windows. + +Jostling with unemployed labourers of the lowest class, + +ballast-heavers, coal-whippers, brazen women, ragged children, and the + +raff and refuse of the river, he makes his way with difficulty along, + +assailed by offensive sights and smells from the narrow alleys which + +branch off on the right and left, and deafened by the clash of + +ponderous waggons that bear great piles of merchandise from the stacks + +of warehouses that rise from every corner. Arriving, at length, in + +streets remoter and less-frequented than those through which he has + +passed, he walks beneath tottering house-fronts projecting over the + +pavement, dismantled walls that seem to totter as he passes, chimneys + +half crushed half hesitating to fall, windows guarded by rusty iron + +bars that time and dirt have almost eaten away, every imaginable sign + +of desolation and neglect. + + + +In such a neighborhood, beyond Dockhead in the Borough of Southwark, + +stands Jacob’s Island, surrounded by a muddy ditch, six or eight feet + +deep and fifteen or twenty wide when the tide is in, once called Mill + +Pond, but known in the days of this story as Folly Ditch. It is a creek + +or inlet from the Thames, and can always be filled at high water by + +opening the sluices at the Lead Mills from which it took its old name. + +At such times, a stranger, looking from one of the wooden bridges + +thrown across it at Mill Lane, will see the inhabitants of the houses + +on either side lowering from their back doors and windows, buckets, + +pails, domestic utensils of all kinds, in which to haul the water up; + +and when his eye is turned from these operations to the houses + +themselves, his utmost astonishment will be excited by the scene before + +him. Crazy wooden galleries common to the backs of half a dozen houses, + +with holes from which to look upon the slime beneath; windows, broken + +and patched, with poles thrust out, on which to dry the linen that is + +never there; rooms so small, so filthy, so confined, that the air would + +seem too tainted even for the dirt and squalor which they shelter; + +wooden chambers thrusting themselves out above the mud, and threatening + +to fall into it—as some have done; dirt-besmeared walls and decaying + +foundations; every repulsive lineament of poverty, every loathsome + +indication of filth, rot, and garbage; all these ornament the banks of + +Folly Ditch. + + + +In Jacob’s Island, the warehouses are roofless and empty; the walls are + +crumbling down; the windows are windows no more; the doors are falling + +into the streets; the chimneys are blackened, but they yield no smoke. + +Thirty or forty years ago, before losses and chancery suits came upon + +it, it was a thriving place; but now it is a desolate island indeed. + +The houses have no owners; they are broken open, and entered upon by + +those who have the courage; and there they live, and there they die. + +They must have powerful motives for a secret residence, or be reduced + +to a destitute condition indeed, who seek a refuge in Jacob’s Island. + + + +In an upper room of one of these houses—a detached house of fair size, + +ruinous in other respects, but strongly defended at door and window: of + +which house the back commanded the ditch in manner already + +described—there were assembled three men, who, regarding each other + +every now and then with looks expressive of perplexity and expectation, + +sat for some time in profound and gloomy silence. One of these was Toby + +Crackit, another Mr. Chitling, and the third a robber of fifty years, + +whose nose had been almost beaten in, in some old scuffle, and whose + +face bore a frightful scar which might probably be traced to the same + +occasion. This man was a returned transport, and his name was Kags. + + + +“I wish,” said Toby turning to Mr. Chitling, “that you had picked out + +some other crib when the two old ones got too warm, and had not come + +here, my fine feller.” + + + +“Why didn’t you, blunder-head!” said Kags. + + + +“Well, I thought you’d have been a little more glad to see me than + +this,” replied Mr. Chitling, with a melancholy air. + + + +“Why, look’e, young gentleman,” said Toby, “when a man keeps himself so + +very ex-clusive as I have done, and by that means has a snug house over + +his head with nobody a prying and smelling about it, it’s rather a + +startling thing to have the honour of a wisit from a young gentleman + +(however respectable and pleasant a person he may be to play cards with + +at conweniency) circumstanced as you are.” + + + +“Especially, when the exclusive young man has got a friend stopping + +with him, that’s arrived sooner than was expected from foreign parts, + +and is too modest to want to be presented to the Judges on his return,” + +added Mr. Kags. + + + +There was a short silence, after which Toby Crackit, seeming to abandon + +as hopeless any further effort to maintain his usual devil-may-care + +swagger, turned to Chitling and said, + + + +“When was Fagin took then?” + + + +“Just at dinner-time—two o’clock this afternoon. Charley and I made our + +lucky up the wash-us chimney, and Bolter got into the empty water-butt, + +head downwards; but his legs were so precious long that they stuck out + +at the top, and so they took him too.” + + + +“And Bet?” + + + +“Poor Bet! She went to see the Body, to speak to who it was,” replied + +Chitling, his countenance falling more and more, “and went off mad, + +screaming and raving, and beating her head against the boards; so they + +put a strait-weskut on her and took her to the hospital—and there she + +is.” + + + +“Wot’s come of young Bates?” demanded Kags. + + + +“He hung about, not to come over here afore dark, but he’ll be here + +soon,” replied Chitling. “There’s nowhere else to go to now, for the + +people at the Cripples are all in custody, and the bar of the ken—I + +went up there and see it with my own eyes—is filled with traps.” + + + +“This is a smash,” observed Toby, biting his lips. “There’s more than + +one will go with this.” + + + +“The sessions are on,” said Kags: “if they get the inquest over, and + +Bolter turns King’s evidence: as of course he will, from what he’s said + +already: they can prove Fagin an accessory before the fact, and get the + +trial on on Friday, and he’ll swing in six days from this, by G—!” + + + +“You should have heard the people groan,” said Chitling; “the officers + +fought like devils, or they’d have torn him away. He was down once, but + +they made a ring round him, and fought their way along. You should have + +seen how he looked about him, all muddy and bleeding, and clung to them + +as if they were his dearest friends. I can see ’em now, not able to + +stand upright with the pressing of the mob, and draggin him along + +amongst ’em; I can see the people jumping up, one behind another, and + +snarling with their teeth and making at him; I can see the blood upon + +his hair and beard, and hear the cries with which the women worked + +themselves into the centre of the crowd at the street corner, and swore + +they’d tear his heart out!” + + + +The horror-stricken witness of this scene pressed his hands upon his + +ears, and with his eyes closed got up and paced violently to and fro, + +like one distracted. + + + +While he was thus engaged, and the two men sat by in silence with their + +eyes fixed upon the floor, a pattering noise was heard upon the stairs, + +and Sikes’s dog bounded into the room. They ran to the window, + +downstairs, and into the street. The dog had jumped in at an open + +window; he made no attempt to follow them, nor was his master to be + +seen. + + + +“What’s the meaning of this?” said Toby when they had returned. “He + +can’t be coming here. I—I—hope not.” + + + +“If he was coming here, he’d have come with the dog,” said Kags, + +stooping down to examine the animal, who lay panting on the floor. + +“Here! Give us some water for him; he has run himself faint.” + + + +“He’s drunk it all up, every drop,” said Chitling after watching the + +dog some time in silence. “Covered with mud—lame—half blind—he must + +have come a long way.” + + + +“Where can he have come from!” exclaimed Toby. “He’s been to the other + +kens of course, and finding them filled with strangers come on here, + +where he’s been many a time and often. But where can he have come from + +first, and how comes he here alone without the other!” + + + +“He”—(none of them called the murderer by his old name)—“He can’t have + +made away with himself. What do you think?” said Chitling. + + + +Toby shook his head. + + + +“If he had,” said Kags, “the dog ’ud want to lead us away to where he + +did it. No. I think he’s got out of the country, and left the dog + +behind. He must have given him the slip somehow, or he wouldn’t be so + +easy.” + + + +This solution, appearing the most probable one, was adopted as the + +right; the dog, creeping under a chair, coiled himself up to sleep, + +without more notice from anybody. + + + +It being now dark, the shutter was closed, and a candle lighted and + +placed upon the table. The terrible events of the last two days had + +made a deep impression on all three, increased by the danger and + +uncertainty of their own position. They drew their chairs closer + +together, starting at every sound. They spoke little, and that in + +whispers, and were as silent and awe-stricken as if the remains of the + +murdered woman lay in the next room. + + + +They had sat thus, some time, when suddenly was heard a hurried + +knocking at the door below. + + + +“Young Bates,” said Kags, looking angrily round, to check the fear he + +felt himself. + + + +The knocking came again. No, it wasn’t he. He never knocked like that. + + + +Crackit went to the window, and shaking all over, drew in his head. + +There was no need to tell them who it was; his pale face was enough. + +The dog too was on the alert in an instant, and ran whining to the + +door. + + + +“We must let him in,” he said, taking up the candle. + + + +“Isn’t there any help for it?” asked the other man in a hoarse voice. + + + +“None. He _must_ come in.” + + + +“Don’t leave us in the dark,” said Kags, taking down a candle from the + +chimney-piece, and lighting it, with such a trembling hand that the + +knocking was twice repeated before he had finished. + + + +Crackit went down to the door, and returned followed by a man with the + +lower part of his face buried in a handkerchief, and another tied over + +his head under his hat. He drew them slowly off. Blanched face, sunken + +eyes, hollow cheeks, beard of three days’ growth, wasted flesh, short + +thick breath; it was the very ghost of Sikes. + + + +He laid his hand upon a chair which stood in the middle of the room, + +but shuddering as he was about to drop into it, and seeming to glance + +over his shoulder, dragged it back close to the wall—as close as it + +would go—and ground it against it—and sat down. + + + +Not a word had been exchanged. He looked from one to another in + +silence. If an eye were furtively raised and met his, it was instantly + +averted. When his hollow voice broke silence, they all three started. + +They seemed never to have heard its tones before. + + + +“How came that dog here?” he asked. + + + +“Alone. Three hours ago.” + + + +“Tonight’s paper says that Fagin’s took. Is it true, or a lie?” + + + +“True.” + + + +They were silent again. + + + +“Damn you all!” said Sikes, passing his hand across his forehead. “Have + +you nothing to say to me?” + + + +There was an uneasy movement among them, but nobody spoke. + + + +“You that keep this house,” said Sikes, turning his face to Crackit, + +“do you mean to sell me, or to let me lie here till this hunt is over?” + + + +“You may stop here, if you think it safe,” returned the person + +addressed, after some hesitation. + + + +Sikes carried his eyes slowly up the wall behind him: rather trying to + +turn his head than actually doing it: and said, “Is—it—the body—is it + +buried?” + + + +They shook their heads. + + + +“Why isn’t it!” he retorted with the same glance behind him. “Wot do + +they keep such ugly things above the ground for?