According to the Physician's order I swallowed a composing medicine; and as soon as the night shut in, my attendants withdrew and left me to repose.
That repose I wooed in vain.

The agitation of my bosom chased away sleep.

Restless in my mind, in spite of the fatigue of my body, I continued to toss about from side to side, till the Clock in a neighbouring Steeple struck 'One.' As I listened to the mournful hollow sound, and heard it die away in the wind, I felt a sudden chillness spread itself over my body.

I shuddered without knowing wherefore; Cold dews poured down my forehead, and my hair stood bristling with alarm.

Suddenly I heard slow and heavy steps ascending the staircase.