 CHAPTER 87 THE HUNT FOR VARNI, THE HOUSE TOPPS, THE MIRACULOUS ESCAPE, THE LAST PLACE OF REFUGE On the treetops the moon shines brightly and the long shadows are shooting its rays down upon the waters, and the green fields appear clothed in a flood of silver light. The little town was quiet and tranquil. Nature seemed at rest. The old mansion in which Sir Francis Varney had taken refuge stood empty and solitary. It seemed as though it were not associated with the others by which it was surrounded. It was gloomy, and in the moonlight it reminded one of things long gone by. Sir Francis that had once been but now no longer of this present time a mere memento of the past. Sir Francis Varney reclined upon the house top. He gazed upon the sky and upon the earth. He saw the calm tranquility that reigned around and could not but admire what he saw. He sighed. He seemed to sigh. From a pleasure he felt in the fact of his security, he could repose there without fear and breathe the balmy air that fanned his cheek. Certainly, he muttered, things might have been worse, but not much worse, however they might have been much better. The ignorant are always the most to be feared, because they have no guide and no control. Save what can be exerted over them by their fears and their passions. He paused to look again over the scene, and as far as the eye could reach, and that, moonlight as it was, was many miles, the country was diversified with hill and dale, meadow and plowed land. The open fields and the darker woods and the silvery stream that ran at no great distance all presented a scene that was well calculated to warm the imagination and to give the mind that charm which a cultivated understanding is capable of receiving. There was but one thing wanted to make such a scene one of pure happiness, and that was all absence of care of fears for the future and the wants of life. Suddenly there was a slight sound that came from the town. It was very slight, but the ears of Sir Francis Varney were painfully acute of late. The least sound that came across him was heard in a moment, and his whole visage was changed to one of listening interest. The sound was hushed, but his attention was not lulled, for he had been placed in circumstances that made all his vigilance necessary for his own preservation. Hence it was, what another would have passed over or not heard at all, he both heard and noticed. He was not sure of the nature of the sound. It was so slight and so indistinct. There it was again. Some persons were moving about in the town. The sounds that came upon the night air seemed to say that there was an unusual bustle in the town, which was the Sir Francis Varney ominous in the extreme. What could people in such a quiet, retired place require out at such an hour at night? It must be something very unusual, something that must excite them to a great degree, and Sir Francis began to feel very uneasy. They surely, he muttered to himself, they surely cannot have found out my hiding place and intend to hunt me from it, the bloodthirsty hounds. They are never satisfied. The mischief they are permitted to do on one occasion is but the precursor to another. The taste has caused the appetite for more, and nothing short of his blood can satisfy it. The sounds increased and the noise came nearer and nearer, and it appeared as though a number of men had collected together and were coming towards him. Yes, they were coming down the lane towards the deserted mansion where he was. For once in his life Sir Francis Varney trembled. He felt sick at heart, though no man was less likely to give up hope and to despair than he, yet the sign of unrelenting hatred and persecution was too unequivocal and too stern not to produce its effect upon even his mind, for he had no doubt that they were coming with the express purpose of seeking him. How could they have found him out was a matter he could not imagine. The Bannerworths could not have betrayed him, he was sure of that, and yet who could have seen him so cautious and so careful as he had been, and so very sparing had he lived, because he would not give the slightest cause for all that was about to follow. He hoped to have hidden himself, but now he could hear the tramp of men distinctly, and their voices came now on the night air, though it was in a subdued tone as if they were desirous of approaching unheard and unseen by their victim. Sir Francis Varney stirred not from his position. He remained silent and motionless. He appeared not to heed what was going on. Perhaps he hoped to see them go by, to be upon some false scent, or if they saw no signs of life they might leave the place and go elsewhere. Hark! They stop at the house. They go not by. They seem to pause. And then a thundering knock came at the door, which echoed and re-echoed through the empty and deserted house, on the top of which sat, in silent expectation, the almost motionless Sir Francis Varney, the redoubted vampire. The knock, which came so loud and so hard upon the door, caused Sir Francis to start visibly, for it seemed his own knell. Then, as if the mob were satisfied with their knowledge of his presence and of their victory, they sent up a loud shout that filled the whole neighborhood with its sound. It seemed to come from below and around the house. It rose from all sides, and that told Sir Francis Varney that the house was surrounded and all escape was cut off. There was no chance of his being able to rush through such a multitude of men as that which now encircled him. With the calmest despair, Sir Francis Varney lay still and motionless on the housetop and listened to the sounds that proceeded from below. Shout after shout arose on the still, calm air of the night. Knock after knock came upon the stout old door, which awakened responsive echoes throughout the house that it for many years lain dormant, and which now seemed disturbed and resounded in hollow murmurs to the voices from without. Then a loud voice shouted from below as if to be heard by anyone who might be within. Sir Francis Varney, the vampire, come out and give yourself up at discretion. If we have to search for you, you may depend it will be to punish you. You will suffer by burning. Come out and give yourself up. There was a pause, and then a loud shout. Sir Francis Varney paid no attention to the summons, but sat motionless on the housetop where he could hear all that passed below in the crowd. He will not come out, said one. Ah, he's much too cunning to be caught in such a trap. Why, he knows what you would do with him. He knows you would stake him and make a bonfire about him. So he has no taste for roasting, remarked another. But still, it's no use hiding. We have too many hands, and know the house too well to be easily baffled. That may be, and although we don't like burning, yet we will unearth the old fox, somehow or other. We have discovered his haunt at last, and certainly will have him out. How shall we get in? Knock in the door, break open the door, the front door. That is the best, because it leads to all parts of the house, and we can secure anyone who attempts to move from one to the other as they come down. Hurrah! shouted several men in the crowd. Hurrah! echoed the mob with one accord, and the shout rent the air, and disturbed the quiet and serenity that scarce five minutes before reigned throughout the place. Then as if actuated by one spirit they all set to work to force the door in. It was strong and capable of great defense, and employed them with some labor for fifteen or twenty minutes, and then, with a loud crash, the door fell in. Hurrah! again shouted the crowd. These shouts announced the fall of the door, and then, and not until then, did Sir Francis Varney stir. They have broken the door, he muttered. Well, if die I must, I will sell my life dearly. However, all is not yet lost, and in the struggle for life the loss is not so much felt. He got up and crept towards the trap that led into the house, or out of it, as the occasion might require. The vampire! the vampire! shouted a man who stood on a garden wall, holding on by the arm of an apple tree. Varney! the vampire! shouted a second. Hurrah, boys! We were on the right scent. Now for a hunt! Hurrah! We shall have him now! They rushed in a tumultuous riot up the stone steps and into the hall. It was a large, spacious place, with a grand staircase that led up to the upper floor, but it had two ends, and then terminated in a gallery. It could not be defended by one man, save at the top, where it could not long be held, because the assailants could unite and throw their whole weight against the entrance, and thus storm it. This actually happened. They looked up, and, seeing nobody, they rushed up, some by one stair and some by the other, but it was dark. There were but few of the moons raised that pierced the gloom of that place, and those who first reached the place which we have named were seized with astonishment, staggered, and fell. Sir Francis Varney had met them. He stood there with a staff, something he had found about the house, not quite so long as a broom-handle, but somewhat thicker and heavier, being made of stout ash. This formidable weapon Sir Francis Varney wielded with strength and resolution. He was a tall man, and one of no mean activity and personal strength, and such a weapon in his hands was one of a most fearful character, and, for the occasion, much better than his sword. Man after man fell beneath a fearful force of these blows, for though they could not see Sir Francis, yet he could see them, for the hall lights were behind them at the time, while he stood in the dark and took advantage of this to deal murderous blows upon his assailants. This continued for some minutes, till they gave way before such a vigorous defiance, and paused. On, neighbors on, cried one, will you be beaten off by one man? Russian at once, and you must force him from his position. Push him hard, and he must give way. I, said one fellow who sat upon the ground rubbing his head. It's all very well to say push him hard, but if you felt the weight of that damned pole on your head you wouldn't be in such a blessed hurry. However true that might be there was but little attention paid to it, and a determined rush was made at the entrance to the gallery, and they found that it was unoccupied, and that was explained by the slamming of a door, and it's being immediately locked upon them, and when the mob came to the door they found they had to break their way through another door. This did not take long in effecting, and in less than five minutes they had broken through that door which led into another room, but the first man who entered it fell from a crashing blow on the head from the ashen staff of Sir Francis Varney, who hurried and fled, closely pursued until he came to another door through which he dashed. Here he endeavored to make a stand and close it, but was immediately struck and grappled with, but he threw his assailant and turned and fled again. His object had been to defend each inch of the ground as long as he was able, but he found they came too close upon his steps and prevented his turning in time to try the strength of his staff upon the foremost. He dashed up the first staircase with surprising rapidity, leaving his pursuers behind, and when he had gained the first landing he turned upon those who pursued him, who could hardly follow him to a breast. Down with the vampire shouted the first who rushed up heedless of the staff. Down with a fool, thundered Varney as he struck the fellow a terrific blow which covered his face with blood and he fell back into the arms of his companions. A bitter groan and execration arose from them below, and again they shouted and rushed up headlong. Down with the vampire was again shouted and met by a corresponding but deep guttural sound of, down with a fool! And sure enough the first again came to the earth without any preparation, saved the application of an ashen stick to his skull, which by the by by no means aided the operation of thinking. Several more shared a similar fate, but they pressed hard and Sir Francis was compelled to give ground to keep them at the necessary length from him as they rushed on regardless of his blows, and if he had not he would soon have been engaged in a personal struggle, for they were getting too close for him to use the staff. Down with the vampire was a renewed cry as they drove him from spot to spot until he reached the roof of the house, and then he ran up the steps to the loft, which he had just reached when they came to the bottom. Varney attempted to draw the ladder up, but four or five stout men held that down. Then by a sudden turn as they were getting up he turned it over, threw those on it down, and the ladder too, upon the heads of those who were below. Down with the vampire shouted the mob as they, with the most untiring energy, set the ladder or steps against the loft, and as many as could held it while others rushed up to attack Varney with all the ferocity and courage of so many bulldogs. It was strange, but the more they were baffled the more enraged and determined they rushed on to a new attack, with greater resolution than ever. On this occasion however they were met with a new kind of missile, for Sir Francis had either collected and placed there for the occasion, or they had been left there for years a number of old bricks which lay close at hand. These he took one by one and deliberately took aim at them and flung them with great force striking down every one they hit. This caused them to recoil, the bricks caused fearful gashes in their heads, and the wounds were serious, the flesh being in many places torn completely off. They however only paused, for one man said, Be of good heart, comrades, we can do as he does, he has furnished us with weapons, and we can thus attack him in two ways, and he must give way in the end. Hurrah! Down with the vampire, sounded from all sides, and the shout was answered by a corresponding rush. It was true, Sir Francis had furnished them with weapons to attack himself, for they could throw them back at him, which they did, and struck him a severe blow on the head, and it covered his face with blood in a moment. Hurrah! shouted the assailants, and other such blow and all will be over with the vampire. He's got— Press him sharp now, cried another man, as he aimed another blow with a brick, which struck Varney on the arm, causing him to drop the brick he held in his hand. He staggered back, apparently in great pain. Up, up! We have him now! We cannot get away! He's hurt! We have him! And up they went, with all the rapidity they could scramble up the steps, but this had given Varney time to recover himself, and though his right arm was almost useless, yet he contrived with his left to pitch the bricks so as to knock over the first three or four. When, seeing that he could not maintain his position to advantage, he rushed to the outside of the house, the last place he had capable of defense. There was a great shout by those outside when they saw him come out and stand with his staff, and those who came first got first served, for the blows resounded while he struck them and sent them over below. Then came a great shout from within and