The head of my bed was near the door, and I thought at first the goblin-laugher stood at my bedside--or rather, crouched by my pillow: but I rose, looked round, and could see nothing; while, as I still gazed, the unnatural sound was reiterated: and I knew it came from behind the panels.

My first impulse was to rise and fasten the bolt; my next, again to cry out, "Who is there ?" Something gurgled and moaned.

Ere long, steps retreated up the gallery towards the third-storey staircase: a door had lately been made to shut in that staircase; I heard it open and close, and all was still.
"Was that Grace Poole?
and is she possessed with a devil ?" thought I.
Impossible now to remain longer by myself: I must go to Mrs.Fairfax.

I hurried on my frock and a shawl; I withdrew the bolt and opened the door with a trembling hand.

There was a candle burning just outside, and on the matting in the gallery.