HOLIDAY GHOST-HUNT

Dominion, Volume 34, Issue 179, 26 April 1941, Page 16

HOLIDAY GHOST-HUNT

\ (Original, by Magpl rj.WENDOLINE BROOKE was staying with her cousin, Hilary Grant,, for the summer holidays. He lived with his parents in a cottage which was set In a small and very picturesque coastal fishing village. A rumour had gone round the village that the deserted monastery by the sea was haunted. For a monk had been seen-at the window by a passing fisherman. Hilary related this tale to Gwendoline on her arrival and she was thrilled. She wanted .to investigate straightaway, but Hilary said she would be seared. However, the next day Hilary asked Gwen if she would like to go with , him that very night to catch the ghost. They decided to make plans. Mrs. Qrant wondered what all the secrecy was. about, but did not. ask. them, for she knew they would not do anything that would harm anyone.How the time lagged till bedtime. At ten, to twelve Hilary went to Gwen’s room to tell her to dress, but she was ready, even to the tammy on her head. Silently they, crept down the stairs. At last/ they reached .the monastery gates. They were sagging with age, so they managed to climb over without any difficulty. The only sound was the eery slapping of the waves against the rocks. Gwen clutched hold of Hilary’s arm.

“Oh, Hilary ! I-I-am seared.” she hurst -out timidly. “Don’t be silly, Gwen; you’re all right

ie (13), Feilding.) ■with me,” assured Hilary. “I’ll not let anyone hurt you,” he added after a pause.

They climbed unsteadily up the steps, Gwen still clutching tightly to Hilary’s arm. He .pulled open the door. Gwen switched on her small torch as they entered a dark passage. Just before they turned a corner they heard some stealthy footsteps with a slight limp. Gwen, grasped tighter at Hilary’s arm, but, being excited, she forgot aril about the torch being alight. The noise came nearer! They both tried to move but stood rooted to the spot.

“Well, well, two visitors, eh?” said a kind but gruff voice. “Oh! Ar-are you a ghost?” uttered Gwen excitedly.

“Why, no, my young lass, I am only an odd monk, come to find my brother who isn’t, here.” He chuckled. “And do yop think I’m a ghost, too; young sir?” he asked Hilary as an afterthought.

“Why, of course not, you’re a monk,” replied Hilary brightly as he glanced at the latter’s clothes. .

“And why, may I ask you, did you expect me to be a ghost. Also, why aren’t you in bed asleep?” he asked with a puzzled look. Hilary found himself pouring out the ghost’ tale, but fortunately the monk took it all as a joke. Gwendoline afterward declared that it was the most exciting holiday she had ever had.