without, and then a desperate rush was made at the door, and in the next instant Varney was seen flying, followed by his pursuers, one after the other, some tumbling over the tiles, to the imminent hazard of their necks. Sir Francis Varney rushed along with the speed that appeared by far too great to admit of being safely followed, and yet those who followed appeared infected by his example, and appeared heedless of all consequences by which their pursuit might be attended to themselves. Hurrah! shouted the mob below. Hurrah! shouted the mob on the tiles. Then over several housetops might be seen the flying figure of Sir Francis Varney pursued by different men at a pace almost equal to his own. They however could keep up the same speed and not approve upon it, while he kept the advantage he first obtained in the start. Then suddenly he disappeared. It seemed to the spectators below that he had dropped through a house, and they immediately surrounded the house as well as they could, and then set up another shout. This took place several times, and as often was the miserable man hunted from his place of refuge only to seek another, from which he was in like manner hunted by those who thirsted for his blood. On one occasion they drove him into a house which was surrounded, save at one point, which had a long room or building in it that ran some distance out, and about twenty feet high. At the entrance to the roof of this place, or leads, he stood and defended himself for some moments with success. But having received a blow himself he was compelled to retire, while the mob behind forced those in front forward faster than he could by any exertion wield the staff that had so much befriended him on this occasion. He was therefore on the point of being overwhelmed by numbers when he fled, but alas there was no escape, a bare coping stone, and rails ran round the top of that. There was not much time for hesitation, but he jumped over the rails and looked below. It was a great height, but if he fell and hurt himself he knew he was at the mercy of the blood hounds behind him, who would do anything but show him any mercy or spare him a single pang. He looked round and beheld his pursuers close upon him, and one was so close to him that he seized upon his arms, saying as he shouted to his companions, Hurrah, boys, I have him! With an execration Sir Francis wielded his staff with such force that he struck the fellow in the head, crushing in his hat as if it had been only so much paper. The man fell, but a blow followed from someone else which caused Varney to relax his hold, and finding himself falling, he, to save himself, sprang away. The rails at that moment were crowded with men who leaned over to ascertain the effect of the leap. He'll be killed, said one. Be sure to be smashed, said another. I'll lay any wager, he'll break a limb, said a third. Varney came to the earth. For a moment he lay stunned, and not able to move hand or foot. Hurrah! shouted the mob. Their triumph was short, for just as they shouted, Varney arose, and after a moment or two's stagger he set off at full speed, which produced another shout from the mob, and just at that moment a body of his pursuers were seen scaling the walls after him. There was now a hunt through all the adjoining fields, from cover after cover they pursued him, until he found no rest from the hungry wolves that beset him with cries resembling beasts of prey rather than any human multitude. Sir Francis heard them at the same time with the despair of a man who is struggling for life and yet knows he is struggling in vain. He knew his strength was decaying, his immense exertions and the blows he had received all weakened him, while the number and strength of his foes seemed rather to increase than to diminish. Once more he sought the houses, and for a moment he believed himself safe, but that was only a momentary deception, for they had traced him. He arrived at a garden wall over which he bounded, and then he rushed into the house, the door of which stood open, for the noise and disturbance had awakened most of the inhabitants who were out in all directions. He took refuge in a small closet on the stairs, but was seen to do so by a girl who screamed out with fear and fright. Murder! Murder! The vampire! The vampire! With all her strength, and in the way of screaming that was no little, and then she went off into a fit. This was signal enough, and the house was at once entered, and beset on all sides by the mop who came impatient of obtaining their victim who had so often baffled them. There he is! There he is! said the girl, who came to as soon as other people came up. Where? Where? In that closet, she said, pointing to it with their finger. I see them go in the way above. Sir Francis, finding himself betrayed, immediately came out of the closet, just as two or three were advancing to open it, and dealt so hard to blow on the head of the first that came near him that he fell without a groan. And a second shared the same fate, and then Sir Francis found himself grappled with, but with a violent effort he relieved himself and rushed up the stairs. Oh! Murder! The vampire! What shall I do? Fire! Fire! The animations were uttered in consequence of Varney and his haste to get up stairs, having inadvertently stepped into the girl's lap with one foot while he kicked her in the chin with the other, besides scratching her nose till it bled. After him, stick to him, shouted the mob, but the girl kicked and sprawled so much they were impeded, till, regardless of her cries, they ran over her and pursued Varney, who was much distressed with the exertions he had made. After about a minute's race he turned upon the head of the stairs, not so much taking some breathing time, but seeing his enemies so close he drew his sword and stood panting, but prepared. Never mind his toasting fork, said one bulky fellow, and as he spoke he rushed on, but the point of the weapon entered his heart and he fell dead. There was a dreadful execration uttered by those who came up after him, and there was a momentary pause for none like to rush on to the bloody sword of Sir Francis Varney, who stood so willing and so capable of using it with the most deadly effect. They paused as well they might, and this pause was the most welcome thing next to life to the unfortunate fugitive, for he was dreadfully distressed and bleeding. On to him, boys! He can hardly stand! See how he pants? On to him, I say! Push him hard! He pushes hard, I tell you, said another. I felt the point of his sword as it came through Giles' back. I'll try my luck then, said another, and he rushed up, but he was met by the sword of Sir Francis, who pierced it through his side, and he fell back with a groan. Sir Francis, fearful of stopping any longer to defend that point, appeared desirous of making good his retreat with some little advantage, and he rushed upstairs before they had recovered from the momentary consternation in which they had been thrown by the sudden disaster they had received. But they were quickly after him, and before he, weary as he was, could gain the roof, they were up the ladder after him. The first man who came through the trap was again set upon by Varney, who made a desperate thrust at him, and it took effect, but the sword snapped by the handle. With an execration, Sir Francis threw the hilt at the head of the next man he saw. Then, rushing with headlong speed, he distanced his pursuers for some housetops. But the row of houses ended at the one he was then at, and he could go no further. What was to be done? The height was by far too great to be jumped. Death was certain. A hideous heap of crushed and mangled bones would be the extent of what would remain of him, and then perhaps life not extinct for some hours afterwards. He turned round. He saw them coming hallowing over the housetops, like a pack of hounds. Sir Francis struck his hands together and groaned. He looked round and perceived some ivy peeping over the coping stone. A thought struck him, and he instantly ran to the spot and leaned over. Saved! Saved! he exclaimed. Then, placing his hand over, he felt for the ivy. Then he got over, and hung by the coping stone in a perilous position till he found a spot on which he could rest his foot. And then he grasped the ivy as low down as he could, and thus he lowered himself a short way till he came to where the ivy was stronger and more secure to the wall, as the upper part was very dangerous with his weight attached to it. The mob came on, very sure of having Sir Francis Varney in their power, and they did not hurry on so violently as their position was dangerous at that hour of the night. Easy, boys, easy, was the cry. The bird is our own. He can't get away. That's very certain. They however came on and took no time about it hardly, but what was their amazement and rage at finding he had disappeared? Where is he? was the universal inquiry, and I don't know, and almost universal answer. There was a long pause while they searched around, but they saw no vestige of the object of their search. There's no trap door open, remarked one, and I don't think he could have got in anyone. Perhaps finding he could not get away, he has taken the desperate expedient of jumping over and committing suicide, and so escaped the doom he ought to be subjected to. Perhaps he has, but then we can run a stake through him and burn him all the same. They now approached the extreme verge of the houses and looked over the sides, but they could see nothing. The moon was up, and there was light enough to have seen him if he had fallen to the earth, and they were quite sure that he could not have got up after such a fall as he must have received. We are beaten after all, neighbors. I'm not so sure of that, was the reply. He may now be hidden about, for he was too far spent to be able to go far. He could not do that, I'm sure. I think not, either. Might he not have escaped by means of that ivy yonder? said one of the men, pointing to the plant as it climbed over the coping stones of the wall? Yes, it may be possible, said one, and yet it is very dangerous if not certain destruction to get over. Oh yes, there is no possibility of escape that way, why I wouldn't bear a cat, for there are no nails driven into the wall at this height. Never mind, said another. We may as well leave no stone unturned as the saying is, but it once said about looking out for him. The individual who spoke now leaned over the coping stone for some moments in silence. He could see nothing, but yet he continued to gaze for some moments. Do you see him, inquired one? No, was the answer. Aye, aye, I thought as much, was the reply. He might as well have got hold of a corner of the moon, which I believe is more likely, a great deal more likely. Hold still a moment, said the man who was looking over the edge of the house. What's the matter now? A gnat flew into your eye? No, but I see him. By Jove, I see him. See who? See who? Varney, the vampire, shouted the man. I see him about halfway down, clinging like a fly to the wall. Odd sounds I never saw the like of four. Huzzah! After him, then, boys. Not the same way, if you please. Go yourself and welcome, but I won't go that way. Just as you please, said the man, but what's good for the goose is good for the gander is an old saying, and so is Jack as good as his master. So it may be, but cuss me if you ain't a fool if you attempt that. The man made no reply, but did as Varney had done before, got over the coping stone and then laid hold of the ivy. But whether his weight was heavier than Varney's or whether it was that the latter had loosened the hold of the ivy or not, but he had no sooner left go of the coping stone than the ivy gave way, and he was precipitated from the height of about fifty feet to the earth, a dreadful fall. There was a pause. No one spoke. The man lay motionless and dead. He had dislocated his neck. The fall had not, however, been without its effect upon Varney, for the man's heel struck him so forcibly on his head as he fell that he was stunned and let go his hold, and he, too, fell to the earth, but not many feet. He soon recovered himself and was staggering away when he was assailed by those above with groans and curses of all kinds, and then by stones and tiles, and whatever the mob could lay their hands upon. Some of these struck him, and he was cut about in various places so that he could hardly stand. The hoots and shouts of the mob above had now attracted those below to the spot where Sir Francis Varney was trying to escape, but he had not gone far before the loud yells of those behind him told him that he was again pursued. Half dead and almost wholly spent, unarmed and defenseless, he scarce knew what to do, whether to fly or to turn round and die as a refuge from the greater evil of endeavoring to prolong a struggle which seemed hopeless. Instinct, however, urged him on at all risks, and though he could not go very far or fast, yet on he went with the crowd after him. Down with the vampire! Seize him! Hold him! Let's be down presently! He can't stand! This gave them new hopes, and rendered Varney's fate almost certain. They renewed their exertions to overtake him while he exerted himself anew, and with surprising agility, considering how he had been employed for more than two hours. There were some trees and hedges now that opposed the progress of both parties. The height of Sir Francis Varney gave him a great advantage, and had he been fresh, he might have shown it to advantage in vaulting over the hedges and ditches which he jumped when he was in the woods. Every now and then the party in pursuit who had been behind him some distance, now they gained on him. However they kept every now and then losing sight of him among the trees and shrubs, and he made direct for a small wood, hoping that when there he should be able to conceal himself for some time so as to throw his pursuers off the track. They were well aware of this, for they increased their speed, and one or two swifter of foot than the others got ahead of them and cried out aloud as they ran. Keep up! He can't stop there long, there are too many of us to beat that cover without finding our game. Push lads, he's our own now, as sure as we know he's on ahead. They did push on and came in full sight as they saw Sir Francis enter the wood with what speed he could make, but he was almost spent. This was a cheering sight to them, and they were pretty certain he would not leave the wood in the state he was then. He must see concealment. I pause to gain breath. So far safe, he muttered, but I have had a narrow escape. They are not yet done, though, and it will not be safe here long. I must away and seek shelter and safety elsewhere if I can. Curses on the hounds that run yelping over the fields. He heard the shouts of his pursuers and prepared to quit the wood when he thought the first had entered it. They will remain there again. I may now get free. This delay must save my life, but nothing else will. He moved away and at a slow and lazy pace left the wood and then made his way across some fields towards some cottages that lay on the left. The moon yet shown on the fields, he could hear the shouts of the mob as various parties went through