Can't see my files

[PIERRE5FD6]

This just started today! I seem to have lost a couple of days work in Illustrator! I can't see the files but when I tried to copy a file of the same name  into the same folder "It asked if I wanted to replace the file" BUT the file doesn't show up at all and I can't see it!!! Also can't seem to save into that folder!! HELP ANY ONE!!!!!

[Doug A Roberts]

What is the file path of the folder?

[PIERRE5FD6]

It's a external HD

[Doug A Roberts]

If you navigate to that location in the Finder/Windows Explorer, the files are not there?

[PIERRE5FD6]

No they are not.

[Monika Gause]

Can you copy the file to your internal disk using the system's interface?

What is the name of the files? Does it contain any non-latin letters?

Is your disk working? Have you checked it?

Illustrator has issues with external disks. Does it work saving to your harddisk?

And also: which system and Illustrator version is it?