The Grey Man (also known as Old Boneless among other things) is a relatively formless fairy incapable of speech. He keeps his shape by hanging around chimney fires and in mists. It is said that you can tell when the Grey Man has passed due to the lingering smell of smoke.
This fairy causes lots of problems for humans. He hides rocks so that boats collide with them, hides curves on roads causing cars to miss turns, blights potatoes, and so forth.
The Grey Man can be kept at bay for a while by crying out “God Bless You!” and by carrying a crucifix or other holy medal (especially ones blessed by a church authority).
