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CLAUDE (eagerly).

Stately, and of a stature somewhat taller

Than middle size, of countenance somewhat younger
Than middle age?

SEXTON.

No; short, and grave, and ancient, like a priest

From foreign parts. (Music sounds again.)

CRAWFORD.

Be still and hear the dirge.

Dirge, sung by several Voices without.

Dear spirit! freed from earthy cell,
    From mortal thraldom freed;
The blessed Virgin keep thee well,
    And thy dread passage speed!

Quick be thy progress, gentle soul!
    Through purifying pain,
To the saved Christian's happy goal,
    Thy Father's bright domain!

Beloved on earth! by love redeem’d,
    Which earthly love transcends,
Earth's show,—the dream that thou hast dream'd,
    In waking transport ends.

Then, bathed in fountains of delight,
    May'st thou God's mercy prove,
His glory open'd to thy sight,
    And to thy heart his love!