The Penguin English Library edition of Melmoth the Wanderer by Charles Maturin presents a profound and darkly humorous narrative. "My hour has come... the clock of eternity will soon strike, but its tolling must remain unheard by mortal ears!" This novel tells the story of Melmoth, who sold his soul in exchange for immortality through a satanic pact. He preys upon the helpless in their darkest moments, offering to alleviate their suffering if they take his place and free him from his centuries of tormenting wandering. Melmoth the Wanderer (1820) combines Gothic fiction and psychological realism to create a work of hallucinatory power. The Penguin English Library offers beautiful editions of the finest fiction in the English language, from the eighteenth century to World War II.