—Who’s that knocking?” + + + +Crackit intimated, by a motion of his hand as he left the room, that + +there was nothing to fear; and directly came back with Charley Bates + +behind him. Sikes sat opposite the door, so that the moment the boy + +entered the room he encountered his figure. + + + +“Toby,” said the boy falling back, as Sikes turned his eyes towards + +him, “why didn’t you tell me this, downstairs?” + + + +There had been something so tremendous in the shrinking off of the + +three, that the wretched man was willing to propitiate even this lad. + +Accordingly he nodded, and made as though he would shake hands with + +him. + + + +“Let me go into some other room,” said the boy, retreating still + +farther. + + + +“Charley!” said Sikes, stepping forward. “Don’t you—don’t you know me?” + + + +“Don’t come nearer me,” answered the boy, still retreating, and + +looking, with horror in his eyes, upon the murderer’s face. “You + +monster!” + + + +The man stopped half-way, and they looked at each other; but Sikes’s + +eyes sunk gradually to the ground. + + + +“Witness you three,” cried the boy shaking his clenched fist, and + +becoming more and more excited as he spoke. “Witness you three—I’m not + +afraid of him—if they come here after him, I’ll give him up; I will. I + +tell you out at once. He may kill me for it if he likes, or if he + +dares, but if I am here I’ll give him up. I’d give him up if he was to + +be boiled alive. Murder! Help! If there’s the pluck of a man among you + +three, you’ll help me. Murder! Help! Down with him!” + + + +Pouring out these cries, and accompanying them with violent + +gesticulation, the boy actually threw himself, single-handed, upon the + +strong man, and in the intensity of his energy and the suddenness of + +his surprise, brought him heavily to the ground. + + + +The three spectators seemed quite stupefied. They offered no + +interference, and the boy and man rolled on the ground together; the + +former, heedless of the blows that showered upon him, wrenching his + +hands tighter and tighter in the garments about the murderer’s breast, + +and never ceasing to call for help with all his might. + + + +The contest, however, was too unequal to last long. Sikes had him down, + +and his knee was on his throat, when Crackit pulled him back with a + +look of alarm, and pointed to the window. There were lights gleaming + +below, voices in loud and earnest conversation, the tramp of hurried + +footsteps—endless they seemed in number—crossing the nearest wooden + +bridge. One man on horseback seemed to be among the crowd; for there + +was the noise of hoofs rattling on the uneven pavement. The gleam of + +lights increased; the footsteps came more thickly and noisily on. Then, + +came a loud knocking at the door, and then a hoarse murmur from such a + +multitude of angry voices as would have made the boldest quail. + + + +“Help!” shrieked the boy in a voice that rent the air. “He’s here! + +Break down the door!” + + + +“In the King’s name,” cried the voices without; and the hoarse cry + +arose again, but louder. + + + +“Break down the door!” screamed the boy. “I tell you they’ll never open + +it. Run straight to the room where the light is. Break down the door!” + + + +Strokes, thick and heavy, rattled upon the door and lower + +window-shutters as he ceased to speak, and a loud huzzah burst from the + +crowd; giving the listener, for the first time, some adequate idea of + +its immense extent. + + + +“Open the door of some place where I can lock this screeching + +Hell-babe,” cried Sikes fiercely; running to and fro, and dragging the + +boy, now, as easily as if he were an empty sack. “That door. Quick!” He + +flung him in, bolted it, and turned the key. “Is the downstairs door + +fast?” + + + +“Double-locked and chained,” replied Crackit, who, with the other two + +men, still remained quite helpless and bewildered. + + + +“The panels—are they strong?” + + + +“Lined with sheet-iron.” + + + +“And the windows too?” + + + +“Yes, and the windows.” + + + +“Damn you!” cried the desperate ruffian, throwing up the sash and + +menacing the crowd. “Do your worst! I’ll cheat you yet!” + + + +Of all the terrific yells that ever fell on mortal ears, none could + +exceed the cry of the infuriated throng. Some shouted to those who were + +nearest to set the house on fire; others roared to the officers to + +shoot him dead. Among them all, none showed such fury as the man on + +horseback, who, throwing himself out of the saddle, and bursting + +through the crowd as if he were parting water, cried, beneath the + +window, in a voice that rose above all others, “Twenty guineas to the + +man who brings a ladder!” + + + +The nearest voices took up the cry, and hundreds echoed it. Some called + +for ladders, some for sledge-hammers; some ran with torches to and fro + +as if to seek them, and still came back and roared again; some spent + +their breath in impotent curses and execrations; some pressed forward + +with the ecstasy of madmen, and thus impeded the progress of those + +below; some among the boldest attempted to climb up by the water-spout + +and crevices in the wall; and all waved to and fro, in the darkness + +beneath, like a field of corn moved by an angry wind: and joined from + +time to time in one loud furious roar. + + + +“The tide,” cried the murderer, as he staggered back into the room, and + +shut the faces out, “the tide was in as I came up. Give me a rope, a + +long rope. They’re all in front. I may drop into the Folly Ditch, and + +clear off that way. Give me a rope, or I shall do three more murders + +and kill myself.” + + + +The panic-stricken men pointed to where such articles were kept; the + +murderer, hastily selecting the longest and strongest cord, hurried up + +to the house-top. + + + +All the windows in the rear of the house had been long ago bricked up, + +except one small trap in the room where the boy was locked, and that + +was too small even for the passage of his body. But, from this + +aperture, he had never ceased to call on those without, to guard the + +back; and thus, when the murderer emerged at last on the house-top by + +the door in the roof, a loud shout proclaimed the fact to those in + +front, who immediately began to pour round, pressing upon each other in + +an unbroken stream. + + + +He planted a board, which he had carried up with him for the purpose, + +so firmly against the door that it must be matter of great difficulty + +to open it from the inside; and creeping over the tiles, looked over + +the low parapet. + + + +The water was out, and the ditch a bed of mud. + + + +The crowd had been hushed during these few moments, watching his + +motions and doubtful of his purpose, but the instant they perceived it + +and knew it was defeated, they raised a cry of triumphant execration to + +which all their previous shouting had been whispers. Again and again it + +rose. Those who were at too great a distance to know its meaning, took + +up the sound; it echoed and re-echoed; it seemed as though the whole + +city had poured its population out to curse him. + + + +On pressed the people from the front—on, on, on, in a strong struggling + +current of angry faces, with here and there a glaring torch to lighten + +them up, and show them out in all their wrath and passion. The houses + +on the opposite side of the ditch had been entered by the mob; sashes + +were thrown up, or torn bodily out; there were tiers and tiers of faces + +in every window; cluster upon cluster of people clinging to every + +house-top. Each little bridge (and there were three in sight) bent + +beneath the weight of the crowd upon it. Still the current poured on to + +find some nook or hole from which to vent their shouts, and only for an + +instant see the wretch. + + + +“They have him now,” cried a man on the nearest bridge. “Hurrah!” + + + +The crowd grew light with uncovered heads; and again the shout uprose. + + + +“I will give fifty pounds,” cried an old gentleman from the same + +quarter, “to the man who takes him alive. I will remain here, till he + +come to ask me for it.” + + + +There was another roar. At this moment the word was passed among the + +crowd that the door was forced at last, and that he who had first + +called for the ladder had mounted into the room. The stream abruptly + +turned, as this intelligence ran from mouth to mouth; and the people at + +the windows, seeing those upon the bridges pouring back, quitted their + +stations, and running into the street, joined the concourse that now + +thronged pell-mell to the spot they had left: each man crushing and + +striving with his neighbor, and all panting with impatience to get near + +the door, and look upon the criminal as the officers brought him out. + +The cries and shrieks of those who were pressed almost to suffocation, + +or trampled down and trodden under foot in the confusion, were + +dreadful; the narrow ways were completely blocked up; and at this time, + +between the rush of some to regain the space in front of the house, and + +the unavailing struggles of others to extricate themselves from the + +mass, the immediate attention was distracted from the murderer, + +although the universal eagerness for his capture was, if possible, + +increased. + + + +The man had shrunk down, thoroughly quelled by the ferocity of the + +crowd, and the impossibility of escape; but seeing this sudden change + +with no less rapidity than it had occurred, he sprang upon his feet, + +determined to make one last effort for his life by dropping into the + +ditch, and, at the risk of being stifled, endeavouring to creep away in + +the darkness and confusion. + + + +Roused into new strength and energy, and stimulated by the noise within + +the house which announced that an entrance had really been effected, he + +set his foot against the stack of chimneys, fastened one end of the + +rope tightly and firmly round it, and with the other made a strong + +running noose by the aid of his hands and teeth almost in a second. He + +could let himself down by the cord to within a less distance of the + +ground than his own height, and had his knife ready in his hand to cut + +it then and drop. + + + +At the very instant when he brought the loop over his head previous to + +slipping it beneath his arm-pits, and when the old gentleman + +before-mentioned (who had clung so tight to the railing of the bridge + +as to resist the force of the crowd, and retain his position) earnestly + +warned those about him that the man was about to lower himself down—at + +that very instant the murderer, looking behind him on the roof, threw + +his arms above his head, and uttered a yell of terror. + + + +“The eyes again!” he cried in an unearthly screech. + + + +Staggering as if struck by lightning, he lost his balance and tumbled + +over the parapet. The noose was on his neck. It ran up with his weight, + +tight as a bow-string, and swift as the arrow it speeds. He fell for + +five-and-thirty feet. There was a sudden jerk, a terrific convulsion of + +the limbs; and there he hung, with the open knife clenched in his + +stiffening hand. + + + +The old chimney quivered with the shock, but stood it bravely. The + +murderer swung lifeless against the wall; and the boy, thrusting aside + +the dangling body which obscured his view, called to the people to come + +and take him out, for God’s sake. + + + +A dog, which had lain concealed till now, ran backwards and forwards on + +the parapet with a dismal howl, and collecting himself for a spring, + +jumped for the dead man’s shoulders. Missing his aim, he fell into the + +ditch, turning completely over as he went; and striking his head + +against a stone, dashed out his brains. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER LI. + +AFFORDING AN EXPLANATION OF MORE MYSTERIES THAN ONE, AND COMPREHENDING + +A PROPOSAL OF MARRIAGE WITH NO WORD OF SETTLEMENT OR PIN-MONEY + + + + + +The events narrated in the last chapter were yet but two days old, when + +Oliver found himself, at three o’clock in the afternoon, in a + +travelling-carriage rolling fast towards his native town. Mrs. Maylie, + +and Rose, and Mrs. Bedwin, and the good doctor were with him: and Mr. + +Brownlow followed in a post-chaise, accompanied by one other person + +whose name had not been mentioned. + + + +They had not talked much upon the way; for Oliver was in a flutter of + +agitation and uncertainty which deprived him of the power of collecting + +his thoughts, and almost of speech, and appeared to have scarcely less + +effect on his companions, who shared it, in at least an equal degree. + +He and the two ladies had been very carefully made acquainted by Mr. + +Brownlow with the nature of the admissions which had been forced from + +Monks; and although they knew that the object of their present journey + +was to complete the work which had been so well begun, still the whole + +matter was enveloped in enough of doubt and mystery to leave them in + +endurance of the most intense suspense. + + + +The same kind friend had, with Mr. Losberne’s assistance, cautiously + +stopped all channels of communication through which they could receive + +intelligence of the dreadful occurrences that had so recently taken + +place. “It was quite true,” he said, “that they must know them before + +long, but it might be at a better time than the present, and it could + +not be at a worse.” So, they travelled on in silence: each busied with + +reflections on the object which had brought them together: and no one + +disposed to give utterance to the thoughts which crowded upon all. + + + +But if Oliver, under these influences, had remained silent while they + +journeyed towards his birth-place by a road he had never seen, how the + +whole current of his recollections ran back to old times, and what a + +crowd of emotions were wakened up in his breast, when they turned into + +that which he had traversed on foot: a poor houseless, wandering boy, + +without a friend to help him, or a roof to shelter his head. + + + +“See there, there!” cried Oliver, eagerly clasping the hand of Rose, + +and pointing out at the carriage window; “that’s the stile I came over; + +there are the hedges I crept behind, for fear any one should overtake + +me and force me back! Yonder is the path across the fields, leading to + +the old house where I was a little child! Oh Dick, Dick, my dear old + +friend, if I could only see you now!” + + + +“You will see him soon,” replied Rose, gently taking his folded hands + +between her own. “You shall tell him how happy you are, and how rich + +you have grown, and that in all your happiness you