Behold , then , the venerable clergyman ascending the steps of the mansion with a torch-bearer behind him . It was the elderly man who had spoken to the Old Maid , and the same who had afterward explained the shield of arms and recognized the features of the negro . Like their predecessors , they gave three raps with the iron hammer . `` Old Cæsar cometh not , '' observed the priest . `` Well , I wot he no longer doth service in this mansion . '' `` Assuredly , then , it was something worse in old Cæsar 's likeness , '' said the other adventurer . `` Be it as God wills , '' answered the clergyman . `` See ! my strength , though it be much decayed , hath sufficed to open this heavy door . Let us enter and pass up the staircase . '' Here occurred a singular exemplification of the dreamy state of a very old man 's mind . As they ascended the wide flight of stairs the aged clergyman appeared to move with caution , occasionally standing aside , and oftener bending his head , as it were in salutation , thus practising all the gestures of one who makes his way through a throng . Reaching the head of the staircase , he looked around with sad and solemn benignity , laid aside his staff , bared his hoary locks , and was evidently on the point of commencing a prayer . `` Reverend sir , '' said his attendant , who conceived this a very suitable prelude to their further search , `` would it not be well that the people join with us in prayer ? '' `` Well-a-day ! '' cried the old clergyman , staring strangely around him . `` Art thou here with me , and none other ? Verily , past times were present to me , and I deemed that I was to make a funeral prayer , as many a time heretofore , from the head of this staircase . Of a truth , I saw the shades of many that are gone . Yea , I have prayed at their burials , one after another , and the Old Maid in the Winding-Sheet hath seen them to their graves . ''
Being now more thoroughly awake to their present purpose , he took his staff and struck forcibly on the floor , till there came an echo XXXXX each deserted chamber , but no menial to answer their summons .
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