A Master of Mysteries :Audiobook

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Thank you for listening to this freeaudiobook created by Project Gutenberg and Microsoft AI.
To learn more about the project orgive feedback on the quality of a
recording, please visit aka M SSlash audiobook A Master of Mysteries by L.
T. Meade I the Mystery ofthe Circular Chamber. One day in

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late September, I received the followingletter from my lawyer, My dear Bell,
My dear Bell, I shall esteemit a favor if you can make
it convenient to call upon me atten o'clock tomorrow morning on a matter of
extreme privacy. At the appointed hour, I was shown into mister Edgecombe's private
room. I had known him foryears, we were in fact old friends,

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and I was startled now by thelook of worry, not to say
anxiety, on his usually serene features. You are the very man I want,
Bell, he cried. Sit down. I have a great deal to
say to you. There is amystery of a very grave nature which I
hope you may solve for me.It is in connection with the house said
to be haunted. He fixed hisbright eyes on my face as he spoke.

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I sat perfectly silent, waiting forhim to continue. In the first
place, He resumed, I mustask you to regard the matter as confidential,
certainly, I answered, you know. He went on that I have
often laughed at your special hobby,but it occurred to me yesterday that the
experiences you have lived through may enableyou to give me valuable assistance in this

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difficulty. I will do my bestfor you, Edgcombe, I replied.
He lay back in his chair,folding his hands. The case as briefly
as follows, he began. Itis connected with the family of the Wentworths.
The only son, Archibald the artist, has just died under most extraordinary
circumstances. He was, as youprobably know, one of the most promising

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watercolor painters of the younger school,and his pictures in this year's Academy met
with universal praise. He was theheir to the Wentworth estates, and his
death has caused a complication of claimsfrom a member of a collateral branch of
the family, who, when thepresent squire dies, is entitled to the
money. This man has spent thegreater part of his life in Australia,

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is badly off and evidently belongs toa rowdy set. He has been to
see me two or three times,and I must say frankly that I am
not taken with his appearance. Hadhe anything to do with the death,
I interrupted nothing whatever. As youwill quickly perceive, Wentworth has been accustomed
from time to time to go aloneon sketching tours to different parts of the

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country. He has tramped about onfoot and visited odd out of the way
knooks searching for subjects. He nevertook much money with him and always traveled
as an apparently poor man. Amonth ago he started off alone on one
of these tours. He had ahandsome commission for from Barlow and Company,
picture dealers in the Strand. Hewas to paint certain parts of the River

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Marian, and although he certainly didnot need money, he seemed glad of
an object for a good ramble.He parted with his family in the best
of health and spirits, and wroteto them from time to time. But
a week ago they heard the newsthat he had died suddenly at an inn
on the Marian. There was,of course an inquest and an autopsy.
Doctor Miles Gordon, the Wentworth consultingphysician, was telegraphed for and was present

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at the post mortem. Examination.He is absolutely puzzled to account for the
death. The medical examination showed Wentworthto be in apparently perfect health at the
time. There was no lesion tobe discovered upon which to base a different
opinion, all the organs being healthy. Neither was there any trace of poison
nor marks of violence. The coroner'sverdict was that Wentworth died of syncope,

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which, as you know, perhapsis a synonym for an unknown cause.
He died is a very lonely oneand has the reputation of being haunted.
The landlord seems to bear a badcharacter, although nothing has ever been proved
against him. But a young girlwho lives at the engave evidence which at
first startled everyone. She said atthe inquest that she had earnestly warned Wentworth

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not to sleep in the haunted room. She had scarcely told the coroner so
before she fell to the floor inan epileptic fit. When she came to
herself, she was sullen and silent, and nothing more could be extracted from
her. The old man, theinnkeeper, explained that the girl was half
witted, but he did not attemptto deny that the house had the reputation

