As he was indulging in one of these evening vigils, which were complete revels of the imagination, the sound of approaching footsteps made him withdraw into the deep shadow of the ruined archway opposite to the tower.
"Bracebridge Hall, or The Humorists"
Washington Irving
There was also an old man, not many years since, of a sullen, melancholy temperament, who had kept two vigils, and began to excite some talk in the village, when, fortunately for the public comfort, he died shortly after his third watching; very probably from a cold that he had taken, as the night was tempestuous.
"Bracebridge Hall, or The Humorists"
Washington Irving
Dismal as such a sight would be, he assured us that it was formerly a frequent thing for persons to make the necessary vigils.
"Bracebridge Hall, or The Humorists"
Washington Irving