the wood from one covert to another and yet unable to find him. Unless he should be seen in the moonlight he leaped over the first fence that he came to with almost the last effort that he could make and then staggered in an open door through a passage into a front parlor and there fell faint and utterly spent and speechless at the feet of Flora Bannerworth. End of Chapter 87 Recording by Nick Number For more information or to volunteer please visit Librivox.org Recording by Nick Number Varni the Vampire Volume 2 by Thomas Prescott Prest Chapter 88 Part 1 The Reception of the Vampire by Flora Varni Subdued We must say that the eruption into the house of the Bannerworth Spicer Francis Varni was certainly unpremeditated by him, for he knew not into whose house he had thus suddenly rushed for refuge from the numerous foes who were pursuing him with such vengeful ire. It was a strange and singular incident and one well calculated to cause the mind to pause before it passed it by and consider the means to an end which are sometimes as wide of the mark as it is in nature possible to be. But truth is stronger than fiction by far and the end of it was that rest on all sides by danger, bleeding, faint and exhausted and thus placed himself in the very house of those whom he had brought to such a state of misfortune. Flora Bannerworth was seated at some embroidery to pass away an hour or so and thus get over the tedium of time. She was not thinking either upon the unhappy past, some trifling object or other engaged her attention. But what was her anguish when she saw a man staggering into the room bleeding and bearing the marks of a bloody contest and sinking at her feet? Her astonishment was far greater yet when she recognized that man to be Sir Francis Varney. Save me! Save me! Miss Bannerworth, save me! Only you can save me from the ruthless multitude which follows crying aloud for my blood. As he spoke he sank down speechless. Flora was so much amazed not to say terrified that she knew not what to do. She saw Sir Francis a suppliant at her feet, a fugitive from his enemies who would show him no mercy. She saw all this at a moment's glance and did not recover her speech in presence of mind enough to enable her to make any reply to him. Save me, Miss Flora Bannerworth! Save me! he said again, raising himself on his hands. I am beset, hunted like a wild beast. They seek to destroy my life. They have pursued me from one spot to another and I have unwittingly intruded upon you. You will save me. I am sure your kindness and goodness of heart will never permit me to be turned out among such a crew of bloodthirsty men. Rise, Sir Francis Varney, said Flora after a moment's hesitation. In such an extremity as that which you are in it would be inhuman indeed to thrust you out among your enemies. Oh, it would, said Varney. I had thought until now I could have faced such a mob until I was in this extremity and then disarmed and thrown down, bruised, beaten and incapable of stemming such a torrent I fled from and here I am. This is now my last and only hope. Rise, Sir Francis. You will not let me be torn out and slaughtered like an ox. I am sure you will not. Sir Francis, we are incapable of such conduct. You have sought refuge here and shall find it as far as we are able to afford it to you and your brother and yes, yes, all who are here will do the same but here they come to speak for themselves. Sir Charles Holland who both started on seeing the vampire present, Sir Francis Varney who is too weak to rise without assistance. Sir Francis Varney, said Flora, speaking to them as they entered, has sought refuge here. His life is in peril and he has no other hope left. You will, I am sure, do what can be done for him. Mr. Holland, said Sir Francis, I am, as you may see by my condition, a fugitive and have been beaten almost to death. Instinct alone my life and I unknowingly came in here. Rise, Sir Francis, said Charles Holland. I am not one who would feel any pleasure in seeing you become the victim of any brutal mob. I am sure there are none amongst us who would willingly do so. You have trusted to those who will not betray you. Thank you, said Sir Francis faintly. I thank you. Your conduct is noble and Miss Bannerworth's especially so. Are you much hurt, Sir Francis? You are dangerously, but I am weak and exhausted. Let me assist you to rise, said Charles Holland. Thank you, said Sir Francis as he accepted of the assistance and when he stood up he found how incapable he really was for a child might have grappled with him. I have been sore beset, Miss Bannerworth, he said, endeavouring to bow to that lady. And I have suffered much ill usage. I am not in such a plight or such disorder. We will not say anything about that, said Charles Holland, under the circumstances it could not be otherwise. It could not, said Sir Francis as he took the chair Miss Flora Bannerworth placed for him. I will not ask you for any explanation as to how this came about, but you need some restorative and rest. I think I suffer more from exhaustion than anything else. The bruises I have, of course, are not dangerous. Can you step forward? I will show you where you can remove some of those stains and make yourself more comfortable. Thank you, madam. Thank you. It will be most welcome to me, I assure you. Sir Francis rose up, and with the aid of Charles Holland, he walked to the next room where he washed himself and arranged his dress as well as it would admit of its being done. Mr. Holland, he said, I did not, but they found me out. I need hardly say, Sir Francis, that it could not have occurred through me, said Charles Holland. My young friend, said, Sir Francis, I am quite sure you were not, and moreover I never for one moment suspected you. No, no, some accidental circumstance alone has been the cause. I have been very cautious, I may say extremely so, whether they followed me at their leisure. They have been but too troublesome in this matter. When they become a little reasonable, it will be a great miracle, for when their passions and fears are excited, there is no end to the extremes they will perpetrate. It is so, said Barney, as the history of these last few days amply testifies to me, I could never have credited the extent to which popular excitement could be carried, and the results it was likely to produce. It is an engine that will not allay it, but add fuel to the fire that burns so fiercely already. True enough, said Sir Francis. If you have done, will you again step this way? Sir Francis Barney followed Charles Holland into the sitting room and sat down with them, and before him was spread a light supper with some good wine. Eat, Sir Francis, said Mrs. Bannerworth, such a state is that in which you are must have been able, and even then soar and bruised as he was, fugitive as he had been, he could not forget his courtesy, but it was not without an effort. His equanimity was, however, much disturbed by finding himself in the midst of the Bannerworths. I owe you a relation, he said, of what occurred to drive me from my place of concealment. We should like to hear it if you are not too far fatigued to relate it, Sir Charles. I will. I have heard of a very suspicious nature, but did not believe that it could happen that they had discovered my lurking place, far from it. Though, of late, I had been habitually cautious and suspicious, yet I thought I was safe, till I heard the noise of a multitude coming towards me. I could not be mistaken in it for the sounds are so peculiar that they are like nothing else. I heard them coming. I moved not, and when they surrounded the house with the noise at a distance, remarked Flora, but I had no idea that anything serious was contemplated. I imagined it was some festival among some trade, or portion of the townspeople who were shouting from joy. Oh, dear no, said Sir Francis. But I am not surprised at the mistake, because there are such occurrences occasionally, but whenever the mob gained any advantage upon me they shouted, and when I was able to oppose them with effect, they groaned at me most horribly. The deuce, serves to express their feelings and to encourage each other. Something of the sword, I dare say, said Varney, but at length after defending the house with all the desperation that despair imparted to me, I was compelled to fly from floor to floor until I had reached the roof. There they followed me, and I was compelled again to fly. House after house they followed me too, until I could go no farther, said Varney. How did you escape? Fortunately I saw some ivy growing and creeping over the coping stones, by grasping that I got over the side and so let myself down by degrees as well as I was able. Good heavens, what a dreadful situation, exclaimed Flora. It is really horrible. I could not do it again under, I think, any circumstances. Not the same, said Mrs. Bannerworth. I really doubt if I could, said Varney. The truth is the excitement of the moment was great and I at that moment thought of nothing but getting away. Death could hardly be produced in me again, and I am unable to account for the phenomenon on this occasion. Your escape was very narrow indeed, said Flora. It makes me shudder to think of the dangers you have gone through. It is really terrible to think of it. You, said Sir Francis, are young and susceptible and generous in your disposition. You can feel for me and do, but how little I could have expected it, it is impossible to say. But your sympathy sinks into my mind and causes such emotions as never in my soul. But to proceed, you may guess how dreadful was my position by the fact that the first man who attempted to get over tore the ivy away and fell, striking me in his fall. He was killed and I thrown down and stunned. I then made for the wood, closely pursued and got into it. Then I baffled them. They searched the wood and I went through it. I then ran across the country to these houses here. I got over the fence and in at the back door. Did they see you come? I cannot say, but I think that they did not. I heard them give a loud shout more than once when on this side of the wood. You did? How far from here were you when you heard the shouts? inquired Mrs. Bannerworth. I was close here and as I jumped over the fence I heard them shout again. But I think they cannot see so far. The night was moonlight to be sure, but that is all. The shadow with a hedge in that case said Charles Holland, you're safe here for none will suspect you're being concealed here. It is the last place I should myself have thought of, said Barney, and I may say the last place I would knowingly have come to. But had I before known enough of you I should have been well assured of your generosity and have freely come to claim your aid and shelter which accident has so strangely brought me to be a candidate for and which success sleep I dare say will be most welcome to him. It will indeed Miss Bannerworth said Barney but I can do that under any circumstances. Do not let me put you to any inconvenience. A chair and at any hour will serve me for sleep. We cannot do for you what we would wish said Flora looking at her mother but something better than that at all events we can and will provide for you. I know the less trouble I give you the greater I shall esteem the favor. The hour was late and Sir Francis Barney before another hour had elapsed was consigned to his own reflections in a small but neat room there to repose his bruised and battered carcass and court the refreshing influence of sleep. His reflections were for nearly an hour of the most contradictory character some one Bannerworth as a soul of a heroine I deserved not such a reception from them and yet in my hour of utmost need they've received me like a favored friend and yet all their misfortunes have taken their origin from me I am the cause of all. Filled with these thoughts he fell asleep. He slept undisturbed it seemed as though the influence of sleep was sweeter far there in the cottage of the Bannerworths than ever in my family about and having performed his toilet so far as circumstances permitted he descended and entered the front parlor the room he had been in the night before. Flora Bannerworth was already there indeed breakfast was waiting the appearance of Sir Francis Varney Good morning Sir Francis said Flora rising to receive him and she could not avoid looking at him as he entered the room I hope you have had a pleasant night it has been the best night's rest I've had for some time Miss Bannerworth I assure you I've lost my gratitude to you for so much kindness I have slept well and soundly I'm glad to hear it I think yet I shall escape the search of these people who have hunted me from so many places I hope you may indeed Sir Francis you Miss Bannerworth and do you hope I may escape the vengeance of these people the populace I do Sir Francis most sincerely hope so why should I wish evil to you especially at their hands Sir Francis did not speak for a minute or two and then he said turning full upon Flora I don't know why Miss Bannerworth that I should think so but perhaps it is because there are peculiar circumstances connected with myself that have made me feel conscious that I have not deserved so much goodness at your hands you have not deserved any evil Sir Francis we could not do that if it were in our power we would do you a service at any time you have done so Miss Bannerworth the greatest that can be performed you have saved my life at that moment Sir Francis bowed as he said I hope you Mr. Holland have slept as well and passed as good a night as I have passed I am glad you at least have passed a quiet one Sir Charles Holland you I dare say feel all the better for it how do you feel yourself are you much hurt not at all not at all Sir Francis Varney only a few bruises and so forth some of which as you may perceive do not add to one's personal appearance I may do the same with my enemies I wish they were as easily gotten rid of myself said Charles but as that cannot be we must endeavor to baffle them in the best way we may I owe a debt to you I shall never be able to repay but where there is a will they say there is a way and if the old same be good for anything I need not despair though the way is by no means apparent at present time is the magician said Flora whose wand changes all things certainly that is true said Varney and many such changes have I seen my mind is stored with such events but this is sadness and I have caused to rejoice the breakfast was passed off in pleasing conversation and Varney found himself much at home with the Bannerworths whose calm and even tenor was quite new to him he could not but admit the charms of such a life as that led by the Bannerworths but what it must have been when they were supplied with ample means to lay down their spirits he could scarcely imagine they were amiable accomplished they were in the same mind at all times and nothing seemed to ruffle them and when night came he could not but acknowledge to himself that he had never formed half the opinion of them they were deserving of of course during that day he was compelled to lie close so as not to be seen by anyone save the family he sat in a small room which was overlooked by no other in the neighborhood and he