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of being haunted, and said thathe had himself begged Wentworth not to put
up there. Well, that isabout the whole of the story. The
coroner's inquest seems to deny the evidenceof foul play. But I have my
very strong suspicions. What I wantyou to do is to ascertain if they
are correct. Will you undertake thecase? I will certainly do so,

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I replied, Please let me haveany further particulars and a written document to
show in case of need that Iam acting under your directions. Edgcombe agreed
to this, and I soon afterwardstook my leave. The case had the
features of an interesting problem, andI hoped that I should prove successful in
solving it. That evening I mademy plans carefully. I would go into

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Shire early on the following morning,assuming for my purpose the character of an
amateur photographer. Having got all necessaryparticulars from Edgecombe, I made a careful
mental map of my operations. Firstof all, I would visit a little
village of the name of Harkhurst andput up at the inn, the Crown
and Thistle. Here Wentworth had spenta fortnight when he first started on his

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commission to make drawings of the rivermar An. I thought it likely that
I should obtain some information there.Circumstances must guide me as to my further
steps, But my intention was toproceed from Hawkhurst today, the castle in
which was situated about six miles furtherup the river. This was the in
where the tragedy had occurred. Towardsevening on the following day, I arrived

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at Hawkhurst. When my carriage drewup at the Crown and Thistle, the
landlady was standing in the doorway.She was a buxom looking Dane with a
kindly face. I asked for abed, certainly, sir, she answered.
She turned with me into the littleinn, and taking me upstairs,
showed me a small room, quiteclean and comfortable, looking out on the

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yard. I said it would docapitally, and she hurried downstairs to prepare
my supper. After this meal,which proved to be excellent, I determined
to visit the landlord in the bar. I found him chatty and communicative.
This is a lonely place, hesaid. We don't often have a soul
staying with us for a month ata time. As he spoke, he

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walked to the door, and Ifollowed him. The shades of night were
beginning to fall, but the picturesquenessof the little hamlet could not but commend
itself to me. And yet itis a lovely spot, I said,
I should have thought tourists would havethrown to it. It is at least
an ideal place for photographers. Youare right there, sir, replied the

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man. And although we don't oftenhave company to stay in the inn,
now and then we have a strayartist. It's not three weeks back.
He continued, that we had agentleman like you, sir, only a
big younger to stay with us fora week or two. He was an
artist and drew from morning till night. Ah, poor fellow, Why do

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you say that, I asked,I have good cause, sir. Here
wife, continued the landlord, lookingover his shoulder at Missus Johnson, the
landlady, who now appeared on thescene. This gentleman has been asking me
questions about our visitor, mister Wentworth. But perhaps we ought not to inflict

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such a dismal story upon him.To night do I said what you have
already hinted at arouse's my curiosity?Why should you pity, mister Wentworth,
he is dead, sir, saidthe landlady in a solemn voice. I
gave a pretended start, and shecontinued, and it was all his own
fault. Ah, Dear, itmakes me almost cry to think of it.

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He was as nice a gentleman asI ever set eyes on, and
so strong, hearty and pleasant.Well, sir, everything went well until
one day he said to me,I am about to leave you, missus
Johnson. I am going to alittle place called the castle in further up
the Marenn, the castle in.I cried, no, mister Wentworth,

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that you won't not if you valueyour life. And why not, he
said, looking at me with asmerry blue eyes as you ever saw in
anybody's head. Why should I notvisit the castle in? I have a
commission to make some drawings of thatspecial bend of the river. Well,
then, sir, I answered,if that is the case, you'll just
have a horse and trap from hereand drive over as often as you want

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to. For the castle and ain'ta fit place for a Christian to put
up at? What do you mean, he asked of me, It is
said to be haunted, sir,And what does happen in that house.
The Lord only knows. But there'snot been a visitor at the inn for
some years, not since Bailiff Holtcame by his death. Came by his
death, he asked, And howwas that? God knows, but I