have none so great + +as the coming back to make him happy too.” + + + +“Yes, yes,” said Oliver, “and we’ll—we’ll take him away from here, and + +have him clothed and taught, and send him to some quiet country place + +where he may grow strong and well,—shall we?” + + + +Rose nodded “yes,” for the boy was smiling through such happy tears + +that she could not speak. + + + +“You will be kind and good to him, for you are to every one,” said + +Oliver. “It will make you cry, I know, to hear what he can tell; but + +never mind, never mind, it will be all over, and you will smile again—I + +know that too—to think how changed he is; you did the same with me. He + +said ‘God bless you’ to me when I ran away,” cried the boy with a burst + +of affectionate emotion; “and I will say ‘God bless you’ now, and show + +him how I love him for it!” + + + +As they approached the town, and at length drove through its narrow + +streets, it became matter of no small difficulty to restrain the boy + +within reasonable bounds. There was Sowerberry’s the undertaker’s just + +as it used to be, only smaller and less imposing in appearance than he + +remembered it—there were all the well-known shops and houses, with + +almost every one of which he had some slight incident connected—there + +was Gamfield’s cart, the very cart he used to have, standing at the old + +public-house door—there was the workhouse, the dreary prison of his + +youthful days, with its dismal windows frowning on the street—there was + +the same lean porter standing at the gate, at sight of whom Oliver + +involuntarily shrunk back, and then laughed at himself for being so + +foolish, then cried, then laughed again—there were scores of faces at + +the doors and windows that he knew quite well—there was nearly + +everything as if he had left it but yesterday, and all his recent life + +had been but a happy dream. + + + +But it was pure, earnest, joyful reality. They drove straight to the + +door of the chief hotel (which Oliver used to stare up at, with awe, + +and think a mighty palace, but which had somehow fallen off in grandeur + +and size); and here was Mr. Grimwig all ready to receive them, kissing + +the young lady, and the old one too, when they got out of the coach, as + +if he were the grandfather of the whole party, all smiles and kindness, + +and not offering to eat his head—no, not once; not even when he + +contradicted a very old postboy about the nearest road to London, and + +maintained he knew it best, though he had only come that way once, and + +that time fast asleep. There was dinner prepared, and there were + +bedrooms ready, and everything was arranged as if by magic. + + + +Notwithstanding all this, when the hurry of the first half-hour was + +over, the same silence and constraint prevailed that had marked their + +journey down. Mr. Brownlow did not join them at dinner, but remained in + +a separate room. The two other gentlemen hurried in and out with + +anxious faces, and, during the short intervals when they were present, + +conversed apart. Once, Mrs. Maylie was called away, and after being + +absent for nearly an hour, returned with eyes swollen with weeping. All + +these things made Rose and Oliver, who were not in any new secrets, + +nervous and uncomfortable. They sat wondering, in silence; or, if they + +exchanged a few words, spoke in whispers, as if they were afraid to + +hear the sound of their own voices. + + + +At length, when nine o’clock had come, and they began to think they + +were to hear no more that night, Mr. Losberne and Mr. Grimwig entered + +the room, followed by Mr. Brownlow and a man whom Oliver almost + +shrieked with surprise to see; for they told him it was his brother, + +and it was the same man he had met at the market-town, and seen looking + +in with Fagin at the window of his little room. Monks cast a look of + +hate, which, even then, he could not dissemble, at the astonished boy, + +and sat down near the door. Mr. Brownlow, who had papers in his hand, + +walked to a table near which Rose and Oliver were seated. + + + +“This is a painful task,” said he, “but these declarations, which have + +been signed in London before many gentlemen, must be in substance + +repeated here. I would have spared you the degradation, but we must + +hear them from your own lips before we part, and you know why.” + + + +“Go on,” said the person addressed, turning away his face. “Quick. I + +have almost done enough, I think. Don’t keep me here.” + + + +“This child,” said Mr. Brownlow, drawing Oliver to him, and laying his + +hand upon his head, “is your half-brother; the illegitimate son of your + +father, my dear friend Edwin Leeford, by poor young Agnes Fleming, who + +died in giving him birth.” + + + +“Yes,” said Monks, scowling at the trembling boy: the beating of whose + +heart he might have heard. “That is the bastard child.” + + + +“The term you use,” said Mr. Brownlow, sternly, “is a reproach to those + +long since passed beyond the feeble censure of the world. It reflects + +disgrace on no one living, except you who use it. Let that pass. He was + +born in this town.” + + + +“In the workhouse of this town,” was the sullen reply. “You have the + +story there.” He pointed impatiently to the papers as he spoke. + + + +“I must have it here, too,” said Mr. Brownlow, looking round upon the + +listeners. + + + +“Listen then! You!” returned Monks. “His father being taken ill at + +Rome, was joined by his wife, my mother, from whom he had been long + +separated, who went from Paris and took me with her—to look after his + +property, for what I know, for she had no great affection for him, nor + +he for her. He knew nothing of us, for his senses were gone, and he + +slumbered on till next day, when he died. Among the papers in his desk, + +were two, dated on the night his illness first came on, directed to + +yourself”; he addressed himself to Mr. Brownlow; “and enclosed in a few + +short lines to you, with an intimation on the cover of the package that + +it was not to be forwarded till after he was dead. One of these papers + +was a letter to this girl Agnes; the other a will.” + + + +“What of the letter?” asked Mr. Brownlow. + + + +“The letter?—A sheet of paper crossed and crossed again, with a + +penitent confession, and prayers to God to help her. He had palmed a + +tale on the girl that some secret mystery—to be explained one + +day—prevented his marrying her just then; and so she had gone on, + +trusting patiently to him, until she trusted too far, and lost what + +none could ever give her back. She was, at that time, within a few + +months of her confinement. He told her all he had meant to do, to hide + +her shame, if he had lived, and prayed her, if he died, not to curse + +his memory, or think the consequences of their sin would be visited on + +her or their young child; for all the guilt was his. He reminded her of + +the day he had given her the little locket and the ring with her + +christian name engraved upon it, and a blank left for that which he + +hoped one day to have bestowed upon her—prayed her yet to keep it, and + +wear it next her heart, as she had done before—and then ran on, wildly, + +in the same words, over and over again, as if he had gone distracted. I + +believe he had.” + + + +“The will,” said Mr. Brownlow, as Oliver’s tears fell fast. + + + +Monks was silent. + + + +“The will,” said Mr. Brownlow, speaking for him, “was in the same + +spirit as the letter. He talked of miseries which his wife had brought + +upon him; of the rebellious disposition, vice, malice, and premature + +bad passions of you his only son, who had been trained to hate him; and + +left you, and your mother, each an annuity of eight hundred pounds. The + +bulk of his property he divided into two equal portions—one for Agnes + +Fleming, and the other for their child, if it should be born alive, and + +ever come of age. If it were a girl, it was to inherit the money + +unconditionally; but if a boy, only on the stipulation that in his + +minority he should never have stained his name with any public act of + +dishonour, meanness, cowardice, or wrong. He did this, he said, to mark + +his confidence in the mother, and his conviction—only strengthened by + +approaching death—that the child would share her gentle heart, and + +noble nature. If he were disappointed in this expectation, then the + +money was to come to you: for then, and not till then, when both + +children were equal, would he recognise your prior claim upon his + +purse, who had none upon his heart, but had, from an infant, repulsed + +him with coldness and aversion.” + + + +“My mother,” said Monks, in a louder tone, “did what a woman should + +have done. She burnt this will. The letter never reached its + +destination; but that, and other proofs, she kept, in case they ever + +tried to lie away the blot. The girl’s father had the truth from her + +with every aggravation that her violent hate—I love her for it + +now—could add. Goaded by shame and dishonour he fled with his children + +into a remote corner of Wales, changing his very name that his friends + +might never know of his retreat; and here, no great while afterwards, + +he was found dead in his bed. The girl had left her home, in secret, + +some weeks before; he had searched for her, on foot, in every town and + +village near; it was on the night when he returned home, assured that + +she had destroyed herself, to hide her shame and his, that his old + +heart broke.” + + + +There was a short silence here, until Mr. Brownlow took up the thread + +of the narrative. + + + +“Years after this,” he said, “this man’s—Edward Leeford’s—mother came + +to me. He had left her, when only eighteen; robbed her of jewels and + +money; gambled, squandered, forged, and fled to London: where for two + +years he had associated with the lowest outcasts. She was sinking under + +a painful and incurable disease, and wished to recover him before she + +died. Inquiries were set on foot, and strict searches made. They were + +unavailing for a long time, but ultimately successful; and he went back + +with her to France.” + + + +“There she died,” said Monks, “after a lingering illness; and, on her + +death-bed, she bequeathed these secrets to me, together with her + +unquenchable and deadly hatred of all whom they involved—though she + +need not have left me that, for I had inherited it long before. She + +would not believe that the girl had destroyed herself, and the child + +too, but was filled with the impression that a male child had been + +born, and was alive. I swore to her, if ever it crossed my path, to + +hunt it down; never to let it rest; to pursue it with the bitterest and + +most unrelenting animosity; to vent upon it the hatred that I deeply + +felt, and to spit upon the empty vaunt of that insulting will by + +dragging it, if I could, to the very gallows-foot. She was right. He + +came in my way at last. I began well; and, but for babbling drabs, I + +would have finished as I began!” + + + +As the villain folded his arms tight together, and muttered curses on + +himself in the impotence of baffled malice, Mr. Brownlow turned to the + +terrified group beside him, and explained that the Jew, who had been + +his old accomplice and confidant, had a large reward for keeping Oliver + +ensnared: of which some part was to be given up, in the event of his + +being rescued: and that a dispute on this head had led to their visit + +to the country house for the purpose of identifying him. + + + +“The locket and ring?” said Mr. Brownlow, turning to Monks. + + + +“I bought them from the man and woman I told you of, who stole them + +from the nurse, who stole them from the corpse,” answered Monks without + +raising his eyes. “You know what became of them.” + + + +Mr. Brownlow merely nodded to Mr. Grimwig, who disappearing with great + +alacrity, shortly returned, pushing in Mrs. Bumble, and dragging her + +unwilling consort after him. + + + +“Do my hi’s deceive me!” cried Mr. Bumble, with ill-feigned enthusiasm, + +“or is that little Oliver? Oh O-li-ver, if you know’d how I’ve been + +a-grieving for you—” + + + +“Hold your tongue, fool,” murmured Mrs. Bumble. + + + +“Isn’t natur, natur, Mrs. Bumble?” remonstrated the workhouse master. + +“Can’t I be supposed to feel—_I_ as brought him up porochially—when I + +see him a-setting here among ladies and gentlemen of the very affablest + +description! I always loved that boy as if he’d been my—my—my own + +grandfather,” said Mr. Bumble, halting for an appropriate comparison. + +“Master Oliver, my dear, you remember the blessed gentleman in the + +white waistcoat? Ah! he went to heaven last week, in a oak coffin with + +plated handles, Oliver.” + + + +“Come, sir,” said Mr. Grimwig, tartly; “suppress your feelings.” + + + +“I will do my endeavours, sir,” replied Mr. Bumble. “How do you do, + +sir? I hope you are very well.” + + + +This salutation was addressed to Mr. Brownlow, who had stepped up to + +within a short distance of the respectable couple. He inquired, as he + +pointed to Monks, + + + +“Do you know that person?” + + + +“No,” replied Mrs. Bumble flatly. + + + +“Perhaps _you_ don’t?” said Mr. Brownlow, addressing her spouse. + + + +“I never saw him in all my life,” said Mr. Bumble. + + + +“Nor sold him anything, perhaps?” + + + +“No,” replied Mrs. Bumble. + + + +“You never had, perhaps, a certain gold locket and ring?” said Mr. + +Brownlow. + + + +“Certainly not,” replied the matron. “Why are we brought here to answer + +to such nonsense as this?” + + + +Again Mr. Brownlow nodded to Mr. Grimwig; and again that gentleman + +limped away with extraordinary readiness. But not again did he return + +with a stout man and wife; for this time, he led in two palsied women, + +who shook and tottered as they walked. + + + +“You shut the door the night old Sally died,” said the foremost one, + +raising her shrivelled hand, “but you couldn’t shut out the sound, nor + +stop the chinks.” + + + +“No, no,” said the other, looking round her and wagging her toothless + +jaws. “No, no, no.” + + + +“We heard her try to tell you what she’d done, and saw you take a paper + +from her hand, and watched you too, next day, to the pawnbroker’s + +shop,” said the first. + + + +“Yes,” added the second, “and it was a ‘locket and gold ring.’ We found + +out that, and saw it given you. We were by. Oh! we were by.” + + + +“And we know more than that,” resumed the first, “for she told us + +often, long ago, that the young mother had told her that, feeling she + +should never get over it, she was on her way, at the time that she was + +taken ill, to die near the grave of the father of the child.” + + + +“Would you like to see the pawnbroker himself?” asked Mr. Grimwig with + +a motion towards the door. + + + +“No,” replied the woman; “if he”—she pointed to Monks—“has been coward + +enough to confess, as I see he has, and you have sounded all these hags + +till you have found the right ones, I have nothing more to say. I _did_ + +sell them, and they’re where you’ll never get them. What then?” + + + +“Nothing,” replied Mr. Brownlow, “except that it remains for us to take + +care that neither of you is employed in a situation of trust again. You + +may leave the room.” + + + +“I hope,” said Mr. Bumble, looking about him with great ruefulness, as + +Mr. Grimwig disappeared with the two old women: “I hope that this + +unfortunate little circumstance will not deprive me of my porochial + +office?” + + + +“Indeed it will,” replied Mr. Brownlow. “You may make up your mind to + +that, and think yourself well off besides.” + + + +“It was all Mrs. Bumble. She _would_ do it,” urged Mr. Bumble; first + +looking round to ascertain that his partner had left the room. + + + +“That is no excuse,” replied Mr. Brownlow. “You were present on the + +occasion of the destruction of these trinkets, and indeed are the more + +guilty of the two, in the eye of the law; for the law supposes that + +your wife acts under your direction.” + + + +“If the law supposes that,” said Mr. Bumble, squeezing his hat + +emphatically in both hands, “the law is a ass—a idiot. If that’s the + +eye of the law, the law is a bachelor; and the worst I wish the law is, + +that his eye may be opened by experience—by experience.” + + + +Laying great stress on the repetition of these two words, Mr. Bumble + +fixed his hat on very tight, and putting his hands in his pockets, + +followed his helpmate downstairs. + + + +“Young lady,” said Mr. Brownlow, turning to Rose, “give me your hand. + +Do not tremble. You need not fear to hear the few remaining words we + +have to say.” + + + +“If they have—I do not know how they can, but if they have—any + +reference to me,” said Rose, “pray let me hear them at some other time. + +I have not strength or spirits now.” + + + +“Nay,” returned the old gentleman, drawing her arm through his; “you + +have more fortitude than this, I am sure. Do you know this young lady, + +sir?” + + + +“Yes,” replied Monks. + + + +“I never saw you before,” said Rose faintly. + + + +“I have seen you often,” returned Monks. + + + +“The father of the unhappy Agnes had _two_ daughters,” said Mr. + +Brownlow. “What was the fate of the other—the child?” + + + +“The child,” replied Monks, “when her father died in a strange place, + +in a strange name, without a letter, book, or scrap of paper that + +yielded the faintest clue by which his friends or relatives could be + +traced—the child was taken by some wretched cottagers, who reared it as + +their own.” + + + +“Go on,” said Mr. Brownlow, signing to Mrs. Maylie to approach. “Go + +on!” + + + +“You couldn’t find the spot to which these people had repaired,” said + +Monks, “but where friendship fails, hatred will often force a way. My + +mother found it, after a year of cunning search—ay, and found the + +child.” + + + +“She took it, did she?” + + + +“No. The people were poor and began to sicken—at least the man did—of + +their fine humanity; so she left it with them, giving them a small + +present of money which would not last long, and promised more, which + +she never meant to send. She didn’t quite rely, however, on their + +discontent and poverty for the child’s unhappiness, but told the + +history of the sister’s shame, with such alterations as suited her; + +bade them take good heed of the child, for she came of bad blood; and + +told them she was illegitimate, and sure to go wrong at one time or + +other. The circumstances countenanced all this; the people believed it; + +and there the child dragged on an existence, miserable enough even to + +satisfy us, until a widow lady, residing, then, at Chester, saw the + +girl by chance, pitied her, and took her home. There was some cursed + +spell, I think, against us; for in spite of all our efforts she + +remained there and was happy. I lost sight of her, two or three years + +ago, and saw her no more until a few months back.” + + + +“Do you see her now?” + + + +“Yes. Leaning on your arm.” + + + +“But not the less my niece,” cried Mrs. Maylie, folding the fainting + +girl in her arms; “not the less my dearest child. I would not lose her + +now, for all the treasures of the world. My sweet companion, my own + +dear girl!” + + + +“The only friend I ever had,” cried Rose, clinging to her. “The + +kindest, best of friends. My heart will burst. I cannot bear all this.” + + + +“You have borne more, and have been, through all, the best and gentlest + +creature that ever shed happiness on every one she knew,” said Mrs. + +Maylie, embracing her tenderly. “Come, come, my love, remember who this + +is who waits to clasp you in his arms, poor child! See here—look, look, + +my dear!” + + + +“Not aunt,” cried Oliver, throwing his arms about her neck; “I’ll never + +call her aunt—sister, my own dear sister, that something taught my + +heart to love so dearly from the first! Rose, dear, darling Rose!” + + + +Let the tears which fell, and the broken words which were exchanged in + +the long close embrace between the orphans, be sacred. A father, + +sister, and mother, were gained, and lost, in that one moment. Joy and + +grief were mingled in the cup; but there were no bitter tears: for even + +grief itself arose so softened, and clothed in such sweet and tender + +recollections, that it became a solemn pleasure, and lost all character + +of pain. + + + +They were a long, long time alone. A soft tap at the door, at length + +announced that some one was without. Oliver opened it, glided away, and + +gave place to Harry Maylie. + + + +“I know it all,” he said, taking a seat beside the lovely girl. “Dear + +Rose, I know it all.” + + + +“I am not here by accident,” he added after a lengthened silence; “nor + +have I heard all this tonight, for I knew it yesterday—only yesterday. + +Do you guess that I have come to remind you of a promise?” + + + +“Stay,” said Rose. “You _do_ know all.” + + + +“All. You gave me leave, at any time within a year, to renew the + +subject of our last discourse.” + + + +“I did.” + + + +“Not to press you to alter your determination,” pursued the young man, + +“but to hear you repeat it, if you would. I was to lay whatever of + +station or fortune I might possess at your feet, and if you still + +adhered to your former determination, I pledged myself, by no word or + +act, to seek to change it.” + + + +“The same reasons which influenced me then, will influence me now,” + +said Rose firmly. “If I ever owed a strict and rigid duty to her, whose + +goodness saved me from a life of indigence and suffering, when should I + +ever feel it, as I should tonight? It is a struggle,” said Rose, “but + +one I am proud to make; it is a pang, but one my heart shall bear.” + + + +“The disclosure of tonight,”—Harry began. + + + +“The disclosure of tonight,” replied Rose softly, “leaves me in the + +same position, with reference to you, as that in which I stood before.” + + + +“You harden your heart against me, Rose,” urged her lover. + + + +“Oh Harry, Harry,” said the young lady, bursting into tears; “I wish I + +could, and spare myself this pain.” + + + +“Then why inflict it on yourself?” said Harry, taking her hand. “Think, + +dear Rose, think what you have heard tonight.” + + + +“And what have I heard! What have I heard!” cried Rose. “That a sense + +of his deep disgrace so worked upon my own father that he shunned + +all—there, we have said enough, Harry, we have said enough.” + + + +“Not yet, not yet,” said the young man, detaining her as she rose. “My + +hopes, my wishes, prospects, feeling: every thought in life except my + +love for you: have undergone a change. I offer you, now, no distinction + +among a bustling crowd; no mingling with a world of malice and + +detraction, where the blood is called into honest cheeks by aught but + +real disgrace and shame; but a home—a heart and home—yes, dearest Rose, + +and those, and those alone, are all I have to offer.” + + + +“What do you mean!” she faltered. + + + +“I mean but this—that when I left you last, I left you with a firm + +determination to level all fancied barriers between yourself and me; + +resolved that if my world could not be yours, I would make yours mine; + +that no pride of birth should curl the lip at you, for I would turn + +from it. This I have done. Those who have shrunk from me because of + +this, have shrunk from you, and proved you so far right. Such power and + +patronage: such relatives of influence and rank: as smiled upon me + +then, look coldly now; but there are smiling fields and waving trees in + +England’s richest county; and by one village church—mine, Rose, my + +own!—there stands a rustic dwelling which you can make me prouder of, + +than all the hopes I have renounced, measured a thousandfold. This is + +my rank and station now, and here I lay it down!” + + + + + +“It’s a trying thing waiting supper for lovers,” said Mr. Grimwig, + +waking up, and pulling his pocket-handkerchief from over his head. + + + +Truth to tell, the supper had been waiting a most unreasonable time. + +Neither Mrs. Maylie, nor Harry, nor Rose (who all came in together), + +could offer a word in extenuation. + + + +“I had serious thoughts of eating my head tonight,” said Mr. Grimwig, + +“for I began to think I should get nothing else. I’ll take the liberty, + +if you’ll allow me, of saluting the bride that is to be.” + + + +Mr. Grimwig lost no time in carrying this notice into effect upon the + +blushing girl; and the example, being contagious, was followed both by + +the doctor and Mr. Brownlow: some people affirm that Harry Maylie had + +been observed to set it, originally, in a dark room adjoining; but the + +best authorities consider this downright scandal: he being young and a + +clergyman. + + + +“Oliver, my child,” said Mrs. Maylie, “where have you been, and why do + +you look so sad? There are tears stealing down your face at this + +moment. What is the matter?” + + + +It is a world of disappointment: often to the hopes we most cherish, + +and hopes that do our nature the greatest honour. + + + +Poor Dick was dead! + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER LII. + +FAGIN’S LAST NIGHT ALIVE + + + + + +The court was paved, from floor to roof, with human faces. Inquisitive + +and eager eyes peered from every inch of space. From the rail before + +the dock, away into the sharpest angle of the smallest corner in the + +galleries, all looks were fixed upon one man—Fagin. Before him and + +behind: above, below, on the right and on the left: he seemed to stand + +surrounded by a firmament, all bright with gleaming eyes. + + + +He stood there, in all this glare of living light, with one hand + +resting on the wooden slab before him, the other held to his ear, and + +his head thrust forward to enable him to catch with greater + +distinctness every word that fell from the presiding judge, who was + +delivering his charge to the jury. At times, he turned his eyes sharply + +upon them to observe the effect of the slightest featherweight in his + +favour; and when the points against him were stated with terrible + +distinctness, looked towards his counsel, in mute appeal that he would, + +even then, urge something in his behalf. Beyond these manifestations of + +anxiety, he stirred not hand or foot. He had scarcely moved since the + +trial began; and now that the judge ceased to speak, he still remained + +in the same strained attitude of close attention, with his gaze bent on + +him, as though he listened still. + + + +A slight bustle in the court, recalled him to himself. Looking round, + +he saw that the jurymen had turned together, to consider their verdict. + +As his eyes wandered to the gallery, he could see the people rising + +above each other to see his face: some hastily applying their glasses + +to their eyes: and others