Page 286 - Oliver Twist

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 T was thinking that T 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. ’Tf they knew how happy T am, they would be

pleased, T am sure.’

’T 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. ’T don’t

know what T shall do for joy when T see their kind faces once again!’

Tn 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.