room door, and strange
figures appearing before him. A friend, hearing of the noises and
apparitions, resolved to sleep in the "cage room," that he might
ascertain, if possible, who or what it was that disturbed the family.
Locking himself and a faithful dog into the "cage chamber," he retired
to rest, confident that he was secure against every intruder, whether
material or airy. His assurance was of short duration. He had not lain
long before his dog leaped into the bed, howling and terrified. The
chamber door slowly opened, and a pale, thin, sickly youth came in,
walked to the iron cage in the centre of the room, leaned against the
iron bars, and, after remaining a short time, retired by the way he
entered. The gentleman rose quickly to follow the ghost. On reaching
the door, it was fastened on the inside, as he had left it before
going to bed. His courage, however, did not fail him, and he continued
to watch the retiring figure. The youth descended the stair-case with
slow measured steps to the ground floor, when the form sank into the
earth. Every one was now convinced that the house was haunted: a panic
ensued, which ended in Lady Pennyman and her family abruptly leaving
the disturbed habitation.

It is well known that the celebrated Duchess of Mazarin was a
favourite of King Charles II., and Madame de Beauclair was a lady
admired and beloved by his brother and successor, James II. Between
these ladies there was an uncommon friendship. The two beauties were
allotted handsome apartments in Stable Yard, St. James's, but, for
obvious reasons, they had little conversation with the outer world. It
was agreed between the ladies, that she who should be first taken away
by death, would return, if possible, and give the survivor an account
of what was doing in the other world. This promise was often repeated;
and the duchess happening to fall sick, and her life despaired of,
Madame de Beauclair reminded her of their agreement. Her Grace replied
she might depend upon her performing what she had promised. These last
words passed between them not more than an hour before the lady's
death. Years passed on, yet not a voice or sign came from the dead.
Madame de Beauclair concluded that there was no such thing as
existence after death. Probably her mind would have remained
unchanged, had not the Duchess of Mazarin at last appeared to her.
One evening Madame de Beauclair was sitting alone, when she happened
to turn her eyes to a c