Dr Seward's Diary
                                                   (Kept in Phonograph)
6 February, 1904. London- Seven years past when I proposed to Miss Lucy, seven years since she died. Seven lonely, yet happy, years since the horrid Devil came into our lives. Professor Van Helsing went back to his homeland to aid his brother's wife, who is terribly ill. He is coming back as soon as she gets better…or when is is no longer able to help her, God forbid. Just yesterday he sent me a telegram, but I fear he mention nought of his sister in law's situation. He spoke of a woman he met who is quite appalling. He said:

'Met spontaneous woman-Miss Ophelia Von Khrnim-whilst I was dining out. She is still quite younger than I, (forty-eight), and unmarried. She lives with her elderly father, Gregory Von Khrnim. Telegramming to you for she bought that cursed house next to your asylum, and is moving there with her father in a few days.'

Immediately as I read it I assumed it was her father who had bought the house, but as I examined it more so, I came to the conclusion that it was her who bought it! What a woman she must be to be of an older age and not married, and to buy her own house! I suppose in the Netherlands it isn't nearly absurd for a single woman to buy a house, since her father is with her.

On the original subjects, I seem to grow more and more lonely every day. I often send letters and visit Mr. and Mrs. Harker and their new child, Quincey. It is a pleasure seeing such a young one wriggle about as he lay in a bassinet. They know nothing of the world around them, which is good for their age, and further exaggerates the innocence of a child. Poor Lord Godalming is far too heartbroken to wed and have a child. I pity him, as I know what a pain losing someone precious to you is. Of course, he was far closer to Lucy than I was, so it must be all the more hurtful.

Renfield seems to be quite bored lately. When I visit him and ask of his zoophagous hobbies, he denies them- with hardly any enthusiasm. In fact, most of the time he just stares out his window and plays with his food. The attendants are beginning to speak fondly of how he hardly has outbursts anymore. I went in just minutes ago and spoke with him-- 'How are you today, Renfield?' I asked. 'Today is just the same as any other day whilst I am exceedingly sane.' he said, practically sighing. 'Oh, well did you enjoy your dinner?' I asked, searching my mind for something to say. With lunatics, it's common for them to have the most of conversation, and there isn't much you can speak about with one. 'Yes. I must say, though that the cook used far too much salt for my taste. I didn't want to complain, for I was very hungry, but if you could advise him in any way…' he trailed off, obviously forgetting what he was talking about. I thought best to reassure him I would.


7 February- Van Helsing telegrammed to me saying that he is just now leaving Diemen, and that his sister-in-law has recovered from her sickness. He told me that he should be on the ferryboat by Wednesday, and back here in Exeter no later than the following Monday.

12 February- The Professor arrived to-day. He spoke of the ambitious ferry captain for a short time, saying that the captain actually wanted to visit his mother in England, so he arrived- a fair amount before the original schedule.

Van Helsing and I went to the Harker's when we received an invitation from Mina to join her and Jonathan for tea. It's a silent rule that no one ever speaks of our perilous battle. Mina spoke of not mentioning 'anything' to their son until he is a grown man. She didn't mention what 'anything' meant exactly, but I'm sure we all knew. The baby began crying abruptly, and it startled Mina so much that she had spilt her tea. Jonathan gave her his handkerchief to wipe up. They smiled sweetly at each other, and I could tell that they really enjoyed being parents.

When I got back one of the attendants told me that Renfield was complaining of how he couldn't fall asleep. I asked him if he was troubled- which I highly doubted, but I asked, nonetheless. 'No,' he said. 'I can't fall asleep because the patient next to me on my left is moaning softly. I don't think the attendant heard, for he seemed puzzled when I told him of my insomniac problems.' I moved closer to the left wall. I almost half-doubted to hear something, but there was indeed, a low moan. 'I will go and see what the cause is.' I said as I closed his door.
The cause was simply the patient, Hannah, had a terrible migraine, but of course, had no sense as to tell an attendant. I've dedicated myself to doing a very irritating job, but a madman needs a safe, rightful place to live, so I don't mind very greatly.

14 February- A carriage arrived at the neighbouring house early the morn. The driver stepped down and assisted an elderly man down. The man said something to the driver, but the window was closed and I do not think eavesdropping is appropriate. Then he held out his hand to let a well-dressed woman down, but she ignored him, which was slightly peculiar, and stepped down herself. I suppose that it is quite capable for any somewhat younger person, but its common etiquette for the driver to assist a woman down. The driver did help her and her father get their luggage up to the door, and then they bid each other a good day. The woman lifted her hat, took out a key, and unlocked the front door. Then the two disappeared into the house.

I've not an idea of what to think of this woman. Van Helsing only stated about her in the telegram- being 'spontaneous'.

