At that instant , still in utter silence , all three figures burst into livid flames . The fire consumed them as they writhed in agony , and the stillness allowed no syllable of the apparent shrieks coming from their burning lips . My perspiration increased , the smell of soot and smoke in the room grew overpowering , and I felt a fever rapidly press upon me . In a matter of seconds , these same livid flames enveloped me , and I screamed aloud as I felt my flesh searing . The pain became unbearable for one moment , and as quickly subsided , while the burning mother and children evaporated before me and darkness descended .
After long minutes of gasping for air and shifting in the sweat-drenched bedclothes , I was able to sit upright and light the lamp with shaking hands . First , I examined my skin . Though I had positively felt it peeling from my frame while the ghost flame engulfed me , I had sustained no burns — or even redness . Indeed , I was freezing . I donned a robe and rang for Jeffries .
He knocked so soon I had a thought that he had been waiting just without . Speaking no word , he poured me a brandy at the sideboard . “ This will steel you , sir .”
I gulped it down and motioned for another . “ It seems to me you have some knowledge of my being parboiled by a little family unit of spectres .”
“ I trust you are recovered , sir ? Master thought you should have the complete tour . You did want to experience everything . He will be glad to discuss all in the morning . You may retire , sir . I can state unequivocally that your sleep will be undisturbed the rest of the evening .”
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