I rested a while, sampling numerous books from a
wide shelf, and at length I dressed and found my way to
the dining room. It too was immense, and the table held
twenty chairs. Jeffries seated me at a place setting near the
far end, and the only other setting was for the master’s seat
there. At precisely eight P. M., as the monstrous floor
clock chimed the hour, Lord Kettering entered in his
evening dress and took his seat. He chatted pleasantries
throughout a perfect four-course meal, and precisely one
hour later, Jeffries offered us both fine cigars and lit them
before exiting.
“We can retire to the study, if you prefer,” said
Kettering.
I shook my head vigorously. “This is just fine.
Better than fine. Everything has been far better than just
fine. Again, I must protest your vacating your own
room...”
“I’ll hear no more of it, my friend. I agreed to be
your host and I agreed to answer your questions. I think I
can guess the big one.”
“Yes, sir. Is Kettering Hall haunted?”
He did not hesitate. “Without a doubt.”
I was a little taken aback, though familiar with the
rumors. “You seem a most wise, intelligent and down-to-
earth nobleman. I doubt you would acquiesce so quickly
without solid evidence. Have you seen a ghost or ghosts?”
21