Not a word had been exchanged between the two boys on the road.

Whenever Jack attempted to speak, he was checked by an angry growl from Abraham; and Thames, though his heart was full almost to bursting, felt no inclination to break the silence.

His thoughts, indeed, were too painful for utterance, and so acute were his feelings, that, for some time, they quite overcame him.

But his grief was of short duration.

The elastic spirits of youth resumed their sway; and, before the coach stopped, his tears had ceased to flow.