he matter. There
is in the neighbourhood of this village a barren bit of moor
which had no owner, or rather more than one, for the lords of
the adjoining manors debated its ownership between themselves,
and both determined to take it from the poor, who have for many
years past regarded it as a common. And truly, it is little to
the credit of these gentlemen, that they should strive for a
thing so worthless as scarce to bear the cost of law, and yet
of no mean value to poor labouring people. The two litigants,
however, contested it with as much violence as if it had been a
field of great price, and especially one, an old man, (whose
thoughts should have been less set on earthly possessions,
which he was soon to leave,) had so set his heart on the
success of his suit, that the loss of it, a few years back, is
said to have much hastened his death. Nor, indeed, after death,
if current reports are worthy of credit, does he quit his claim
to it; for at night-time his apparition is seen on the moor,
to the great terror of the neighbouring villagers. A public
path leads by at no great distance from the spot, and on divers
occasions has the labourer, returning from his work, been
frightened nigh unto lunacy by sight and sounds of a very
dreadful character. The appearance is said to be that of a man
habited in black, driving a carriage drawn by headless horses.
This is, I avow, very marvellous to believe, but it has had so
much credible testimony, and has gained so many believers in my
parish, that some steps seem necessary to allay the excitement
it causes. I have been applied to for this purpose, and my
present business is to ask your assistance in this matter,
either to reassure the minds of the country people if it be
only a simple terror; or, if there be truth in it, to set the
troubled spirit of the man at rest. My messenger, who is an
industrious, trustworthy man, will give you more information if
it be needed, for, from report, he is acquainted with most of
the circumstances, and will bring back your advice and promise
of assistance.

"Not doubting of your help herein, I do with my very hearty
commendation commit you to God's protection and blessing, and
am,--Your very loving brother, ABRAHAM MILLS."

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