"
He did not seem to relish the idea of passing the night even with so
quiet a companion; but as it seemed the least disagreeable alternative,
we agreed to pilot him to the chamber and help the miserable pallet to
change occupants. The corpse we agreed to lay on some clean litter used
for the bedding of the cattle. We conducted the stranger to his
dormitory, which was formerly a hay loft, until converted into an
occasional sleeping-room for the humble applicants who sometimes craved
a night's lodging at the Sandy Holm.
The only entrance was by a crazy ladder, and so steep, that I was
afraid our feeble companion would find considerable difficulty in
climbing to his chamber. It was my intention to have prevented him from
getting a sight of the ghastly object that occupied his couch; but
pressing foremost, he ran up the ladder with surprising agility, gaining
the top ere I had made preparations for the ascent. I mounted
cautiously, giving him the light whilst I made good my landing; and he
went directly to the bed. I had set my foot on the floor, and was
lending a hand to Kate, who had still to contend with the difficulties
of the way, when I heard a dismal and most appalling shriek.
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