What had happened in the sappleton family as narrated by the niece?

In the story, the niece recounts a tragic incident where her aunt, Mrs. SAppleton, lost her husband and two brothers in a hunting accident. They had gone out for a day of shooting and never returned, leading to a deep sense of loss for the family. The niece describes her aunt's peculiar behavior, as Mrs. SAppleton often speaks about her deceased family members as if they are still alive, reflecting her unresolved grief and longing for their return. This haunting memory sets the stage for the eerie atmosphere of the narrative.