The narrative follows a protagonist who experiences a series of extraordinary events after discovering a mysterious plant in a secluded wood. The protagonist, after a dream about the plant, embarks on a journey up a stream, leading to the discovery of a spring that communicates with him. The spring instructs him to gather the plant, which he does after respectfully asking the oak tree for permission. Upon dipping the plant in the spring, it shrinks and becomes a small bulb. The protagonist learns that the plant possesses unique properties, allowing him to hear the thoughts of animals and small creatures. He discovers a box containing five jars, each labeled with Latin phrases indicating their purpose: to anoint the eyes, ears, tongue, forehead, and chest. The protagonist experiments with the jars, gaining the ability to hear the conversations of animals and even see into the past. As he interacts with the small people, known as the Right People, he learns about their world and their struggles against malevolent forces. The protagonist uses the jars to protect himself and the small people from these threats, including a confrontation with a bat-ball, a gathering of bats that threaten to take the jars. Through clever use of the jars and the help of the small people, the protagonist successfully defends against the bats and secures the jars. He is welcomed into the world of the Right People, where he learns more about their customs and the significance of the jars. The story concludes with the protagonist reflecting on his adventures and the friendships he has formed, hinting at further explorations in this magical realm.
By M.R. James · First published 1919 · Genre: Horror, Gothic Fiction, Fantasy · 8 chapters