Carmilla - Page 61/64

Here then, were all the admitted signs and proofs of vampirism. The

body, therefore, in accordance with the ancient practice, was raised,

and a sharp stake driven through the heart of the vampire, who uttered a

piercing shriek at the moment, in all respects such as might escape from

a living person in the last agony. Then the head was struck off, and a

torrent of blood flowed from the severed neck. The body and head was

next placed on a pile of wood, and reduced to ashes, which were thrown

upon the river and borne away, and that territory has never since been

plagued by the visits of a vampire.

My father has a copy of the report of the Imperial Commission, with the

signatures of all who were present at these proceedings, attached in

verification of the statement. It is from this official paper that I

have summarized my account of this last shocking scene.