Phantom Of Death

Hours afterward, when the tragic spell had broken and scraps and oddsof the affair began to throng the memories of those present at theopening performance of "His Soul's Master," several persons rememberedthat a curious hush had preceded the fateful moment. No one could tell why, but of a sudden all sounds had ceased. Subduedwhispers, the creaking of seats, and the froufrou of garments hadstopped as abruptly as if a silencing signal had gone through thelittle auditorium. The spectators had sat motionless, momentarilyholding their breath, and even the voices of the actors had falteredfor an appreciable second or two. The stillness had been charged withan uneasy tension, and it seemed as though a telepathic whisper ofwarning had been communicated to the gathering.