5 November, afternoon. – I am at least sane. Thank God for that mercy at all events, though the proving it has been dreadful. When I left Madam Mina sleeping within the Holy circle, I took my way to the castle. The blacksmith hammer which I took in the carriage from Veresti was useful; though the doors were all open I broke them off the rusty hinges, lest some ill-intent or ill-chance should close them, so that being entered I might not get out. ( Jonathan's bitter experience served me here... )

5 November, morning. – Let me be accurate in everything, for though you and I have seen some strange things together, you may at the first think that I, Van Helsing, am mad - that the many horrors and the so long strain on nerves has at the last turn my brain.

( All yesterday we travel... )

4 November. – This to my old and true friend John Seward, M. D., of Purfleet, London, in case I may not see him. It may explain. It is morning, and I write by a fire which all the night I have kept alive - Madam Mina aiding me. It is cold, cold; ( so cold that the grey heavy sky is full of snow... )

17 September, Night. – I write this and leave it to be seen, so that no one may by any chance get into trouble through me. This is an exact record of what took place tonight. I feel I am dying of weakness, and have barely strength to write, but it must be done if I die in the doing.

( I went to bed as usual... )