I did not go in that evening, for I was weary and faint, but I hoarded up the expectation of entering, as of a great coming joy.
Next night I walked, as on the preceding, through the hall.

My mind was filled with pictures and songs, and therewith so much absorbed, that I did not for some time think of looking within the curtain I had last night lifted.

When the thought of doing so occurred to me first, I happened to be within a few yards of it.

I became conscious, at the same moment, that the sound of dancing had been for some time in my ears.

I approached the curtain quickly, and, lifting it, entered the black hall.
Everything was still as death.