The air was thick—and in the upper gloom

The bat—or something in its shape—was winging;

And on the wall, as chilly as a tomb,

The Death's-Head moth was clinging.

That mystic moth, which, with a sense profound

Of all unholy presence, augurs truly;

And with a grim significance flits round

The taper burning bluely.

Such omens in the place there seem'd to be,

At ev'ry crooked turn, or on the landing,