remained quiet sometimes conversing and sometimes reading he never attentive to the least sound that appeared at all of a character to indicate the approach of persons for any purpose whatever at supper time he spoke to Flora and to Charles Holland saying there are certain matters connected with myself I may say with you now sure all that has happened will make it so of which you would be glad to hear something you mean upon the same subject upon which I had some conversation with you a day or two back yes the same with that which you so much desire to know one week and all shall be told well said Charles Holland this has not been exacted from you as the price of your safety but you can choose your own time of course what you promise is most desired for it will render those happy who are now much worse than they were before these occurrences took place I'm aware of all that grant me but one week and then you shall be made acquainted with all the question of this Miss Bannerworth the little I have seen of you assures me you would not do so however I am the more inclined to make it I am under so deep an obligation to you all that I can never repay it Sir Francis Varney retired to rest that night his promise to the Bannerworths filled his mind with many reflections the insecurity of his own position and the frail tenure which even he held in the hands and he sat by his window watching the progress of the clouds as they appeared to chase each other over the face of the scene now casting a shade over the earth and then banishing the shadows and throwing a gentle light over the earth's surface which was again chased away and shadows again fell upon the scene below how long he had sat there and melancholy musing he knew not but suddenly he was aroused from his dreams by a voice that shook the skies and caused him to start to his feet out of the mob which had silently collected around the cottage of the Bannerworths curses muttered Sir Francis as he again sank in his chair and struck his head with his hand I am hunted to death they will not leave me until my body is graced a crossroad hurrah down with the vampire pull him out then came an instant knocking at the doors and the people on the outside made a great din that it seemed as though they contemplated knocking the house down at once this cessation for about a minute when one of the family hastened to the door and inquired what was wanted Varni, the vampire was the reply you must seek him elsewhere we will search this place before we go further replied a man but he is not here we have reason to believe otherwise open the door and let us in no one shall be hurt or one single object in the house but we must come in and search for the vampire come tomorrow then that will not do said the voice open or we force our way in without more notice at the same time a tremendous blow was bestowed upon the door and then much force was used to thrust it in a consultation was suddenly held among the inmates as to what was to be done but no one could advise and each was well aware of the utter impossibility of keeping the mob out I do not see what is to become of me said Sir Francis Varni suddenly appearing before them you must let them in there is no chance of keeping them out neither can you conceal me you will have no place save one that will be sacred from their profanation and what is that flora's own room end of chapter 88 part 1 chapter 88 part 2 of Varni the Vampire volume 2 this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org recording by nick number Varni the Vampire volume 2 by Thomas Prescott Prest chapter 88 part 2 all started at the thought that flora's chamber could in any way be profaned by any such presence as Sir Francis Varni's however the doors below were suddenly burst open amid loud cries from the populace who rushed in in great numbers and began to search the lower rooms immediately all is lost said Sir Francis Varni as he dashed away and rushed to the chamber of flora who alarmed at the sounds that were now filling the house stood listening to them Miss Bannerworth began Varni Sir Francis yes it is I Miss Bannerworth hear me for one moment what is the matter I am again in peril in more imminent peril than before my life is not worth a minute's purchase unless you save me you and alone can now save me oh Miss Bannerworth if ever pity touched your heart save me from those only whom I now fear I could meet death in any shape but that in which they will inflict it upon me hear their execrations below death to the vampire death to Varni burn him run a stake through his body what can I do Sir Francis admit me to your chamber Sir Francis are you aware of what you're saying I am well it is a request which you would justly scorn to reply to but now my life recollect you have saved me once my life do not now throw away the boon you have so kindly bestowed save me Miss Bannerworth it is not possible I nay Miss Bannerworth do you imagine this is a time for ceremony or the observances of polished life on my honor you run no risk of censure where is Varni where is the vampire he ain't far off hear hear them Miss Bannerworth they are now at the foot of the stairs not a moment to lose one minute more and I'm in the hands of a crew that has no mercy hurrah upstairs he's not below upstairs neighbors we shall have him yet these words sounded on the stairs half a dozen more steps than Varni would be seen it was a miracle he was not heard begging for his life Varni cast a look of despair at the stair head and felt for his sword but it was not there he had lost it he struck his head with his clenched hand and was about to rush upon his foes when he heard the lock turned he looked and saw the door open gently and Flora stood there he passed in and sank cowering into a chair at the other end of the room behind some curtains the door was scarcely shut he or some tried to force it and then a loud knocking came at the door open open we want Varni the vampire open or we will burst it open Flora did open it but stood resolutely in the opening and held up her hand to impose silence are you men that you can come thus to force yourselves upon the privacy of a female is there nothing in the town or house that you must intrude in numbers into a private apartment is no place sacred from you but ma'am miss we only want Varni the vampire and can you find him nowhere but in a female's bedroom shame on you shame on you have you no sisters wives or mothers that you act thus he's not in there you may be sure of that Jack said a gruff voice let the lady be in quiet she's had quite enough trouble with him to sicken her of vampire you may be sure that's the last place to find him in with this they all turned away and Flora shut the door and locked it upon them and Varni was safe you have saved me said Varni hush said Flora speak not there may be someone listening Sir Francis Varni stood in the attitude of one listening most anxiously to catch some sounds the moon fell across his face and gave it a ghastly hue that added to his natural paleness and wounds gave him an almost unearthly aspect the sounds grew more and more distant the shouts and noise of men traversing the apartment subsided and gradually the place became restored to its original silence the mob after having searched every other part of the house and not finding the object of their search they concluded that he was not there but must have made his escape before the most desperate peril of Sir Francis Varni seemed to have more effect upon him than anything that had occurred during his most strange and eventful career when he was assured that the riotous mob that had been so intent upon his destruction was gone and that he might emerge from his place of concealment he did so with an appearance of such utter exhaustion that the Bannerworth family could not but look upon him as a being who was near his end at any time his countenance as we long if had occasion to remark was a strange and unearthly looking one but when we come to super add to the strangeness of his ordinary appearance the traces of deep mental emotion we may well say that Varni's appearance was positively of the most alarming character when he was seated in the ordinary sitting apartment of the Bannerworths he drew a long sighing breath and placing his hand upon his heart with a faint tone of voice it beats now laboriously but it will soon cease its pulsations forever these words sounded absolutely prophetic there was about them such a solemn aspect and he looked at the same time that he uttered them so much like one whose mortal race was run and who was now a candidate for the grave do not speak so despairingly said Charles Holland remember that if your life has been one of errors hitherto how short a space of time may suffice to redeem some of them at least and the communication to me which you have not yet completed may to some extent have such an effect no no it may contribute to an act of justice but it can do no good to me and yet do not suppose that because such is my impression that I mean to hesitate in finishing to you that communication I rejoice to hear you say so and if you would now that you must be aware of what good feelings toward you we are all animated with remove the bar of secrecy from the communication I should esteem it a great favor Varney appeared to be considering for a few moments and then he said well well let the secrecy no longer exist have it removed at once I will no longer seek to maintain it tell all Charles Holland tell all thus empowered by the mysterious being Charles Holland related briefly what Varney had already told him and then concluded by saying that is all that I have myself as yet been made aware of and now I call upon Sir Francis Varney to finish his narration I am weak said Varney and scarcely equal to the task but yet I will not shrink from the promise that I have made you have been the preservers of my life and more particularly to you Flora Bannerworth am I indebted for a continued existence which otherwise must have been sacrificed upon the altar of superstition but you will recollect Master Varney said the admiral who had sat looking on for some time in silent wonder you must recollect Master Varney that the people are after all not so much to blame for their superstition because whether you are a vampire or not and I don't pretend to come to a positive opinion now you took good care to persuade them you were I did said Varney with a shudder but why did I well you know best it was then because I did believe and do believe that there is something more than natural about my strangely protracted existence but we will waive that point and before my failing strength for it appears to me to be failing completely prevents me from doing so I will relate to you the continued particulars of the circumstances that made me what I am End of Chapter 88 Part 2 Recording by Nick Number Chapter 88 Part 3 of Varney the Vampire, Volume 2 This is a LibriVox recording All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Nick Number Varney the Vampire, Volume 2 by Thomas Prescott Prest Chapter 88 Part 3 Flora Bannerworth Although she had heard before from the lips of Charles Holland that to her dreadful fact that her father in addition to having laid violent hands upon his own life was a murderer now that that fearful circumstance was related more publicly felt a greater pang than she had done when it was whispered to her in the accents of pure affection and softened down by a gentleness of tone which Charles Holland's natural delicacy would not allow him to use even to her whom he loved so well in the presence of others She let her beautiful face be hidden by her hands and she wept as she listened to the sad detail Varney looked inquiringly in the countenance of Charles Holland because having given him leave to make Flora acquainted with the circumstance he was rather surprised at the amount of emotion which it produced in her Charles Holland answered the appealing look by saying Flora is already aware of the facts but it naturally affects her much to hear them now repeated in the presence of others and those too towards whom she cannot feel What Charles Holland was going to say was abruptly stopped short by the admiral who interposed, exclaiming Why, what do you mean you son of a sea cook? The presence of who do you mean? Do you mean to say that I don't feel for Miss Flora bless her heart quite as much as a white face looking swab like you? Why I shall begin to think you're only fit for a marine Nay, uncle, now do not put yourself out of temper You must be well aware that I could not mean anything disrespectful to you You should not suppose such a state of things possible and although perhaps I did not express myself so felicitously as I might yet what I intended to say was Oh, bother what you intended to say You go on, Mr. Vampire, with your story I want to know what became of it all Just you get on as quick as you can and let us know what you did after the man was murdered When the dreadful deed was committed, said Varney and our victim laid weltering in his blood and it breathed his last like men who for the first time were awakened to the frightful consequences of what they had done I saw by the dim light that hovered round us a great change come over the countenance of Marmaduke Bannerworth and he shook in every limb This soon passed away, however, in the powerful and urgent necessity which arose of avoiding the consequences of the deed that we had done restored us to ourselves We stooped and took from the body the ill-gotten gains of the gambler They amounted to an immense sum and I said to Marmaduke Bannerworth Take you the whole of this money and proceed to your own home with it where you'll be least suspected hide it in some place of great secrecy and tomorrow I will call upon you when we will divide it and we'll consider of some means of safely exchanging the notes for gold He agreed to this and placed the money in his pocket after which it became necessary that we should dispose of the body which, if we did not quickly remove, must in a few hours be discovered and so, perchance, accompanied by other criminating circumstances become a frightful evidence against us that we were able upon us all those consequences of the deed which we were so truly anxious to escape from It is ever the worst part of the murderer's task that after he has struck the blow that has deprived his victim of existence it becomes his frightful duty to secrete the corpse which, with its dead eyes, ever seems to be glaring upon him such a world of reproach That it is which should make people pause or they dip their hands in the blood of others and that it is which becomes the first retribution that the murderer has to endure for the deep crime that he has committed We tore two stakes from a hedge and with their assistance we contrived to dig a very superficial hole such a hole as was only sufficient by placing a thin coating of earth over it to conceal the body of the murdered man and then came the loathsome task of dragging him into it a task full of horror and from which we shrunk aghast but it had to be done and therefore we stooped and grasping the clothes as best we might we dragged the body into the chasm we had prepared for its reception