But I will never--never return." "I will not attempt to combat your resolution, Jack," returned Thames, after a pause.

"But I dread the effect your departure may have upon your poor mother.

Her life hangs upon a thread, and this may snap it." "I wish you hadn't mentioned her," said Jack, in a broken voice, while his whole frame shook with emotion.

"What I do is for the best, and I can only hope she may have strength to bear the separation.

You must say farewell to her, for I cannot.