observed above the
following words:--

"I hereby engage, after my natural decease, to give over my
soul to the owner of this book."

"What!" said I, "this is the old compact; the one you wished me to sign
before?"

"The same, my dear friend."

"Then I'll be d----d if I sign it."

"Only think of the consequences," said he.

"I will abide the consequences rather than sell my soul."

"Buried alive, my dear sir--only think."

"I will not sign the compact."

"Only think of being buried alive," continued he,--"stifled to
death--pent up on all sides--earth above, earth below--no hope--no room
to move in--suffocated, stupified, horror-struck--utter despair. Is not
the idea dreadful? Only think what your feelings will be, when you come
to life in that narrow charnel-house, and know your situation."

I gave a shudder at this picture, which was drawn with horrible truth;
but the energies of religion, and the hopes of futurity, rushed upon my
soul, and sustained it in the dreadful trial. "Away, away," said I,
pushing him back. "I have made up my mind to the sacrifice, since better
may not be. Whatever happens to my body, I am resolved not to risk my
eternal soul for its sake."

"Think again," said he, "and make up your mind. If I leave you, your
fate is irrevocable. Are you decided?"

"I am."

"Only reflect once more. Consider how, by putting your name in this
book, you will save yourself from a miserable death. Are you decided?"

"I am," replied I firmly.

"Then, fool," said he, while a frown perfectly unnatural to him
corrugated his brow, and his eyes shot forth vivid glances of
fire--"then, fool, I leave you to your fate. You shall never see me
again." So saying, he walked out of the room, dispensing with his usual
bows and grimaces, and dashing the door fiercely after him, while I
threw myself upon a couch in an agony of despair.

My doom was now sealed beyond all hope; for, going to the windows a few
minutes thereafter, I beheld my own funeral, with my cousin at the head
of the procession, acting as chief mourner. In a short time I saw the
company returning from the interment. "All is over, then," said I,
wringing my hands at this deplorable sight. "I am the victim of some
infernal agency, and must prepare for the dreadful sacrifice." That
night I was supremely wretched, tossing incessantly in bed, while sleep
was denied to my wearied eyelids. Next morning my haggard look was
remarked by my servan