Haunted Mansion Stories- Tale of the Drunken Ghost

Tale of the Drunken Ghost

Name: David Robert Unk

Born:

Died:

            Not all the tales of Gracey Manor involve foul treachery and evil intent, though none may be called happy or joyous. One of the lesser tales, and the least fearful, is that of David Robert Unk.

            David was a poor but honest soul who had suffered great tragedy. Orphaned at 11, alone in the world and possessing no known skills, he made his way as a personal servant to the wealthy. He had a natural affability which made people care for him immediately. His one great weakness though was drink. All hours of the day and night would find him consorting with the bottle. One day, to his great misfortune (though he never saw it that way), he made the acquaintance of a local vintner named Ernest Vino. When it was discovered that the boy had a natural gift for judging wines he was hired on the spot. For years David was given room, board and a bottle a day as his wages.

            One warm autumn afternoon, David was sent to deliver 50 cases of wine to the Gracey house in preparation for a gala that night. Giving in to temptation, David withdrew the corks from several bottles and drank just a sip from each. The trip was long and hot and his thirst returned so he repeated his little trick to the tune of half a glass from each bottle. By now he was feeling quite bold and merry. Upon reaching the Graceys the delivery was short by almost a full bottle. When the doors opened he entered as if the honored guest and bearer of rich gifts. He presented such a comical and endearing figure that by acclimation he was made “King of the Halls”, set down to a sumptuous feast and plied with drink of a hundred varieties. The party was a splendid affair and David earned the love of the entire household. Even the scowling Leota admitted to his infectious joy.

            Sadly, David’s prodigious palette was unable to cope with the free-flowing wines. Just before dawn he slipped under the table into a deep sleep and passed away. For one evening he was supremely happy. Today his ghost visits any party held in the manor, by the living or the dead.