Page:Popular Tales and Romances of the Northern Nations (Volume 2).djvu/80

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68
The Spectre Barber.

On departing, he uttered bitter complaints and execrations against the hard hearted landlord, who seemed at length, to pity the poor weary stranger, and called after him:

“One word, young fellow: if you wish so very much to stop here for the night, I can provide for you. In the castle yonder, there are plenty of rooms, to which I have the keys; but as it is not inhabited, it may be too solitary for you.”

Frank readily accepted this proposal, thanked the landlord for his offer, and only asked for supper and shelter for the night, be it in a palace or a hut. But the host was a wag, who had been offended at Frank’s complaints, and meant to revenge himself, by exposing Frank to be tormented by a troublesome ghost, who had haunted the old castle for many years, and frightened away all its inhabitants.

The castle was built on a steep rock, just outside the town immediately opposite the inn, being separated from it only by the high road and a small brook. On account of its pleasant situation, it was still kept in good repair; was well