The box was now open, and the old gentleman drew forth some yellow papers, written on in faded ink.

These, he said, were lists of securities, which had been in his possession, when he went abroad in 18--, and in France became engaged to his beautiful companion.
"The securities," he said, "are now in the strong box of Messrs.

---;" another rap at the door, and the actual maid entered with real hot water.

It was time to get up.

The whole dream had its origin in the first rap, heard by the dreamer and dramatised into the arrival of visitors.