Short Answer 
The excerpt highlights key gothic elements, including a mysterious old house that evokes fear and secrecy, along with specific urgent instructions for discreetly visiting it at night. It emphasizes the significance of certain objects, such as a locked cabinet, which suggests hidden secrets and aligns with traditional gothic themes of suspense and the supernatural.
Step 1: Identify the Gothic Elements
The excerpt reveals the presence of a gothic setting, which often includes elements that evoke mystery and fear. Specifically, the setting showcases a mysterious old house at night, emphasizing isolation and secrecy. Understanding these gothic characteristics is essential to grasp the ambiance the speaker is trying to convey.
Step 2: Recognize the Instructions Given
The speaker in the excerpt provides specific instructions to someone to visit the house at night, illustrating urgency and the need for discretion. The instructions include:
- Postponing all other plans, no matter how important.
- Taking a cab to ensure swift travel.
- Meeting with the butler Poole and a locksmith to access restricted areas of the house.
Step 3: Understand the Role of Objects in the Setting
Within the house, specific items play a crucial role in enhancing the gothic atmosphere. The excerpt mentions accessing a locked cabinet containing important contents, indicating hidden secrets and potential supernatural occurrences. This idea aligns with traditional gothic elements such as tombs, ancient artifacts, and forbidden knowledge, all of which contribute to the suspenseful and ominous tone of the narrative.