But, as I had compassion on his infirmities, and thought he might have learnt no better, I have managed to bring him back to you.

Take more care of him for the future.' 'And won't you give me back MY son!' said the other woman, hastily rising and confronting him.

'Won't you give me back MY son, Sir, who was transported for the same offence!' 'Was he deaf and dumb, woman ?' asked the gentleman sternly.
'Was he not, Sir ?' 'You know he was not.' 'He was,' cried the woman.

'He was deaf, dumb, and blind, to all that was good and right, from his cradle.

Her boy may have learnt no better! where did mine learn better?
where could he?
who was there to teach him better, or where was it to be learnt ?' 'Peace, woman,' said the gentleman, 'your boy was in possession of all his senses.' 'He was,' cried the mother; 'and he was the more easy to be led astray because he had them.