The Treasure of Abbot Thomas (Fantasy and Horror Classics)

Driven by intellectual curiosity and the lure of forgotten wealth, a scholar follows an intricate, cryptic trail to a dark, secluded abbey. He successfully deciphers the final inscription, which warns of a guardian. Ignoring the chilling advice, he pries open the vault, disturbing not only the gold but a monstrous, terrifying attendant bound by ancient oaths to protect the hoard.

From the mind of M. R. James, the acknowledged master who redefined the ghost story for the 20th century and founded the 'antiquarian ghost story' genre, comes a chilling tale where the pursuit of lost wealth leads to terrifying retribution.

This story is a quintessential example of James' genius for combining scholarly investigation with visceral, creeping dread. It is essential reading for fans of classic ghost stories and supernatural fiction, proving that some treasures are cursed to remain buried.