agony to remember her, that he had not the heart to utter it; while he hesitated, the opportunity was gone, for 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, and an uncommonly hearty welcome from a person of Mr. Sikes's temperament. Nancy, appearing much gratified thereby, saluted him cordially.
"Bullseye'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.
