The narrative begins with the discovery of a manuscript by a parish priest, who collected local legends and superstitions. The story centers on Terry Neil, a skilled bonesetter in rural Ireland, who becomes embroiled in a supernatural encounter while watching over an old castle. Terry, known for his honesty and craftsmanship, takes on the task of watching the castle during the absence of its owners. The castle is rumored to be haunted by the spirit of a former squire, who is said to have died in a drunken accident. As Terry prepares for a long night, he is joined by Lawrence, the steward, who soon falls asleep, leaving Terry alone with his fears. As the night progresses, a storm brews, and Terry becomes increasingly anxious. Suddenly, the ghost of the squire appears, emerging from a portrait and demanding Terry's attention. The squire expresses his discontent with his afterlife, particularly the discomfort in his leg, which he broke before his death. He insists that Terry, as a bonesetter, must help him. Despite his fear, Terry reluctantly agrees to assist the ghost. The squire demands that Terry pull on his leg to alleviate the pain. In a moment of panic and confusion, Terry pulls too hard, resulting in the ghost's leg being detached from his body. The squire collapses, and Terry is thrown across the room in shock. When Terry regains consciousness, he finds himself in the daylight, realizing that the encounter was both bizarre and terrifying. The experience leaves him changed; he becomes more devout, attending mass regularly and sharing his story sparingly, as it is too incredible for most to believe. The ghost, now legless, is never seen walking again, and the tale serves as a cautionary reminder of the consequences of both the living and the dead. The story intertwines themes of superstition, the supernatural, and the human condition, reflecting the cultural beliefs of rural Ireland while exploring the intersection of life and death.
By J. Sheridan Le Fanu · First published 1864 · Genre: Gothic Fiction, Horror, Folklore