Page:Oliver Twist (1838) vol. 2.djvu/258

240 me at once. I can bear it; any thing 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!" gasped Mrs. Maylie. "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 to Heaven with her first thanksgiving, and she sank back into the friendly arms which were extended to receive her.