"Lived, you would say; and yet am I motherless."
Johanna burst into tears. The sense of desolation that came over the young girl's heart whenever she thought how little of a mother the fanatical personage who owned that title was to her, generally overcame all her firmness, as upon the present occasion. Ann flung her arms around Johanna, and the two young creatures wept in unison. We will leave them to their sacred intercourse.
Sir Richard Blunt remained in conversation with Mr. Orton for about a quarter of an hour, and then both Johanna and Ann came down stairs. Johanna looked calmer and happier. Ann had said some kind things to her—such as none but a young girl can say to a young girl.
"I am ready," said Johanna.
"Ready for what?" enquired Sir Richard Blunt, with a look of earnest affection in the face of the beautiful heroine—for if ever there were a heroine, we really think Johanna Oakley was one, and we are quite sure that you agree with us.
"For my mission," said Johanna, "I am ready."
"And can you really find courage to go again to that—that—"
Sir Richard could not find a fitting name for Todd's home, but Johanna understood him, and she replied gently—
"I may not pause now. It is my duty."