Renfield must have been watching also, for when I visited him, he spoke of the scene. 'Do you think that they will be able to clean that house?' he asked, still looking out of the window. 'Well, if they are going to live there, they certainly will.' I answered. 'Oh. Perhaps you could take photos of the inside when they do! I would like to see it.' he said. I could tell that this normally wouldn't have excited him so much, but he was bored, and this was just the thing to occupy him. His window is almost directly underneath mine, and the view of the house is a nice one. 'Would you take them soon?' he asked. 'Renfield, people do not take pictures of houses unless they are selling them. Maybe Jonathan still has the photos from when he showed the house to…' I couldn't help but trail off. Since we saved Renfield after he had that horrible injury, neither he nor I spoke of Dracula in the least. 'Was it clean?' he asked. 'No, I wouldn't imagine.' Renfield ignored me when I spoke, for the woman's father came out and sat down on a wicker chair that was on the porch. 'Would you buy me a new notebook? I threw my old one away.' he asked. 'I will when the cook and I go out later today.' I told him. 'Alright. I'd like to be alone now.' he said. I left him to his thoughts.

Later- Bought Renfield a new notebook. He was very thrilled and began drawing in it immediately. Never once did he offer to show me anything, but I suppose even a lunatic needs some privacy. Since Renfield's conduct is that of the most sane lunatic, he might even be writing of his day, but that in itself is quite doubtable.

Dinner was scrumptious, since the cook was able to buy some extra seasoning today. Even some of the patients agreed. Van Helsing joined me, and he said that he's had a few conversations with the woman who moved in. 'I've even offered to help her clean the house, since it's so utterly filthy, and her father is too sickly to do much. She told me that she could do it by herself. Friend John; can you imagine a woman lifting and sliding furniture about and repairing the rotting plaster on the walls?' 'Not hardly,' I said. 'I saw her yesterday dismount a carriage, refusing the driver's assistance. Is that done in your country?' 'No.' he said, puzzled. 'Maybe she's very timid when it comes to us men. There are women like that. Perhaps she's lonely or heartbroken.' At this, my look softened. The poor woman is similar to me.

15 February- One of the attendants came up to my room at about 12.30 He said that there was an old man and woman about my age at the gate of the asylum. I put down my work and went outside. It was the same man and woman who moved in yesterday. 'Hello, there.' I greeted. 'Hello.' said the woman. 'Are you lost?' I asked, for she looked fairly oblivious. 'No, I was just figuring out a way to get to the side you are on.' 'Oh.' I said. There was a pause. I don't recall thinking anything, but there was a pause. 'May I come in?' she asked. 'Certainly. This is an asylum, you know.' 'Oh, yes. I can read English: Exeter Asylum; John Seward, M.D.' I nodded as I unlocked the gate. 'Do you like the house?' I asked. 'I love it, it's so… mysterious. I would love to see what it looked like when it was first constructed, and my goal is to restore it to it's pride.' The words she spoke came out of her mouth as though she bled each letter. Her eyes glinted in the sunlight. She seemed as though she had the same excitement as a child. 'Do you know my friend Professor Van Helsing?' 'Yes, we met back in Diemen, and he offered to assist me in my project. You are Dr. Seward, no? He spoke of you' 'I am.' I said. 'You are Miss Von Khrnim?' She nodded. 'Come in. Do you know much of asylums?' 'Yes. My grandfather owned one. He would let me talk to the patients and keep them company while he worked. I was hoping I could continue that tradition… that is why I moved so close to your hospital.' 'Well, if the patients don't bother you, I suppose I could let you see the non-hostile ones. Women don't usually come to see the patients… except for Mrs. Harker.' 'Is she your friend?' 'Yes, her and her husband. We met about seven years ago. They had a child, and I visit them often.' 'That's nice.' she said. I stopped at Mrs. White's room. 'This is my best patient. She rarely speaks, but she's older and her husband died. That's why she went insane. I think she could use a younger woman's company.' 'Alright.' Ophelia said cheerfully. We entered the room. I stood up and Ophelia sat down on the visitor's chair. Mrs. White was sitting in her rocking chair, daydreaming. 'Hello, Mrs. White.' said Ophelia. 'Hm? Oh, hello! Are you visiting me?' said Mrs. White, excited. 'Yes. Do you get visitors very often?' 'No, I have no family members left. The only people who visit are the attendants and Doctor Seward. I guess that's what I get for being ninety-six!' She laughed. 'Oh, that's sad. I only have my father.' said Ophelia. 'Well, you keep him in check! I wasn't watching my husband and poof! He's dead! Hahaha!' 'I will.' said Ophelia. 'Can you sew?' asked Mrs. White. 'No, I can't. My mother died when I was young, and I never learned.' 'Well, I could teach you! Do you need anything sewn?' 'I'd like to have new curtains…' 'Well, find some fabric and we'll make them together! What's your name, young lady?' 'Ophelia.' 'Alright. Whenever you get the chance, come and visit me and we'll make you some new curtains. Good day, now.' Ophelia and I left the room and she didn't seem a bit surprised of the shortness of our visit. 'I think you made her day.' I said. Ophelia smiled. 'May I see another patient?' 'Yes. Let me see. I opened Mr. Larson's door, but he was asleep.
'Do you mind eccentric patients?' I asked Ophelia. 'Not at all.' 'Perhaps she could see Renfield?' the attendant in the hallway nodded. We walked some ways and then reached his room. 'He may be slightly insulting…you see he's a sanguine temperament.' 'I won't take offense.' she said. I knocked on his door, since he usually doesn't like it when people just come in. 'Hello. Who are you?' he asked Ophelia when we entered the room. 'I'm Ophelia Von Khrnim. I moved in to the house nearby yester-morning.' she answered. 'You are? I watched you go in there with an old man. How old is your house?' 'At least ninety years. It's quite run-down.' 'Are you fixing it?' Renfield asked. 'I am.' she answered. 'May I see it when it's clean?' 'Renfield…' I said. 'I could take some photographs.' she said, which surprised me. 'Oh, thank you! I've never been able to see it!' Renfield exclaimed. 'Thank you…' I said. 'You needn't do that, though.' 'I don't mind. It might take a while to clean the house and repair it, but I shall do it and take photographs one at a time.' she answered. Renfield looked out of the window at her house. 'Where are you from?' he asked. 'The Netherlands.' she answered. 'Ah, like Van Helsing.' he said. 'Yes, you know him, also?' 'I do.' said Renfield. 'You look fairly more intelligent than he.' 'Thank you.' said Ophelia; then she turned to me and asked 'Do you have the time?' I took out my watch. 'Yes; it is one o' clock.' 'I'm sorry, Mr. Renfield. I have to be going. I will try to come back by the end of the week.' she said. 'It was a pleasure meeting you, Ophelia.' said Renfield, nodding. 'You, also.' she smiled and left. 'Thank you, Dr Seward. Have a good day.' 'You are welcome.' I said as she walked down the hall.

