I followed Catiline for his own sake;
And I shall watch o'er him with zealous care.
Here stands he all alone amidst these hosts
Of paltry knaves and dissolute companions.
They cannot comprehend him,--he in turn
Is far too proud to wish to fathom them.

[He throws some branches on the fire and remains standing in
silence. CATILINE comes out of the tent.]

CATILINE. [To himself.]
Midnight approaches. Everything is hushed;--
Only to my poor eyes sleep fails to come.
Cold is the night wind; 'twill refresh my soul
And give me strength anew--. I sorely need it!

[He becomes aware of MANLIUS.]

CATILINE. 'Tis you, old Manlius? And do you stand guard
Alone on such a night?

MANLIUS. Oft have I stood
Guard over you in childhood's early days.
Say, do you not recall?

CATILINE. Those days are gone;
With them, my peace; wherever now I go,
I'm haunted by a multitude of visions.
All things find shelter in my bosom, Manlius;--
Save peace alone. That--that is far away.