In which the curious phenomenon of veracious waking hallucinations, commonly known as ghosts or wraiths, is explored with a delicacy that balances scientific enquiry and respectful wonder, illustrating cases that range from shadowy coach apparitions to voices and touches that convey hidden truths. The narrative gently examines these spectral impressions and their properties, inviting reflection on their place between fancy, coincidence, and the mysterious workings of the mind.

In which appearances of living persons distant or absent are examined with a discerning eye, encompassing phenomena from Highland “second sight” to curious instances of voluntary projections and spectral arrivals, accompanied by reflections on expectant attention and the strange influence of animals in witnessing apparitions. The narrative also thoughtfully explores famous accounts and sombre coincidences linked with death, considering telepathy as a possible thread uniting these mysterious manifestations.

In which we are gently guided from the realm of ordinary dreams to the curious phenomenon of waking hallucinations experienced by sane and sensible folk, with thoughtful reflections on the revelations of Mr. Galton and the intriguing practice of crystal gazing. We are also invited to ponder marvellous accounts of visions that verged on the prophetic, including an historical narrative offered by the Duc de Saint Simon, all quietly challenging the boundaries of science and belief.

In which the curious phenomena of dreams revealing unknown pasts, distant presents, and uncertain futures are examined through various anecdotes, including a hypnotic vision of Queen Mary’s jewels and the vivid dream of Mr. Williams foretelling Mr. Perceval’s murder. These narratives are delicately weighed against sceptical explanations, illustrating the enduring human fascination with veracious dreams that seem to transcend ordinary experience and veer into the mysterious realms of time and consciousness.

In which the author reflects upon the growing popularity of second sight and crystal gazing since the book’s first edition, noting the abundance of new and startling ghost stories from diverse lands. He also mentions the lasting impact of one particular tale, now commemorated by a memorial stone, suggesting its enduring place in tradition.

In which the curious author invites us to consider the delicate gradations between the commonplace phenomena of dreams and the more startling experiences known as ghosts, illustrating with tales of shared dreams, fulfilled visions, and the uncanny déjà vu. Through engaging anecdotes and learned reflections, he gently leads the reader to appreciate how the sleeping mind may weave knowledge, memory, and imagination into the theatrical fabric of the unseen and the mysterious.