But, indeed, I can't understand how it happened.

I don't feel as if it was me at all." And then Thomas told his mother all the tale, finishing his story with the words, "And I couldn't help it, mother, at all." The mother remained silent for a little, and then, with a little tremor in her voice, she replied: "No, Thomas, I know you couldn't help it, and I--" here her voice quite broke--"I am not ashamed of you." "Are you not, mother ?" said Thomas, sitting up suddenly in great surprise.

"Then I don't care.

I couldn't make it out well." "Never you mind, Thomas, it will be well," and she leaned over him and kissed him.

Thomas felt her face wet with tears, and his stolid reserve broke down.
"Oh, mother, mother, I don't care now," he cried, his breath coming in great sobs.