“I say! Look sharp for old Bounderby, Loo!” Tom remonstrated.

“There’s no more to tell, Miss Louisa. I keep the nine oils ready for him, and I know he will come back. Every letter that I see in Mr. Gradgrind’s hand takes my breath away and blinds my eyes, for I think it comes from father, or from Mr. Sleary about father. Mr. Sleary promised to write as soon as ever father should be heard of, and I trust to him to keep his word.”

“Do look sharp for old Bounderby, Loo!” said Tom, with an impatient whistle. “He’ll be off if you don’t look sharp!”