Mrs. D. Was ever such malicious treachery heard of? Should Brook cowardly delay to make use of these proofs, I will develope their crimes myself. [A gentle knock is heard at the door of the room.]

Augusta. What was that?

Mrs. D. Nothing—be quiet—our misfortunes cannot increase. [The knock repeated twice.

Augusta. Do you hear?

Mrs. D. Is any body there? Come in. [The door opens; an old man with grey hairs, dressed in an old-fashioned lace suit, much tarnished, enters, and approaches timidly].

Mrs. D. What do you wish, my good friend?

Old Man [shyly]. Madam—pray, does not somebody live here—in this house——I mean Mr. Drave?

Mrs. D. Alas! my good friend!

Old Man. He lived here once, I think—does he not live here still?

Augusta. Yes.