She seized, with an unsteady hand, the precious manuscript, for half a glance sufficed to ascertain written characters; and while she acknowledged with awful sensations this striking exemplification of what Henry had foretold, resolved instantly to peruse every line before she attempted to rest.
The dimness of the light her candle emitted made her turn to it with alarm; but there was no danger of its sudden extinction; it had yet some hours to burn; and that she might not have any greater difficulty in distinguishing the writing than what its ancient date might occasion, she hastily snuffed it.

Alas! It was snuffed and extinguished in one.

A lamp could not have expired with more awful effect.

Catherine, for a few moments, was motionless with horror.

It was done completely; not a remnant of light in the wick could give hope to the rekindling breath.
Darkness impenetrable and immovable filled the room.