STARTING_ROOM 2 ROOM 2 On the Train END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 2 You are on a train that's winding its way through New England, heading southeast toward the sea. The clickety-clack of the wheels had put you to sleep in the comfortable red plush seat, but now the lonesome whistle awakens you, and you sense that you are rapidly nearing your destination. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 2 You begin to question your presence on this train and look around you in an effort to discover who you are and where you're going. END_HELP NOUN 300 satchel embroidered An embroidered satchel rests on the next seat. LOCATION 2 CLOSABLE CLOSED WEIGHT 20 SIZE 20 NOUN_SYNONYMS BAG SUITCASE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 300 The satchel is woven from red, green, and white threads. It has a wooden handle and a brass clasp. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 305 door sliding A closed sliding door is the only exit from the train. LOCATION 2 (* on the train *) UNMOVABLE CLOSABLE CLOSED END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 305 The door is gray metal. A window is set into the top. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 3 On the Rails GAME_END END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 3 You land on the rails where you're instantly crushed by the wheels of the train. You quickly follow your Great Aunt Eliza into the hereafter. END_ROOM 3 ROOM 4 Station Platform EAST 6 (* Station *) NORTH 14 (* Sparse Woods *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 4 The station platform is empty. Sunlight plays over the wooden boards which creak silently as you move your feet and shift your satchel from hand to hand. The train rattles on out of sight to the South leaving empty rails stretching away from you on both sides. The sound of its whistle in the distance makes you feel very lost and lonely. The station to the East is made of whitewashed brick with a wood-shingled roof. You can go East or North. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 4 Maybe someone in the station will know the way to Main Street. END_HELP ROOM 5 Next Stop GAME_END END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 5 You get off the train in a bustling village where you immediately locate the post office and mail a letter to Mr. Ryder in which you state that you never got along with your Great Aunt anyway and prefer to return to New York, offering him a commission to sell the house for you. END_ROOM ROOM 6 Train Station EAST 7 (* Main Street *) WEST 4 (* Platform *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 6 You are inside the train station. You see some uncomfortable-looking wooden benches and a row of ticket windows, all of them closed but one. A door leads West, back toward the tracks. Another door directly across the room leads outside, and beyond it you can see a dusty road stretching East. END_ROOM HELP 6 Try talking to the old Stationmaster. END_HELP NOUN 307 calendar wall You see a calendar hanging on the wall. LOCATION 6 (* Station *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 307 The calendar displays one day at a time. It informs you that this is May 23, 1899. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 308 schedule train You see a train schedule. LOCATION 6 (* Station *) SIZE 1 WEIGHT 1 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 308 According to this schedule, trains stop here twice a day, once at ten a.m. and again at 8 p.m. Tickets to New York City cost $5. END_NOUN NOUN 442 ticket train You see a train ticket to New York. LOCATION 6 (* Station *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 442 The ticket, lying on top of a pile of similar ones, is an expensive link between you and your home in the city. END_NOUN_DESCR CREATURE 500 Stationmaster old An old Stationmaster sits behind the open ticket window. LOCATION 6 (* Station *) MALE CREATURE_SYNONYMS TICKETMASTER MAN END_CREATURE CREATURE_DESCR 500 He appears to be in his sixties, stoop-shouldered and wearing a green visor and small rectangular spectacles. It's hard to tell if he's friendly or not under his drooping gray mustache. END_CREATURE_DESCR ROOM 7 Western end of Main Street EAST 10 (* Bend *) WEST 6 (* Station *) NORTH 8 (* Highway *) SOUTH 9 (* Marshes *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 7 You are on Main Street. You see shops huddled together on both sides of the thoroughfare. The road curves ahead. You can follow it by going East or you can go West, back to the Station. Main Street branches into two other streets going North and South. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 7 You have some time to sightsee. END_HELP ROOM 8 Highway SOUTH 7 (* Main Street *) NORTHEAST 11 (* Dense Woods *) NORTHWEST 12 (* Old Tracks *) SOUTHEAST 13 (* Park *) SOUTHWEST 14 (* Sparse Woods *) NORTH 15 (* Oblivion *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 8 You find yourself on the Highway that meanders out of town. You can go in any direction except due East or due West. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 8 You must explore this area on your own. END_HELP ROOM 9 Marshes NORTH 7 (* West of Main Street *) SOUTH 16 (* Quicksand *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 9 You've stumbled into the marshes. Sharp reed grass tears at your clothes and fat brown bullrushes sway in the breeze. Spores from milkweed fly by overhead. You can turn around and go North to the train station or follow the salty scent of the sea to the South. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 9 You can make your own decisions. END_HELP NOUN 309 lily tiger A tiger lily catches your eye. LOCATION 9 (* Marshes *) SIZE 1 WEIGHT 1 POINTS 20 NOUN_SYNONYMS FLOWER END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 309 The tiger lily gets its name from its bright orange petals mottled with jet black dots. This particular flower is top-heavy and hangs down from its green stem. You smile with pleasure since the flower reminds you of your beloved mother, Lily, dead these past two years. END_NOUN ROOM 10 Bend in the Road SOUTHEAST 17 (* Village Green *) NORTHEAST 18 (* Gate *) EAST 19 (* Center of Town *) WEST 7 (* Main Street *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 10 As you round the bend, the little shops yield to huge old homes, some in the grand but simple style of Colonial days and others more elaborate and pretentious sporting long verandas and gingerbread trim. A chill creeps up your spine as you imagine that most of these dwellings are haunted by spirits that peer from the opaque windows. You can go Southeast, Northeast, West, or East. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 10 Aunt Eliza's house might be nearby. END_HELP ROOM 11 Woods Dense SOUTHWEST 8 (* Highway *) SOUTH 13 (* Park *) EAST 20 (* Cottage *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 11 You have entered the woods. They are dense with tall, thick pine trees bearing fragrant cones. Dried needles crunch under your feet except where a well-trodden dirt path leads East. You can also go South or Southwest. END_ROOM HELP 11 Help yourself! END_HELP ROOM 12 Tracks Old SOUTHEAST 8 (* Highway *) SOUTH 14 (* Sparse Woods *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 12 You come upon some railroad tracks, rusty with age. They don't look as if they've been used for a long time. You can go back to the highway (Southeast) or follow the tracks South. END_ROOM HELP 12 Red herrings usually belong in the sea; if you follow them, you're not "on track." END_HELP NOUN 310 spike metal You see a metal railroad spike. LOCATION 12 (* Old Tracks *) WEIGHT 5 SIZE 1 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 310 The spike is still sharp on one end and bluntly flat on the other. It probably came loose from the rotted ties on the old tracks. END_NOUN ROOM 13 Park Small NORTH 11 (* Dense Woods *) NORTHWEST 8 (* Highway *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 13 You've discovered a small park in the middle of the woods. Designed for families, there are wood-and-rope swings and seesaws, grassy mounds for picnicing, cultivated trees, and a tiny natural pond. Most of the area is surrounded by a stone wall. You can go North into the dense woods or Northwest onto the highway. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 13 This would be a nice place for lunch if you had the food and the time. END_HELP NOUN 311 shoe horse You notice a horse shoe. LOCATION 13 (* Small Park *) SIZE 2 WEIGHT 5 NOUN_SYNONYMS HORSESHOE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 311 The shoe is an old and rusty symbol of good luck. (You secretly wonder how lucky the horse that lost it could have been.) END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 14 Woods Sparse NORTH 12 (* Old Tracks *) SOUTH 4 (* Station Platform *) NORTHEAST 8 (* Highway *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 14 You are in another part of the woods where the trees are sparse. Most of them are young elms and maples. The ground is a white drift of fragrant lilies-of-the-valley. You can go Northeast, North, or South. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 14 God helps those who help themselves. END_HELP ROOM 15 Oblivion GAME_END END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 15 You walk further down the highway into oblivion. END_ROOM_DESCR ROOM 16 Quicksand GAME_END END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 16 You turn your face toward the fresh sea breeze, but you don't notice that the ground has turned spongy under your feet. Suddenly you've become mired in quicksand, and the more you struggle, the deeper you sink. Eventually, you die. END_ROOM_DESCR ROOM 17 Village Green SOUTH 21 (* Church *) SOUTHEAST 22 (* Beach Road *) NORTHEAST 19 (* Center *) EAST 23 (* Shops *) NORTHWEST 24 (* Law Office *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 17 This is the Village Green or Common, a grassy oval located in what was the center of the settlement in Colonial times. In those days the militia trained here weekly and sheep grazed on land that belonged to all inhabitants. There is a wooden fence enclosing the green, and tall leafy elm trees are ringed around its circumference. You can go East, South, Southeast, Northeast, or Northwest. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 17 Examine the trees. END_HELP NOUN 312 elm Dutch One ancient Dutch elm looks larger than the others. LOCATION 17 (* Village Green *) UNMOVABLE NOUN_SYNONYMS TREE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 312 The elm is one of the original trees planted by your Great Uncle Elijah. Its companions, victims of Dutch Elm disease, were removed and replaced many years before you were born. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 313 earth soft There is some soft earth here. LOCATION 17 (* Village Green *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 313 It may be that this loose dirt was caused by the roots of the old elm pushing up over the decades. It is also possible, however, that it was disturbed by human hands. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 18 Wooden Gate NORTH 25 (* Walk *) SOUTHWEST 10 (* Giant Bend *) NORTHWEST 26 (* Garden *) NORTHEAST 27 (* Front Lawn *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 18 You see a wooden gate in front of you. Beyond the gate is your Great Aunt Eliza's house which you recognize from descriptions in her letters. The house itself is a two-story yellow colonial square with two large windows to the left and right of both the small porch and the second-floor balcony. A "widow's walk" sits atop the shingled roof like an ornament on a cake. The entire front of the property is surrounded by a white picket fence. You can open the gate and go North or you can go back to the bend (Southwest). END_ROOM DESCR HELP 18 I'd be curious about the house if I were playing this game. END_HELP ROOM 19 Center of Town WEST 10 (* Giant Bend *) SOUTHEAST 23 (* Shops *) SOUTHWEST 17 (* Village Green *) EAST 28 (* Meadow *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 19 You are in the center of town. This is just a dirt road, actually, and the few carriages that pass by this late in the day are heading for the shops located to the Southwest and Southeast to complete their business before they close. You can also go East or West. END_ROOM_DESCR ROOM 20 Fisherman's Cottage WEST 11 (* Dense Woods *) ROOM_SYNONYMS CHANGE_LOCATIONS KNOCK SPECIAL 29 (* knocking on door causes player to go to Room 29 *) KEY 314 (* Cottage Door *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 20 You have discovered a cottage in the clearing of the dense woods. Uncertain of your way in a strange area, you consider asking for directions. You notice the cheery whitewashed walls and the smoke curling from the chimney and decide that this must be a friendly place. Going West takes you back into the woods. END_ROOM_DESCR NOUN 314 door cottage Only one door to the cottage is visible. LOCATION 20 (* Cottage *) UNMOVABLE CLOSABLE CLOSED END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 314 The door to the cottage is painted green. Although there is no pretentious knocker, the color on its upper half is faded as though many knuckles have rapped on it. END_NOUN_DESCR SPECIAL 29 Gathering up your courage, you knock on the door. You hear someone call out something in a melodious language which may or may not be an invitation to enter. While you hesitate on the stoop, the door swings open and, feeling encouraged, you step into the warm, cozy kitchen of the little cottage. END_SPECIAL ROOM 21 Stone Church NORTH 17 (* Village Green *) EAST 30 (* Orchard *) ROOM_SYNONYMS CHANGE_LOCATIONS PUSH SPECIAL 31 (* pushing on door causes player to go to Room 31 *) KEY 315 (* church door *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 21 Ahead of you is a stone church that looks as if it were imported from an English countryside. The walls are brownish-gray and festooned with ivy vines that climb almost to the base of the spire. You can go North or East. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 21 There may be help for you in here, my child. Then again ... END_HELP NOUN 315 door oak The church door is made of heavy oak. LOCATION 21 (* Stone Church *) UNMOVABLE CLOSABLE CLOSED END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 315 The door looks solid. It's joined to an equally heavy frame by huge black hinges. An ornate keyhole is set above the latch, and in it is an oversized key. You remember that you read somewhere that church doors are never locked. END_NOUN_DESCR SPECIAL 31 You push open the heavy oak door and enter the church. END_SPECIAL ROOM 22 Beach Road NORTHWEST 17 (* Village Green *) EAST 32 (* Graveyard *) SOUTH 33 (* Ocean *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 22 You are on the Beach Road which, as its name suggests, leads to the sea. As you walk, you can smell the ocean and feel its breeze whipping your cape around you. The dirt on the side of the road is mixed with sand, and the tall trees of the village have given way to scrub pines and rough grasses. You can go Northwest, East, or South. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 22 Walking in the sea air can make you feel very good but very tired. END_HELP ROOM 23 Tiny Shops WEST 17 (* Village Green *) NORTHWEST 19 (* Center *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 23 Tiny shops line the small business section of the town. Their windows are inviting, and you wish you had both time and money to spend browsing their interiors...especially your favorite, the Store of Seven Spells (a unique gift shop.) However, you know that you must be on your way, and you make a solemn vow to yourself that you'll return before you leave for New York. You can go West or Northwest. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 23 I'd give you both time and money if I could, but then, I'm only a computer! END_HELP ROOM 24 Outside Law Office SOUTHEAST 17 (* Village Green *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 24 You are standing in front of the office of Ryder and Lockwood, Attorneys at Law. The building is made of solid brick with dark wood trim. The windows have tiny frosted diamond shaped panes separated by thin strips of the same dark wood. Somehow, this building seems to you like an island of safety. You can go Southeast. END_ROOM_DESCR NOUN 316 sign hand-painted You notice a hand-painted sign. LOCATION 24 (* Law Office *) UNMOVABLE READABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 316 The lettering is rendered in beautiful calligraphy. END_NOUN TEXT 316 CLOSED END_TEXT NOUN 317 nameplate brass You see a brass nameplate. LOCATION 24 (* Law Office *) UNMOVABLE READABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 317 The nameplate is well-polished and shining. END_NOUN_DESCR TEXT 317 JOHN RYDER HENRY LOCKWOOD ATTORNEYS AT LAW END_TEXT NOUN 318 door red A cheery red door leads into the law office. LOCATION 24 (* Law Office *) UNMOVABLE CLOSABLE CLOSED END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 318 The door has little square panes set into the top. They're too high up to see through, and in addition, they're covered by small curtains. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 25 Front Walk NORTH 34 (* Front Porch *) SOUTH 18 (* Gate *) NORTHWEST 26 (* Garden *) NORTHEAST 27 (* Front Lawn *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 25 You're on the front walk which is really nothing more than flat, mossy stones set deep into the grass. You can go North toward the house or South back through the gate. You can also go Northeast or Northwest. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 25 This is a test of your free will. END_HELP ROOM 26 Overgrown Garden NORTH 35 (* Gazebo *) SOUTHEAST 25 (* Walk *) EAST 66 (* Kitchen *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 26 You are in the garden. It's quite overgrown since your Great Aunt Eliza was not well enough to care for it properly in her twilight years. Bright flowers spill over each other in colorful profusion, seeming almost to dance as sunlight strikes their petals unevenly, much of it filtered from the huge elms and oaks that line the picket fence. You can go North, East, or Southeast. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 26 The garden is both interesting and peaceful. END_HELP NOUN 319 bench stone A stone bench rests in a shady corner of the garden. LOCATION 26 (* Garden *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 319 The little seat looks as if it was actually carved from the granite that is so abundant in the New England states. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 320 sundial stone You discover a sundial hidden in a tangle of weeds. LOCATION 26 (* Garden *) UNMOVABLE READABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 320 After clearing away the dead brown vegetation, you can see that the sundial is made of granite with a circular brass dial. The shadow across the dial indicates a time that is in agreement with the hands on your watch. There is writing etched around the circumference of the dial, and you get the feeling that this object is trying to tell you more than just the time of day. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 27 Front Lawn EAST 36 (* Driveway *) SOUTHWEST 25 (* Walk *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 27 The grass of the front lawn is lush and green, if a bit too high. You can go East or Southwest. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 27 If you'd like to take off your shoes and wiggle your toes in the grass, I won't breathe a byte to anyone. END_HELP ROOM 28 Meadow WEST 19 (* Town Center *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 28 A meadow, brown and overgrown with neglect, lies at the edge of town. Once a family lived here, but a fire started by a drunken transient killed them all one night as they slept. Now the wind whistles through the burned-out shell of the cottage that used to be a happy home. You can go West. END_ROOM HELP 28 Would you believe that this unwanted piece of land is destined to become a shopping mall seventy years from now? END_HELP NOUN 321 tree apple You see a gnarled apple tree about five yards from the cottage. LOCATION 28 (* Meadow *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 321 The tree is charred and leafless, apparently another victim of the fire. Its bare arms reach out like skeletons to the ghosts that haunt the cottage. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 322 sign crude A crude sign is nailed to the apple tree. LOCATION 28 (* Meadow *) UNMOVABLE READABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 322 The sign is made of wood, and the words look like they were painted on with a thick brush. END_NOUN_DESCR TEXT 322 FOR SALE CHEAP! END_TEXT ROOM 29 Cottage Kitchen WEST 20 (* Yard of Cottage *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 29 You are in the kitchen of the little cottage. It is sparsely furnished, but it feels cozy and warm nevertheless. A wooden table and two chairs are located against the South wall. A huge walk-in fireplace takes up almost all of the North wall, and you notice a great round pot as well as a shiny kettle both boiling over the roaring fire. A small braided rug covers the hardwood floor. A door in the West wall is closed, as it should be since it apparently leads to the family's living quarters. The door to the outside is to the West. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 29 Your stomach is beginning to rumble. END_HELP CREATURE 501 Woman Portuguese An old Portuguese woman smiles at you from across the room. LOCATION 29 (* Cottage Kitchen *) FEMALE NOUN_SYNONYMS FISHWIFE END_CREATURE CREATURE_DESCR 501 The old woman appears ageless. Her rotund body is clad in a print housedress and white apron, and her gray hair is knotted in a bun and covered with a red bandana. She seems to be very hospitable. END_CREATURE_DESCR NOUN 323 tea herb The old woman has made some herb tea. LOCATION 29 (* Cottage Kitchen *) DRINKABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 323 The tea is very hot and smells strange but delightful. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 324 bread Portuguese You see a thick slab of Portuguese bread. LOCATION 29 (* Cottage Kitchen *) SIZE 3 WEIGHT 2 EDIBLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 324 You've never tasted Portuguese bread before, but its white texture and crispy crust look pretty nourishing for a hungry traveler. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 325 fish grilled You see a piece of grilled fish. LOCATION 29 (* Cottage Kitchen *) SIZE 2 WEIGHT 2 EDIBLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 325 Possibly cod or herring, the fish both looks and smells delicious. END_NOUN DESCR ROOM 30 Apple Orchard WEST 21 (* Church *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 30 This place was once a thriving orchard, providing apples for the poorer members of the church congregation. It is surrounded by a stone wall on all sides except the West where the barely visible path leads back to the stone church. No one has tended the trees in a long time, and they have grown crooked and misshapen, some no longer able to bear fruit. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 30 An apple a day keeps hunger away. END_HELP NOUN 326 apple delicious You see a delicious-looking apple. LOCATION 30 (* Apple Orchard *) EDIBLE SIZE 1 WEIGHT 2 NOUN_SYNONYMS FRUIT END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 326 Even though the apple trees have suffered, the fruit looks ripe and juicy. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 31 Inside the Church NORTHEAST 21 (* Outside Church *) ROOM_SYNONYMS CHANGE_LOCATIONS PULL SPECIAL 37 (* pulling ring causes player to go to Room 37 *) KEY 328 (* rusty ring *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 31 The inside of the church is cool and damp and dark, illuminated only by the candles on the altar and the walls. Only a small amount of light filters through the stained-glass windows. There is a plain wooden cross on the white-sheeted altar. You can go Northeast. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 31 Remember your faithful computer in your prayers. END_HELP NOUN 327 pew wooden You notice a wooden pew near the front of the church. LOCATION 31 (* Inside the Church *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 327 Drawing nearer, you see a bronze plaque on its side which bears your Great Aunt's family name. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 328 ring rusty A rusty ring is located in the floor on the left side of the altar. LOCATION 31 (* Inside the Church *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN SPECIAL 37 You pull the rusty ring and a trap door creaks open beneath your hands. Curious, you creep downward, feeling for the rickety steps with hesitant feet. Suddenly, you find yourself in a dark and eerie passageway beneath the church. END_SPECIAL NOUN 329 candle white You see a fat white candle nearby. LOCATION 31 (* Inside the Church *) SIZE 2 WEIGHT 2 IS_LIGHT END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 329 The candle, intended for worship, looks like it would burn for a very long time. Since its flame is weak, though, it would be better to use it indoors. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 32 Graveyard WEST 22 (* Beach Road *) ROOM_SYNONYMS CHANGE_LOCATIONS PUSH PRESS SPECIAL 38 (* pressing flower causes player to go to Room 38 *) KEY 333 (* chiseled flower *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 32 You find yourself in the town graveyard. Except for its Western exit onto the Beach Road, it is ringed by stone walls to ensure the eternal rest of its inhabitants. But for the wind soughing through the tall pines and an occasional chirp of a distant bird, the silence is overwhelming. END_ROOM HELP 32 You're going to have to push a little here. END_HELP NOUN 330 plot fresh You notice a freshly-dug plot surrounded by older monuments. LOCATION 32 (* Graveyard *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 330 Since it is barren of grass, you realize that this is your Great Aunt Eliza's grave and that she is at peace along with her brother, Elijah, and her many long-deceased ancestors. END_NOUN NOUN 331 headstone solitary A solitary headstone lies near the corner of the stone wall. LOCATION 32 (* Graveyard *) UNMOVABLE READABLE NOUN_SYNONYMS STONE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 331 The headstone looks forlorn and uncared for. Tall weeds almost obscure its inscription. END_NOUN_DESCR TEXT 331 CHARLES ROBINSON IVEY 1835 - 1860 CURSED IS HIS SOUL END_TEXT NOUN 332 grave baby's A tiny grave lies next to your Great Aunt's plot. LOCATION 32 (* Graveyard *) UNMOVABLE READABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 332 The grave looks like the final resting place for a small baby. You can just barely read the grave to find out who is buried here. END_NOUN_DESCR TEXT 332 BABY GIRL BELOVED CHILD OF ELIZA JANE SWIFT 1858 I AM STILL WITH YOU END_TEXT NOUN 333 flower chiseled A flower has been chiseled on the baby's grave marker. LOCATION 32 (* Graveyard *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 333 The flower stands out from the stone in relief. It strongly resembles a tiger lily. END_NOUN_DESCR SPECIAL 38 You reach out to touch the chiseled flower and push gently on it to better appreciate the workmanship. Suddenly, the tiny gravestone moves to reveal a dark hole. You briefly wonder where the baby and her coffin have gone to. Unable to resist, you squirm through the opening and slide downward, landing abruptly on the floor of what appears in the dim light to be a tunnel of some kind. END_SPECIAL ROOM 33 Ocean NORTH 22 (* Beach Road *) NORTHEAST 39 (* Ring of Rocks *) SOUTH 40 (* Sea *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 33 You have reached the ocean. This is a magnificent sight, especially for a city girl. The soft white sands ribboned with bands of pebbles, broken shells, seaweed, and other assorted flotsam and jetsam give way to the vast blue expanse before you. On the far horizon to the South you can see an island which you correctly identify as Martha's Vineyard. You can go Northeast toward what appears to be a ring of rocks below a man-made jetty which extends into the sea; or you can go North, back to the Beach Road. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 33 It might be unsafe to explore here alone. END_HELP NOUN 336 shell conch You see a conch shell nearby. LOCATION 33 (* Ocean *) SIZE 3 WEIGHT 3 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 336 The shell is a perfect specimen, undamaged by years in the salt water. Its outer surface is white and its inner lining is delicate pink. It is very large and would make a nice decoration for a fireplace mantel. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 34 Front Porch SOUTH 25 (* Front Walk *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 34 You are standing on the front porch of your Great Aunt Eliza's house. You stare at the old-fashioned bell pull and wish fervently that your Great Aunt was alive and that you had simply come to visit the delightful old lady. You can go into the house or leave by going South. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 34 You haven't come this far to go back now! END_HELP NOUN 337 door front You glance with trepidation at the front door. LOCATION 34 (* Front Porch *) UNMOVABLE CLOSABLE CLOSED LOCKABLE LOCKED KEY 303 (* brass key in the satchel *) END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 337 The door is made of wood with a diamond glass pane set in the center. Once green, its paint is now old and peeling from the damp, salty air and the neglect of an impoverished old woman. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 35 Gazebo SOUTH 26 (* Garden *) EAST 42 (* Back Yard *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 35 This little summerhouse was built a very long time ago, probably when your Great Aunt Eliza was still a little girl. Its paint is faded and flaked away in some places, revealing many layers and colors underneath. You can go South or East. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 35 If places could talk, this one would have a lot to say. END_HELP NOUN 338 post corner You notice that one corner post looks different from the others. LOCATION 35 (* Gazebo *) UNMOVABLE READABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 338 Upon closer examination you can see something carved into the ancient, rotting, wood. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 36 Driveway WEST 27 (* Front Lawn *) NORTH 43 (* Carriage House *) NORTHWEST 66 (* Kitchen * ) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 36 The driveway is made of loose gravel dumped over bare earth. There are deep ruts on both sides made by the wheels of generations of horse-drawn conveyances going to and from the carriage house. You can go West, Northwest or North. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 36 If you're on a driveway, you're probably headed somewhere. END_HELP ROOM 37 Passageway UP 31 (* Inside the Church *) LIGHT 439 (* must have lighted candle *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 37 It's dark beneath the church, and you can just make out discarded vestments hanging like shrouds from unseen hooks. Spiderwebs hang from every corner, some of them still inhabited by black arachnids that you'd rather not see at all! You can go back Up into the church to safety. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 37 The best advice I can give you is to get out of here as fast as you can! END_HELP NOUN 339 door studded A heavy, studded door is set into the Southwest wall just ahead of you. LOCATION 37 (* Passageway *) UNMOVABLE CLOSABLE CLOSED END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 339 This door is secured by a heavy wooden bar. It looks as if it's guarding secrets not very easily obtained. END_NOUN NOUN 444 vestments ancient You see some ancient vestments hanging here. LOCATION 37 (* Passageway *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 444 The vestments are old and tattered, relics of years long gone. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 38 Underground Tunnel UP 32 (* Graveyard *) NORTH 44 (* Pirate Den *) SOUTH 45 (* Flood Chamber *) LIGHT 445 (* must have glowing lantern *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 38 You're in an underground tunnel. It appears to have been created many years ago, and you marvel at how long it's lasted in soil that's mostly shifting sand. The walls are quite rocky, though, and the openings look as if they were carved out by water rather than by human hands. You can go Up, North, or South. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 38 This place looks perfect for hiding things of value. END_HELP NOUN 340 message crude A crude message is scrawled on one of the tunnel walls. LOCATION 38 (* Tunnel *) UNMOVABLE READABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 340 Its letters were obviously made by scratching a pointed object into the hard rock surface. END_NOUN TEXT 340 H E L P END_TEXT ROOM 39 Ring of Rocks SOUTHWEST 33 (* Ocean *) ENTER 45 (* Flood Chamber *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 39 Huge boulders have formed a circle around a tiny inlet. The pool of water is just deep enough to get one's feet wet now, but you can tell by the dark line around the rocks that the tide can get very high, blocking this whole area from view. You can go Southwest or you can enter and investigate further. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 39 Since you're here now, you might as well explore before the tide comes in. END_HELP NOUN 341 opening dark A dark opening looms ahead of you. LOCATION 39 (* Ring of Rocks *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 341 It's very dark beyond the opening, but it appears to lead to some sort of cave. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 40 The Sea GAME_END END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 40 On impulse you shed your shoes and wade into the sea. The water is cold and soon turns your muscles to ice. When it reaches your waist, a hidden undertow grabs you and pulls you down into a swirling eddy. YOU ARE NOW DEAD MAY YOU REST IN PEACE END_ROOM_DESCR ROOM 41 Entry Hall WEST 46 (* Study ) EAST 47 (* Parlor *) ROOM_SYNONYMS CHANGE_LOCATIONS CLIMB SPECIAL 48 (* climbing stairs takes player to room 48 *) KEY 344 (* stairway *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 41 You are standing in the entry hall of the house. It has a hardwood floor covered with a small oval braided rug. The walls are unique since their handpainted French wallpaper was taken from a relative's house seven miles to the west and re-applied here. You can go East or West or back outside through the door (South). END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 41 If you're going to stay, you should close the door. If you leave, close it and lock up. END_HELP NOUN 342 door open The front door is open behind you. LOCATION 41 (* Entry *) UNMOVABLE CLOSABLE OPEN END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 342 The door is made of wood with a diamond glass pane set in the center. Its inside plane is painted white. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 343 portal odd-shaped You see an odd-shaped portal on the stairway wall. LOCATION 41 (* Entry *) UNMOVABLE CLOSABLE CLOSED LOCKABLE LOCKED END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 343 The little door looks like it leads to an elfin hideaway, but then, your imagination always was a little on the wild side. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 344 stairway curved A curved stairway winds up the west wall. LOCATION 41 (* Entry *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 344 The stairway is carpeted in with a thick brown runner, and its banister, once polished to a sparkling shine, now lies beneath the thin coat of dust. END_NOUN_DESCR SPECIAL 48 Placing your hand firmly on the banister, you climb the stairway and find yourself in the Upper Hall. END_SPECIAL ROOM 42 Back Yard WEST 35 (* Gazebo *) EAST 43 (* Carriage House *) NORTH 49 (* Grove *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 42 The back yard is a carpet of lush, green grass. A mini-garden of pansies, crocus, and marigolds borders the rear of the house. You can go West, East, or North. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 42 Pretty yard, isn't it? END_HELP NOUN 349 bulkhead outer There is a bulkhead here which probably leads to the cellar. LOCATION 42 (* Back Yard *) UNMOVABLE LOCKABLE LOCKED CLOSABLE CLOSED END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 349 The bulkhead is painted green, but the paint is peeling in places. A black handle is affixed to one door. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 43 Carriage House WEST 42 (* Back Yard *) SOUTH 36 (* Driveway *) NORTH 50 (* Gardening Tools *) EAST 51 (* Stalls *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 43 You are in the Carriage House. It is divided into three sections. The largest area (in which you are now standing) is where the family's conveyances are kept. You can leave this building and go West and South; or, you can visit the two other rooms which lie to your North and East. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 43 There might be some valuable items in here. END_HELP NOUN 350 coach handsome You see a handsome coach. LOCATION 43 (* Carriage House *) WEIGHT 100 SIZE 60 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 350 This vehicle is small, having just enough room for a cozy pair. As is the fashion of the day, it is an elegant black and bears a great resemblance to the motorcar that will someday make it obsolete. Only one horse is needed to keep it moving at a slow but steady pace. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 351 harness leather A leather harness hangs on a peg nearby. LOCATION 43 (* Carriage House *) WEIGHT 4 SIZE 4 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 351 The harness is brown and obviously as new as the lovely carriage. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 44 Pirate's Den SOUTH 38 (* Tunnel *) NORTH 52 (* Crawlspace *) NORTHEAST 53 (* Tomb *) LIGHT 445 (* must have glowing lantern *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 44 You are in a huge sloping cave which was once the den of pirates that roamed the seas off the coast of the town. You can go South, North, or Northeast. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 44 You may be close to solving a mystery. END_HELP NOUN 352 sword rusty You see a rusty sword lying at your feet. LOCATION 44 (* Pirate's Den *) WEIGHT 3 SIZE 3 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 352 The ancient weapon is rusty from age and the effects of salt water. No one would take it seriously, and neither should you! END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 45 Flood Chamber NORTH 38 (* Tunnel *) WEST 39 (* Ring of Rocks *) LIGHT 445 (* must have glowing lantern *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 45 This is a flat, nondescript cave with surprisingly smooth walls and a floor devoid of everything but a few rocks and some seaweed. You can go North or West. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 45 Things aren't always what they appear to be. END_HELP ROOM 46 Study EAST 41 (* Entry *) NORTH 54 (* West Corridor *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 46 The study was the place where your great grandfather and his father before him retired after dinner to pore over household accounts. Two windows face South onto Main Street and the single West window overlooks the garden. You can go North or East. END_ROOM_DESCR NOUN 354 desk rolltop There is a rolltop desk in the room. LOCATON 46 (* Study *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 354 The huge ancient desk is against the West wall to the left of the garden window. It's well-preserved under its thin layer of dust. The top is rolled up to reveal three small drawers on the left side, a large pull- out drawer in the center, and several vertical cubbyholes for stationery and correspondence. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 355 ledger bound A bound ledger is lying here. LOCATION 46 (* Study *) READABLE WEIGHT 5 SIZE 5 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 355 The ledger is bound in a red velveteen material. It is open. It is obvious that your Great Aunt continued to record financial transactions in this book. It's also true that she owed a great deal of money to her creditors when she died. END_NOUN_DESCR TEXT 355 CASH ON HAND BILLS OUTSTANDING BALANCE $100 $500 -$400 END_TEXT NOUN 437 paper folded You see a folded piece of paper. LOCATION 46 (* Study *) SIZE 1 WEIGHT 1 READABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 437 The paper itself looks fairly new, and the cryptic message seems to have come out of another time. END_NOUN_DESCR TEXT 437 THIS GAME IS DEDICATED TO YOU, J. D., AND 1962 IS NOW PRESERVED IN ELECTRONIC MEMORIES END_TEXT NOUN 356 clock grandfather A tall grandfather clock stands in the Northeast corner. LOCATION 46 (* Study *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 356 This lovely timepiece is an early product of the Seth Thomas company. You would enjoy hearing it chime, but it appears to have stopped a long time ago. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 357 fireplace clean There is a fireplace in the center of the North wall. LOCATION 46 (* Study *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 357 The fireplace is spotlessly clean. Not even a trace of ash remains to remind you of the cold winter nights that your ancestors spent here. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 358 chairs wooden Several wooden chairs are located in this room. LOCATION 46 (* Study *) UNMOVABLE PLURAL END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 358 The chairs are straight backed and look quite uncomfortable. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 47 Parlor WEST 41 (* Entry *) NORTH 55 (* East Corridor *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 47 You are in the parlor. It's a cozy room with faded but still-pretty flowered wallpaper and white trim. There are two windows facing South and one East window overlooking the driveway. You can go West or North. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 47 Hopefully you're not allergic to cats. END_47 NOUN 359 chair overstuffed You see an overstuffed chair in the Southeast corner. LOCATION 47 (* Parlor *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 359 The chair, like the wallpaper, has a flowered design splashed across its brocade cushions. It looks as if you could just curl up in it and read a good book, especially on stormy nights when the sleet taps against the windowpanes or on spring afternoons like this one when the warm breeze carries the scent of garden flowers. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 360 fireplace dirty A dirty fireplace is in the center of the North wall. LOCATION 47 (* Parlor *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 360 The fireplace is full of ashes and looks well-used. The blackened bricks of its rear wall attest to many warm fires in this room. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 361 bookcase cluttered A cluttered bookcase runs along the West wall. LOCATION 47 (* Parlor *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 361 Many well-loved, dog-eared volumes are jammed onto these shelves. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 362 book large You see a large book. LOCATION 47 (* Parlor *) READABLE SIZE 4 WEIGHT 3 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 362 The book is approximately the size of a standard sheet of letterhead. It's bound in gold with black lettering. There's an ornate cloth bookmark between two of the middle pages. Looking closely, you note that it's a book about flowers. END_NOUN_DESCR TEXT 362 The tiger lily with its orange blossom and black stripes, reminds the New England visitor of an exotic feline. END_TEXT NOUN 363 spinet small You see a small spinet under the South windows. LOCATION 47 (* Parlor *) UNMOVABLE PLAYABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 363 The ivory keyboard is much smaller than that on a piano, barely encompassing three full octaves. The keys are worn from many years of use, and you estimate that this instrument must be at least fifty years old. END_NOUN_DESCR PLAY_DESCR 363 Enthralled, you place your fingers on the keys and begin to play a favorite childhood song. Despite its age, the spinet's tone is clear and true and is somewhat reminiscent of a cross between the sounds made by a harpsichord and a pump organ. END_PLAY_DESCR NOUN 364 stool matching A matching stool has been placed in front of the chair. LOCATION 47 (* Parlor *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 364 The stool consists of a flowered cushion and polished dark wooden legs. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 365 vase bud You see a bud vase on the mantelpiece. LOCATION 47 (* Parlor *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 365 The delicate bud white vase is made out of fine china and has a hand-painted red rose sculpted into its front. END_NOUN_DESCR CREATURE 504 cat tiger You see a plump striped tabby cat with a pink nose and pink pads. LOCATION 47 (* Parlor *) FEMALE END_CREATURE CREATURE_DESCR 504 The cat is orange with brownish-black stripes. She has long fur and a brushy tail. She looks like she's used to affection and wants a little now. END_CREATURE_DESCR QUESTION 1 "What is my name?" asks the cat as she licks your hand. ANSWER 1 Tiger Lily ROOM 48 Upper Hall DOWN 41 (* Entry *) NORTH 57 (* Library *) WEST 58 (* Master Bedroom *) EAST 59 (* Guest Bedroom *) SOUTH 60 (* Balcony *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 48 The upper hall is narrow and curves around from the top of the stairs to a short North entry and a longer passage South. The north wall at the head of the stairs and the east wall are lined with oil portraits of your ancestors. Once you get by the white wooden railing on the South end, you can go West or East. You can also go back Down. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 48 Isn't this a fascinating old house? END_HELP NOUN 368 sampler embroidered An embroidered sampler hangs on the east wall. LOCATION 48 (* Upper Hall *) UNMOVABLE READABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 368 A long-dead relative once worked this sampler in memory of her baby brother who had just died from some unknown disease. The piece depicts a willow tree with a small child at its base and an angel floating above. There is a message in faded red thread below the scene. END_NOUN_DESCR TEXT 368 I AM STILL WITH YOU END_TEXT ROOM 49 Grove of Firs SOUTH 42 (* Backyard *) NORTH 61 (* Pond *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 49 You have wandered into a grove of tall firs whose pointed green tips seem to touch the sky. You can go South or North. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 49 You don't need help in a peaceful place like this! END_HELP ROOM 50 Gardening Tool Room SOUTH 43 (* Carriage House *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 50 This little room is where your Great Aunt kept her gardening tools. What few items remain are rusted and clothed in cobwebs since she could no longer afford a gardener and was too old and frail to do much outside work herself. You can exit to the South. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 50 As the worm turns, you might turn also. END_HELP NOUN 369 shovel heavy You notice a heavy shovel. LOCATION 50 (* Gardening Tool Room *) SIZE 6 WEIGHT 8 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 369 The shovel is old and made out of iron with a thick wooden handle. It was once painted green. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 51 Stalls WEST 43 (* Carriage House *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 51 In the stalls, you can still smell the scent of ancient horses and fresh cut hay. Only a few bales are left for the one remaining animal that you have paid your attorneys to care for until you can find a good home for him. The exit is to the West. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 51 Quit stalling and play the game! END_HELP CREATURE 505 horse friendly A friendly horse waits patiently for affection. LOCATION 51 (* Stalls *) MALE END_CREATURE CREATURE_DESCR 505 This is a fine animal with a brown coat sleek from careful grooming. He has a white star on his forehead and three white ankles. END_CREATURE_DESCR NOUN 370 lantern brass You see a brass lantern. LOCATION 51 (* Stalls *) SIZE 3 WEIGHT 3 IS_LIGHT END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 370 The lantern is tarnished, but its wick is new. You must light it to make it work. It would be advisable not to use it indoors as its light is extremely bright. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 371 oats fresh You see some fresh oats. LOCATION 51 (* Stalls *) SIZE 1 WEIGHT 1 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 371 The oats must have been brought here by the handyman hired by your lawyer. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 52 Crawlspace SOUTH 44 (* Den *) NO LIGHT 445 (* must have glowing lantern *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 52 This is really a tiny cave set into the larger one. There is barely enough room to stand upright, and the room is only wide enough for three people at most. You can go South. END_ROOM HELP 52 This is the good surprise! END_HELP NOUN 372 chest sea An old sea chest stands against the far wall. LOCATION 52 (* Crawlspace *) UNMOVABLE CLOSABLE CLOSED END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 372 The chest is old and caked with barnacles and mold. Its leather detailing has rotted away in places. It looks as if it belonged to a pirate, and you think of it as a treasure chest, certain that it holds something very valuable. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 53 Tomb You have stumbled into a tomb! SOUTHWEST 44 (* Den *) LIGHT 445 (* must have glowing lantern *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 53 Originally a simple cavern, this place became a tomb when the tide came in many years ago. The exit is to the Southwest. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 53 This is the bad surprise! END_HELP NOUN 374 skeleton manacled A skeleton is chained to the wall. LOCATION 53 (* Tomb *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 374 The skeleton stands in a grotesque posture, its mouth open in a silent scream. The bones seem intact, and you realize that he was probably manacled and left here to drown. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 375 locket golden A golden locket hangs around the skeleton's neck. LOCATION 53 (* Tomb *) CLOSABLE CLOSED UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 375 The locket looks delicate, as if it had belonged to a woman instead of to what--judging by the bone structure--was once a man. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 377 inscription tender A tender inscription has been cut into the other side of the locket. LOCATION 53 (* tomb *) UNMOVABLE READABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 377 The inscription was etched into the gold with a fine, sharp point. END_NOUN_DESCR TEXT 377 TO ELIZA, WITH ALL MY LOVE, CHARLES END_TEXT ROOM 54 West Corridor SOUTH 46 (* Study *) NORTHEAST 62 (* Dining Room *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 54 This small north-south corridor has built-in china cabinets on either side Much of the family china is kept here. Exits are Northeast and South. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 54 Why are you asking for help here? END_HELP ROOM 55 East Corridor SOUTH 47 (* Parlor *) NORTHWEST 62 (* Dining Room *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 55 This small north-south corridor has built-in cabinets with glass fronts which display cut glass ware of many shapes, sizes, and colors. Already somewhat valuable, these pieces of "Sandwich glass" will become collectors' items in future decades. Exits are Northwest and South. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 55 If you need help here, you are about as lost as I am! END_HELP ROOM 56 Sub-cellar UP 47 (* Parlor *) LIGHT 439 (* must have lighted candle *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 56 You find yourself in a sub-cellar underneath the house. Since there are only three steps leading down from the parlor, you logically determine that this area is roughly midway between the first floor and the actual cellar of the house. It appears that this area was used as a hiding place perhaps during the American Revolution when the house was in its infancy. You can go Up to leave this room. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 56 Look in the box. END_HELP NOUN 378 box wooden You see a large wooden box in the corner. LOCATION 56 (* Sub-cellar *) UNMOVABLE CLOSABLE CLOSED END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 378 The box is old and looks very heavy. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 57 Library SOUTH 48 (* Upper Hall *) EAST 63 (* Small Bedroom *) WEST 64 (* Back Hall *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 57 The library is a tiny cubbyhole with three exits: South, East and West. One window overlooks the back yard far below. Bookcases line the North and East walls. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 57 Read any good books lately? END_HELP NOUN 380 table round A round table fills the center of the room. LOCATION 57 (* Library *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 380 The table is completely covered by a bright red velvet table cloth. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 381 chair Queen-Anne A Queen-Anne chair is pushed in at the table. LOCATION 57 (* Library *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 381 The chair is red velvet with a round seat and back of equal proportions. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 382 Bible family You see the family Bible lying on the table. LOCATION 57 (* Library *) UNMOVABLE CLOSABLE CLOSED END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 382 The Bible is huge and so heavy that you cannot lift it. It is closed. Something is sticking out from its pages. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 383 glasses reading You see a pair of reading glasses. LOCATION 57 (* Library *) WEARABLE SIZE 1 WEIGHT 1 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 383 The glasses are old, wire-framed spectacles. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 385 lamp oil You see an oil lamp nearby. LOCATION 57 (* Library *) SIZE 3 WEIGHT 5 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 385 The lamp was designed to burn whale oil, a commercial output of the New England seacoast region. When you are old, these lamps will be marketed as "hurricane lamps" by a generation that outlaws the savage murder and exploitation of harmless sea creatures. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 386 cup moustache There is a moustache cup here. LOCATION 57 (* Library *) SIZE 1 WEIGHT 1 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 386 In case you've never seen one, a moustache cup has a moustache-shaped bridge across the top to cradle one's moustache as he drinks and keep it from getting wet. This one, made of white bone china, belonged to your Great Uncle Elijah. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 58 Master Bedroom EAST 48 (* Upper hall *) NORTH 65 (* Upper West corridor *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 58 When your grandmother and your Great Aunt were children, their parents slept in this room. Later, after their death, Great Aunt Eliza claimed it as her own. There are two south windows overlooking the front yard and a west window affording a view of the garden below. A fireplace is located on the North wall. You can go East or North. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 58 There is much of your Great Aunt still remaining in this room. END_HELP NOUN 387 bed canopy You see a canopy bed. LOCATION 58 (* Master Bedroom *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 387 The oak headboard is pushed up against the East wall, and the bed itself faces West. The full-size bed is covered with a handmade patchwork quilt and has huge feather pillows in white cases. The canopy is white organdy, now tinged brown with dust. You imagine sinking onto the bed and sleeping for as long as possible. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 388 bed trundle You also see a trundle bed. LOCATION 58 (* Master Bedroom *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 388 Pulled partially out from its permanent home underneath, the little trundle bed is a tiny version of the large canopy bead. It is covered by a matching quilt and has an equally soft feather pillow. This is where children slept as they made the transition between cradle and nursery. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 389 bureau oak An oak bureau stands in the corner of the West wall. LOCATION 58 (* Master Bedroom *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 389 Made of the same dark oak as the bed's headboard and posts, the bureau is further enhanced by carvings of fruit and leaves. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 390 vanity low A low vanity stands between the two windows on the South wall. LOCATION 58 (* Master Bedroom *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 390 The vanity is also made of dark oak wood. Its top is curved into a kidney shape, and there are rounded drawers on either side of the leg opening. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 391 closet clothes A clothes closet lies closed along the North wall next to the fireplace. LOCATION 58 (* Master Bedroom *) UNMOVABLE CLOSABLE CLOSED END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 391 The closet is narrow as were most closets in early New England homes. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 392 mirror cloudy A cloudy mirror hangs on the wall over the vanity. LOCATION 58 (* Master Bedroom *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 392 The mirror is oval and framed in gold-painted wood. Its cloudy appearance is caused by something that was inherent in early looking glasses and began to show up as the glass itself aged. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 394 drawer top The top drawer of the bureau is slightly open. LOCATION 58 (* Master Bedroom *) UNMOVABLE CLOSABLE CLOSED END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 394 This drawer is the largest of the four drawers set into the bureau. Like its mates, it has ornate brass handles. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 59 Guest Bedroom WEST 48 (* Upper Hall *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 59 This room belonged to your Great Uncle Elijah since his miraculous return from the ill-fated treasure hunt. When he died, Great Aunt Eliza turned it into a guest room. It is the mirror image of the master bedroom, equal in both size and proportion. Two windows face the South and one faces the East. You can go West. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 59 Just what was your Great Uncle like, anyway? END_HELP NOUN 398 closet empty An empty closet stands ajar next to the fireplace. LOCATION 59 (* Guest Bedroom *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 398 The closet has been cleared for the use of guests. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 399 dresser massive A massive dresser stands between the two South windows. LOCATION 59 (* Guest Bedroom *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 399 The dresser is empty in anticipation of guests. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 400 bed four-poster A four-poster bed faces the East wall. LOCATION 59 (* Guest Bedroom *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 400 The bed is identical in size and shape to the one in the master bedroom, but it lacks a canopy and trundle bed. There is a serviceable yellow cotton bedspread in place of the comfortable quilt. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 401 shelf high You see a high shelf in the closet. LOCATION 59 (* Guest Bedroom *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 401 The shelf is just reachable if you stand on your tiptoes. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 403 parrot stuffed You see a parrot on a swinging perch suspended from the ceiling. LOCATION 59 (* Guest Bedroom *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 403 Approaching cautiously, you soon discover that the multi-colored bird isn't real. More specifically, you remember that he was your Great Uncle's pet, brought from the South Seas and stuffed after its death. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 404 secretary solid A solid secretary stands in the corner of the East wall. LOCATION 59 (* Guest Bedroom *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 404 The secretary has a clean blotter, and several quill pens and tightly closed ink wells stand ready for use. The cubbyholes are crammed with stationery and envelopes embossed with this address. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 60 Balcony NORTH 48 (* Upper hall *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 60 You are on the front balcony. It's rectangular, approximately 4' by 2'. Shade is provided by a small shingled roof held up by white carved wooden posts, and the sides are enclosed by white lattice. The floor is made of wide wooden boards painted blue. You can go North through a small French door. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 60 The balcony seems pleasant, but rumor has it that it's an unlucky place. END_HELP ROOM 61 Bottomless Pond SOUTH 49 (* Grove *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 61 You are standing at the edge of a pond rumored to be "bottomless." Legend has it that some children skating on thin ice here one winter fell into the pond and were never seen again. The pond is quite large and to go around it would take such a trek through briar and brush that it would be dark before you finished. You can, however, go South. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 61 This pond is pretty, but it doesn't seem too friendly, does it? END_HELP NOUN 405 rowboat flimsy You see a flimsy rowboat here. LOCATION 61 (* Pond *) SIZE 10 WEIGHT 20 NOUN_SYNONYMS BOAT END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 405 The boat has two iron locks holding two long oars. It's red paint is peeling and the wood looks old and a little rotten. