The Works of Edgar Allan Poe — Volume 3Poe, Edgar Allan
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The Works of Edgar Allan Poe — Volume 3
Poe, Edgar Allan
American fiction -- 19th century; Fantasy fiction; Horror tales, American
From the worst part of this dilemma I was relieved by the
sagacity of Tiger. Having got, after a long search, a small piece
of the note, I put it to the dog’s nose, and endeavored to make
him understand that he must bring me the rest of it. To my
astonishment, (for I had taught him none of the usual tricks for
which his breed are famous,) he seemed to enter at once into my
meaning, and, rummaging about for a few moments, soon found
another considerable portion. Bringing me this, he paused awhile,
and, rubbing his nose against my hand, appeared to be waiting for
my approval of what he had done. I patted him on the head, when
he immediately made off again. It was now some minutes before he
came back—but when he did come, he brought with him a large slip,
which proved to be all the paper missing—it having been torn, it
seems, only into three pieces. Luckily, I had no trouble in
finding what few fragments of the phosphorus were left—being
guided by the indistinct glow one or two of the particles still
emitted. My difficulties had taught me the necessity of caution,
and I now took time to reflect upon what I was about to do. It
was very probable, I considered, that some words were written
upon that side of the paper which had not been examined—but which
side was that? Fitting the pieces together gave me no clew in
this respect, although it assured me that the words (if there
were any) would be found all on one side, and connected in a
proper manner, as written. There was the greater necessity of
ascertaining the point in question beyond a doubt, as the
phosphorus remaining would be altogether insufficient for a third
attempt, should I fail in the one I was now about to make. I
placed the paper on a book as before, and sat for some minutes
thoughtfully revolving the matter over in my mind. At last I
thought it barely possible that the written side might have some
unevenness on its surface, which a delicate sense of feeling
might enable me to detect. I determined to make the experiment
and passed my finger very carefully over the side which first
presented itself. Nothing, however, was perceptible, and I turned
the paper, adjusting it on the book. I now again carried my
forefinger cautiously along, when I was aware of an exceedingly
slight, but still discernable glow, which followed as it
proceeded. This, I knew, must arise from some very minute
remaining particles of the phosphorus with which I had covered
the paper in my previous attempt. The other, or under side, then,
was that on which lay the writing, if writing there should
finally prove to be. Again I turned the note, and went to work as
I had previously done. Having rubbed in the phosphorus, a
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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