Haunted Tales of Darkness - The Place of Safety by E. G. Swain (1927) | A Forgotten Classic English Ghost Story

The Place of Safety is one of the finest stories in E. G. Swain's celebrated collection The Stoneground Ghost Tales, first published in 1927 by Ernest Benn Limited. Inspired by the upheavals of the English Reformation, the story centers upon an antiquarian's search for sacred church treasures believed to have been hidden from the royal commissioners of King Edward VI. As historical curiosity gives way to the supernatural, Swain creates an unforgettable tale of silent guardians, impossible apparitions, and mysteries that refuse to remain buried. Drawing upon his own experience as an Anglican clergyman, Swain became one of the foremost successors to M. R. James, combining authentic ecclesiastical settings with subtle supernatural horror. The Place of Safety remains one of his greatest achievements and is regarded by many readers as among the finest stories in The Stoneground Ghost Tales. Narrated by Christopher Halton.