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VIVIAN GREY.
77

your mind, but over the very soul of the land from which you come. Recognize in me only your friend, and leave the other world to those who value it more, or more deserve it. Does not this fair earth contain sufficient of interest and enjoyment."

"Oh, Vivian! you speak with a sweet voice, but with a sceptic's spirit. Thou knowest not what I know."

"Tell me then, my Amalia; let me share your secrets, provided they be your sorrows."

"Oh, Vivian! almost within this hour, and in this park, there has happened that—which——"and here her voice died, and she looked fearfully round her.

"Nay, fear not, fear not; no one can harm you here, no one shall harm you. Rest, rest upon me, and tell me all thy grief."

"I dare not—I cannot tell you.""

"Nay, my own love, thou shalt—"