one to two nights
You will smile at the absurdity of the notion , but nevertheless I assure you that a belief generally prevails that the house is _ haunted _ . ' ` Are there any grounds for each a supposition ? ' inquired the lady , with an incredulous smile , yet feeling an interest in the matter . ` Why , ' replied the owner , ` all who have as yet occupied the house have , after remaining one to two nights in it , removed precipitately , declaring that the most dreadful noises were heard during the night , tho ' none have positively affirmed that they actually _ saw _ any supernatural visitant . These tales of terror have so frightened people that the building has been unoccupied for some time ; and as it is a fine house , and one that cost me a good sum of money , I am extremely anxious to get a tenant of whom only a very moderate rent would be required . The fact is , I am no believer in this _ ghost _ business ; the people who lived in the house were probably frightened by pranks of mischievous boys , or else their nervous , excited imaginations conjured up fancies and fears which had no reasonable foundation . Now , madam , I have candidly told you all ; it remains for you to decide whether you will conform to a foolish prejudice , or , rising above the superstitions of the vulgar and ignorant , become the occupant of my _ haunted _ house -- which , in my belief , is haunted by naught but mice in the cupboards and crickets in the chimneys . '