Page:Clermont - Roche (1798, volume 1).djvu/76

 it. In a few minutes approaching steps were heard, and a lady, somewhat advanced in years, but of a dignified and benignant aspect, entered the room. Clermont approached to welcome and receive her, but suddenly stopped, as did the lady, and, to the inexpressible amazement of Madeline, they both gazed on each other with all the wildness of surprise.

"Good heaven! (exclaimed the stranger, first breaking silence) do I really behold a friend so valued, so long anxiously sought after—do I really behold my ever esteemed—."

Clermont started; turned his eye upon his daughter; as quickly glanced it at the lady, and laid his hand upon his mouth: she seemed to understand the sign; sighed—paused—and looked down; then again raising her eyes—"I bless the accident (cried she), which has been the means of discovering to me the retreat of a friend so valued."