This termagant was a little broad-set figure wearing a mask, intended as
a representation of his Satanic majesty, adorned with a huge pair of
horns. From it hung a black cloak or shirt, out of which protruded a
goodly and substantial tail. No one could discover this ruthless
disturber of their sports. Every attempt was unavailing; he shot through
their fingers as though they had been greased, and a loud and
contumelious laugh was the only reward of their exertions.
In the end, a shrewd conjecture went abroad that he was none other than
some malicious imp of darkness let loose upon their frolics, to disquiet
and perplex their commemoration of the Blessed Nativity. Yet was it an
unusual occurrence upon Yule night, when these disturbers were supposed
to be prevented from walking the earth, being confined for a space to
their own kingdom. But the desperate character of their lord, who was
thought to fear neither man nor devil, might in some sort account for
this unwelcome intrusion.
The guests grew cautious. Whispers and unquiet looks went round, while
the little devil would ever and anon frisk about, to the great detriment
and dismay of his companions.
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