In a Glass Darkly, V. 2/3

A collection of eerie supernatural tales written in the late 19th century. The stories delve into themes of mystery, the occult, and psychological horror, often featuring enigmatic characters and complex plots. The book opens with a rich narrative about the protagonist's romantic pursuits and encounters, particularly concerning a captivating lady with a secretive past. The beginning of the volume introduces us to a young Englishman named Richard Beckett, who, after enjoying a substantial inheritance, embarks on a journey to Paris during a time of post-Napoleonic excitement. While traveling, he encounters a distressed noblewoman and her companion, the Count de St. Alyre. This fateful meeting leads Beckett into a web of intrigue, romance, and impending danger, as he becomes enchanted not only by the lady's beauty but also by the mysterious dynamics of her relationship with the Count. As Beckett's adventures unfold, including a dramatic confrontation with a menacing colonel, the stage is set for deeper mysteries to be explored throughout the book.