The story of Walter Delapore, a descendant of the Poers (the similarity to the name Poe is not accidental), a family that inhabited the Exham Priory estate. It is said that the building was constructed on very ancient foundations predating the Roman conquest of England. Delapore moves into the restored mansion, changing his name to de la Poer. He is not welcomed in the area; his ancestors had a reputation as murderers, kidnappers, and sorcerers. Since moving into the building, de la Poer has heard strange noises within the walls, which drive his cats into a frenzy.