Apparitions had been seen, and voices had been heard on a multitude of occasions.

My father was a confident believer in supernatural tokens.

The voice of his wife, who had been many years dead, had been twice heard at midnight whispering at his pillow.

I frequently asked myself whether a scheme favourable to my views might not be built upon these foundations.
Suppose (thought I) my mother should be made to enjoin upon him compliance with my wishes?
This idea bred in me a temporary consternation.

To imitate the voice of the dead, to counterfeit a commission from heaven, bore the aspect of presumption and impiety.