I am a stranger in the city.
I do not even know a single being." "Alas!" returned the stranger, with a sigh, "thy state is sorrowful.
But how camest thou hither ?" continued he, looking around him; "and whence comest thou ?" "I came from the country.

I reached the city a few hours ago.

I was in search of a friend who lived in this house." "Thy undertaking was strangely hazardous and rash; but who is the friend thou seekest?
Was it he who died in that bed, and whose corpse has just been removed ?" The men now betrayed some impatience; and inquired of the last comer, whom they called Mr.Estwick, what they were to do.

He turned to me, and asked if I were willing to be conducted to the hospital.
I assured him that I was free from disease, and stood in no need of assistance; adding, that my feebleness was owing to a stunning blow received from a ruffian on my temple.

The marks of this blow were conspicuous, and after some hesitation he dismissed the men; who, lifting the empty coffin on their shoulders, disappeared.
He now invited me to descend into the parlour; "for," said he, "the air of this room is deadly.