Delphi Complete Works of H. P. Lovecraft(773)

Surely, I mused, it was a pleasantry

Devised by one who did not truly know

The Elder Sign, bequeathed from long ago,

That sets the fumbling forms of darkness free.



He had not meant it — no — but still I lit

Another lamp as starry Leo climbed

Out of the Seekonk, and a steeple chimed

Three — and the firelight faded, bit by bit.

Then at the door that cautious rattling came —

And the mad truth devoured me like a flame!