fire enjoying a
social chat with a "cousin" of hers from Ireland, a young man whom
she had never seen or heard of three months before. In what way he had
succeeded in convincing her of the relationship I have never been able
to learn, but he had managed to place himself on familiar visiting terms
with the inmate of 'Squire Newcome's kitchen.

"It's only me cousin, sir," Hannah explained to the 'Squire, when he
had questioned her on the subject; "he's just from Ireland, sir, and it
seems like home to see him."

On the present occasion Tim Flaherty had outstayed his usual time, and
was still in the kitchen when Ben reached home. They did not at first
hear him, but when he made his last abortive attempt, and the shoes came
clattering down, they could not help hearing.

"What's that?" asked Hannah, listening attentively.

She went to the door to look out, her cousin following.

There was nothing to be seen.

"Perhaps you was dramin' Hannah," said Tim, "more by token, it's time we
was both doin' that same, so I'll bid you good-night."

"Come again soon, Tim," said Hannah, preparing to close the door.

A new plan of entrance flashed upon Ben.

He quickly put on his shoes and stockings, unfolded the sheet and
prepared to enact the part of a ghost once more,--this time for the
special benefit of Hannah.

After fully attiring himself he came to the back door which Hannah had
already locked, and tapped three times.

Hannah was engaged in raking out the kitchen fire.

"Sure it's Tim come back," thought she, as she went to the door.
"Perhaps he's forgotten something."

She opened the door unsuspiciously, fully expecting to see her Irish
cousin standing before her.

What was her terror on beholding a white-robed figure, with extended
arms.

"Howly virgin, defend me!" she exclaimed, in paralyzing terror, which
was increased by a guttural sound which proceeded from the throat of
the ghost, who at the same time waved his arms aloft, and made a step
towards Hannah.

Hannah, with a wild howl dropped the lamp and fed towards the
sitting-room, where 'Squire Newcome was still sitting.

Ben sped upstairs at the top of his speed, dashed into his own chamber,
spread the sheet on the bed, and undressed so rapidly that he seemed
only to shake his clothes off, and jumped into bed. He closed his eyes
and appeared to be in a profound slumber.

Hannah's sudden appearance in the sitting-room in such a state naturally
astonishe