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All hail to you, reverend sir! So you have come back to town?

This very moment;—I have consecrated the warm autumn months to quiet devotion, on my estate in Crete. And now pray tell me what is afoot here?

Confusion and disaster. The new Emperor

Yes, yes, I have heard strange rumours

The truth is ten times worse. All faithful servants are hunted out of the palace.

Is it possible?

Alackaday; I myself was the first

Terrible! Then, perhaps, I too?

Most certainly. All accounts are to be examined, all gifts resumed, all irregular perquisites

[Turning pale.] God have mercy on us!

The Lord be praised, I have a good conscience!