m, while Mr. Gradgrind and Louisa, whom Sissy had
told to trust in Sleary, waited all night for his return.

It was morning before Sleary came back, with the news that Tom was
undoubtedly safe from pursuit, if not already aboard ship. He told them
how, at the word from him, the educated horse had begun to dance; how
Tom had slipped down and got away, while the educated dog, at his
command, had penned the frightened porter in the carriage all night,
fearing to stir.

Thus Tom, who did not deserve any such good luck, got safely away, but
though his father was spared the shame of ever seeing his son behind the
bars of a jail, yet he was a broken man ever after the truth became
known.

What was the fate of all these? Bounderby, a bully to the last, died of
a fit five years afterward, leaving his entire fortune to the perpetual
support of twenty-five humbugs, each of whom was required to take the
name of "Josiah Bounderby of Coketown." Louisa never remarried, but
lived to be the comfort of her father and the loving comrade of Sissy
Jupe. Sissy never found her father, and when at last Merrylegs, his
wonderful dog, came back alone to die of old age at Sleary's feet, all
knew that his master must be dead. Tom died, softened and penitent, in a
foreign land. Rachel remained the same pensive little worker, always
dressed in black, beloved by all and helping every one, even Stephen's
besotted wife.

As for Mr. Gradgrind, a white-haired, decrepit old man, he forgot all
the facts on which he had so depended, and tried for ever after to
mingle his life's acts with Faith, Hope and Charity.

THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD

Published 1870

_Scene_: London and Cloisterham, a Neighboring Town

_Time_: About 1865

CHARACTERS

Edwin Drood A young engineer

John Jasper His uncle and guardian. A choir master

Rosa Bud An orphan girl, engaged to marry Drood
Known as "Rosebud"

Mr. Grewgious A lawyer. Her guardian

Miss Twinkleton The principal of the Young Ladies'
Seminary in Cloisterham

The Reverend Mr. Crisparkle A minister A minister

Neville Landless Mr. Crisparkle's pupil

Helena His twin sister
Rosebud's room-mate in the semi