The Twins’ Counter-Haunting

This flow tracks how the twins turn ghostly threats into an ongoing contest of pranks that drives Sir Simon from public appearances.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Pellets in the Hall

Pellets in the Hall A ghost meets resistance After Sir Simon falls in the hall, the twins fire their pea-shooters at him. Their practiced aim makes the encounter resemble a mischievous game rather than a fearful visitation. The balance shifts Sir Simon flees through the family and extinguishes a candle, but the family is not cowed. The twins’ intervention establishes them as active opponents of his nightly authority.

A Counterfeit Specter

A Counterfeit Specter A frightening apparition Sir Simon encounters a bald, grinning figure with glowing eyes and a weapon. Believing it to be a real ghost, he runs from the corridor in terror. The trick exposed The figure proves to be a construction made from household objects, marked Ye Otis Ghoste. The twins have used the conventions of his own trade against him.

The Night of the Syringe

The Night of the Syringe A final ambush Two figures leap out and shout at Sir Simon while Washington waits by the stairs with a garden syringe. Trapped by the household’s coordinated prank, he escapes through an iron stove. Retreat from the corridors The humiliating flight leaves him dirty and despairing, and he makes no further nocturnal expeditions. The twins have effectively ended his public campaign before Virginia begins a different kind of encounter.

The first Sunday-night disturbance

During Sir Simon’s third planned appearance

Near the end of Sir Simon’s nocturnal excursions