I stayed in Renfield's room for a while and watched him scribble in his book, and then went back to my room to work.

                                                    Renfield's notebook
                           (Not a strict entry, just small notes next to drawings.)

[2/15/04] To-day I met the lady who moved in to the house across the road. Her name is Ophelia. She is Dutch, but speaks English well. She told me that once she gets some rooms clean, she would show photographs to me. It is obvious that she has had plenty of experience with "lunatics", because Seward let her in for no obvious reason which I knew. Unless he is planning on proposing again! Ha-ha! It would be a heartbreak to him if she refused because of the last refusal. He might think something's wrong with him. Other than that, there is no reason as to let an average person into an asylum's rooms.

[2/16/04] To-day when I looked over at the house, I saw the old man instruct about six young men to place a fresh-cut oak tree in the courtyard of the house. When Ophelia visits, I will ask her of this.


                                                  Dr Seward's Diary

19 February- Van Helsing came this morning and stayed until 3.30; I didn't get to work until about three o' clock. Ophelia also came today. She came at about eleven o' clock and left at 9p.m.; which is when visiting hours are over. She first visited Mrs. White with me there the first few minutes. Van Helsing joined Ophelia part of the time when she visited Renfield, but left at 3.30. Ophelia actually visited Renfield until about twenty minutes before nine o' clock, then came and spoke with me until visiting hours were over. I went into talk to Renfield. 'So what did you talk about? Did she have any photographs yet?' I asked him. 'Yes, she had several photographs of her parlour, which she just finished working on today. She sawed panels for new walls in herself!' he exclaimed. 'Her father didn't do that?' I asked, appalled. 'No, her father is far too old to lift a saw! He might've dropped it.' he said. His eyes had a glint in them that made me fret, for I imagined him thinking of what would happen if the old man did drop it. 'That wouldn't be good.' I said. 'Not at all.' said Renfield. The glint had disappeared, so I just assumed it was the lighting. 'She is quite a person…' I said. 'Yes, she cleaned and restored that parlour all alone! It's a shame she won't let anyone help her.' 'Yes, it is.' 'Did she tell you of how she did it?' I asked. 'A little, but mostly we just got to know each other.' I paused. Ophelia must truly take interest in the insane, and go so far as to make friends with them. What an astounding woman she is! I fear I almost said that, but I must not have for Renfield didn't respond or act like he was listening. He is one of my few patients who usually do so. After a few moments, he spoke up: 'Well, if you would leave me, I could get back to my work.' 'You have work?' I asked, trying not to scoff. 'Yes. Plenty of work to do in my notebook.' 'I see. Well, on you go, I'm leaving.' I said, exiting the room. I wanted to get some sleep, even if it wasn't very late. Yester-day's work was quite tiring.