whispering their neighbours with looks + +expressive of abhorrence. A few there were, who seemed unmindful of + +him, and looked only to the jury, in impatient wonder how they could + +delay. But in no one face—not even among the women, of whom there were + +many there—could he read the faintest sympathy with himself, or any + +feeling but one of all-absorbing interest that he should be condemned. + + + +As he saw all this in one bewildered glance, the deathlike stillness + +came again, and looking back he saw that the jurymen had turned towards + +the judge. Hush! + + + +They only sought permission to retire. + + + +He looked, wistfully, into their faces, one by one when they passed + +out, as though to see which way the greater number leant; but that was + +fruitless. The jailer touched him on the shoulder. He followed + +mechanically to the end of the dock, and sat down on a chair. The man + +pointed it out, or he would not have seen it. + + + +He looked up into the gallery again. Some of the people were eating, + +and some fanning themselves with handkerchiefs; for the crowded place + +was very hot. There was one young man sketching his face in a little + +note-book. He wondered whether it was like, and looked on when the + +artist broke his pencil-point, and made another with his knife, as any + +idle spectator might have done. + + + +In the same way, when he turned his eyes towards the judge, his mind + +began to busy itself with the fashion of his dress, and what it cost, + +and how he put it on. There was an old fat gentleman on the bench, too, + +who had gone out, some half an hour before, and now come back. He + +wondered within himself whether this man had been to get his dinner, + +what he had had, and where he had had it; and pursued this train of + +careless thought until some new object caught his eye and roused + +another. + + + +Not that, all this time, his mind was, for an instant, free from one + +oppressive overwhelming sense of the grave that opened at his feet; it + +was ever present to him, but in a vague and general way, and he could + +not fix his thoughts upon it. Thus, even while he trembled, and turned + +burning hot at the idea of speedy death, he fell to counting the iron + +spikes before him, and wondering how the head of one had been broken + +off, and whether they would mend it, or leave it as it was. Then, he + +thought of all the horrors of the gallows and the scaffold—and stopped + +to watch a man sprinkling the floor to cool it—and then went on to + +think again. + + + +At length there was a cry of silence, and a breathless look from all + +towards the door. The jury returned, and passed him close. He could + +glean nothing from their faces; they might as well have been of stone. + +Perfect stillness ensued—not a rustle—not a breath—Guilty. + + + +The building rang with a tremendous shout, and another, and another, + +and then it echoed loud groans, that gathered strength as they swelled + +out, like angry thunder. It was a peal of joy from the populace + +outside, greeting the news that he would die on Monday. + + + +The noise subsided, and he was asked if he had anything to say why + +sentence of death should not be passed upon him. He had resumed his + +listening attitude, and looked intently at his questioner while the + +demand was made; but it was twice repeated before he seemed to hear it, + +and then he only muttered that he was an old man—an old man—and so, + +dropping into a whisper, was silent again. + + + +The judge assumed the black cap, and the prisoner still stood with the + +same air and gesture. A woman in the gallery, uttered some exclamation, + +called forth by this dread solemnity; he looked hastily up as if angry + +at the interruption, and bent forward yet more attentively. The address + +was solemn and impressive; the sentence fearful to hear. But he stood, + +like a marble figure, without the motion of a nerve. His haggard face + +was still thrust forward, his under-jaw hanging down, and his eyes + +staring out before him, when the jailer put his hand upon his arm, and + +beckoned him away. He gazed stupidly about him for an instant, and + +obeyed. + + + +They led him through a paved room under the court, where some prisoners + +were waiting till their turns came, and others were talking to their + +friends, who crowded round a grate which looked into the open yard. + +There was nobody there to speak to _him_; but, as he passed, the + +prisoners fell back to render him more visible to the people who were + +clinging to the bars: and they assailed him with opprobrious names, and + +screeched and hissed. He shook his fist, and would have spat upon them; + +but his conductors hurried him on, through a gloomy passage lighted by + +a few dim lamps, into the interior of the prison. + + + +Here, he was searched, that he might not have about him the means of + +anticipating the law; this ceremony performed, they led him to one of + +the condemned cells, and left him there—alone. + + + +He sat down on a stone bench opposite the door, which served for seat + +and bedstead; and casting his blood-shot eyes upon the ground, tried to + +collect his thoughts. After awhile, he began to remember a few + +disjointed fragments of what the judge had said: though it had seemed + +to him, at the time, that he could not hear a word. These gradually + +fell into their proper places, and by degrees suggested more: so that + +in a little time he had the whole, almost as it was delivered. To be + +hanged by the neck, till he was dead—that was the end. To be hanged by + +the neck till he was dead. + + + +As it came on very dark, he began to think of all the men he had known + +who had died upon the scaffold; some of them through his means. They + +rose up, in such quick succession, that he could hardly count them. He + +had seen some of them die,—and had joked too, because they died with + +prayers upon their lips. With what a rattling noise the drop went down; + +and how suddenly they changed, from strong and vigorous men to dangling + +heaps of clothes! + + + +Some of them might have inhabited that very cell—sat upon that very + +spot. It was very dark; why didn’t they bring a light? The cell had + +been built for many years. Scores of men must have passed their last + +hours there. It was like sitting in a vault strewn with dead bodies—the + +cap, the noose, the pinioned arms, the faces that he knew, even beneath + +that hideous veil.—Light, light! + + + +At length, when his hands were raw with beating against the heavy door + +and walls, two men appeared: one bearing a candle, which he thrust into + +an iron candlestick fixed against the wall: the other dragging in a + +mattress on which to pass the night; for the prisoner was to be left + +alone no more. + + + +Then came the night—dark, dismal, silent night. Other watchers are glad + +to hear this church-clock strike, for they tell of life and coming day. + +To him they brought despair. The boom of every iron bell came laden + +with the one, deep, hollow sound—Death. What availed the noise and + +bustle of cheerful morning, which penetrated even there, to him? It was + +another form of knell, with mockery added to the warning. + + + +The day passed off. Day? There was no day; it was gone as soon as + +come—and night came on again; night so long, and yet so short; long in + +its dreadful silence, and short in its fleeting hours. At one time he + +raved and blasphemed; and at another howled and tore his hair. + +Venerable men of his own persuasion had come to pray beside him, but he + +had driven them away with curses. They renewed their charitable + +efforts, and he beat them off. + + + +Saturday night. He had only one night more to live. And as he thought + +of this, the day broke—Sunday. + + + +It was not until the night of this last awful day, that a withering + +sense of his helpless, desperate state came in its full intensity upon + +his blighted soul; not that he had ever held any defined or positive + +hope of mercy, but that he had never been able to consider more than + +the dim probability of dying so soon. He had spoken little to either of + +the two men, who relieved each other in their attendance upon him; and + +they, for their parts, made no effort to rouse his attention. He had + +sat there, awake, but dreaming. Now, he started up, every minute, and + +with gasping mouth and burning skin, hurried to and fro, in such a + +paroxysm of fear and wrath that even they—used to such sights—recoiled + +from him with horror. He grew so terrible, at last, in all the tortures + +of his evil conscience, that one man could not bear to sit there, + +eyeing him alone; and so the two kept watch together. + + + +He cowered down upon his stone bed, and thought of the past. He had + +been wounded with some missiles from the crowd on the day of his + +capture, and his head was bandaged with a linen cloth. His red hair + +hung down upon his bloodless face; his beard was torn, and twisted into + +knots; his eyes shone with a terrible light; his unwashed flesh + +crackled with the fever that burnt him up. Eight—nine—then. If it was + +not a trick to frighten him, and those were the real hours treading on + +each other’s heels, where would he be, when they came round again! + +Eleven! Another struck, before the voice of the previous hour had + +ceased to vibrate. At eight, he would be the only mourner in his own + +funeral train; at eleven— + + + +Those dreadful walls of Newgate, which have hidden so much misery and + +such unspeakable anguish, not only from the eyes, but, too often, and + +too long, from the thoughts, of men, never held so dread a spectacle as + +that. The few who lingered as they passed, and wondered what the man + +was doing who was to be hanged tomorrow, would have slept but ill that + +night, if they could have seen him. + + + +From early in the evening until nearly midnight, little groups of two + +and three presented themselves at the lodge-gate, and inquired, with + +anxious faces, whether any reprieve had been received. These being + +answered in the negative, communicated the welcome intelligence to + +clusters in the street, who pointed out to one another the door from + +which he must come out, and showed where the scaffold would be built, + +and, walking with unwilling steps away, turned back to conjure up the + +scene. By degrees they fell off, one by one; and, for an hour, in the + +dead of night, the street was left to solitude and darkness. + + + +The space before the prison was cleared, and a few strong barriers, + +painted black, had been already thrown across the road to break the + +pressure of the expected crowd, when Mr. Brownlow and Oliver appeared + +at the wicket, and presented an order of admission to the prisoner, + +signed by one of the sheriffs. They were immediately admitted into the + +lodge. + + + +“Is the young gentleman to come too, sir?” said the man whose duty it + +was to conduct them. “It’s not a sight for children, sir.” + + + +“It is not indeed, my friend,” rejoined Mr. Brownlow; “but my business + +with this man is intimately connected with him; and as this child has + +seen him in the full career of his success and villainy, I think it as + +well—even at the cost of some pain and fear—that he should see him + +now.” + + + +These few words had been said apart, so as to be inaudible to Oliver. + +The man touched his hat; and glancing at Oliver with some curiousity, + +opened another gate, opposite to that by which they had entered, and + +led them on, through dark and winding ways, towards the cells. + + + +“This,” said the man, stopping in a gloomy passage where a couple of + +workmen were making some preparations in profound silence—“this is the + +place he passes through. If you step this way, you can see the door he + +goes out at.” + + + +He led them into a stone kitchen, fitted with coppers for dressing the + +prison food, and pointed to a door. There was an open grating above it, + +through which came the sound of men’s voices, mingled with the noise of + +hammering, and the throwing down of boards. They were putting up the + +scaffold. + + + +From this place, they passed through several strong gates, opened by + +other turnkeys from the inner side; and, having entered an open yard, + +ascended a flight of narrow steps, and came into a passage with a row + +of strong doors on the left hand. Motioning them to remain where they + +were, the turnkey knocked at one of these with his bunch of keys. The + +two attendants, after a little whispering, came out into the passage, + +stretching themselves as if glad of the temporary relief, and motioned + +the visitors to follow the jailer into the cell. They did so. + + + +The condemned criminal was seated on his bed, rocking himself from side + +to side, with a countenance more like that of a snared beast than the + +face of a man. His mind was evidently wandering to his old life, for he + +continued to mutter, without appearing conscious of their presence + +otherwise than as a part of his vision. + + + +“Good boy, Charley—well done—” he mumbled. “Oliver, too, ha! ha! ha! + +Oliver too—quite the gentleman now—quite the—take that boy away to + +bed!” + + + +The jailer took the disengaged hand of Oliver; and, whispering him not + +to be alarmed, looked on without speaking. + + + +“Take him away to bed!” cried Fagin. “Do you hear me, some of