He shuffled his feet as if uncertain of his next step--a thin, pale man with a pinched mouth and timid earnest eyes.
The glance from the bed fell on him "What will the fellow be at ?" said the voice testily.

"He stands there like a sow about to litter, and stares and grunts.

Good e'en to you, friend.

When you are wanted you will be sent for Jesu's name, what have I done to have that howlet glowering at me ?" The priest at the words crossed himself and turned to go, with a tinge of red in his sallow cheeks.

He was faithful to his duties and had come to console a death bed, though he was well aware that his consolations would be spurned.
As he left there came again the eerie laughter from the bed.