                                                   Renfield's notebook

[2/19/04] Ophelia visited me again. This time she brought photographs she took after she fixed her parlour. She tore down the old wall with her father's sledge. The walls were hollow, so it was easy for her. I can not picture a woman smashing walls without assistance; she spoke as though it was not awry, so I believed her. The parlour seems very 'cozy', as she said, and the new wall-paper looks nice. She had photographs of when she first built the walls, and then when she plastered them. She told me that her father had to buy the plaster for her, and lend her his tools. Damn! I now remember- she also told me not to tell any one that she did that, being it so absurd! Cursed! Cursed, cursed, Doctor Seward; he sucks words right out of me. It is nice to be in such a state of sanity; whereas you can remember conversations and think correctly. From this point, I will try to write my thoughts in here so that I might not forget what it is like to be so sane.

She asked questions, and received answers, and I did, also. She said that she was forty-eight and her father was ninety. I asked her why she moved to England, and she said that her mother was English and lived here in Exeter, and that she wanted her father to see it before he died. She told me that when she was a girl, her grandfather would let her see some of the patients in his asylum, and she chose the house across the street because it was so close to this one. 'When I was young, I would always draw pictures and run over to my grandfather's asylum to give them to the patients. They loved to receive them, and I loved making them. Every day I would visit a different patient, so they all had a picture.' She laughed, and said: 'I was the girl who visited the asylum daily, while the other girls learned to cook and sew and tidy house. I never learned, for my mother died when I was ten years old, and my father coddled me and just hired a few servants to do housework. However, my mother had taught me how to speak English before she died, and after, my father taught me how to do 'man's work.'' I was amazed at this; her father must have been very secretive, as to have a young girl learning to work.

Dr Seward disturbed me once more, asking if Ophelia brought the photographs. That is when I accidentally told him that she plastered and built her walls… I hope he doesn't mention it to any one, for if any person knows, they might deport Ophelia back to the Netherlands. And Lord knows what they'll do to her there.

                                                   Dr Seward's Diary

20 February- Visited Lord Godalming with Mr Harker. Arthur was cheerful enough, but I could tell that something was horribly askew about him. I told him and Van Helsing about what Renfield mentioned last night. 'I met a woman, Ophelia, who just moved in to that house next to the asylum. She has no husband, and her father is old and sick…so she is restoring the house alone. She tore down the walls in her parlour and built new ones. She even plastered them!' 'Lord!' said Arthur. 'Did you offer to assist the poor girl clean that hell-house?' 'I did,' said Van Helsing. 'but she told me that she wasn't doing much except cleaning the dust! I had no idea she was restoring the old building!' 'We must further assist her. There is no question.' said Arthur. 'We shall go today.' 'Yes.' I said. 'Van Helsing and I know her well enough.'

After our breakfast, we rode back to my home, and gathered some tools that were necessary. We walked over and Van Helsing hit the door-knock. After a few moments, Ophelia answered the door. She saw our tools, and a look of grief came over her face. 'Hello…' she sighed. 'Did Mr Renfield tell you I needed help? I do not.' 'Yes, he did, but ma'am, you certainly can not tear down and restore a room by yourself.' said Lord Godalming. 'I am afraid we have not met…' she said. Arthur tipped his hat. 'I am Lord Arthur Godalming; Dr John and Helsing's friend. It is a pleasure to meet you, Miss…' 'Ophelia.' she spoke softly. 'Miss Ophelia.' Arthur said. 'May we come in?' Ophelia stared at us blankly for a few seconds, and said to us grimly: 'Actually, I am not working to-day. My father has fallen ill, and I am trying to nurse him back to health.' 'Oh. Well, if you need any medicine, or medical assistance, we'll be across the street.' I said. 'I do hope your father gets better.' 'Thank you for your concern. Good day.' she closed the door. Van Helsing looked at Arthur. 'The old man is no doubt dying; he is extremely elderly. Even if Dr Seward and I tried to cure him, it would do no good.' He spoke quietly, in case Ophelia still might be in one of the front rooms and would hear. Her poor heart couldn't take the early news. It is a crying shame she has no man for love and support. We went to the asylum and sat in the kitchen for a bit, silent. I suppose none of us had anything happy to say, and we didn't feel like saying anything negative.

26 February- Haven't heard from Miss Ophelia since we visited her. I do hope her father is gradually coming to, for I doubt a single woman could bear losing her only parent. Whenever I visited Renfield, he would only shoo me out. Any small event always brings out the arrogance in him, I have come to learn. He seems almost angry at me, as if I had done something displeasing. When I asked, he said: 'The Victorian Era had come in to your mind like a tumour! You and your Doctor-ish theories have a strong hold on you! No convincing! Doctors are inconvincible!' I did not know what to think, so without a word, I left him to sit on the floor with his arms folded.