He never used to go there. It was never in his
way. His way was the same as mine, and not near it.'
Sissy had already been at her side asking her where she lived, and
whether she might come to-morrow night, to inquire if there were
news of him.
'I doubt,' said Rachael, 'if he can be here till next day.'
'Then I will come next night too,' said Sissy.
When Rachael, assenting to this, was gone, Mr. Gradgrind lifted up
his head, and said to his daughter:
'Louisa, my dear, I have never, that I know of, seen this man. Do
you believe him to be implicated?'
'I think I have believed it, father, though with great difficulty.
I do not believe it now.'
'That is to say, you once persuaded yourself to believe it, from
knowing him to be suspected. His appearance and manner; are they
so honest?'
'Very honest.'
'And her confidence not to be shaken! I ask myself,' said Mr.
Gradgrind, musing, 'does the real culprit know of these
accusations? Where is he? Who is he?'
His hair had latterly began to change its colour.
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