glad were we then to be enabled to throw earth upon it and stamp upon it with such vehemence as might well be supposed to actuate men deeply anxious to put out of sight some dangerous and loathsome object When we had completed this and likewise gathered hands full of dust from the road and dry leaves and such other matter to sprinkle upon the grave so as to give the earth an appearance of not having been disturbed we looked at each other and breathed from our toil Then and not till then was it that we remembered that among other things which the gambler had won of Marmaduke were the deeds belonging to the Deerbrook property exclaimed Henry Bannerworth I know that there was a small estate going by that name which belonged to our family but I always understood that long ago my father had parted with it Yes, it was mortgaged for a small sum a sum not a fourth part of its value and it had been redeemed by Marmaduke Bannerworth not for the purpose of keeping it but in order that he might sell it outright and so partially remedy his exhausted finances I was not aware of that, returned Henry Doubtless you were not, for of late I mean for the twelve months or so preceding your father's death You know he was much estranged from all the family so that none of you knew much of what he was doing except that he was carrying on a very wild and reckless career such as was sure to end in dishonor and poverty but I tell you he had the title deeds of the Deerbrook property and that they were only got from him along with everything else of value that he possessed at the gaming table by the man who paid such a fearful penalty for his success It was not until after the body was completely buried and we had completed all our precautions for more effectually hiding it from observation that we recollected the fact of those important papers being in his possession It was Marmaduke Bannerworth who first remembered it and he exclaimed By heaven we have buried the title deeds of the property and we shall have again to exhume the corpse for the purpose of procuring them Now those deeds were nothing to me and repugnant as I had felt from the first to having anything whatever to do with the dead body it was not likely that I would again drag it from the earth for such an object Marmaduke Bannerworth I said You can do what you please and take the consequences of what you do but I will not again if I can help it look upon the face of that corpse it is too fearful a sight to contemplate again You have a large sum of money and what need you care now for the title deeds of a property comparatively insignificant Well well he said I will not at the present time disturb the remains I will wait to see if anything should arise from the fact of the murder If it should turn out that no suspicion of any kind is excited but that all is still in quiet I can then take measures to exhume the corpse and recover those papers which certainly are important By this time the morning was creeping on a pace and we thought it prudent to leave the spot we stood at the end of the lane for a few moments conversing and those moments were the last in which I ever saw Marmaduke Bannerworth Answer me a question said Henry I will ask me what you please I will answer it Was it you that called at Bannerworth Hall after my father's melancholy death and inquired for him I did and when I heard of the deed that he had done I had once left in order to hold counsel with myself as to what I should do to obtain at least a portion of the property one half of which it was understood was to have been mine I heard what had been the last words used by Marmaduke Bannerworth on the occasion of his death and they were amply sufficient to let me know what had been done with the money at all events so far as regards the bestowal of it in some secret place and from that moment the idea of by some means or another getting the exclusive possession of it never first sucked my mind I thought over the matter by day and by night and with the exception of having the knowledge of the actual hiding place of the money I could see in the clearest possible manner how the whole affair had been transacted there can be no doubt but that Marmaduke Bannerworth had reached home safely with the large sum of which he had become possessed and that he had hidden it securely which was but an ordinary measure of precaution when we come to consider how the property had been obtained then I suspect that being alone and left to the gloom of his own miserable thoughts they reverted so painfully to the past that he was compelled to drink deeply for the purpose of drowning reflection the natural consequence of this in his state was that partial insanity supervened and at a moment when frenzy rose far above reflection he must have committed the dread flagged which hurried him instantaneously to eternity yes said Henry it must have been so you have guessed truly he did on that occasion drink an immense quantity of wine but instead of stilling the pangs of remorse it must have increased them and placed him in such a frenzied condition of intellect that he found it impossible to withstand the impulse of it unless by the terrific act which ended his existence yes and which at once crushed all my expectations of the large fortune which was to have been mine for even one half of the sum which had been taken from the game-ster's pocket would have been sufficient to have enabled me to live for the future in affluence I became perfectly maddened at the idea that so large a summit passed out of my hands I constantly hovered about Bannerworth Hall hoping and expecting that something might arise which would enable me to get admittance to it and make an active search through its recesses for the hidden treasure all my exertions were in vain I could hit upon no scheme whatever and at length, weary and exhausted I was compelled to proceed to London for the sake of a subsistence it is only in that great metropolis that such persons as myself destitute of real resources but infinitely reckless as regards to the means by which they acquire a subsistence can hope to do so once again, therefore, I plunged into the vortex of London life and proceeded heedless of the criminality of what I was about to cater for myself by robbery or indeed in any manner which presented a prospect of success it was during this career of mine that I became associated with some of the most desperate characters of the time and the offenses we committed were of that daring character that it could not be wondered at eventually so formidable a gang of desperados must be by force broken up it so occurred but unknown to us that the police resolved upon making one of the most vigorous efforts to put an end to the affair and in consequence a watch was set upon every one of our movements the result of this was as might have been expected our complete dispersion and the arrest of some of our members and among them myself I knew my fate almost from the first our depredations had created such a sensation that the legislature even had made it a matter of importance that we should be suppressed and it was an understood thing among the judges that the severest penalties of the law should be inflicted upon any one of the gang who might be apprehended and convicted my trial scarcely occupied an hour and then I was convicted and sentenced to execution with an intimation from the judge that it would be perfectly absurd of me to dream for one moment of a remission of that sentence in this state of affairs and seeing nothing but death before me I gave myself up to despair and narrowly missed cheating the hangman of his victim more dead than alive I was however dragged out to be judicially murdered and I shall never forget the crowd of frightful sensations that came across my mind upon that terrific occasion it seemed as if my fate had then reached its climax and I have really but a dim recollection of the terrible scene I remember something of the confused murmur arising from an immense throng of persons I remember looking about me and seeing nothing but what appeared to me in immense sea of human heads and then suddenly I heard a loud roar of execration burst from the multitude I shrunk back terrified and it did indeed seem to me a brutal thing thus to roar and shout at a man who was brought out to die I soon however found that the mob who came to see such a spectacle was not so debased as I imagined but that it was at the hangman who had suddenly made his appearance on the scaffold at whom they raised that fearful yell someone I think it was one of the sheriffs must have noticed that I was laboring under the impression that the cry from the mob was leveled at me for he spoke saying it is at the hangman they shout and he indicated with his finger that public functionary in my mind's eye I think I see him now and I am certain that I shall never forget the expression of his face it was perfectly fearful and afterwards when I learned who and what he was I was not surprised that he should feel so acutely the painfully degrading office which he had to perform the fatal rope was in a few minutes adjusted to my neck I felt its pressure and I heard the confused sounds of the monotonous voice of the clergymen as he muttered some prayers that I must confess sounded to me at the time like a mockery of human suffering then suddenly there was a loud shout I felt the platform give way beneath my feet I tried to utter a yell of agony but could not it seemed to me as if I was encompassed by fire and then sensation left me and I knew no more the next feelings of existence that came over me consisted in a frightful tingling sensation throughout my veins and I felt myself making vain efforts to scream all the sensations of a person suffering from a severe attack of nightmare came across me and I was in such an agony that I inwardly prayed for death to release me from such a cruel state of suffering then suddenly the power to utter a sound came to me and I made use of it well for the piercing shriek I uttered must have struck terror into the hearts of all who heard it since it appalled even myself then I suppose I must have fainted but when I recovered consciousness again I found myself upon a couch and a man presenting some stimulus to me in a cup I could not distinguish objects distinctly but I heard him say drink and you will be better I did drink for a raging thirst consumed me and then I fell into a sound sleep which I was afterwards told lasted nearly 24 hours and when I recovered from that I heard again the same voice that had before spoken to me asking me how I was I turned in the direction of the sound and as my vision was now clearer I could see that it was the hangman whose face had been upon the scaffold such an impression upon me an impression which I then considered my last in this world but which turned out not to be such by many a mingled one of pain and pleasure since it was some time before I could speak and when I did it was only in a few muttered words to ask what had happened and where I was do you not remember he said that you were hanged I do I do was my reply is this the region of damned souls no you are still in this world however strange you may think it listen to me and I will briefly tell you how it is that you have come back again as it were from the very grave to live and walk about among the living I listened to him with a strange and rapt attention and then he told how a young and enthusiastic medical man had been anxious to try some experiments with regard to the restoration of persons apparently dead and he proceeded to relate how it was that he had given ear to the solicitations of the man and consented to bring my body after it was hung for him to experiment upon he related how the doctor had been successful but how he was so terrified at his own success that he hastily fled and had left London no one knowing whether he had gone I listened to this with the most profound attention and then he concluded by saying to me there can be no doubt but my duty requires me to give you up again to the offended laws of your country I will not however do that if you will consent to an arrangement that I shall propose to you I asked him what the arrangement was and he said that if I would solemnly bind myself to pay to him a certain sum per annum he would keep my secret and forsaking his calling as a hangman endeavored to do something that should bring with it pleasanter results I did so solemnly promise him and I have kept my word by one means or another I have succeeded in procuring the required amount and now he is no more I believe cried Henry that he has fallen a victim to the blind fury of the populace you are right he has so and accordingly I am relieved from the burden of those payments but it matters little for now I am so near the tomb myself that together with all my obligations I shall soon be beyond the reach of mortal cabling you need not think so Varney you must remember that you are at present suffering from circumstances the pressure of which will soon pass away and then you will resume your wanted habits what to do next said the admiral let's know all while you are about it I remained at the hangman's house for some time until all fear of discovery was over and then he removed me to a place of greater security providing me from his own resources with the means of existence until I had fully recovered my health and then he told me to shift for myself during my confinement though I had not been idle mentally for I concocted a plan by which I should be enabled not only to live well myself but to pay to the hangman whose name was Mortimer the annual sum I had agreed upon I need not go into the details of this plan of course it was neither an honest nor respectable one but it succeeded and I soon found myself in a position to enable me thereby to keep my engagement as well as to supply me with means of plotting and planning for my future fortunes I had never for a moment forgotten that so large a sum of money was somewhere concealed about Bannerworth Hall and I still looked forward to obtaining it by some means or another it was in this juncture of affairs that one night I was riding on horseback through a desolate part of England the moon was shining sweetly as I came to a broad stream of water across which about a mile further on I saw that there was a bridge but being unwilling to waste time by riding up to it and fancying by the lazy ripple of the waters that the river was not shallow I plunged my horse boldly into the stream when we reached its center some sudden in disposition must have seized the horse for instead of swimming on well and gallantly as it had done before it paused for a moment and then plunged headlong into the torrent I could not swim and so for a second time death with all its terrors appeared to be taking possession of me the waters rolled over my head gurgling and hissing in my ears and then all was passed I know no more until I found myself lying upon a bright green meadow and the full beams of the moon shining upon me I was giddy and sick but I rose and walked slowly away each moment gathering fresh strength and from that time to this I never discovered how I came to be rescued from the water and lying upon that green bank it has