The solemn man looked long and earnestly at Johannes. His regard was not now alarming, but gentle and serious, and attracted Johannes like a profound depth.
"I alone can take you to Windekind. Through me alone can you find the book."
"Then take me with you. There is no one left—take me, too! I want nothing more."
Again Death shook his head.
"You love men, Johannes. You do not know it, but you have always loved them. You must become a good man. It is a fine thing to be a good man."
"I do not want that—take me with you!"
"You mistake—you do want it: you cannot help it."
Then the tall, dark figure grew vague before Johannes' eyes—it faded into a filmy, grey mist adrift in, the room—and passed away along the sunbeams.
Johannes bowed his head upon the side of the bed, and sobbed for the dead man.