When dusk has fallen and the faint glow of streetlights guide the way, perhaps you might see a figure standing in your local graveyard. You might not see his face, all covered in shadows, but his unmistakable blackened waistcoat and bowler hat could turn many heads if spotted during the day. Such a tall, lean figure towering over even the most elaborate monolith would cause anyone to walk faster to their destination. Some could see him as a monster, others a ghost, one has even referred to him as ‘the boogy man’.

Do not be afraid, for he is the mourning man, and is one of the few who doesn’t go bump in the night.

No matter how many times you walk through the graveyard on your way home, you’ll see him. Lilies will garnish his hands before gently placing them on the graves he visits. If you listen close enough, the faintest sounds of sobbing will make their way to you. On rainy nights, his umbrella will shield the stone, letting it stay dry and clean.

When dawn arrives, the man is no more – the lilies are still there with faint tears left on the marble. Nobody knows who he is, what he wants or where he goes, but they’ll always remember his kindness.

The next time you see him in the graveyard, perhaps try to have a chat – the mourning man never wishes to bother, but he’s happiest when telling stories of the deceased… as if they were old friends.