Beside me I discovered three figures, whose character or office was explained by a coffin of pine boards which lay upon the floor.

One stood with hammer and nails in his hand, as ready to replace and fasten the lid of the coffin as soon as its burden should be received.
I attempted to rise from the floor, but my head was dizzy and my sight confused.

Perceiving me revive, one of the men assisted me to regain my feet.

The mist and confusion presently vanished, so as to allow me to stand unsupported and to move.

I once more gazed at my attendants, and recognised the three men whom I had met in High Street, and whose conversation I have mentioned that I overheard.