from Ghost Stories of an Antiquary, by M. R. James
I hadn't gotten very far at all before I realized that I recognized the story-- and that, in fact, it hadn't been more than a year (I think...) since I read it in an anthology of ghost stories. Still, such are my immense powers of forgetfulness that I was able to enjoy reading it again with only a few vague plot points "spoiled".
I'm under the impression that this may be one of James' most famous works, and it's clear why. This is a good old-fashioned ghost story-- just the right combination of shuddery horror and humor. You'll be smiling or chuckling one moment, only to find your skin crawling by what happens a page or two later.
ETA:
I forgot that I meant to mention that this story had more references to golfing, including this one, which made me laugh:
"But I'm afraid you would find it rather dull; you don't play golf, do you?"I think at least three of the stories in this collection refer to golf, but I can't tell if that's because the author liked or disliked the sport.
"No, thank Heaven!" said rude Mr. Rogers.