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don't, I answered. At thecoroner's inquest it was said that he died
from syncope, whatever that means,But the folks round here said it was
fright. Mister Wentworth just laughed atme. He didn't mind a word,
I said. And the next day, sir, he was off, carrying
his belongings with him. Well,and what happened? I asked, seeing
that she paused. What happened,sir? Just what I expected. Two

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days afterwards came the news of hisdeath, per young gentleman. He died
in the where Holt had breathed hislast And oh if there wasn't a fuss
and to do for? It turnedout that although he seemed quite poor to
us, with little or no money, he was no end of a swell
and had rich relations and big estatescoming to him. And of course there

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was a coroner's inquest, and allthe rest and great doctors came down from
London and our doctor Stanmore, wholives down the street, was sent for
and though they did all they couldand examined him as it were, with
a microscope, they could find nocause for death, and so they give
it out that it was syncope,just as they did in the case of

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poor Holt. But sir, itwasn't. It was fright, sheer fright.
The place is haunted. It's amysterious, dreadful house, and I
only hope you won't have nothing todo with it. She added a few
more words, and presently left us. That's a strange story, I said,
turning to Johnson, Your wife hasexcited my curiosity. I should much

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like to get further particulars. Theredon't seem to be anything more to tell,
Sir, replied Johnson. It's truewhat the wife says that the castle
in has a bad name. It'snot the first, no, nor the
second death that has occurred there.You mentioned your village doctor. Do you
think he could enlighten me on thesubject. I am sure he would do

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his best, Sir. He livesonly six doors away in a red house.
Maybe you wouldn't mind stepping down thestreet and speaking to him. You
are sure he would not think ita liberty, not, he sir,
He'll be only too pleased to exchangea word with some one outside this sleepy
little place. Then I'll call onhim, I answered, and taking up

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my hat, I strolled down thestreet. I was lucky in finding doctor
Stanmore at home, and the momentI saw his face, I determined to
take him into my confidence. Thefact is this, I said, when
he had shaken hands with me,I should not dream of taking this liberty.
Did I not feel certain that youcould help me? And in what
way? He asked, not stiffly, but with a keen, inquiring,

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interested glance. I have been sentdown from London to inquire into the Wedworth
mystery, I said, Is thatso? He said, with a start.
Then he continued gravely, I fearyou have come on a wild goose
chase. There was nothing discovered atthe autopsy to account for the death.
There were no marks on the body, and all the organs were healthy.

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I met Wentworth often while he wasstaying here, and he was as hardy
and strong looking a young man asI have ever come across. But the
castle in has a bad reputation,I said, that is true. The
people here are afraid of it.It is said to be haunted. But
really, sir, you and Ineed not trouble ourselves about stupid reports of

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that sort. Old been lost.The landlord has lived there for years and
there has never been anything proved againsthim. Is he alone No? His
wife and a grandchild lived there alsoa grandchild, I said, did not
this girl give some startling evidence atthe inquest? Nothing of any consequence,

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replied doctor Stanmore. She only repeatedwhat been lost. Had already said himself
that the house was haunted, andthat she had asked Wentworth not to sleep
in the room. Has anything everbeen done to explain the reason why this
room is said to be haunted?I continued, Not that I know of.
Rats are probably at the bottom ofit. But have not there been

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other deaths in the house, thatis true? How many? Well?
I have myself attended no less thanthree similar inquests, And what was the
verdict of the jury in each case? The verdict was death from syncope,
which means cause unknown, I said, jumping impatiently to my feet. I
wonder, doctor Stanmore, that youare satisfied to leave the matter in such

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a state, and pray what canI do, he inquired. I am
asked to examine a body. Ifind all the organs in perfect health.
I cannot trace the least appearance ofviolence, nor can I detect poison.
What other evidence can I honestly give? I can only say that I should
not be satisfied, I replied.I now wish to add that I have

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come down from London determined to solvethis mystery. I shall myself put up
at the castle in well, saidDoctor Stanmore, and sleep in the haunted
room. Of course you don't believein the ghost, no, but I
believe in foul play. Now,doctor Stanmore, will you help me most
certainly if I can? What doyou wish me to do this? I

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shall go to the castle in tomorrow. If at the end of three days
I do not return here, willyou go in search of me? And
at the same time post this letterto mister Edgecombe, my London lawyer.
If you do not appear in threedays, I'll kick up no end of
a row, said Doctor Stanmore,And of course post your letter soon afterwards.

