'
"The speech of the young profligate was applauded by several of his
companions, and away they flew to the bay of Blawhooly, from whence
they never returned. The two vessels were observed all at once to stop
in the bosom of the bay on the spot where their hulls now appear: the
mirth and the minstrelsy waxed louder than ever; and the forms of
maidens, with instruments of music, and wine-cups in their hands,
thronged the decks. A boat was lowered; and the same shadowy pilot who
conducted the ships made it start toward the shore with the rapidity
of lightning, and its head knocked against the bank where the four young
men stood, who longed for the unblest drink. They leaped in with a laugh,
and with a laugh were they welcomed on deck; wine-cups were given to
each, and as they raised them to their lips the vessels melted away
beneath their feet; and one loud shriek, mingled with laughter still
louder, was heard over land and water for many miles. Nothing more was
heard or seen till the morning, when the crowd who came to the beach
saw with fear and wonder the two Haunted Ships, such as they now seem,
masts and tackle gone; nor mark, nor sign, by which their name, country,
or destination could be known, was left remaining.
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