Bruno took a very small book out of the bookcase, opened it, and shook it in imitation of the Professor. “He isn't here”, he said.
"He ca’n’t be there, Bruno!" Sylvie said indignantly.
"Course he ca'n't!" said Bruno. "I should have shooked him out, if he'd been in there!"
"Has he ever been lost before?" Sylvie enquired, turning up a corner of the hearth-rug, and peeping under it.
"Once before," said the Professor: "he once lost himself in a wood———"
"And couldn't he find his-self again?" said Bruno. " Why didn't he shout? He'd be sure to hear his-self, 'cause he couldn't be far off, oo know."
"Let's try shouting," said the Professor.
"What shall we shout?" said Sylvie.
"On second thoughts, don't shout," the Professor replied. "The Vice-Warden might hear you. He's getting awfully strict!"
This reminded the poor children of all the troubles, about which they had come to their old friend. Bruno sat down on the floor and began crying. "He is so cruel!" he
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