Page:The Keepsake for 1838.djvu/223

 visible but an opposite wing of the castle, in which not even one solitary light denoted the vicinity of a living being.

In the mean time, we arranged ourselves as comfortably as possible. The flask of wine which was to inspire us with courage, was soon exhausted. We then imagined all the most horrible possibilities, in the hope of surpassing the reality; and thus prepared for the worst, we resolved to encounter any phantom or terrific object that might present itself, with composure.

Midnight now drew near—I strongly recommended that we should, in conjunction, closely examine every corner of the room; but my companions were not to be moved from their seats. I reproved their apathy to advice, which in the course of an hour might be very differently viewed by them. But in vain I insisted; for a brief time they struggled ineffectually against the dominion of sleep; at last, it completely overpowered them in spite of all my endeavours to keep them on the alert.

I was now as solitary as if alone in the mysterious chamber. The profound slumber of my companions appeared to me unnatural; and this idea increased the horror which must seize even the most intrepid mind, in such a situation, and at such a time. In vain, did I endeavour to imitate my companions, and summon unconsciousness to my aid. My excited imagination drove me from my seat, and I wandered restlessly through the room. How often did I then execrate the idle curiosity which had led me to investigate the mysteries of this fearful chamber. The slightest creaking in the mouldering, worm-eaten furniture, startled me as announcing the near approach of some terrific phantom; and at such moments, I could scarcely refrain from rushing from the room to seek refuge and protection in the inhabited parts of the castle.

And why, it may be asked, did I not now put into practice the advice which I had given my companions, and minutely