This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
THE ALIENATED MANOR: A COMEDY.
211


CHARVILLE.

The figure I saw was tall? Is he slender?

DICKENSON.

I cannot say he is.

CHARVILLE.

The figure I saw was slender. Has he, in any respect, the appearance of a gentleman?

DICKENSON.

Not much of that, I confess.

CHARVILLE.

Then, teaze me no more by saying it was Smitchenstault; it was the devil as soon. Where can he have disappeared? There is no door for him to escape by.

DICKENSON.

What if it should be some apparition that has deceived you? This is the haunted chamber which has been shut up so long, and why it is open to-night, and lights burning, I cannot imagine.

CHARVILLE.

Ay, ay! There is always a ghost or a haunted chamber wherever intrigue and treachery are at work. But if it be not a spirit, I will dislodge it.

DICKENSON.

The closet door seems to move.

CHARVILLE (running to the door).

I cannot open it; somebody presses it to in the inside. Go fetch my pistols: I'll send a brace