Kept at Crowsfoot Cottage
A spell forthe thirty-first
Being an invitation to a Halloween party for witches, warlocks, and the people who love them.
Brooms may be left at the gate.
Chapter the first
Of the hour
On the last night of October, when the veil is at its thinnest, the back door of Crowsfoot Cottage will be unbarred at half past seven. It will not be barred again until the last guest has flown home.
Saturday,October 31
Set a clock. Witches never do.
The hours of the night
- Half past sevenThe back door is unbarred. A cup of something green on arrival.
- NineSupper at the long table. Bring an appetite and a secret.
- Half past tenThe procession of hats, once around the garden.
- ElevenThree prizes are given, and one curse.
- MidnightThe candles go out and the cauldron comes in.
Chapter the second
Of the house
Hollin Way, as drawn by a guest who found it twice.
Crowsfoot Cottage stands at the end of Hollin Way, past the last streetlamp and the first crow. Park on the lane and follow the lanterns round to the back. The front door is for the dead.
9 Hollin Way, Sleepy Hollow, NY 10591
Chapter the third
Of disguise
Witches, warlocks, and anything that answers to them. Pointed hats are encouraged; pointed remarks, more so.
Three prizes, given at eleven
- The most wickedFor the costume that makes the cat leave the room.
- The finest hatHeight counts. So does conviction.
- The best familiarA cat, a crow, a toad, or a very patient partner.
Chapter the fourth
Of potions
Four draughts are poured tonight, from half past seven until the cauldron runs dry. One of them is safe for anyone.
Chapter the fifth
The summoning
To come, write your name in the book. The sigil takes its shape as you answer, and it seals when you send. Kindly reply by October 24.
The sigil waits for your name.
This invitation was kept by Ottilie Marsh at Crowsfoot Cottage, set in IM Fell and Garamond, and will be read aloud at midnight on the thirty-first. If you have not yet answered, the summoning is above, and the gate closes on October 24.