The narrative unfolds in a coastal setting, where a local recounts the haunting history of a once-grand estate owned by the notorious Squire Ennismore. The tale begins with the narrator's assertion that the estate is haunted, a claim supported by generations of local lore. The Squire, a man of ill repute known for his debauchery, returns to the estate in his old age, seeking refuge from his past misdeeds in London. As the story progresses, the Squire's arrival coincides with a series of strange occurrences, including the appearance of a mysterious stranger on the beach. This figure, described as dark and peculiar, becomes a source of fear among the locals, who believe he is the spirit of a drowned sailor. Despite the warnings, the Squire, intrigued by the stranger, befriends him, leading to nightly drinking sessions filled with laughter and card games. The Squire's health begins to deteriorate, and the estate's housekeeper grows increasingly concerned about the Squire's well-being and the strange language spoken between him and the stranger. As the Squire's birthday approaches, the puncheon of brandy they have been consuming runs dry, prompting the Squire to suggest a walk home with the stranger. The climax occurs as they walk into the sea, where the Squire disappears, leaving behind only the imprint of a cloven foot in the sand. The locals conclude that the Squire has met a sinister fate, and the haunting legacy of the estate continues, marked by the chilling events that transpired. The story serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of a life steeped in vice and the supernatural repercussions that may follow.
By Charlotte Riddell · First published 1893 · Genre: Gothic Fiction, Horror, Mystery