ever been a mystery to me and I expected ever will then from that moment the idea that I had a sort of charmed life came across me and I walked about with an impression that such was the case until I came across a man who said that he was a Hungarian and who was full of strange stories of vampires among other things he told me that a vampire could not be drowned for that the waters would cast him upon its banks and if the moonbeams fell upon him he would be restored to life this was precisely my story and from that moment I believed myself to be one of those horrible but charmed beings doomed to such a protracted existence the notion grew upon me day by day and hour by hour until it became quite a fixed and strong belief and I was deceiving no one when I played the horrible part that has been attributed to me but you don't mean to say that you believe you are a vampire now said the admiral I say nothing and know not what to think I'm a desperate man and what there is at all human in me strange to say all of you whom I sought to injure have awakened he'd not that said Henry but continue your narrative we have forgiven everything and that ought to suffice to quiet your mind upon such a subject I will continue and believe me I will conceal nothing from you I look upon the words I am now uttering as full candid and free confession and therefore it shall be complete the idea struck me that if by taking advantage of my supposed preternatural gifts I could drive you from Bannerworth Hall I should have it to myself to hunt through at my leisure and possibly find the treasure I had heard from Marmaduke Bannerworth some slight illusion to concealing the money behind a picture that was in a bedroom called the Paneled Chamber by inquiry I ascertained that in that bedroom slept Flora Bannerworth I had resolved however at first to try Pacific measures and accordingly as you are well aware I made various proposals to you to purchase or to rent Bannerworth Hall the whole of which you rejected so that I found myself compelled to adopt the original means that had suggested themselves to me and endeavour to terrify you from the house by prowling about I made myself familiar with the grounds and with all the plan of the residence and then one night made my appearance in Flora's chamber by the window but how do you account said Charles Holland for your extraordinary likeness to the portrait it is partly natural for I belong to a collateral branch of the family and it was previously arranged I had seen the portrait in Marmaduke Bannerworth's time and I knew some of its peculiarities and dress sufficiently well to imitate them I calculated upon producing a much greater effect by such an imitation and it appears that I was not wrong for I did produce it to the full you did indeed said Henry and if you did not bring conviction to our minds that you were what you represented yourself to be you at least staggered our judgments upon the occasion and left us in a position of great doubt and difficulty I did I did all that I know I did and by pursuing that line of conduct I at last I presume entirely forced you from the house that you did Flora fainted when I entered her chamber and the moment I looked upon her sweet countenance my heart smote me for what I was about but I solemnly aware that my lips never touched her and that beyond the fright she suffered nothing from Varney the Vampire and you have succeeded said Henry in your object now no the treasure has yet to be found more and more the hangman followed me into the house guessing my intention and indulging a hope that he would succeed in sharing with me its proceeds but he as well as myself was foiled and nothing came of the toilsome and anxious search but disappointment and bitterness then it is supposed that the money is still concealed I hope so I hope as well that it will be discovered by you and yours for surely none can have a better right to it than you who have suffered so much on its account and yet remarked Henry I cannot help thinking it is too securely hidden from us the picture has been repeatedly removed from its place and produced no results so that I fear we have little to expect from any further or more protracted research I think said Varney that you have everything to expect the words of the dying Marmaduke Bannerworth you may depend were not spoken in vain and I have every reason to believe that sooner or later you must without question become the possessors of that sum but ought we rightly to hold it who ought more rightly to hold it said Varney answer me that that's a sensible enough idea of yours said the Admiral and if you were twice over a vampire I would tell you so it's a very sensible idea I should like to know who has more right to it than those who have had such a world of trouble about it well well said Henry we must not dispute as yet about a sum of money that may really never come to hand for my own part I have little to hope for in the matter but certainly nothing shall be spared on my part to affect such a thorough search of the haul shall certainly bring it to light if it be in existence I presume Sir Francis Varney said Charles Holland that you have now completed your narrative I have after events are well known to you and now I have but to lie down and die with the hope of finding that rest and consolation in the tomb which has been denied me hitherto in this world my life has been a stormy one and full of the results of angry passions I do hope now that for the short time I have to live I shall know something like serenity and die in peace you may depend Varney that as long as you have an asylum with us said the admiral and that you may have as long as you like you may be at peace I consider that you have surrendered at discretion and under such circumstances an enemy always deserves honorable treatment and always gets it on board such a ship as this there you go again said Jack calling the house a ship what's that to you if I were to call it a bowsprit ain't I your captain you lubber and so sure to be right while you are wrong in the natural order of things but you go and lay down master Varney and rest yourself for you seem completely done up Varney did look fearfully exhausted and with the assistance of Henry and Charles he went into another apartment and laid down upon a couch showing great symptoms of debility and want of power End of Chapter 88 Part 3 Recording by Nick Number Chapter 88 Part 4 of Varney the Vampire Volume 2 This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Nick Number Varney the Vampire Volume 2 by Thomas Prescott-Prest Chapter 88 Part 4 And now it was a calm. Varney's stay at the cottage of the Bannerworths was productive of a different mood of mind than ever he had possessed before. He looked upon them in a very different manner to what he had been used to. He had, moreover, considerably altered prospects. There could not be the same hopes and expectations that he once had. He was an altered man. He saw in the Bannerworths those who had saved his life and who, without doubt, had possessed an opinion not merely obnoxious to him but must have had some fearful misgivings concerning his character and that too of a nature that usually shuts out all hope of being received into any family. But in the hour of his need when his life was in danger no one else would have done what they had done for him, especially when so relatively placed. Moreover, he had been concealed when to do so was both dangerous and difficult and then it was done by Flora Bannerworth herself. Time flew by and the mode of passing time at the cottage was calm and serene. Varney had seldom witnessed anything like it, but at the same time he felt more at ease than ever he had. He was charmed with the society of Flora, in fact with the whole of the little knot of individuals who there collected together. From what he saw he was gratified in their society and it seemed to alleviate his mental disquiet and the sense he must feel of his own peculiar position. But Varney became ill. The state of mind and body he had been in for some time past might be the cause of it. He had been much harassed and hunted from place to place. There was not a moment in which his life was not in danger and he had moreover in more than one case received some bodily injuries, bruises and contusions of a desperate character and yet he would take no notice of them but allow them to get well again as best they could. His escapes and injuries had made a deep impression upon his mind and had no doubt a corresponding effect upon his body and Varney became very ill. Flora Bannerworth did all that could be done for one in his painful position and this greatly added to the depth of thought that occasionally beset him and he could scarcely draw one limb after the other. He walked from room to room in the twilight, at which time he had more liberty permitted him than in any other because there was not the same danger in his doing so. For if one scene there could be no matter of doubt but he would have been pursued until he was destroyed when no other means of escape were at hand and Varney himself felt that there could be no chance of his again escaping from them for his physical powers were fast decaying. He was not, in fact, the same man. He came out into the parlor from the room in which he had been seated during the day. Flora and her mother were there while Charles Holland and Henry Bannerworth had both at that moment entered the apartment. Good evening, Miss Bannerworth, said Sir Francis, bowing to her and then to her mother, Mrs. Bannerworth. And you, Mr. Holland, I see have been out enjoying the free breeze that plays over the hot fields. It must be refreshing. It is so, sir, said Charles. I wish we could make you a partaker in our walks. I wish you could with all my heart, said Varney. Sir Francis, said Flora, must be a prisoner for some short time longer yet. I ought not to consider it in any such light. It is not imprisonment. I have taken sanctuary. It is the wellspring of life to me, said Varney. I hope it may prove so. But how do you find yourself this evening, Sir Francis Varney? Really, it is difficult to say. I fluctuate. At times I feel as though I should drop insensible on the earth, and then I feel better than I have done for some time previously. Dr. Chillingworth will be here by and by, no doubt, and he must see what he can do for you to relieve you of these symptoms, said Flora. I am much beholden to you. Much beholden to you. But I hope to be able to do without the good doctor's aid in this instance, though I must admit I may appear ungrateful. Not at all. Not at all. Have you heard any news abroad today, inquired Varney? None, Sir Francis. None. There is nothing apparently stirring, and now, go out when you would, you would find nothing but what was old, quiet, and familiar. We cannot wish to look upon anything with more charms for a mind at ease than we can see under such circumstances, but I fear there are some few old and familiar features that I should find sad havoc in. You would, certainly, for the burnings and raisings to the ground of some places have made some dismal appearances, but time may have faced that, and then the evil may die away, and the future will become the present, should we be able to allay popular feeling? Yes, said Sir Francis, but popular prejudices or justice or feeling are things not easily assuaged, the people when once aroused go on to commit all kinds of excess, and there is no one point at which they will stop short of the complete extirpation of some one object or other that they have taken a fancy to hunt. The hubbub and excitement must subside. The greater the ignorance, the more persevering and the more brutal they are, said Sir Francis, but I must not complain of what is the necessary consequence of their state. It might be otherwise. So it might, and no mischief arise either, but as we cannot divert the stream we may as well bend to the force of a current too strong to resist. The moon is up, said Flora, who wished to turn the conversation from that to another topic. I see it yonder through the trees, it rises red and large, it is very beautiful, and yet there is not a cloud about to give it the color and appearance it now wears. Exactly so, said Sir Francis Varney, but the reason is the air is filled with a light invisible vapor that has the effect you perceive. There has been much evaporation going on, and now it shows itself in giving the moon that peculiar large appearance in deep color. I, I see, it peeps through the trees, the branches of which cut it up into various portions, it is singular and yet beautiful, and yet the earth below seems dark. It is dark, you would be surprised to find it so if you walked about, it will soon be lighter than it is at this present moment. What sounds are those? inquired Sir Francis Varney as he listened attentively. Sounds? What sounds? returned Henry. The sounds of wheels and horses feet, said Varney. I cannot hear them, much less can I tell what they are, said Henry. Then listen, now they come along the road, cannot you hear them now, said Varney? Yes, I can, said Charles Holland, but I really don't know what they are or what it can matter to us. We don't expect any visitors. Certainly, certainly, said Varney, I am somewhat apprehensive of the approach of strange sounds. You are not likely to be disturbed here, said Charles. Indeed, I thought so when I had succeeded in getting into the house near the town and so far from believing it was likely I should be discovered that I sat on the housetop while the mob surrounded it. Did you not hear them coming? I did. And yet you did not attempt to escape from them? No, I could not persuade them I was not there saved by my utter silence. I allowed them to come too close to leave myself time to escape. Besides, I could hardly persuade myself there could be any necessity for so doing. It was fortunate it was as it happened afterwards that you were able to reach the wood and get out of it unperceived by the mob. I should have been in an unfortunate condition had I been in their hands long. A man made of iron would not be able to resist the brutality of those people. As they were speaking, a gig with two men drove up, followed by one on horseback. They stopped at the garden gate and then tarried to consult with each other as they looked at the house. What can they want, I wonder, inquired Henry. I never saw them before. Nor I, said Charles Holland. Do you not know them at all, inquired Varney? No, replied Flora. I never saw them. Neither can I imagine what is their object in coming here. Did you ever see them before? Inquired Henry of his mother who held up her hand to look more carefully at the strangers. Then, shaking her head, she declared she had never seen such persons as those. I dare say not, said Charles Holland. They certainly are not gentlemen, but here they come. There is some mistake, I dare say. They don't want to come here. As they spoke, the two strangers got down. After picking up a topcoat they had let fall, they turned round and deliberately put it into the shays again. They walked up the path to the door at which they knocked. The door was opened by the old woman when the two men entered. Does Francis Beauchamp live