Ghost stories are a truly timeless form of literature, the ghost, like death, has no end. Supernatural stories date back to the earliest ancient manuscripts involving mythology, legend and religion. Recent centuries have seen the supernatural flourish in Gothic romanticism through tales of fantastical creatures, demonic forces, and parallel dimensions (Scarborough). Interest in the afterlife has sparked many stories involving the interaction between the living and the returning dead. MR James's well-crafted ghost stories seem to elicit these strange skin tingling sensations. Techniques aimed at raising awareness among the reader. James's narrative and folk superstitions in "the black manner" engage the reader's imagination and psyche. The realistic settings, supernatural elements and sensational fiction steeped in mystery create anticipation. James's clear and intelligent knowledge of human nerves arouses fear, excitement and curiosity through images, strange and subtle suggestions that develop into personal supernatural experiences. The oratorical nature of James's stories brings the characters and drama to life and builds fear in the reader with disembodied textuality; “fearing that these words on the page might come to life” (Mulbey-Roberts 236). Unlike the supernatural Gothic tradition, James's short stories avoid elaborate romanticism and focus on the fundamental elements of fear such as realism and victimhood. The narrative style of James's "The Mezzotint" is similar to the original version of his ghost stories. With elements of direct speech and frank conversation, the narrator awakens the reader's consciousness by controlling and regulating the flow of information in the same way...... middle of paper ...... no man wishes to be buried in the northeast. next to a cemetery because it is Hells Corner (48). Another popular superstition or tradition found in today's culture is the number three. The number appears several times in the story and James' little attention to detail adds to the mystery. Sayings like “all things thrice prosper.” . . and encouragement. . . to try a third time. . . will say that the third is a charm” or “a coroner never comes more than once but three times” (Opie, Tatem 403). Gawdy is executed and returns to fetch his persecutors, Francis' only son. Francis is found dead on the third anniversary of his son's disappearance, having just completed the noir manner, the three deaths and the climax drawing to a close. James assures that a residual effect of fear continues with the narrator stating that the picture is still hanging. Ashlien Museum.