"Ah!" thought I, "the old house is haunted! Would they would only let me sleep there, where there is some chance of being delightfully frightened."
"I was about to say, Agnes, that if you prefer, I will send one of the negro women to sleep on a mattress in your room."
"By no means, Mrs. Legare. I shall fall asleep as soon as I touch my pillow, and not wake until morning—so I should not be able to appreciate the benefit of Peggy or Dinah's society."
"Very well, my dear, as you please. Here is a bellrope at your bed's head—its wires run into the old house. If you should want anything, ring."
I smiled, and assured my hostess that I wanted nothing but sleep. Whereupon she called Mathilde, bade me good-night, and left the room. Turning back, however, she said to me:
"Agnes, my dear, lock your chamber door after us."
"Yes, madam."
"Excuse me, my dear; but young people are forgetful—especially when they are tired and sleepy. I think I should like to hear you lock it, Agnes."
There was something in her caution that struck me as very singular—but I laughed and went to the door, and after repeating my good-night, as desired, shut the door in their faces, and locked it.
"There! have you heard me lock the door?" I inquired.