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 438 water deep You see deep water all around you. LOCATION 80 (* Pond *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 438 The water is very cold despite the warm May day. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 62 Dining Room SOUTHWEST 54 (* West corridor *) SOUTHEAST 55 (* East corridor *) NORTH 66 (* Kitchen *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 62 The dining room runs the whole length of the house. There are exits to the Southwest and Southeast and twin fireplaces on the South wall next to each exit. There are six windows in all, two apiece on the East and the West end and two on the North wall opposite each fireplace, all curtained in dusty white gauze material. A huge Persian rug graces the wide-board hardwood floor. You can also go North. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 62 Try something medicinal. END_HELP NOUN 408 hutch mahogany You see a mahogany hutch between the two fireplaces. LOCATION 62 (* Dining Room *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 408 The hutch is massive and holds the remainder of your Great Aunt Eliza's china. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 409 sideboard mahogany You see a mahogany sideboard between the two East windows. LOCATION 62 (* Dining Room *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 409 The sideboard features a set of silver for twenty, all emblazoned with a family crest that is reputed to be a genuine inheritance from your long-ago English ancestors. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 410 table long A long table fills the center of the room. LOCATION 62 (* Dining Room *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 410 The table is made of mahogany, its smooth polished surface covered by a heavy brocade table cloth. Above each end is a crystal chandelier, each bearing twenty-five half-burned candles. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 411 portrait oil An oil portrait is hung between the two West windows. LOCATION 62 (* Dining Room *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 411 The painting is undoubtedly one of your Great Uncle Elijah, looking stern but elegant with his white hair, white shirt, and black coat. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 412 buffet mahogany A mahogany buffet is located against the Southwest wall. LOCATION 62 (* Dining Room *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 412 The buffet is covered with many decanters of fine liquor. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 413 wine claret You see some claret wine. LOCATION 62 (* Dining Room *) SIZE 4 WEIGHT 4 DRINKABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 413 The wine is a rosy red, and it looks delicious. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 63 Small Bedroom WEST 57 (* Library *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 63 This is the room that your Great Aunt inhabited as a young girl when she and her sister outgrew the nursery. It seems, however, that it was made over many years ago as a room for the small baby that died, the child of Eliza and Charles. Left untouched after that tragedy, the room is thick with dust and cobwebs. Its cheerful yellow decor has long since aged to dingy decay. You can go West. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 63 This is a sad place with nothing to uncover but old memories. END_HELP NOUN 414 crib hooded You see a hooded crib. LOCATION 63 (* Small Bedroom *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 414 The crib and its once-bright ribbons and quilt are coated with layers of grime and neglect. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 415 painting dusty A dusty painting hangs on the wall. LOCATION 63 (* Small Bedroom *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 415 The painting is of two girls, and you recognize your Great Aunt and your Grandmother as they looked as adolescents. Once again, you are taken by the strong resemblance to each other which the two women retained all their lives. END_NOUN_DESCR CREATURE 506 spider brown A brown spider is watching you. LOCATION 63 (* Small Bedroom *) END_CREATURE CREATURE_DESCR 506 The spider seems more at home here than you are. Since he looks harmless, you resist the urge to hit him and instead watch him scuttle up the wall. END_CREATURE_DESCR ROOM 64 Back Hall EAST 57 (* Library *) DOWN 67 (* Back stairs *) SOUTHWEST 69 (* Nursery *) UP 68 (* Attic Stairs *) END_ROOM 64 ROOM_DESCR 64 The back hall is painted pale blue--including floor and ceiling. You can go East, Southwest, Up, or Down. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 64 I wonder who the architect was? The painter? END_HELP NOUN 416 musket colonial You see a colonial musket. LOCATION 64 (* Back Hall *) WEIGHT 5 SIZE 4 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 416 The musket is old and rusty. It looks like it hasn't been used in a hundred years. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 65 Upper West Corridor NORTH 69 (* Nursery *) SOUTH 58 (* Master bedroom *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 65 This is a small passageway joining the Master bedroom to the Nursery. It is bare except for some embroidered scenes on each wall. You can go North. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 65 You don't need help here. END_HELP ROOM 66 Kitchen SOUTH 62 (* Dining room *) NORTH 70 (* Scullery *) SOUTHEAST 36 (* Driveway *) SOUTHWEST 71 (* Cellar stairs *) WEST 26 (* Garden *) UP 67 (* Back stairs *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 66 The kitchen was intended to be warm and functional. Since the house narrows at this point, there are only two windows here, one facing West and one facing East. However, there are also Southeast and West doors leading to the outside. You can use them or you can go North, South, Southwest, or Up. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 66 You really shouldn't rely so much on help from others! END_HELP NOUN 417 fireplace huge There is a huge fireplace set into the North wall. LOCATION 66 (* Kitchen *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 417 This fireplace is so spacious that three people could walk into it. It is made of stone. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 418 kettle black You see a large black kettle. LOCATION 66 (* kitchen *) SIZE 6 WEIGHT 15 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 418 In the context of another game, this gigantic kettle would qualify as a cauldron. It could cook enough soup to easily feed a family of ten. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 419 kindling dry Some dry kindling has been laid in the fireplace. LOCATION 66 UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 419 Just twigs and scrub brush, it looks as if it would burn quickly. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 420 bedwarmer metal You see a metal bedwarmer. LOCATION 66 (* Kitchen *) SIZE 5 WEIGHT 4 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 420 The metal bedwarmer is a round covered pan at the end of a long stick. In the old winter days, you would place coals inside and heat the pan in the fireplace. Then you would carry the bedwarmer to the bedrooms and run them over the icy-cold sheets to make them more hospitable. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 421 counter work A work counter lines the West wall. LOCATION 66 (* Kitchen *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 421 The work counter is covered with various kitchen tools and utensils such as knives, forks, and other large cutlery. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 67 Back Stairs UP 64 (* Back Hall *) DOWN 66 (* Kitchen *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 67 The back stairs, painted blue like the back hall, has seven winding wooden steps curving left from the kitchen Up and curving right from the back hall Down. These steps apparently weren't used very much, and many spider webs and eggs are evident in the corners. You can go Up or Down. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 67 Keep going! You're doing fine! END_HELP ROOM 68 Attic Stairs UP 72 (* Attic *) DOWN 64 (* Back Hall *) LIGHT 439 (* must have lighted candle *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 68 The stairs to the attic are narrow and dark. They appear cracked and nearly broken in places, so you have to watch your step very carefully. You can go Up or Down. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 68 Keep going! You're doing fine! END_HELP ROOM 69 Nursery NORTHEAST 64 (* Back Hall *) SOUTH 65 (* Upper W. Corridor *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 69 This narrow little room was once a nursery for your grandmother and her siblings. Very little light comes in through the one window facing West. You wonder how children were expected to thrive in such a cheerless atmosphere. You can go Northeast or South. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 69 There are other rooms in the house that are less depressing! END_HELP NOUN 422 bed youth A youth bed has been pushed against the East wall. LOCATION 69 (* Nursery *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 422 The bed is big enough for two small tots. It has a patterned quilt over a thin mattress and high wooden sides. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 423 wardrobe child's A wardrobe stands against the West wall. LOCATION 69 (* Nursery *) UNMOVABLE CLOSABLE CLOSED END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 423 The wardrobe is about six feet high and has paintings of elves on the wooden doors. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 424 toybox covered A covered toybox squats againt the North wall under the eave. LOCATION 69 (* Nursery *) UNMOVABLE SIZE 10 WEIGHT 40 CLOSABLE CLOSED END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 424 The toybox is narrow, about 3 feet high by six feet wide by two feet deep. There are faded clowns painted on its sides. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 426 toys assorted There are assorted toys here. LOCATION 69 (* Nursery *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 426 The toys, dolls, books, and blocks appear very strange. Many of them are old and well-worn while others look new and unused. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 427 doll china You see a beautiful china doll. LOCATION 69 (* Nursery *) WEIGHT 3 SIZE 3 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 427 The doll has long golden hair and a sweet smile. She's dressed in an orange dress with black patent leather shoes. A pinafore covers the dress, its top hand-embroidered with the name "Lily." END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 70 Scullery SOUTH 66 (* Kitchen *) EAST 73 (* Water Closet *) NORTH 76 (* Servant Room *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 70 You have entered the scullery which is empty save for some pots and pans hanging on the West wall. Another fireplace is situated on the North wall along with shelves that were intended to hold food but are now bare. You can go North, South or East. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 70 If you're hungry, this is the wrong place to be! END_HELP NOUN 428 sink cracked A sink with a cracked basin is located along the West wall. LOCATION 70 (* Scullery *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 428 The sink is old and its porcelain basin is peeling. Rust stains run along the cracks. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 429 cupboard barren A barren cupboard stands against the South wall. LOCATION 70 (* Scullery *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 429 The cupboard is dusty and shows the remains of old food in the form of dark stains and mold. END_NOUN_DESCR CREATURE 507 mouse gray A tiny gray mouse sits on one of the cupboard shelves. LOCATION 70 (* Scullery *) MALE END_CREATURE CREATURE_DESCR 507 The little rodent looks as hungry as you are. He also seems very friendly since he merely sniffs and wiggles his whiskers when you approach. END_CREATURE_DESCR ROOM 71 Cellar Stairs UP 66 (* Kitchen *) LIGHT 439 (* must have lighted candle *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 71 The cellar stairs are made of stone. They are slimy and wet and very slippery. You can go Up or Down. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 71 You might need some luck here! END_HELP ROOM 72 Attic DOWN 68 (* Attic Stairs *) UP 75 (* Widow's Walk *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 72 The attic is stuffy and dusty. It's crammed with obsolete items. You hear noises and fervently hope that there are no bats here--that the scratchings belong to squirrels who live between the walls. You can go Up or Down. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 72 The pieces of the puzzle are coming together. END_HELP NOUN 432 trunk horsehair You see a horsehair trunk. LOCATION 72 (* Attic *) UNMOVABLE CLOSABLE CLOSED END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 432 The trunk is old and worn. It is unlocked, and the hinges appear to have been used often and recently since they do not squeak when you lift the lid. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 73 Water Closet WEST 70 (* Scullery *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 73 Your Great Aunt had this water closet put in several years ago. From the looks of the household accounts, it seems that she was still paying for the expensive plumbing when she died. The fixtures consist of a toilet with an overhead tank and pull chain and a small porcelain sink with exposed pipes. You freshen up, and now you can go West. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 73 Water closets might be a novel idea, but no one seems to need help using these facilities! END_HELP ROOM 74 Cellar UP 71 (* Cellar Stairs *) ROOM_SYNONYMS CHANGE_LOCATIONS UNLOCK SPECIAL 42 (* unlocking bulkhead takes player to back yard *) KEY 430 (* bulkhead *) LIGHT 439 (* must have lighted candle *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 74 It's a dark place, full of shadows and smelling strongly of mildew. Dampness pervades, leaving great dark water stains and patches of mold on the stone walls. You can go Up. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 74 Mildew is one of the hazards of living near the sea. It's one of the keys to survival there. END_HELP NOUN 430 bulkhead inside You see the inside of the bulkhead. LOCATION 74 (* Cellar *) UNMOVABLE LOCKABLE LOCKED END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 430 The bulkhead doors also show signs of the dampness. Their paint is peeling, and shreds of it come off in your hand as you touch them. END_NOUN_DESCR SPECIAL 42 You discover that the lock is nothing more than a bolt slid into place across the double doors. With a bit of effort, you push the bolt back the other way and unlock the bulkhead. You then push upward on the doors, climb the three stone stairs, and step out into the sunlight of the back yard. The brightness temporarily blinds you, and you let go of the doors. They fall back and slam shut, and try as you will, you cannot get them open again. They appear to have locked themselves shut! END_SPECIAL NOUN 431 key unimpressive You see an unimpressive key here. LOCATION 74 (* Cellar *) WEIGHT 1 SIZE 1 POINTS 10 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 431 The key is flat and made of a nondescript metal. There is nothing even remotely special about it. Nothing in the cellar--its resting place is on a rusty nail there--seems to be locked, and you ponder just what the key is supposed to unlock. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 75 Widow's Walk DOWN 72 (* Attic *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 75 You are on the top of the house on a raised platform in the center of the room known in New England as the Widow's Walk. It is said that in bygone centuries women whose husbands, brothers, and sons had gone to sea would climb up here and look out over the ocean, hoping for a sight of their sails and praying for their safe return. You can go Down. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 75 Look forward for happiness! END_HELP ROOM 76 Servant Room SOUTH 70 (* Scullery *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 76 The small room behind the scullery was originally designed for servants. As your great grandparents had more children, however, they began to hire day help from town. This room then belonged to your grandmother when she was a young girl. You can go South. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 76 It depends how you look at it! END_HELP NOUN 353 spyglass powerful A powerful spyglass rests on the floor. LOCATION 76 (* Servant Room *) WEIGHT 2 SIZE 2 POINTS 10 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 353 The spyglass is made of metal which has turned slightly greenish with age. The lens, however, is in excellent shape and would probably do its job admirably. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 435 window small-paned A small-paned window is set into the North wall. LOCATION 76 (* Servant Room *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 435 The window overlooks the back yard and the bulkhead which leads to the cellar. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 77 Shrine EAST 41 (* Entry *) LIGHT 439 (* must have lighted candle *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 77 This is the most amazing room you've ever seen. A small rectangular table, pushed against the sloping wall, is covered with a deep red velvet cloth upon which stand white candles in golden candlesticks. It gives the impression of an altar. The exit is East. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 77 Something both sad and happy permeates this room. END_HELP NOUN 434 scrapbook thick You see a thick scrapbook here. LOCATION 77 (* Shrine *) WEIGHT 4 SIZE 3 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 434 The scrapbook contains newspaper clippings from the past sixty odd years. It mentions the births of your grandmother, great aunt and uncle, the unfortunate baby who died, and chronicles your grand- mother's marriage and the birth of her only daughter, your beloved mother. The articles then follow your mother's activities, your birth, and your (you believed) uneventful life up until now. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 443 portrait child's A child's portrait hangs above the table. LOCATION 77 (* Shrine *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 443 The beautiful oil painting depicts a young child. She is blonde and blue-eyed with a radiant smile. She looks very much like your mother who, in turn, always spoke of the strong resemblance she had to her own mother and her aunt, sisters often mistaken for twins. END_NOUN_DESCR ROOM 78 Bottom of Cellar Stairs GAME_END END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 78 You are lying dead at the bottom of the cellar stairs. END_ROOM_DESCR ROOM 79 Splattered Heap GAME_END END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 79 You are lying in a splattered heap in the front yard. END_ROOM_DESCR ROOM 80 Center of Pond SOUTH 61 (* Pond *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 80 You are in the center of the pond. The calm blue water reflects the sky above, belying the dangers that lie below in what is reputed to be the deepest part of the water. END_ROOM_DESCR ROOM 81 Drowned GAME_END END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 81 You have drowned. END_ROOM_DESCR ROOM 82 Not Too Bright GAME_END END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 82 Since you still haven't found a good source of light and insist on remaining in this room, you must be None Too Bright yourself. So stop wasting time playing this game and go do your homework! END_ROOM_DESCR ROOM 83 Inside Law Office SOUTH 24 (* Outside Law Office *) END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 83 The inside of the law office is warm and friendly. You feel grateful to the man beside you for welcoming you when there was no one else to do so. You can go South to exit the office. END_ROOM_DESCR HELP 83 You don't need any help in this cheerful place. END_HELP NOUN 441 desk executive You see an executive desk beside one of the windows. LOCATION 83 (* Inside Law Office *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 441 The polished desk appears warm and rich and is a twin to the one beside the other window toward the back of the room. Its top is covered with a neat blotter, a gold pen and pencil set, and features a nameplate bearing the name "John Ryder." END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 440 document faded You see a faded document on the corner of the desk. LOCATION 83 (* Inside Law Office *) UNMOVABLE READABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 440 The document looks old, and John Ryder patiently explains that it was written by your Great Aunt Eliza many, many years ago. Until her death it resided in a sealed envelope with instructions that his father (and now he) should show it to her principal heir after her demise. END_NOUN_DESCR TEXT 440 I, Eliza Swift of Sea Town, New England, gave birth to a child in 1858. Despite the fact that I was secretly married to my betrothed, Charles Ivey, who died at sea, many townsfolk believed my child to be illegitimate. I could bear their scorn for my baby's sake; however, when my sister found that she could not conceive, my brother Elijah convinced me to give my child to her to raise as her own. Reluctantly, I agreed that it would be better for her to have two parents and live a normal, happy life. Thus, we bribed the town doctor to say she had died and even erected a stone to her memory over an empty grave. I never forgot my child even though I saw her rarely since she lived at a distance. Recently, she passed away and never knew that I was her natural mother. She left one daughter, and to her I leave my house and my love which are all I ever had. I hope she will read this and know that I loved Lily and regretted my decision many times over. Now, at last, Charles, Lily, and I will be together. END_TEXT ROOM 84 High Tide GAME_END END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 84 You are a victim of the high tide. You come up for air once and are immediately sucked back down into the deadly vortex. You drown. END_ROOM_DESCR ROOM 85 Infinite Happiness GAME_WIN END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 85 Your legacy has been fulfilled: you have a lovely (if mysterious) home and the promise of a fortune to keep it maintained; you have discovered a grandmother and set her ghost free in the knowledge that her child and grandchild have been happy; and finally, you have found someone with whom you will share the rest of your days. You and John will go on to buy the neglected property on the eastern edge of town, and your daughters Lily and Eliza will become rich in the future from the sale of this land. For now, though, as you rest your head against his shoulder, you smile as you look down the corridors of the future and see that you will never be alone again because END_ROOM_DESCR ROOM 86 Cave In GAME_END END_ROOM ROOM_DESCR 86 You open the heavy door. Despite the fact that the bar no longer blocks your way, you still have to pull with all your might. Finally, you wedge yourself in just a crack and....suddenly....you hear a great rumble and the passageway caves in, crushing you to death under mounds of earth and stone. You die. END_ROOM_DESCR ------------------------------------------------------------------------- REM: These items are being worn or are not defined yet NOUN 301 cloak blue You're wearing a hooded blue cloak. LOCATION 1000 WEIGHT 3 SIZE 5 WEARABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 301 This is a modest cotton garment which flows in generous folds almost to your knees. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 302 letter folded You find a folded letter addressed to you. LOCATION 300 (* satchel *) WEIGHT 1 SIZE 1 READABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 302 The letter is written in India ink by an obviously masculine hand. The paper itself is cream white and of the best quality. A heading is embossed on the top: Ryder & Lockwood, Attorneys at Law. END_NOUN_DESCR TEXT 302 Our condolences on the death of your late Great Aunt Eliza. In accordance with the terms of her will, you are the sole heir to her house on Main Street and its contents. Unfortunately, there is very little money and many outstanding bills. I advise you to inspect the property as quickly as possible and make arrangements for its disposition. Please contact me if I may be of further service to you. --John Ryder, esq. END_TEXT NOUN 303 key brass You see a brass key. LOCATION 300 (* satchel *) WEIGHT 3 SIZE 1 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 303 The key is tarnished and attached to a small metal ring. