You’re reading Sleep, Dearie, Sleep, a historical epistolary horror in which progress, modernity and reason are confounded by ancient, forgotten realities. This is the final episode.
Previously, Archie committed the ultimate sacrifice. Reeling from shock, Bridget lost her baby and her health began to deteriorate. Nevertheless, Archie completed the bridge on time, to much acclaim and fortune.
Diary of Bridget Katherine Craig, 5 August, 1793
I have seen Fiona. She has been coming to me for more than a week now. I first glimpsed her in the garden, as I was kneeling beside her brother’s grave. My heart leapt, for I thought at first that she had been returned safely. But when I got up and ran to her, she was gone, and I thought she must have been a vision conjured by my own longing.
She came to me again that same night, in my room as I made my ablutions. Silent and pale, she appeared …
