… for my first visit to The Sunday Muse
.
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Ebenezer Black strode slowly down the main street dressed in his frock coat and top hat, cane in hand. Behind him, two magnificent black horses, feather plumes fluttering in the chill breeze, hauled a flower-strewn hearse bearing a wreath-adorned coffin.
Ebenezer Black was the town’s sole undertaker as was his father and his father before him. In 1831 he retired and soon after went to the other place. Since then generation after generation carried on running the family firm.
*
It is said that Ebenezer Black still appears before folk during their final few hours, standing at the foot of their bed, seen by none but them. He looks on, motionless, dressed in his sombre frock coat, top hat held to his chest, and a measuring tape around his neck.
*
One morning Robert Black was sitting at his desk opening post and checking emails. The light grew dim, and slowly the image of his great grandfather Ebenezer Black appeared before him, looking just the way the departing described him.
Later that day Robert Black lost his life in a tragic accident. He was never blessed with children, so nothing remains of the family firm.
Except that is for Ebenezer Black.
‘
Great storytelling Keith. Rich in foklore.
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Thank you, Suzette.
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excellent story
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Very interesting story Keith.
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Oh, yes. I am clapping giddily over this most excellent tale. Much love for that name! Ebenezer Black. Fabulous.
This is my favorite bit: “He looks on, motionless, dressed in his sombre frock coat”
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I’m so pleased you enjoyed it Shawna, thank you.
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An excellent tale well told. It reminded me of a time when, as a hospice volunteer, I was standing at the foot of an old woman’s bed; she was sleeping. When she opened her eyes and saw me, with my wild frizzy hair, she gasped and said “OOO!!!” I think she thought I was the Angel of Death. Smiles.
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Haha, that’s so funny! I’m sure she saw the funny side of it too once she was over the shock!
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Intriguing story Keith. Thanks for dropping by my blog today.
Much❤love
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Nice one Keith
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Good story!
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Unnerving.
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I absolutely love this Keith! A captivating story told wonderfully! So glad to see you at the Muse!
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A friend was once standing at the foot of her father’s bed, with her brother next to her, when her father told them, “Move over, you’re in the way of the angels!” He was gone soon after.
Yours is a very spooky tale, well told!
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Great story writing – the last line gave me the chills.
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Great story Keith – well done … as too Messymimi’s – thankfully it’s mid-summer – cheers Hilary
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Love this, Keith!
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