The Phantom Ship by Frederick Marryat

"This, then, is the chamber which has so long been closed," said Amine, on entering it the next morning, long before Philip had awakened from the sound sleep produced by the watching of the night before. "Yes, indeed, it has the air of having long been closed. " Amine looked around her, and then examined the furniture. Her eyes were attracted to the bird-cages; she looked into them: -- "Poor little things! " continued she, "and here it was his father appeared unto his mother. Well, it may be so, -- Philip saith that he hath proofs; and why should he not appear? Were Philip dead, I should rejoice to see his spirit, -- at least it would be something. What am I saying -- unfaithful lips, thus to betray my secret?

-- The table thrown over; -- that looks like the work of fear; a workbox, with all its implements scattered, -- only a woman's fear: a mouse might have caused all this; and yet there is something solemn in the simple fact that, for so many years, not a living being has crossed these boards. Even that a table thus overthrown could thus remain for years, seems scarcely natural, and therefore has its power on the mind. I wonder not that Philip feels there is so heavy a secret belonging to this room -- but it must not remain in this condition -- it must be occupied at once."