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I shook hands with the doctor andleft him. After an early dinner
on the following day, I partedwith my good natured landlord and his wife,
and with my knapsack and kodak strappedover my shoulders, started on my
way. I took care to tellno one that I was going to the
castle in, and for this purposedoubled back through a wood, and so
found the right road. The sunwas nearly setting when at last I approached

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a broken down signpost, on which, in half obliterated characters I could read
the words to the castle in.I found myself now at the entrance of
a small lane, which was evidentlylittle frequented, as it was considerably grass
grown. From where I stood,I could catch no sight of any habitation,
but just at that moment alone somewhatinconsequent laugh fell upon my years.

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I turned quickly and saw a prettygirl with bright eyes and a childish face,
gazing at me with interest. Ihad little doubt that she was old
Benlass's granddaughter. Will you kindly tellme? I asked, if this is
the way to the castle in.My remark evidently startled her. She made
a bound forward, seized me bymy hand, and tried to push me

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away from the entrance to the laneinto the high road. Go away,
she cried, we have no bedsfit for gentlemen at the castle in go
Go, she continued, and shepointed up the winding road. Her eyes
were now blazing in her head,but I noticed that her lips trembled,
and that very little would cause herto burst into tears. But I am

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tired and footsore, I answered,I should like to put up at the
inn for the night. Don't,she repeated, They'll put you into a
room with a ghost. Don't gotain a place for gentlemen. Here she
burst, not into tears, butinto a fit of high, shrill,
almost idiotic laughter. She suddenly clappedone of her hands to her forehead,

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and turning, flew almost as fastas the wind, down the narrow lane
and out of sight. I followedher quickly. I did not believe that
the girl was quite as mad asshe seemed, but I had little doubt
that she had something extraordinary weighing onher mind. At the next turn,
I came in view of the inn. It was a queer looking old place,

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and I stopped for a moment tolook at it. The house was
entirely built of stone. There weretwo stories to the center part, which
was square, and at the fourcorner stood four round towers. The house
was built right on the river,just below a large mill pond. I
walked up to the door and poundedon it with my stick. It was

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shut and looked as inhospitable as therest of the place. After a moment's
delay, it was open two orthree inches, and the surly face of
an old woman peeped out. Andwhat may you be wanting? She asked?
A bed for the night? Ireplied, Can you accommodate me?
She glanced suspiciously, first at meand then at my camera. You are

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an artist, I make no doubt, she said, and we don't want
no more of them here. Shewas about to slam the door in my
face, but I pushed my footbetween it and the lintel. I am
easily pleased, I said, canyou not give me some sort of bed
for the night. You had besthave nothing to do with us, she
answered, you go off to Harkhurst. They can put you up at the

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Crown and Thistle. I have justcome from there, I answered, As
a matter of fact, I couldnot walk another mile. We don't want
visitors at the Castle Inn, shecontinued. Here she peered forward and looked
into my face. You had bestbe off, she repeated. They say
the place is haunted. I uttereda laugh. You don't expect me to

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believe that, I said. Sheglanced at me from head to foot.
Her face was ominously grave. Youhad best know, all, sir,
she said, after a pause.Something happens in this house, and no
living soul knows what it is,for they who have seen it have never
yet survived to tell the tale.It's not more than a week back that

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a young gentleman came here. Hewas like you, bold as brass,
and he too wanted a bed andwould take no denial. I told him
plain, and so did my man, that the place was haunted. He
didn't mind, no more than youmind. Well, he slept in the
only room we have got for guests, and he he died there. What

