It was very long, however, before the faintness could be overcome, and when that was at last accomplished, Christian had fallen asleep; they waited then for his waking, and meanwhile Mrs.Costello heard from Mr.Bellairs the outline of what had happened.
At last Christian awoke, and Mrs.Costello begged herself to tell him as much of the truth as it might be safe for him to hear, but she found it extremely difficult to make him understand.

If she could have said to him, "You are free, and I am going to take you away from here," it would have been easy; as it was, she even doubted whether he at last understood that the accusation which had caused his imprisonment was removed.

But to herself the joy was infinite.

The last few weeks had taught her to look at things in a new aspect, and the removal of the last horrible burden which had been laid upon her made all the rest seem light.
Mr.Bellairs, much wondering at her agitation, wished to accompany her home, but she longed to be alone, and sending for a sleigh, she left the jail, and reached home at last with her happy tidings..