with the terror which, notwithstanding the gory hue with which they
were covered from top to toe, might be read in their terrified eyes and
visages. After a few minutes, however, the alarm became more intense,
and put itself forth into words. The fearful intelligence now spread.
"It is raining blood! it is raining blood!" was shouted from every
mouth; those who were in the houses rushed out, and soon found that it
was true; for the red liquid was still descending, and in a few minutes
they soon were as red as the others. The flight home now became one of
panic; every house was crowded with strangers, who took refuge wherever
they could find shelter; and in the meantime the lightning was flashing
and the thunder pealing with stunning depth throughout the heavens. The
bonfires were soon deserted; for even those who were drunk and tipsy
had been aroused by the alarm, and the language in which it was uttered.
Nobody, in fact, was left at the great fire except those who composed
the dinner party, with the exception of the two clergymen, who fled and
disappeared along with the mob, urged, too, by the same motives.

"This will not be believed," said Lindsay; "it is, beyond all doubt
and scepticism, a prodigy from heaven, and must portend some fearful
calamity. May God in heaven protect us! But who is this?"

As he spoke, a hideous old hag, bent over her staff, approached them;
but it did not appear that she was about to pay them any particular
attention. She was mumbling and cackling to herself when about to pass,
but was addressed by Lindsay.

"Where are you going, you old hag? They say you are acquainted with more
than you ought to know. Can you account for this blood that's falling?"

"Who are you that axes me?" she squeaked.