you? He + +has been the—the—somehow the cause of all this. It’s worth the money to + +bring him up to it—Bolter’s throat, Bill; never mind the girl—Bolter’s + +throat as deep as you can cut. Saw his head off!” + + + +“Fagin,” said the jailer. + + + +“That’s me!” cried the Jew, falling instantly, into the attitude of + +listening he had assumed upon his trial. “An old man, my Lord; a very + +old, old man!” + + + +“Here,” said the turnkey, laying his hand upon his breast to keep him + +down. “Here’s somebody wants to see you, to ask you some questions, I + +suppose. Fagin, Fagin! Are you a man?” + + + +“I shan’t be one long,” he replied, looking up with a face retaining no + +human expression but rage and terror. “Strike them all dead! What right + +have they to butcher me?” + + + +As he spoke he caught sight of Oliver and Mr. Brownlow. Shrinking to + +the furthest corner of the seat, he demanded to know what they wanted + +there. + + + +“Steady,” said the turnkey, still holding him down. “Now, sir, tell him + +what you want. Quick, if you please, for he grows worse as the time + +gets on.” + + + +“You have some papers,” said Mr. Brownlow advancing, “which were placed + +in your hands, for better security, by a man called Monks.” + + + +“It’s all a lie together,” replied Fagin. “I haven’t one—not one.” + + + +“For the love of God,” said Mr. Brownlow solemnly, “do not say that + +now, upon the very verge of death; but tell me where they are. You know + +that Sikes is dead; that Monks has confessed; that there is no hope of + +any further gain. Where are those papers?” + + + +“Oliver,” cried Fagin, beckoning to him. “Here, here! Let me whisper to + +you.” + + + +“I am not afraid,” said Oliver in a low voice, as he relinquished Mr. + +Brownlow’s hand. + + + +“The papers,” said Fagin, drawing Oliver towards him, “are in a canvas + +bag, in a hole a little way up the chimney in the top front-room. I + +want to talk to you, my dear. I want to talk to you.” + + + +“Yes, yes,” returned Oliver. “Let me say a prayer. Do! Let me say one + +prayer. Say only one, upon your knees, with me, and we will talk till + +morning.” + + + +“Outside, outside,” replied Fagin, pushing the boy before him towards + +the door, and looking vacantly over his head. “Say I’ve gone to + +sleep—they’ll believe you. You can get me out, if you take me so. Now + +then, now then!” + + + +“Oh! God forgive this wretched man!” cried the boy with a burst of + +tears. + + + +“That’s right, that’s right,” said Fagin. “That’ll help us on. This + +door first. If I shake and tremble, as we pass the gallows, don’t you + +mind, but hurry on. Now, now, now!” + + + +“Have you nothing else to ask him, sir?” inquired the turnkey. + + + +“No other question,” replied Mr. Brownlow. “If I hoped we could recall + +him to a sense of his position—” + + + +“Nothing will do that, sir,” replied the man, shaking his head. “You + +had better leave him.” + + + +The door of the cell opened, and the attendants returned. + + + +“Press on, press on,” cried Fagin. “Softly, but not so slow. Faster, + +faster!” + + + +The men laid hands upon him, and disengaging Oliver from his grasp, + +held him back. He struggled with the power of desperation, for an + +instant; and then sent up cry upon cry that penetrated even those + +massive walls, and rang in their ears until they reached the open yard. + + + +It was some time before they left the prison. Oliver nearly swooned + +after this frightful scene, and was so weak that for an hour or more, + +he had not the strength to walk. + + + +Day was dawning when they again emerged. A great multitude had already + +assembled; the windows were filled with people, smoking and playing + +cards to beguile the time; the crowd were pushing, quarrelling, joking. + +Everything told of life and animation, but one dark cluster of objects + +in the centre of all—the black stage, the cross-beam, the rope, and all + +the hideous apparatus of death. + + + + + + + + + + CHAPTER LIII. + +AND LAST + + + + + +The fortunes of those who have figured in this tale are nearly closed. + +The little that remains to their historian to relate, is told in few + +and simple words. + + + +Before three months had passed, Rose Fleming and Harry Maylie were + +married in the village church which was henceforth to be the scene of + +the young clergyman’s labours; on the same day they entered into + +possession of their new and happy home. + + + +Mrs. Maylie took up her abode with her son and daughter-in-law, to + +enjoy, during the tranquil remainder of her days, the greatest felicity + +that age and worth can know—the contemplation of the happiness of those + +on whom the warmest affections and tenderest cares of a well-spent + +life, have been unceasingly bestowed. + + + +It appeared, on full and careful investigation, that if the wreck of + +property remaining in the custody of Monks (which had never prospered + +either in his hands or in those of his mother) were equally divided + +between himself and Oliver, it would yield, to each, little more than + +three thousand pounds. By the provisions of his father’s will, Oliver + +would have been entitled to the whole; but Mr. Brownlow, unwilling to + +deprive the elder son of the opportunity of retrieving his former vices + +and pursuing an honest career, proposed this mode of distribution, to + +which his young charge joyfully acceded. + + + +Monks, still bearing that assumed name, retired with his portion to a + +distant part of the New World; where, having quickly squandered it, he + +once more fell into his old courses, and, after undergoing a long + +confinement for some fresh act of fraud and knavery, at length sunk + +under an attack of his old disorder, and died in prison. As far from + +home, died the chief remaining members of his friend Fagin’s gang. + + + +Mr. Brownlow adopted Oliver as his son. Removing with him and the old + +housekeeper to within a mile of the parsonage-house, where his dear + +friends resided, he gratified the only remaining wish of Oliver’s warm + +and earnest heart, and thus linked together a little society, whose + +condition approached as nearly to one of perfect happiness as can ever + +be known in this changing world. + + + +Soon after the marriage of the young people, the worthy doctor returned + +to Chertsey, where, bereft of the presence of his old friends, he would + +have been discontented if his temperament had admitted of such a + +feeling; and would have turned quite peevish if he had known how. For + +two or three months, he contented himself with hinting that he feared + +the air began to disagree with him; then, finding that the place really + +no longer was, to him, what it had been, he settled his business on his + +assistant, took a bachelor’s cottage outside the village of which his + +young friend was pastor, and instantaneously recovered. Here he took to + +gardening, planting, fishing, carpentering, and various other pursuits + +of a similar kind: all undertaken with his characteristic impetuosity. + +In each and all he has since become famous throughout the neighborhood, + +as a most profound authority. + + + +Before his removal, he had managed to contract a strong friendship for + +Mr. Grimwig, which that eccentric gentleman cordially reciprocated. He + +is accordingly visited by Mr. Grimwig a great many times in the course + +of the year. On all such occasions, Mr. Grimwig plants, fishes, and + +carpenters, with great ardour; doing everything in a very singular and + +unprecedented manner, but always maintaining with his favourite + +asseveration, that his mode is the right one. On Sundays, he never + +fails to criticise the sermon to the young clergyman’s face: always + +informing Mr. Losberne, in strict confidence afterwards, that he + +considers it an excellent performance, but deems it as well not to say + +so. It is a standing and very favourite joke, for Mr. Brownlow to rally + +him on his old prophecy concerning Oliver, and to remind him of the + +night on which they sat with the watch between them, waiting his + +return; but Mr. Grimwig contends that he was right in the main, and, in + +proof thereof, remarks that Oliver did not come back after all; which + +always calls forth a laugh on his side, and increases his good humour. + + + +Mr. Noah Claypole: receiving a free pardon from the Crown in + +consequence of being admitted approver against Fagin: and considering + +his profession not altogether as safe a one as he could wish: was, for + +some little time, at a loss for the means of a livelihood, not burdened + +with too much work. After some consideration, he went into business as + +an informer, in which calling he realises a genteel subsistence. His + +plan is, to walk out once a week during church time attended by + +Charlotte in respectable attire. The lady faints away at the doors of + +charitable publicans, and the gentleman being accommodated with + +three-penny worth of brandy to restore her, lays an information next + +day, and pockets half the penalty. Sometimes Mr. Claypole faints + +himself, but the result is the same. + + + +Mr. and Mrs. Bumble, deprived of their situations, were gradually + +reduced to great indigence and misery, and finally became paupers in + +that very same workhouse in which they had once lorded it over others. + +Mr. Bumble has been heard to say, that in this reverse and degradation, + +he has not even spirits to be thankful for being separated from his + +wife. + + + +As to Mr. Giles and Brittles, they still remain in their old posts, + +although the former is bald, and the last-named boy quite grey. They + +sleep at the parsonage, but divide their attentions so equally among + +its inmates, and Oliver and Mr. Brownlow, and Mr. Losberne, that to + +this day the villagers have never been able to discover to which + +establishment they properly belong. + + + +Master Charles Bates, appalled by Sikes’s crime, fell into a train of + +reflection whether an honest life was not, after all, the best. + +Arriving at the conclusion that it certainly was, he turned his back + +upon the scenes of the past, resolved to amend it in some new sphere of + +action. He struggled hard, and suffered much, for some time; but, + +having a contented disposition, and a good purpose, succeeded in the + +end; and, from being a farmer’s drudge, and a carrier’s lad, he is now + +the merriest young grazier in all Northamptonshire. + + + +And now, the hand that traces these words, falters, as it approaches + +the conclusion of its task; and would weave, for a little longer space, + +the thread of these adventures. + + + +I would fain linger yet with a few of those among whom I have so long + +moved, and share their happiness by endeavouring to depict it. I would + +show Rose Maylie in all the bloom and grace of early womanhood, + +shedding on her secluded path in life soft and gentle light, that fell + +on all who trod it with her, and shone into their hearts. I would paint + +her the life and joy of the fire-side circle and the lively summer + +group; I would follow her through the sultry fields at noon, and hear + +the low tones of her sweet voice in the moonlit evening walk; I would + +watch her in all her goodness and charity abroad, and the smiling + +untiring discharge of domestic duties at home; I would paint her and + +her dead sister’s child happy in their love for one another, and + +passing whole hours together in picturing the friends whom they had so + +sadly lost; I would summon before me, once again, those joyous little + +faces that clustered round her knee, and listen to their merry prattle; + +I would recall the tones of that clear laugh, and conjure up the + +sympathising tear that glistened in the soft blue eye. These, and a + +thousand looks and smiles, and turns of thought and speech—I would fain + +recall them every one. + + + +How Mr. Brownlow went on, from day to day, filling the mind of his + +adopted child with stores of knowledge, and becoming attached to him, + +more and more, as his nature developed itself, and showed the thriving + +seeds of all he wished him to become—how he traced in him new traits of + +his early friend, that awakened in his own bosom old remembrances, + +melancholy and yet sweet and soothing—how the two orphans, tried by + +adversity, remembered its lessons in mercy to others, and mutual love, + +and fervent thanks to Him who had protected and preserved them—these + +are all matters which need not to be told. I have said that they were + +truly happy; and without strong affection and humanity of heart, and + +gratitude to that Being whose code is Mercy, and whose great attribute + +is Benevolence to all things that breathe, happiness can never be + +attained. + + + +Within the altar of the old village church there stands a white marble + +tablet, which bears as yet but one word: “AGNES.” There is no coffin in + +that tomb; and may it be many, many years, before another name is + +placed above it! But, if the spirits of the Dead ever come back to + +earth, to visit spots hallowed by the love—the love beyond the grave—of + +those whom they knew in life, I believe that the shade of Agnes + +sometimes hovers round that solemn nook. I believe it none the less + +because that nook is in a Church, and she was weak and erring. + + + + + + + + + +*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK OLIVER TWIST *** + + + + + + + + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one—the old editions will + +be renamed. + + + +Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright + +law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, + +so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United + +States without permission and without paying copyright + +royalties. Special rules, set forth in the General Terms of Use part + +of this license, apply to copying and distributing Project + +Gutenberg™ electronic works to protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG™ + +concept and trademark. Project Gutenberg is a registered trademark, + +and may not be used if you charge for an eBook, except by following + +the terms of the trademark license, including paying royalties for use + +of the Project Gutenberg trademark. If you do not charge anything for + +copies of this eBook, complying with the trademark license is very + +easy. You may use this eBook for nearly any purpose such as creation + +of derivative works, reports, performances and research. Project + +Gutenberg eBooks may be modified and printed and given away—you may + +do practically ANYTHING in the United States with eBooks not protected + +by U.S. copyright law. Redistribution is subject to the trademark + +license, especially commercial redistribution. + + + + + +START: FULL LICENSE + + + +THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG LICENSE + + + +PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK + + + +To protect the Project Gutenberg™ mission of promoting the free + +distribution of electronic works, by using or distributing this work + +(or any other work associated in any way with the phrase “Project + +Gutenberg”), you agree to comply with all the terms of the Full + +Project Gutenberg™ License available with this file or online at + +www.gutenberg.org/license. + + + +Section 1. General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project Gutenberg™ + +electronic works + + + +1.A. By reading or using any part of this Project Gutenberg™ + +electronic work, you indicate that you have read, understand, agree to + +and accept all the terms of this license and intellectual property + +(trademark/copyright) agreement. If you do not agree to abide by all + +the terms of this agreement, you must cease using and return or + +destroy all copies of Project Gutenberg™ electronic works in your + +possession. If you paid a fee for obtaining a copy of or access to a + +Project Gutenberg™ electronic work and you do not agree to be bound + +by the terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the person + +or entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph 1.E.8. + + + +1.B. “Project Gutenberg” is a registered trademark. It may only be + +used on or associated in any way with an electronic work by people who + +agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement. There are a few + +things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg™ electronic works + +even without complying with the full terms of this agreement. See + +paragraph 1.C below. There are a lot of things you can do with Project + +Gutenberg™ electronic works if you follow the terms of this + +agreement and help preserve free future access to Project Gutenberg™ + +electronic works. See paragraph 1.E below. + + + +1.C. The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation (“the + +Foundation” or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection + +of Project Gutenberg™ electronic works. Nearly all the individual + +works in the collection are in the public domain in the United + +States. If an individual work is unprotected by copyright law in the + +United States and you are located in the United States, we do not + +claim a right to prevent you from copying, distributing, performing, + +displaying or creating derivative works based on the work as long as + +all references to Project Gutenberg are removed. Of course, we hope + +that you will support the Project Gutenberg™ mission of promoting + +free access to electronic works by freely sharing Project Gutenberg™ + +works in compliance with the terms of this agreement for keeping the + +Project Gutenberg™ name associated with the work. You can easily + +comply with the terms of this agreement by keeping this work in the + +same format with its attached full Project Gutenberg™ License when + +you share it without charge with others. + + + +1.D. The copyright laws of the place where you are located also govern + +what you can do with this work. Copyright laws in most countries are + +in a constant state of change. If you are outside the United States, + +check the laws of your country in addition to the terms of this + +agreement before downloading, copying, displaying, performing, + +distributing or creating derivative works based on this work or any + +other Project Gutenberg™ work. The Foundation makes no + +representations concerning the copyright status of any work in any + +country other than the United States. + + + +1.E. Unless you have removed all references to Project Gutenberg: + + + +1.E.1. The following sentence, with active links to, or other + +immediate access to, the full Project Gutenberg™ License must appear + +prominently whenever any copy of a Project Gutenberg™ work (any work + +on which the phrase “Project Gutenberg” appears, or with which the + +phrase “Project Gutenberg” is associated) is accessed, displayed, + +performed, viewed, copied or distributed: + + + + This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most + + other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions + + whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms + + of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online + + at www.gutenberg.org. If you + + are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws + + of the country where you are located before using this eBook. + + + +1.E.2. If an individual Project Gutenberg™ electronic work is + +derived from texts not protected by U.S. copyright law (does not + +contain a notice indicating that it is posted with permission of the + +copyright holder), the work can be copied and distributed to anyone in + +the United States without paying any fees or charges. If you are + +redistributing or providing access to a work with the phrase “Project + +Gutenberg” associated with or appearing on the work, you must comply + +either with the requirements of paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 or + +obtain permission for the use of the work and the Project Gutenberg™ + +trademark as set forth in paragraphs 1.E.8 or 1.E.9. + + + +1.E.3. If an individual Project Gutenberg™ electronic work is posted + +with the permission of the copyright holder, your use and distribution + +must comply with both paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 and any + +additional terms imposed by the copyright holder. Additional terms + +will be linked to the Project Gutenberg™ License for all works + +posted with the permission of the copyright holder found at the + +beginning of this work. + + + +1.E.4. Do not unlink or detach or remove the full Project Gutenberg™ + +License terms from this work, or any files containing a part of this + +work or any other work associated with Project Gutenberg™. + + + +1.E.5. Do not copy, display, perform, distribute or redistribute this + +electronic work, or any part of this electronic work, without + +prominently displaying the sentence set forth in paragraph 1.E.1 with + +active links or immediate access to the full terms of the Project + +Gutenberg™ License. + + + +1.E.6. You may convert to and distribute this work in any binary, + +compressed, marked up, nonproprietary or proprietary form, including + +any word processing or hypertext form. However, if you provide access + +to or distribute copies of a Project Gutenberg™ work in a format + +other than “Plain Vanilla ASCII” or other format used in the official + +version posted on the official Project Gutenberg™ website + +(www.gutenberg.org), you must, at no additional cost, fee or expense + +to the user, provide a copy, a means of exporting a copy, or a means + +of obtaining a copy upon request, of the work in its original “Plain + +Vanilla ASCII” or other form. Any alternate format must include the + +full Project Gutenberg™ License as specified in paragraph 1.E.1. + + + +1.E.7. Do not charge a fee for access to, viewing, displaying, + +performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg™ works + +unless you comply with paragraph 1.E.8 or 1.E.9. + + + +1.E.8. You may charge a reasonable fee for copies of or providing + +access to or distributing Project Gutenberg™ electronic works + +provided that: + + + + • You pay a royalty fee of 20% of the gross profits you derive from + + the use of Project Gutenberg™ works calculated using the method + + you already use to calculate your applicable taxes. The fee is owed + + to the owner of the Project Gutenberg™ trademark, but he has + + agreed to donate royalties under this paragraph to the Project + + Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation. Royalty payments must be paid + + within 60 days following each date on which you prepare (or are + + legally required to prepare) your periodic tax returns. Royalty + + payments should be clearly marked as such and sent to the Project + + Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation at the address specified in + + Section 4, “Information about donations to the Project Gutenberg + + Literary Archive Foundation.” + + + + • You provide a full refund of any money paid by a user who notifies + + you in writing (or by e-mail) within 30 days of receipt that s/he + + does not agree to the terms of the full Project Gutenberg™ + + License. You must require such a user to return or destroy all + + copies of the works possessed in a physical medium and discontinue + + all use of and all access to other copies of Project Gutenberg™ + + works. + + + + • You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of + + any money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the + + electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days of + + receipt of the work. + + + + • You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free + + distribution of Project Gutenberg™ works. + + + + + +1.E.9. If you wish to charge a fee or distribute a Project + +Gutenberg™ electronic work or group of works on different terms than + +are set forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing + +from the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the manager of + +the Project Gutenberg™ trademark. Contact the Foundation as set + +forth in Section 3 below. + + + +1.F. + + + +1.F.1. Project Gutenberg volunteers and employees expend considerable + +effort to identify, do copyright research on, transcribe and proofread + +works not protected by U.S. copyright law in creating the Project + +Gutenberg™ collection. Despite these efforts, Project Gutenberg™ + +electronic works, and the medium on which they may be stored, may + +contain “Defects,” such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate + +or corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other + +intellectual property infringement, a defective or damaged disk or + +other medium, a computer virus, or computer codes that damage or + +cannot be read by your equipment. + + + +1.F.2. LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES - Except for the “Right + +of Replacement or Refund” described in paragraph 1.F.3, the Project + +Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the owner of the Project + +Gutenberg™ trademark, and any other party distributing a Project + +Gutenberg™ electronic work under this agreement, disclaim all + +liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal + +fees. YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE, STRICT + +LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE + +PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH 1.F.3. YOU AGREE THAT THE FOUNDATION, THE + +TRADEMARK OWNER, AND ANY DISTRIBUTOR UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE + +LIABLE TO YOU FOR ACTUAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR + +INCIDENTAL DAMAGES EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH + +DAMAGE. + + + +1.F.3. LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a + +defect in this electronic work within 90 days of receiving it, you can + +receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a + +written explanation to the person you received the work from. If you + +received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium + +with your written explanation. The person or entity that provided you + +with the defective work may elect to provide a replacement copy in + +lieu of a refund. If you received the work electronically, the person + +or entity providing it to you may choose to give you a second + +opportunity to receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund. If + +the second copy is also defective, you may demand a refund in writing + +without further opportunities to fix the problem. + + + +1.F.4. Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth + +in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you ‘AS-IS’, WITH NO + +OTHER WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT + +LIMITED TO WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE. + + + +1.F.5. Some states do not allow disclaimers of certain implied + +warranties or the exclusion or limitation of certain types of + +damages. If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement + +violates the law of the state applicable to this agreement, the + +agreement shall be interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or + +limitation permitted by the applicable state law. The invalidity or + +unenforceability of any provision of this agreement shall not void the + +remaining provisions. + + + +1.F.6. INDEMNITY - You agree to indemnify and hold the Foundation, the + +trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone + +providing copies of Project Gutenberg™ electronic works in + +accordance with this agreement, and any volunteers associated with the + +production, promotion and distribution of Project Gutenberg™ + +electronic works, harmless from all liability, costs and expenses, + +including legal fees, that arise directly or indirectly from any of + +the following which you do or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this + +or any Project Gutenberg™ work, (b) alteration, modification, or + +additions or deletions to any Project Gutenberg™ work, and (c) any + +Defect you cause. + + + +Section 2. Information about the Mission of Project Gutenberg™ + + + +Project Gutenberg™ is synonymous with the free distribution of + +electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of + +computers including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers. It + +exists because of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donations + +from people in all walks of life. + + + +Volunteers and financial support to provide volunteers with the + +assistance they need are critical to reaching Project Gutenberg™’s + +goals and ensuring that the Project Gutenberg™ collection will + +remain freely available for generations to come. In 2001, the Project + +Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation was created to provide a secure + +and permanent future for Project Gutenberg™ and future + +generations. To learn more about the Project Gutenberg Literary + +Archive Foundation and how your efforts and donations can help, see + +Sections 3 and 4 and the Foundation information page at www.gutenberg.org. + + + +Section 3. Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation + + + +The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non-profit + +501(c)(3) educational corporation organized under the laws of the + +state of Mississippi and granted tax exempt status by the Internal + +Revenue Service. The Foundation’s EIN or federal tax identification + +number is 64-6221541. Contributions to the Project Gutenberg Literary + +Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent permitted by + +U.S. federal laws and your state’s laws. + + + +The Foundation’s business office is located at 809 North 1500 West, + +Salt Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887. Email contact links and up + +to date contact information can be found at the Foundation’s website + +and official page at www.gutenberg.org/contact + + + +Section 4. Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg + +Literary Archive Foundation + + + +Project Gutenberg™ depends upon and cannot survive without widespread + +public support and donations to carry out its mission of + +increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be + +freely distributed in machine-readable form accessible by the widest + +array of equipment including outdated equipment. Many small donations + +($1 to $5,000) are particularly important to maintaining tax exempt + +status with the IRS. + + + +The Foundation is committed to complying with the laws regulating + +charities and charitable donations in all 50 states of the United + +States. Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a + +considerable effort, much paperwork and many fees to meet and keep up + +with these requirements. We do not solicit donations in locations + +where we have not received written confirmation of compliance. To SEND + +DONATIONS or determine the status of compliance for any particular state + +visit www.gutenberg.org/donate. + + + +While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we + +have not met the solicitation requirements, we know of no prohibition + +against accepting unsolicited donations from donors in such states who + +approach us with offers to donate. + + + +International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make + +any statements concerning tax treatment of donations received from + +outside the United States. U.S. laws alone swamp our small staff. + + + +Please check the Project Gutenberg web pages for current donation + +methods and addresses. Donations are accepted in a number of other + +ways including checks, online payments and credit card donations. To + +donate, please visit: www.gutenberg.org/donate. + + + +Section 5. General Information About Project Gutenberg™ electronic works + + + +Professor Michael S. Hart was the originator of the Project + +Gutenberg™ concept of a library of electronic works that could be + +freely shared with anyone. For forty years, he produced and + +distributed Project Gutenberg™ eBooks with only a loose network of + +volunteer support. + + + +Project Gutenberg™ eBooks are often created from several printed + +editions, all of which are confirmed as not protected by copyright in + +the U.S. unless a copyright notice is included. Thus, we do not + +necessarily keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper + +edition. + + + +Most people start at our website which has the main PG search + +facility: www.gutenberg.org. + + + +This website includes information about Project Gutenberg™, + +including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary + +Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to + +subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks. + + + + + diff --git a/data/results/stats.txt b/data/results/stats.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f8b449c --- /dev/null +++ b/data/results/stats.txt @@ -0,0 +1,7 @@ +total_chars: 911965 +total_words: 87097 +unique_words: 10053 +avg_word_len: 5.582 +type_token_ratio: 0.1154 +num_sentences: 10578 +avg_sentence_len_words: 8.234 \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/data/results/top_words.csv b/data/results/top_words.csv new file mode 100644 index 0000000..96e624c --- /dev/null +++ b/data/results/top_words.csv @@ -0,0 +1,21 @@ +word,count +said,1233 +mr,1080 +which,889 +oliver,876 +all,611 +there,568 +what,552 +who,524 +when,496 +upon,479 +one,465 +replied,464 +old,448 +man,398 +bumble,397 +some,395 +more,356 +sikes,355 +gentleman,343 +time,333 \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/src/analyze.py b/src/analyze.py new file mode 100644 index 0000000..7128722 --- /dev/null +++ b/src/analyze.py @@ -0,0 +1,23 @@ +# src/analyze.py +from collections import Counter +from typing import Dict, List, Tuple + +def word_frequencies(tokens: List[str]) -> Counter: + return Counter(tokens) + +def top_n(freqs: Counter, n: int = 20) -> List[Tuple[str, int]]: + return freqs.most_common(n) + +def summary_stats(raw_text: str, tokens: List[str]) -> Dict[str, float]: + total_chars = len(raw_text) + total_words = len(tokens) + unique_words = len(set(tokens)) + avg_word_len = sum(len(t) for t in tokens) / total_words if total_words else 0 + # sentence-level stats: do outside (we’ll pass counts in main) + return { + "total_chars": total_chars, + "total_words": total_words, + "unique_words": unique_words, + "avg_word_len": round(avg_word_len, 3), + "type_token_ratio": round(unique_words / total_words, 4) if total_words else 0, + } diff --git a/src/clean.py b/src/clean.py new file mode 100644 index 0000000..b84799e --- /dev/null +++ b/src/clean.py @@ -0,0 +1,30 @@ +# src/clean.py +import re +from typing import List, Iterable + +# A compact default stopword list (you can add more if you want) +STOPWORDS = { + "the","a","an","and","or","but","if","then","else","for","to","in","of","on","at", + "by","with","from","as","is","are","was","were","be","been","being", + "that","this","these","those","it","its","i","you","he","she","we","they", + "me","him","her","them","my","your","his","their","our","yours","ours","theirs", + "not","no","so","too","very","can","could","should","would","may","might","will", + "do","does","did","done","have","has","had","having","about","into","over","under", + "up","down","out","off","than","such" +} + +WORD_RE = re.compile(r"[a-z']+") # keep words & simple contractions +SENT_RE = re.compile(r"[.!?]+") + +def to_lower(text: str) -> str: + return text.lower() + +def tokenize_words(text: str) -> List[str]: + return WORD_RE.findall(text) + +def remove_stopwords(tokens: Iterable[str]) -> List[str]: + return [t for t in tokens if t not in STOPWORDS and len(t) > 1] + +def split_sentences(text: str) -> List[str]: + # crude sentence split—good enough for summary stats + return [s.strip() for s in SENT_RE.split(text) if s.strip()] diff --git a/src/fetch.py b/src/fetch.py new file mode 100644 index 0000000..c8b7041 --- /dev/null +++ b/src/fetch.py @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +# src/fetch.py +# Part 1: Harvesting text (Project Gutenberg) +import urllib.request + +def from_gutenberg(url: str) -> str: + """Download plain-text content from a Project Gutenberg URL.""" + try: + with urllib.request.urlopen(url) as f: + return f.read().decode("utf-8", errors="ignore") + except Exception as e: + raise RuntimeError(f"Download failed: {e}") \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/src/main.py b/src/main.py new file mode 100644 index 0000000..ffad82d --- /dev/null +++ b/src/main.py @@ -0,0 +1,61 @@ +from pathlib import Path + +from utils import load_text, strip_gutenberg_boilerplate +from clean import to_lower, tokenize_words, remove_stopwords, split_sentences +from analyze import word_frequencies, top_n, summary_stats +from viz import ascii_bar_chart + +RAW_FILE = Path("data/raw/oliver_twist.txt") # change name if your file differs +PROC_DIR = Path("data/processed") +RES_DIR = Path("data/results") + +def main(): + # 1) Load + strip boilerplate + raw = load_text(RAW_FILE) + body = strip_gutenberg_boilerplate(raw) + print("Loaded characters:", len(raw)) + + # 2) Clean + lowered = to_lower(body) + tokens = tokenize_words(lowered) + tokens_nostop = remove_stopwords(tokens) + sents = split_sentences(body) + + # 3) Analysis + freqs = word_frequencies(tokens_nostop) + top20 = top_n(freqs, 20) + stats = summary_stats(body, tokens_nostop) + stats["num_sentences"] = len(sents) + stats["avg_sentence_len_words"] = round(len(tokens_nostop) / len(sents), 3) if sents else 0 + + # 4) Save processed + results + PROC_DIR.mkdir(parents=True, exist_ok=True) + RES_DIR.mkdir(parents=True, exist_ok=True) + + (PROC_DIR / "oliver_tokens_nostop.txt").write_text(" ".join(tokens_nostop), encoding="utf-8") + # CSV of word frequencies + (RES_DIR / "top_words.csv").write_text( + "word,count\n" + "\n".join(f"{w},{c}" for w,c in top20), + encoding="utf-8" + ) + # Stats as plain text + (RES_DIR / "stats.txt").write_text( + "\n".join(f"{k}: {v}" for k,v in stats.items()), + encoding="utf-8" + ) + + # 5) Visualization (ASCII bars) + print("\nTop 20 words (ASCII chart):") + print(ascii_bar_chart(top20, width=40)) + + # OPTIONAL (sentiment) – module-level import/flag +try: + from optional_sentiment import split_paragraphs, vader_scores, top_pos_neg + HAVE_SENTIMENT = True +except Exception as e: + print("[Sentiment] Import failed:", e) + HAVE_SENTIMENT = False + +if __name__ == "__main__": + main() + diff --git a/src/utils.py b/src/utils.py new file mode 100644 index 0000000..ffcfe18 --- /dev/null +++ b/src/utils.py @@ -0,0 +1,29 @@ +# src/utils.py +from pathlib import Path +import re + +START_RE = re.compile(r"\*\*\* START OF (THIS|THE) PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK", re.I) +END_RE = re.compile(r"\*\*\* END OF (THIS|THE) PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK", re.I) + +def load_text(path: Path) -> str: + """Read a UTF-8 text file.""" + return Path(path).read_text(encoding="utf-8", errors="ignore") + +def strip_gutenberg_boilerplate(text: str) -> str: + """ + Remove the Gutenberg header/footer if present. + Returns the original text if markers aren't found. + """ + lines = text.splitlines() + start_i = 0 + end_i = len(lines) + for i, line in enumerate(lines): + if START_RE.search(line): + start_i = i + 1 + break + for j in range(len(lines) - 1, -1, -1): + if END_RE.search(lines[j]): + end_i = j + break + body = "\n".join(lines[start_i:end_i]).strip() + return body if body else text diff --git a/src/viz.py b/src/viz.py new file mode 100644 index 0000000..66e3aa1 --- /dev/null +++ b/src/viz.py @@ -0,0 +1,17 @@ +# src/viz.py +from typing import List, Tuple + +def ascii_bar_chart(items: List[Tuple[str,int]], width: int = 50) -> str: + """ + items: list of (label, count), already sorted desc + Returns a string with an ASCII bar chart. + """ + if not items: + return "(no data)" + max_count = max(c for _, c in items) + lines = [] + for word, count in items: + bar_len = int(count / max_count * width) if max_count else 0 + bar = "#" * max(bar_len, 1) + lines.append(f"{word:>15} | {bar} {count}") + return "\n".join(lines)