Before I retrieved the power of reflection, the light had disappeared and the footsteps were no longer to be heard.
I was not, on ordinary occasions, destitute of equanimity; but perhaps the imagination of man is naturally abhorrent of death, until tutored into indifference by habit.

Every circumstance combined to fill me with shuddering and panic.

For a while, I was enabled to endure my situation by the exertions of my reason.

That the lifeless remains of a human being are powerless to injure or benefit, I was thoroughly persuaded.

I summoned this belief to my aid, and was able, if not to subdue, yet to curb, my fears.