rather, so deadened had I become, I felt no need of a pretext; and
in order to dissipate every idea of the kind, I hastened on,
regardless of the unhappy man, whose fearful lamentations long
resounded in my ears. Such, at the time, were my impressions of all
the circumstances of this affair.

I now ardently desired to return to the ranger's garden, in order to
ascertain in person the truth of the information communicated by the
odious unknown; but I knew not where I was, until, ascending an
eminence to take a survey of the surrounding country, I perceived,
from its summit, the little town and the gardens almost at my feet.
My heart beat violently, and tears of a nature very different from
those I had lately shed filled my eyes. I should, then, once more
behold her!

Anxiety now hastened my steps. Unseen I met some peasants coming
from the town; they were talking of me, of Rascal, and of the
ranger. I would not stay to listen to their conversation, but
proceeded on. My bosom thrilled with expectation as I entered the
garden. At this moment I heard something like a hollow laugh which
caused me involuntarily to shudder. I cast a rapid glance around,
but could see no one. I passed on; presently I fancied I heard the
sound of footsteps close to me, but no one was within sight. My
ears must have deceived me.

It was early; no one was in Count Peter's bower--the gardens were
deserted. I traversed all the well-known paths, and penetrated even
to the dwelling-house itself. The same rustling sound became now
more and more audible. With anguished feelings I sat down on a seat
placed in the sunny space before the door, and actually felt some