An account

I have never before or since suffered from any experience of the kind [i.e., had any visual hallucination]. I cannot give you the date, it was so long ago. Still, the past days are often present with me, and the scenes of that night are as fresh in remembrance as if all had occurred yesterday. I have no idea whatever what became of the Cornish nursery girl. I wrote to my aunt and uncle, near Gloucester, to tell them of what had occurred. They replied they had heard Mrs. Gibbs (Caroline) was very ill, and the next communication informed us of her departure ; but I do not remember whether it took place earlier in the afternoon or later at night than when I saw her. The following is from the lady who was with Mrs. Poison as governess at the time : — Clarence Yilla, Church Road, Watford. January 11th, 1884. I do not in the least object to let you know what I remember of the incident you mention. Many years ago Mr. and Mrs. Poison, with the children and myself, were sitting one evening in the drawing-room at Woolstone. In the middle of the evening Mrs. Poison left the room, but soon returned ; remaining silent, I looked up, and saw her drop down on the rug fainting. When she recovered, she told us she had seen Mrs. Gibbs on before her in the long passage. I recollect hearing that the little Cornish girl said she had seen that same apparition while cleaning her grate. As to the date of the incident I can only say that, to the best of my recollection, it happened before the year 1851.