om the
westward, so that objects on the island were more indistinct, and even
the trees on the main land, under which we had left our horses, were no
longer discernable.

I thought, as I threw out the earth from the hole which we had already
made, that the ground had been dug up before, and I felt encouraged to
continue my labors, in hopes that we should soon reach the treasure
which we considered belonged to us by bequest.

All thoughts of ghosts and spirits were fast passing away in the
excitement of my occupation, when suddenly Mr. Brown dropped his pickaxe
and uttered an exclamation.

"Did you hear that?" he cried, pointing in the direction from whence he
supposed the sound proceeded.

"No," I answered, beginning to feel a little of his own alarm.

"If this d----d island isn't haunted, I wouldn't say so," my companion
continued.

"Remember the compact which you proposed, that we were not to exchange a
word during our occupation."

"The devil take the compact, and me, too, if I can help speaking when I
hear such unearthly noises."

Hardly were the words out of his mouth when from the earth arose a form
that seemed at least ten feet high. It was clothed in white, and from
its head projected two monstrous horns, which were pointed towards us in
a threatening manner. I could discern no features, but a huge mass of
white bones were visible where the face should have been, and I thought
that I could hear them rattle as the beast, devil, or ghost shook its
head in an ominous manner, and advanced towards us.

"I can't stand this?" cried Mr. Brown, in a trembling whisper, and away
he went, with the speed of a greyhound, towards the bridge that
connected the island with the main land.

I did not think that words were desirable or becoming on my part, as I
did not have charge of the expedition, so no sooner had Mr. Brown turned
to run than I followed him.

Fear lent me wings, and I bounded over the rocks like a deer pursued by
hunters, but in despite of my utmost endeavors I found that I was
unable to compete with my friend, who ran as though trained for ten
mile stretches upon a race course.

Once I looked back to see if we were followed, but the white visitant
appeared content with driving us off, for no pursuit was made.

I had half an idea of stopping, but another groan, more unnatural and
ghostly than any that I had heard, determined me, and I recommenced my
flight with but faint hope of overtaking Mr. Br