All his efforts to save her, or even to check
her rapid downfall, had proved vain; and he turned from her sin with a
resentment tinged with disgust. But Ann Holland could feel no resentment
or disgust. If it had been in her power she would have watched over her
and cared for her night and day with unwearied tenderness. As far as she
could she sought to keep alive within her all kinds of softening and
pleasant influences. She went often to see Charlie at school, sometimes
persuading Sophy to go with her, though more often the unhappy mother
shrank from meeting her little son's innocent greetings and caresses.
The terrible fits of depression which followed every indulgence of her
craving frequently unfitted her for any exertion. She clung to Ann
Holland's faithful friendship; but it was not near enough or strong
enough to keep her from yielding when she was tempted.
But Sophy Chantrey had not yet fallen to the lowest depths--perhaps
never would fall. Her husband's return would save her. Ann Holland
looked forward to it as the only hope.
CHAPTER VI.
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