But I was quicker than the shadow and caught hold of a corner of its cloak.

At that moment, we were just in front of the high altar; and the moonbeams fell straight upon us through the stained-glass windows of the apse.

As I did not let go of the cloak, the shadow turned round; and I saw a terrible death's head, which darted a look at me from a pair of scorching eyes.

I felt as if I were face to face with Satan; and, in the presence of this unearthly apparition, my heart gave way, my courage failed me ...

and I remember nothing more until I recovered consciousness at the Setting Sun.".