From the journal of Walter Corbitt:
6 March, 1808
…in following my base desires to understand more about the beings that I hath borne witness to, I ,Walter E. Corbitt, hath founde a strange tome while digging up on ye subjects. Within its ancient bounds it hath promised the “…most studious of practitioners to be able to converse with a most powerful and wise being”. Could this be what I have sought this entire time? Might I finally have found some proof – FINALLY – after so many years of what I have long suspected?…
21 August, 1829
… Bernadette has finally given up on me. During the night, she stole away with Theodore, back to her parents at Arkham. I suppose as much was to be expected, and yet it matters not. They are irrelevant now. I have done as the Black Man has asked of me – Theodore’s fate is out of his hands now, the accomplishment of the prophecy that has been asked of me will be fulfilled now whether I desire to it or not. After many long years of the most arduous of studying, I finally understand. The time is now right for all to bear witness to my long years of painful sacrifices. So close, the gift is so close…
12 June, 1833
…I have gathered those who I trust most to attend the ritual. All arrived at the hill at the moment of solstice. The stars are finally aligned and tonight the unbelievers, the doubters, the hopeful shall bear witness to the ritual of summoning I have prepared…
…It has worked! I should never have doubted it, I was so careful. When the moon reached its equinox, the Dark Man appeared, coagulating forth from the shadows around the circle, a shadow given form, ancient and alien to the insignificance of man. And it spoke – told us all of the truth of the way, the secrets of the mysteriis and whispered the truths of what must be done. Truly, tonight is the greatest day of my life…
…all knelt, awestruck, gibbering, beholding that which was impossible. Our Lord Granter of Secrets.
4 July, 1833
…the pact has been sealed, the loyal beholders organized and given meaning in their purpose, our lives are for the Black Man and the sacred tome entrusted to our protection. All bow before me, the Keeper Of Secrets. We have since met every solstice and equinox to renew our pledge and to study the secrets in our care. None must know of us – they would not understand, nay, they are underserving of our knowledge, our link to the almighty. We must prepare Our Lord’s coming so that we might receive His favour…
29 January, 1834
…through silent meditation with the infinite I feel the process working. I am transforming! Into a pure spirit, seemingly stille though freely moving through space and time, I will become both immortal and command my owne loyal subjects. Such is His gift to me, such is my sorcerous reward…