"
He then distributed another glass to every one who would accept it, and
brought the jar afterwards to the chapel door, to satisfy the scruples
of those who would not drink within. When this was performed, and all
duly excited, he proceeded:--
"Now, brothers, you are solemnly sworn to obay me, and I'm sure there's
no thraithur here that 'ud parjure himself for a thrifle; but I'm sworn
to obay them that's above me, manin' still among ourselves; an' to show
that I don't scruple to do it, here goes!"
He then turned round, and taking the Missal between his hands placed it
upon the altar. Hitherto every word was uttered in a low precautionary
tone; but on grasping the book he again turned round, and looking upon
his confederates with the same satanic expression which marked his
countenance before, he exclaimed, in a voice of deep determination,
first kissing the book!
[Illustration: PAGE WG939-- By this sacred an' holy book of God]
"By this sacred an' holy book of God, I will perform the action which we
have met this night to accomplish, be that what it may; an' this I swear
upon God's book, and God's althar!"
On concluding, he struck the book violently with his open hand, thereby
occasioning a very loud report.
At this moment the candle which burned before him went suddenly out, and
the chapel was wrapped in pitchy darkness; the sound as if of rushing
wings fell upon our ears, and fifty voices dwelt upon the last words of
his oath with wild and supernatural tones, that seemed to echo and to
mock what he had sworn.
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