With this, he struck the door a heavy blow.
He listened. There was a deep groan, and the sound of a fall within.
"I have killed her," exclaimed Jack, dropping the bar,—"by your advice, Thames. Oh God! pardon me."
"Do not delay," cried Thames. "She may yet be saved. I am too weak to aid you."
Jack again seized the bar, and, dashing it furiously against the door, speedily burst it open.
The unfortunate woman was stretched upon the floor, with a bloody knife in her hand.
"Mother!" cried Jack, springing towards her.
"Jack!" she cried, raising her head. "Is it you?"
"It is," replied her son, "Oh! why would you not listen to me?"
"I was distracted," replied Mrs. Sheppard, faintly.