Mrs.
Shchapoff was asleep in her bedroom, but was awakened by loud raps.
The window was tapped at, deafening thumps were dealt at the outer wall, and the whole house thrilled.

Mr.Shchapoff rushed out with dogs and a gun, there were no footsteps in the snow, the air was still, the full moon rode in a serene sky.

Mr.Shchapoff came back, and the double shuffle was sounding merrily in the empty loft.

Next day was no better, but the noises abated and ceased gradually.
Alas, Mr.Shchapoff could not leave well alone.

On 20th December, to amuse a friend, he asked Maria to dance and play.