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Renzo then briefly related his journey to Milan, his flight, and

his return home; that he had not found Agnes there; and at Milan

had learned that Lucy was in the lazaretto. "And I am here,"

concluded he, "I am here in search of her; to see if she yet

lives, and if--she still thinks of me--because--sometimes--"

"But what direction did they give you? Did they tell you where

she was placed when she came here?"

"I know nothing, dear father, nothing; only that she is here, if

she still lives, which may God grant!"

"Oh, poor child! But what have you done here until now?"

"I have searched, and searched, but have seen hardly any but men.

I think the females must be in another part by themselves; you

can tell me if this is the case?"

"Know you not that it is forbidden to men to enter there unless

their duty calls them?"

"Oh, well! what can happen to me if I should attempt?"