Bone to His Bone by E. G. Swain

Classic Ghost Stories

Edmund Gill Swain, born on the 19th of February 1861 in Stockport, Cheshire, was a respected English cleric and author known for his contributions to the ghost story genre. Educated at Manchester Grammar School and Emmanuel College, Cambridge, Swain pursued Natural Sciences. Ordained as a deacon in 1885 and a priest in 1886 at Rochester, he served as a curate in Camberwell before assuming the role of chaplain at King's College, Cambridge, alongside the notable scholar and author M. R. James. The two shared living quarters within the college, fostering a collegial relationship that extended beyond their professional roles. Swain's duties included teaching at the college's choir school, showcasing his multifaceted engagement in academic life. His literary legacy reached a notable point with the 1912 publication of "The Stoneground Ghost Tales," a collection that demonstrated his skill in the supernatural and positioned him as an early imitator of James, leaving a lasting imprint on the genre.

Within the collection, "Bone to His Bone" stands out as a quietly intriguing narrative. Set on a Christmas Eve, the story follows Reverend Bachtel, seeking matches in the dark, only to encounter a mysterious book on gardening. This spectral tome, once owned by a long-departed rector, subtly guides him to a specific spot in the garden. The unfolding events, marked by an understated approach to bibliomancy, reflect Swain's ability to handle hauntings without sensationalism. "Bone to His Bone" quietly underscores Swain's finesse, blending a touch of gentle humor with the supernatural, presenting a nuanced exploration of the ghostly that avoids overstatement.

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