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Le Fanu, Joseph Sheridan, 1814-1873

"Uncle Silas A Tale of Bartram-Haugh"


I can only speak for myself, and I can honestly say that I felt as much
frightened as if I had just seen a sorcerer stealing from his unhallowed
business. I think Cousin Monica was also affected in the same way, for she
turned the key on the inside of the door when we entered. I do not think
one of us believed at the moment that what we had seen was a Doctor Bryerly
of flesh and blood, and yet the first thing we spoke of in the morning was
Doctor Bryerly's arrival. The mind is a different organ by night and by
day.


CHAPTER XXIII
_I TALK WITH DOCTOR BRYERLY_

Doctor Bryerly had, indeed, arrived at half-past twelve o'clock at night.
His summons at the hall-door was little heard at our remote side of the old
house of Knowl; and when the sleepy, half-dressed servant opened the
door, the lank Doctor, in glossy black clothing, was standing alone, his
portmanteau on its end upon the steps, and his vehicle disappearing in the
shadows of the old trees.
In he came, sterner and sharper of aspect than usual.
'I've been expected? I'm Doctor Bryerly. Haven't I? So, let whoever is in
charge of the body be called.


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