here? Eh, said the old woman, who is a little deaf, and she put her hand behind her ear to catch the sounds more distinctly. Eh, who did you say? Sir Francis Varney started as the sounds came upon his ear, but he sat still, an attentive listener. Are there any strangers in the house? inquired the other officer impatiently. Who is here? Strangers, said the old woman. You are the only strangers that I have seen here. Come, said the officer to his companion. Come this way, there are people in this parlor. Our business must be an apology for any rudeness we may commit. As he spoke, he stepped by the old woman, and laying his hand upon the handle of the door entered the apartment, at the same time looking carefully around the room as if he expected someone. Ladies, said the stranger with an offhand politeness that had something repulsive in it, though it was meant to convey a notion that civility was intended. Ladies, I beg pardon for intruding, but I am looking for a gentleman. You shall hear from me again soon, said Sir Francis in an almost imperceptible whisper. What is the object of this intrusion? demanded Henry Bannerworth, rising and confronting the stranger. This is a strange introduction. Yes, but not an unusual one, said the stranger, in these cases, being unavoidable at the least. Sir, said Charles Holland, if you cannot explain quickly your business here, we will proceed to take those measures which will at least rid ourselves of your company. Roughly, sir, I mean no offense, not the least, but I tell you I do not come for any purpose that is all consonant to my wishes. I am a bow street officer in the execution of my duty. Excuse me, therefore. Whom do you want? Francis Beauchamp, and from the peculiarity of the appearance of this individual here, I think I may safely request the pleasure of his company. Varney now rose, and the officer made a rush at him, when he saw him do so, saying, Surrender in the King's name! Varney, however, paid no attention to that, but rushed past, throwing his chair down to impede the officer, who could not stay himself but fell over it, while Varney made a rush towards the window, which he cleared at one bound, and crossing the road was lost to sight in a few seconds in the trees and hedges on the other side. Accidents will happen, said the officer as he rose to his feet. I did not think the fellow would have taken the window in that manner, but we have him in view, and that will be enough. In Heaven's name, said Henry, explain all about this. We cannot understand one word of it. I am at a loss to understand one word of it. We will return and do so presently, said the officer as he dashed out of the house after the fugitive at a rapid and reckless speed, followed by his companion. The man who had been left with the chaise, however, was the first in the chase. Seeing an escape from the window, he immediately guessed that he was the man wanted, and, but for an accident, he would have met Varney at the gate, before, as he was getting out in a hurry, his foot became entangled with the rains, and he fell to the ground, and Varney at the same moment stepped over him. Curse's infernal impudence and damn these rains, muttered the man in a fury at the accident, and the aggravating circumstance of the fugitive walking over him in such a manner, and so coolly, too, it was vexing. The man, however, quickly released himself and rushed after Varney across the road, and kept on his track for some time. The moon was still rising and shed but a gloomy light around. Everything was almost invisible until you came close to it. This was the reason why Varney and his pursuer met with several severe accidents, tumbles and hard knocks against impediments which the light in the rapid flight they were taking did not admit of their avoiding very well. They went on for some time, but it was evident that Varney knew the place best and could avoid what the man could not, and that was the trees and the natural impediments of the ground which Varney was acquainted with. For instance, at full speed across a meadow, a hollow would suddenly present itself, and to an accustomed eye the moonlight might enable it to be distinguished at a glance what it was. While to one wholly unaccustomed to it, the hollow would often look like a hillock by such a light. This Varney would clear it abound, which a less agile and heavier person would step into, lifting up his leg to meet an impediment, when he would find it come down suddenly some six or eight inches lower than he anticipated, almost dislocating his leg and neck and producing a corresponding loss of breath which was not regained by the muttered curse upon such a country where the places were so uneven. End of Chapter 88 Part 4. Recording by Nick Number. Chapter 88 Part 5 of Varney the Vampire, Volume 2. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Nick Number. Varney the Vampire, Volume 2 by Thomas Prescott Prest. Chapter 88 Part 5. Having come to one of these places, which was little more perceptible than the others, he made a desperate jump, but he jumped into the middle of the hole with such force that he sprained his ankle, besides sinking into a small pond that was almost dry, being overgrown with rushes and aquatic plants. Well, said the other officer coming up. Well? Well indeed, said the one who came first. It's anything but well. Damn all country excursions, say I. Why, Bob, you don't mean to say it's how you were caught in a rat trap? Oh, you be damned. I am, ain't I? Yes, but are you going to stop there or coming out, eh? You'll catch cold. I have sprained my ankle. Well? It ain't well, I tell you. Here I have a sprained foot and my wind broken for a month at least. Why were you not quicker? If you had been sharper, we should have had the gentleman, I'll swear. I tumbled down over the chair and he got out of the window and I came out of the door. Well, I got entangled in the rains, but I got off after him, only his long legs carried him over everything. I tell you what, Wilkinson, if I were to be born again and intended to be a runner, I would be speak a pair of long legs. Why? Because I should be able to get along better. You have no idea of how he skimmed along the ground. It was quite beautiful, only wasn't good to follow it. A regular skyscraper. Yes, or something of that sort, he looked like a patent flying shadow. Well, get up and lead the way. We'll follow you. I daresay you will, when I lead the way back there, for as to going out yonder it is quite out of the question. I want supper tonight and breakfast tomorrow morning. Well, what is that to do with it? Just this much. If you follow any farther you'll get into the woods, and there you'll be going round and round like a squirrel in a cage without being able to get out, and you will there get none of the good things included under the head of those meals. I think so too, said the third. Well then, let's go back. We needn't run, though it might be as well to do so. It would be anything but well. I don't gallop back, depend upon it. The three men now slowly returned from their useless chase and retrod the way they had passed once in such a hurry that they could hardly recognize it. What a dreadful bump I came against that pole standing there, said one. Yes, and I came against a hedge-stake that was placed so as the moon didn't show any light on it. It came into the pit of my stomach. I never recollect such a pain in my life, for all the world like a hot coal being suddenly and forcibly intruded into your stomach. Well, here's the road. I must go up to the house where I started from. I promised them some explanation. I may as well go and give it to them at once. Do as you will. I will wait with the horse, else perhaps that bow-shamp will again return and steal him. The officer who had first entered the house now returned to the Bannerworth, saying, I promised you I would give you some explanation as to what you have witnessed. Yes, said Henry, we have been awaiting your return with some anxiety and curiosity. What is the meaning of all this? I am, as are we all, in perfect ignorance of the meaning of what took place. I will tell you, the person whom you have had here and goes by the name of Varney is named Francis Bow-Shamp. Indeed? Are you assured of this? Yes, perfectly assured of it. I have it in my warrant to apprehend him by either name. What crime had he been guilty of? I will tell you he has been hanged. Hanged? exclaimed all present. What do you mean by that? added Henry. I am at a loss to understand what you can mean by saying he was hanged. What I say is literally true. Pray tell us about it. We are much interested in the fact. Go on, sir. Well, sir, then I believe it was for murder that Francis Bow-Shamp was hanged. Yes, hanged. A common execution before a multitude of people collected to witness such an exhibition. Good God! exclaimed Henry Bannerworth, and was, but that is impossible. A dead man come to life again? You must be amusing yourself at our expense. Not I, replied the officer. Here is my warrant. They don't make these out in a joke. And, as he spoke, he produced the warrant, when it was evident the officer spoke the truth. How was this? I will tell you, sir, you see that this Varney was a regular scamp, gamester, rogue, and murderer. He was hanged, and hung about the usual time. He was cut down, and the body was given to someone for dissection, when a surgeon with the hangman, one Montgomery, succeeded in restoring the criminal to life. But I always thought they broke the neck when they were hanged. The weight of the body would alone do that. Oh, dear no, sir, said the officer. That is one of the common everyday mistakes. They don't break the neck once in twenty times. Indeed. No, they dive suffocation only. This man, Beauchamp, was hanged thus, but they contrived to restore him, and then he assumed a new name, and left London. But how came you to know all this? Oh, it came to us, as many things usually do, in a very extraordinary manner, and in a manner that appears most singular and out of the way, but such it was. The executioner, who was the means of his being restored, or one of them, wished to turn him to account, and used to draw a yearly sum of money from him, as hush money, to induce them to keep the secret, else the fact of his having escaped punishment would subject him to a repetition of the same punishment, when, of course, a little more care would be taken that he did not escape a second time. I daresay not. Well, you see, Varney, or rather Beauchamp, was to pay a heavy sum to this man to keep him quiet, and to permit him to enjoy the life he had so strangely become possessed of. I see, said Holland. Well, this man, Montgomery, had always some kind of suspicion that Varney would murder him. Murder him? And he, the means of saving his life? Surely he could not be so bad as that. While you see, sir, this hangman drew a heavy sum yearly from him, thus making him only a mine of wealth to himself. This, no doubt, would rankle in the other's heart, to think he should be so beset, and hold his life upon such terms. I see now. Yes, and then came the consideration that he'd not do it from any good motive, merely a selfish one, and he was consequently under no obligation to him for what he had done, besides self-preservation might urge him on, and tell him to do the deed. However that may be, Montgomery dreaded it, and was resolved to punish the deed if he could not prevent it. He therefore left general orders with his wife, whenever he went on a journey to Varney, if he should be gone beyond a certain time, she was to open a certain drawer, and take out a sealed packet to the magistrate at the chief office who would attend to it. He has been missing, and his wife did as she was desired, and now we have found what he there mentioned to be true. But now, sir, I have satisfied you and explained to you why we intruded upon you. We must now leave and seek for him elsewhere. It is most extraordinary, and that is the reason why his complexion is so singular. Very likely. They poured out some wine which was handed to the officers, who drank and then quitted the house, leaving the inmates in a state of stupefaction, from surprise and amazement at what they had heard from the officers. There was a strange feeling came over them when they recollected the many occurrences they had witnessed, and even the explanation of the officers. It seemed as if some mist had enveloped objects and rendered them indistinct, but which was fast rising, and they were becoming planer and more distinct every moment in which they were regarded. There was a long pause, and Flora was about to speak, when suddenly there came a sound of a footstep across the garden. It was slow but unsteady, and paused between wiles until it came close beneath the windows. They remained silent, and then someone was heard to climb up the rails of the veranda, and then the curtains were thrust aside, but not till after the person outside had paused to ascertain who was there. Then the curtains were opened, and the visage of Sir Francis Varney appeared, much altered, in fact completely worn and exhausted. It was useless to deny it, but he looked ghastly, terrific. His singular visage was as pallid as death, his eyes almost protruding, his mouth opened, and his breathing short and labored in the extreme. He climbed over with much difficulty and staggered into the room, and would have spoken, but he could not. He fell senseless upon the floor, utterly exhausted and motionless. There was a long pause, and each one present looked at each other, and then they gazed upon the inanimate body of Sir Francis Varney, which lay supine and senseless in the middle of the floor. The importance of the document said to be on the dead body was such that it would admit of no delay before it was obtained, and the party determined that it should be commenced in stanter. Lost time would be an object to them, too much haste could hardly be made, and now came the question of, should it be tonight or not? Certainly, said Henry Bannerworth, the sooner we can get it, the sooner all doubt and distress will be at an end, and considering the run of events, that will be desirable for all our sakes. Besides, we know not what unlucky accident may happen to deprive us of what is so necessary. There can be none, said Mr. Chillingworth, but there is this to be said. This has been such an eventful history that I cannot say what might or what might not happen. We may as well go this very night, said Charles Holland. I give my vote for an immediate exhumation of the body. The night is somewhat stormy, but nothing more. The moon is up, and there will be plenty of light. And rain, said the doctor. Little or none, said Charles Holland, a few gusts of wind now and then drive a few heavy flashes of rain against the windows, and that gives a fearful sound, which is in fact nothing when you have to encounter it. But you will go, doctor? Yes, most certainly. We must have some tools. Those may be had from the gardens, said Henry. Tools for the exhumation, you mean? Yes, pickaxe, mattocks, and acrobar, a lantern, and so forth, said the doctor. You see, I am at home in this. The fact is, I have had more than one affair of this kind on my hands before