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hand in this very book but the other day, and now it is nowhere to be found. (A heavy sigh is uttered by .) I thought I heard something. (Looking round.) It is fancy. (Turning over the leaves again.) I will not give up the search; it was certainly here, and it will bear me out in every thing I have advanced on the subject. (A deep sigh, uttered as before.) There is somebody near me. (Looking round the room more perfectly, and discovering .) Who art thou, lurking yonder in the shade? Come forward to the light, be thy designs hostile or friendly. Speak; say who thou art?

Thy friend.

My friend, here at this hour in such a plight! What is the matter, Claudien? what has happened?

Something has happen'd!—I will tell thee all When I am able.

Thou 'rt deadly pale; thy face is strangely haggard. Sit down, sit down; thou art too weak to stand.