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 304 coins silver You see some silver coins. LOCATION 300 (* satchel *) WEIGHT 10 SIZE 4 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 304 The coins are silver dollars. There are ten of them, and that is all the money you have in the world. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 306 door heavy The train's sliding door is now open. LOCATION 0 UNMOVABLE CLOSABLE OPEN END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 306 The door is gray metal. A window is set into the top. END_NOUN_DESCR CREATURE 502 Ghost Mournful A mournful ghost suddenly appears, wavering and shrouded in mist. LOCATION 0 FEMALE NOUN_SYNONYMS SPECTRE END_CREATURE CREATURE_DESCR 502 Although the image fades in and out of view, you recognize the spectre as the ghost of your Great Aunt Eliza. She seems anxious to speak to you. END_CREATURE NOUN 334 bag cloth You have uncovered a dirty white cloth bag. LOCATION 0 CLOSABLE CLOSED SIZE 1 WEIGHT 2 NOUN_SYNONYMS SACK END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 334 The bag, its top pulled closed by a reddish drawstring, is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. It is, however, quite heavy for a sack of its size. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 335 gem sparkling A sparkling gem dazzles your eyes. LOCATION 334 (* in the cloth bag *) SIZE 1 WEIGHT 4 NOUN_SYNONYMS DIAMOND POINTS 5 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 335 The clear shining gemstone appears to be a huge diamond. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 345 door open The front door is now open. LOCATION 0 UNMOVABLE CLOSABLE OPEN END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 345 The door is made of wood with a diamond glass pane set in the center. Once green, its paint is now old and peeling from the damp, salty air and the neglect of an impoverished old woman. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 346 door closed The front door is now closed. LOCATION 0 UNMOVABLE CLOSABLE CLOSED END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 346 The door is made of wood with a diamond glass pane set in the center. Its inside plane is painted white. Twisting its dead bolt will lock and unlock it. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 347 bolt dead A dead bolt has been placed on the inside of the door for added safety. LOCATION 0 UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 347 This primitive dead bolt on the inside of the door is more like an old-fashioned latch: it wouldn't really deter a serious burglar. In a small town like this, however, the crime rate is pretty low. Your Great Aunt assumed it was better to be safe than sorry. You can secure it by twisting. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 348 door locked The front door is now closed and locked. LOCATION 0 UNMOVABLE CLOSABLE CLOSED END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 348 The door is made of wood with a diamond glass pane set in the center. Its inside plane is painted white. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 366 key tiny You see a tiny key on the floor. LOCATION 0 SIZE 1 WEIGHT 1 POINTS 10 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 366 The tiny key looks as if it would fit a tiny lock! END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 367 door hidden You can see a hidden door in the brick wall of the fireplace. LOCATION 0 CLOSABLE OPEN END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 367 The door is narrow and dark. You have the feeling that you should push it open and see if it leads Down as you believe it does. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 373 treasure immense An immense treasure suddenly dazzles your eyes! LOCATION 372 (* sea chest *) WEIGHT 50 SIZE 50 POINTS 10 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 373 The treasure consists of rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and pearls, some loose and some encrusting necklaces, brooches, and earrings. All told, it is worth a great fortune. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 376 picture faded A faded picture rests inside the locket. LOCATION 375 (* in the locket *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 376 Undamaged by water thanks to the tight clasp on the locket, the picture of a lovely young girl smiles up at you. Despite its age, you recognize it as a portrait of your Great Aunt Eliza. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 379 newspaper yellowed You see a yellowed newspaper. LOCATION 378 (* in the box *) SIZE 3 WEIGHT 1 READABLE POINTS 10 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 379 The newspaper is folded and seems to feature one story in particular. The article deals with your Great Aunt and Uncle as well as your own grandmother, Sarah Swift. END_NOUN_DESCR TEXT 379 BROTHER COMES HOME The misses Eliza and Sarah Swift welcomed home their brother, Elijah, believed for the last ten months to be lost at sea. It was a happy reunion save for the sad news that Charles Ivey, betrothed to Miss Eliza Swift, has now been confirmed dead. Mr. Swift recounted a spine- chilling tale of a cyclone at sea which swept Mr. Ivey overboard despite Mr. Swift's frantic attempts to save him. According to Mr. Swift, he and Mr. Ivey had discovered a huge pirate treasure in the South Seas and were returning home to begin a business partnership. The treasure, he said, has gone down with the ship and now lies at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean. Mr. Swift remained afloat in a lifeboat without food or water for six days before he was rescued and afforded the opportunity to work his way back home. END_TEXT NOUN 384 map treasure You've found a map! LOCATION 382 (* family Bible *) WEIGHT 1 SIZE 1 POINTS 5 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 384 The map is on cracked, yellowed parchment. It is very faint, and the writing is cramped and tiny. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 393 reflection your You see your reflection captured in the mirror. LOCATION 392 (* mirror *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 393 Although your cheeks are smudged and your hair needs combing, you notice a definite resemblance to the portraits in the hallway. Your grandmother and your Great Aunt apparently looked a lot alike, and you decide that you look very much like both of them must have looked at your age. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 395 diary secret You see a secret diary here. LOCATION 394 (* drawer *) LOCKABLE LOCKED WEIGHT 2 SIZE 1 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 395 The diary is bound in leather with a brass clasp. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 396 dresses long You see many long dresses here. LOCATION 391 * closet in master bedroom *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 396 The dresses are all full and seem to be in many colors and patterns. On the left side a dozen or so similar black dresses hang by themselves. These, you know, belonged to your Great Aunt who wore black all her life following the death of her fiance and her baby. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 397 diary open You see an unlocked diary here. LOCATION 0 WEIGHT 2 SIZE 1 READABLE POINTS 20 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 397 The diary is bound in leather with a brass clasp. END_NOUN_DESCR TEXT 397 June 22, 1857 What a wonderful day! I managed to talk Father into letting me go on a picnic with Charles. Since mother was otherwise occupied, he reluctantly agreed to allow Sarah to be our chaperone. With her blessing, we drove to Land's End and were secretly married. Oh, I know it was impulsive, but since Charles is so determined to go off to sea with Elijah to look for some silly treasure, it seemed the right thing to do. ...[Several pages of trivia follow]... August 28, 1857 I am cast into the depths of despair; and I am elated to the highest peak of happiness! Charles and Elijah left today for the South Seas on a whaling boat. They expect to be gone for a year. But my misery is offset by learning from the Doctor in Land's End that I am going to have a baby. Of course, no one will believe that I am a respectable married lady, but as soon as Charles returns I will retrieve our marriage license from him and hang it on the wall of the house he plans to build with his share of the treasure. END_TEXT NOUN 402 bankbook dog-eared You find a dog-eared bankbook here. LOCATION 0 SIZE 1 WEIGHT 1 READABLE POINTS 5 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 402 The bankbook is small and blue. It reveals something about your Great Uncle Elijah that seems inconsistent with the household expense accounts. END_NOUN_DESCR TEXT 402 Balance: $10,000.00 END_TEXT NOUN 406 hole small A small hole has appeared in the bottom of the boat. LOCATION 0 UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 406 The hole is about an inch or so in circumference. You never realized how much water could get through such a tiny opening. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 407 hole gaping The small hole has now become a gaping hole. LOCATION 0 UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 407 The hole has no definable shape since it has cracked through the rotten hull and is now under almost a foot of water. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 425 clothes tiny Some tiny clothes hang here. LOCATION 423 (* wardrobe *) UNMOVABLE END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 425 The tiny clothes are old-fashioned. Some of the little dresses look as if they've never been worn. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 433 license marriage You see a marriage license here. LOCATION 432 (* in trunk *) WEIGHT 2 SIZE 2 READABLE POINTS 10 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 433 The marriage license is written in flowing script on yellowed parchment which has been framed and tenderly preserved amongst herbal sachets. END_NOUN_DESCR TEXT 433 June 22, 1857 Eliza Jane Swift married to Charles Robinson Ivey END_TEXT NOUN 439 candle lighted You see a lighted candle here. LOCATION 0 SIZE 1 WEIGHT 1 IS_LIGHT END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 439 The candle is large but its flame is weak. It would be best not to use it out of doors. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 445 lantern glowing You see a glowing lantern here. LOCATION 0 SIZE 2 WEIGHT 1 IS_LIGHT END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 445 The lantern is very bright. In fact, it is too bright to use inside the house. END_NOUN_DESCR NOUN 446 matches fresh You see some fresh matches. LOCATION 300 (* in satchel *) SIZE 2 WEIGHT 1 END_NOUN NOUN_DESCR 446 The matches are new and dry and there are many of them. END_NOUN_DESCR CREATURE 503 John Lawyer John Ryder is with you. LOCATION 0 MALE GROUPMEMBER CREATURE_SYNONYMS LAWYER ATTORNEY RYDER END_CREATURE CREATURE_DESCR 503 John Ryder, the family lawyer, is about 40, tall and dark with chesnut brown hair and gentle, smiling blue eyes. His voice is pleasant, and he speaks with the quiet authority of someone who knows his business well. Personally, however, he seems quite shy--which may explain why he is as yet unmarried. END_CREATURE_DESCR VERB Dummy_Verb1 PICK Dummy_Verb2 DIG MOVE Dummy_Verb3 SIT Dummy_Verb4 BUY Dummy_Verb5 GO Dummy_Verb6 LISTEN Dummy_Verb7 PET PAT Dummy_Verb8 FEED Dummy_Verb9 KICK Dummy_Verb10 JUMP Dummy_Verb11 FIND Dummy_Verb12 KISS Dummy_Verb13 COOK Dummy_Verb14 DEBUG Dummy_Verb15 GIVE Dummy_Verb16 PAY Dummy_Verb17 KNEEL Dummy_Verb18 TWIST Dummy_Verb19 CLIMB Dummy_Verb20 ROW Dummy_Verb21 RIDE Dummy_Verb22 THANK Dummy_Verb23 TOSS END_VERB INTRODUCTION NEW ENGLAND GOTHIC by Simba Somewhere in New England, in the little village where I grew up, exists this very house and its immediate surroundings. When you play this game, you are a young woman in the year 1899 who lives and works in New York, supporting herself as a secretary after her mother passes on. Suddenly you receive word that your Great Aunt (your grandmother's sister) in New England has died and left you an old colonial house and a lot of debts. You will need luck and patience even more than money if you are to solve the mystery surrounding your Great Aunt's reclusive life, realize the full potential of your inheritance and (of course) find true love. NEW ENGLAND GOTHIC is purely fictional. Incidental names of the characters are merely drawn from fore- and surnames which were in use in the region during the nineteenth century. The characters are also fictional except for one or two who recall the most pleasant memories of people and animals I knew long, long ago. END_INTRODUCTION MAXIMUM_SCORE 265