now, and whilst a student I have had more than one adventure of a strange character. I dare say, doctor, said Charles Holland, you have had some sad pranks to answer for. You don't think of it then, only when you find them accumulated in a heap, so that you shall not be able to escape from them, because they come over your senses when you sleep at night. No, no, said Schillingworth, you are mistaken in that. I have long since settled all my accounts of that nature. Besides, I never took a dead body out of a grave but in the name of science, and never for my own profit, seeing I never sold one in my life or got anything by it. That is not the fact, said Henry. You know, doctor, you improved your own talents and knowledge. Yes, yes I did. Well, but you profited by such improvements? Well, granted I did. How much more did the public not benefit then, said the doctor with a smile? Ah, well, we won't argue the question, said Charles. Only it strikes me that the doctor could never have been a doctor if he had not determined upon following a profession. There may be a little truth in that, said Schillingworth, we had better quit the house and make the best of our way to the spot where the unfortunate man lies buried in his unhallowed grave. Come with me into the gardens, said Henry Bannerworth. We shall there be able to suit ourselves to what is required. I have a couple of lanterns. One is enough, said Schillingworth. We had better not burden ourselves more than we are obliged to do, and we shall find enough to do with the tools. Yes, they are not light, and the distance is by far too great to make walking agreeable and easy. The wind blows strong and the rain appears to be coming up afresh, and by the time we have done we shall find the ground will become slippy and bad for walking. Can we have a conveyance? No, no, said the doctor. We could, but we must trouble the turnpike man. Besides, there is a shorter way across some fields which will be better and safer. Well, well, said Charles Holland, I do not mind which way it is as long as you are satisfied yourselves. The horse and cart would have settled it all better and done it quicker besides carrying the tools. Very true, very true, said the doctor. All that is not without its weight, and you shall choose which way you would have it done. For my part I am persuaded the expedition on foot is to be preferred for two reasons. And what are they? The first is we cannot obtain a horse and cart without giving some detail as to what you want it for, which is awkward, on account of the hour. Moreover, you could not get one at this moment in time. That ought to settle the arguments, said Henry Bannerworth, and impossibility under the circumstances, at once is a clincher, and one that may be allowed to have some weight. You may say that, said Charles. Besides which, you must go a greater distance and that too along the main road, which is objectionable. Then we are agreed, said Charles Holland, and the sooner we are off the better, the night grows more and more gloomy every hour and more inclement. It will serve our purpose the better, said Chillingworth. What we do we may as well do now. Come with me to the gardens, said Henry, and we will take the tools. We can go out the back way that will preclude any observation being made. They all now left the apartment wrapped up in great overcoats to secure themselves against the weather and also for the purpose of concealing themselves from any chance passenger. In the garden they found the tools they required, and having chosen them they took a lantern with the means of getting a light when they got to their journey's end, which they would do in less than an hour. After having duly inspected the state of their efficiency, they started away on their expedition. The night had turned gloomy and windy, heavy driving masses of clouds obscured the moon, which only now and then was to be seen when the clouds permitted her to peep out. At the same time there were many drifting showers, which lasted but a few minutes, and then the clouds were carried forwards by some sudden gust of wind so that, altogether it was a most uncomfortable night as well could be imagined. However there was no time to lose, and under all circumstances they could not have chosen a better night for their purpose than the one they had. Indeed they could not desire another night to be out on such a purpose. They spoke not while they were within sight of the houses, though at the distance of many yards, and at the same time there was a noise through the trees that would have carried their voices past every object, however close, but they would make assurance doubly sure. I think we are fairly away now, said Henry, from all fear of being recognized. To be sure you are, who would recognize us now if we were met? No one. I should think not, and moreover there would be but small chance of any evil coming from it, even if it were to happen that we were to be seen and known. Nobody knows what we are going to do, and if they did there is no illegality in the question. Certainly not, but we wish the matter to be quite secret, therefore we don't wish to be seen by anyone well upon this adventure. Exactly, said Schillingworth, and if you'll follow my guidance you shall meet nobody. We will trust you most worthy doctor, what have you to say for our confidence? That you will find it is not misplaced. Just as the doctor had uttered the last sound there came a hearty laugh upon the air, and indeed sounded but a few paces in advance of them. The wind blew towards them and would therefore cause the sounds to come to them, but not to go away in the direction they were going. The whole party came to a sudden standstill. There was something so strange in hearing a laugh at that moment, especially as Schillingworth was at that moment boasting of his knowledge of the ground and the certainty of their meeting no one. What is that? inquired Henry. Someone laughing, I think, said Schillingworth. Of that there can be little or no doubt, said Charles Holland, as people do not usually laugh by themselves so heartily it may be presumed there are at least two. No doubt of it. And, moreover, their purpose cannot be a very good one at this hour of the night and of such a night, too. I think we had better be cautious. Hush, follow me silently, said Henry. As he spoke he moved cautiously from the spot where he stood and at the same time he was followed by the whole party until they came to the hedge which skirted a lane in which were seated three men. They had a sort of tent erected and that was hung upon a part of the hedge which was to windward of them so that it sheltered them from wind and rain. Henry and Schillingworth both peeped over the bank and saw them seated beneath this kind of canopy. They were shabby, gypsy-looking men who might be something else, sheep-stealers or horse-stealers in fact anything, even to beggars. I say, Jack, said one, it's no bottle tonight. No, there's nobody about these parts tonight. We are safe and so are they. Exactly. Besides, you see, those who do happen to be out are not worth talking to. No cash. None. Not enough to pay Turnpike for a walking stick at the most. Besides, it does us no good to take a few shillings from a poor wretch who has more in family than he has shillings in pocket. Ah, you are right. Quite right. I don't like it myself, I don't. Besides that, there's fresh risk in every man you stop and these poor fellows will fight hard for a few shillings and there is no knowing what an unlucky blow may do for a man. That is very true. Has anything been done tonight? Nothing, said one. Only three half-crowns, said the other. That is the extent of the common purse tonight. And I, said the third, I've got a bottle of bad gin from the cat and cabbage stump. How did you manage it? Why, this way. I went in and had some beer and you know I can give a long yarn when I want, but it wants only a little care to deceive these knowing countrymen, so I talked and talked until I got quite ready and then I put the gin in my pocket. Good. Well, then, the loaf and beef I took out of the safe as I came by and I daresay they know they have lost it by this time. Yes, and so do we. I expect the gin will help to digest the beef, so we mustn't complain of the goods. No, give us another glass, Jim. Jim held the glass towards him when the doctor, animated by the spirit of mischief, took a good-sized pebble and threw it into the glass, smashing it and spilling the contents. In a moment there was a change of scene. The men were all terrified and started to their feet, while a sudden gust of wind caused their light to go out. At the same time their tentcloth was thrown down by the wind and fell across their heads. Come along, said the doctor. There was no need of saying so, for in a moment the three were as if animated by one spirit, and away they scutted across the fields with the speed of a racehorse. In a few minutes they were better than half a mile away from the spot. In a moment of all authentic information, said the doctor, speaking as well as he could and blowing prodigiously between each word as though we were fetching breath all the way from his heels, I think we may conclude we are safe from them. We ought to thank our stars. We came across them in the way we did. But doctor, what in the name of heaven induced you to make such a noise, to frighten them in fact, and to tell them someone was about? They were too much terrified to tell whether it was one or fifty. By this time they are out of the county. They knew what they were talking about. And perhaps we may meet them on the road where we are going, thinking at a rare lonely spot where they can hide and no chance of their being found out. No, said the doctor, they will not go to such a place. It has by far too bad a name for even such men as those to go near, much less stop in. I can hardly think that, said Charles Holland, for these fellows are too terrified for their personal safety to think of the prestigious fears with which a place may be regarded, and these men, in such a place as the one you speak of, they will be at home. Well, well, rather than be done we must fight for it, and when you come to consider we have one pick and two shovels we shall be in full force. Well said doctor, how far have we to go? Not more than a quarter of a mile. They pursued their way through the fields and under the hedgerows until they came to a gate where they stopped a while and began to consult and to listen. The guards up here on the left, said the doctor, I know the spot. Besides, there is a particular mark. Now then, are you all ready? Yes, all. Here, said the doctor, pointing out the marks by which the spot might be recognized, here is the spot, and I think we shall not be half a foot out of our reckoning. Then let us begin in stanter, said Henry, as he seized hold of the pickaxe and began to loosen the earth by means of the sharp end. That will do for the presence at Chillingworth. Now let me and Charles take a turn with our shovels and you will get on again presently. Throw the earth up on the bank in one heap so that we can put it on again without attracting any attention to the spot by its being left in clods and uneven. Exactly, said Henry, else the body will be discovered. They began to shovel away and continue to do so after it had been picked up, working alternately until at length Charles stuck his pickaxe into something soft and upon pulling it up he found it was the body. A dreadful odor now arose from the spot and they were at no loss to tell where the body lay. The pickaxe had stuck into the deceased's rib and clothing and thus lifted it out of its place. Here it is, said the doctor, but I needn't tell you that. The Charnell House smell is enough to convince you of the fact of where it is. I think so. Just show a light upon the subject, doctor, and then we can see what we are about. Do you mind, doctor? You have the management of the lantern, you know. Yes, yes, said Chillingworth. I see you have it. Don't be in a hurry, but do things deliberately and coolly, whatever you do. You will not be so liable to make mistakes or to leave anything undone. There will be nothing of any use to you here, doctor, in the way of dissection, for the flesh is one mass of decay. What a horrible sight, to be sure. It is, but hasten the search. Well, I must, though, to confess the truth I'd sooner handle anything than this. It is not the most pleasant thing in the world, for there is no knowing what may be the result, what creeping thing has made a home of it. I don't understand anything about it. Henry and Charles Holland now began to search the pockets of the clothes of the dead body, in one of which was something hard that felt like a parcel. What have you got there, said Chillingworth, as he held his lantern up so that the light fell upon the ghastly object that they were handling? I think it is the prize, said Charles Holland, but we have not got it out yet, though I dare say it won't be long first if this wind will but hold good for about five minutes and keep the stench down. They now tore open the packet and pulled out the papers which appeared to have been secreted upon his person. Be sure there are none on any other part of the body, said Chillingworth, because what you do now you would better do well and leave nothing to afterthought, because it is frequently impracticable. The advice is good, said Henry, who made a second search but found nothing. We had better rebury him, said the doctor. It had better be done cleanly. Well, it is a sad hole for a last resting place, and yet I do not know that it matters. There was little to be said against such an argument, though the custom of the age had caused them to look upon it more as a matter of feeling than in such a philosophical sense as that in which the doctor had put it. Well, there he is now, shovel the earth in, Charles, said Henry Bannerworth, as he himself set the example which was speedily and vigorously followed by Charles Holland when they were not long before the earth was thrown in and covered up with care and troddened down so that it should not appear to be moved. This will do, I think, said Henry. Yes, it is not quite the same, but I dare say no one will try to make any discoveries in this place. Besides, if the rain continues to come down very heavy, why, it will wash much of it away and it will make it look all alike. There was little inducement to hover about the spot, but Henry could not forbear holding up the papers to the light of the lantern to ascertain what they were. Are they all right, inquired the doctor? Yes, replied Henry. Yes, the deerbrook estate. Oh, yes, they are the papers I am in want of. It is singularly fortunate, at least, to be so successful in securing them. I am very glad a living person has possession of them. Else it would have been very difficult to have obtained it from them. So it would, but now homeward is the word, doctor, and on my word there is reason to be glad, for the rain is coming on very fast now and there is no moon at all. We had better step out. They did, for the three walked as fast as the nature of the soil would permit them and the darkness of the night. End of Chapter 88 Part 5 Recording by Nick Number