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did he die of? I asked? Fright? Was the answer brief and
laconic. Now do you want tocome or not? Yes? I don't
believe in ghosts. I want thebed, and I am determined to have
it. The woman flung the doorwide open. Don't say as I ain't
warned you, she cried, comein if you must. She led me

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to the kitchen, where a fireburned sullenly on the hearth. Sit you
down and I'll send for bin Loss. She said, I can only promise
to give you a bed if binLoss agrees. Liz, come along here
this minute. A quick young stepwas heard in the passage, and the
pretty girl whom I had seen atthe top of the lane entered. Her

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eyes sought my face. Her lipsmoved as if to say something, but
no sound issued from them. Goand find your grandad, said the old
woman. Tell him there is agentleman here that wants a bed. Ask
him what's to be done. Thegirl favored me with a long and peculiar
glance, then, turning on herheel, she left the room. As

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soon as she did so, theold woman peered forward and looked curiously at
me. I'm sorry you are staying, she said. Don't forget, as
I've warned you. Remember this ain'ta proper in it all. Once it
was a mill, but that wasaforeben Lost's day in mine, gents would
come in the summer and put upfor the fishing. But then the story

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of the ghost got abroad, andlately we have no visitors to speak of,
only an odd one now and thenwho ain't wanted? No, he
ain't wanted. You see, therewas three deaths here. Yes. She
held up one of her skinny handsand began to count on her fingers.
Yes, three up to the present. Three. That's it, Ah,

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here comes been lost. A shufflingstep was heard in the passage, and
an old man, bent with ageand wearing a long white beard, entered
the room. We has no bedsfor strangers, he said, speaking in
an aggressive and loud tone. Hasn'tThe wife said, so we don't let
out beds here as that is thecase. You have no right to have

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that sign post at the end ofthe lane, I retorted, I am
not in a mood to walk eightmiles for a shelter in a country I
know nothing about. Cannot you putme up somehow? I have told the
gentleman everything, Sam said the wife. He is just for all the world,
like young mister Wentworth, and nota bit frightened. The old landlord

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came up and faced me. Lookyou here, he said, you stay
on at your peril. I don'twant you, nor do the wife.
Now is it yes or no?It is yes? I said, there's
only one room you can sleep in. One room is sufficient. It's the
one mister Wentworth died in. Hadn'tyou best take up your traps and be

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off? No, I shall stay. Then there's no more to be said.
Run, Liz, said the woman, and light the fire in the
parlor. The girl left the room, and the woman, taking up a
candle, said she would take meto the chamber where I was to sleep.
She led me down a long andnarrow passage, and then, opening

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a door, down two steps intothe most extraordinary looking room I had ever
seen. The walls were completely circular, covered with a paper of a staring
grotesque pattern. A small and bedsteadprojected into the middle of the floor,
which was uncarpeted except for a slipof matting. Beside it, a cheap
deal wash hand stand, a coupleof chairs, and a small table with

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a blurred looking glass stood against thewall, beneath a deep embrasure in which
there was a window. This wasevidently a room in one of the circular
towers. I had never seen lessinviting quarters. Your supper will be ready
directly, sir, said the woman, and placing the candle on the little
table, she left me. Theplace fell damp and drafty, and the

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flame of the candle flickered about,causing the tallow to gut her to one
side. There was no fireplace inthe room, and above the walls converged
to a point, giving the wholeplace the appearance of an enormous extinguisher.
I made a hurried and necessarily limitedtoilet and went into the parlor. I
was standing by the fire, whichwas burning badly, when the door opened

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and the girl Liz came in bearinga tray in her hand. She laid
the tray on the table and cameup softly to me. Fools come to
this house, she said, andyou are one pray. Let me have
my supper and don't talk. Ireplied, I am tired and hungry and
want to go to bed. Lizstood perfectly still for a moment. Tain't

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worth it, she said, then, in a meditative voice, No,
tain't worth it. But I'll sayno more. Folks will never be warned.
Her grandmother's voice calling her caused herto bound from the room. My
supper proved better than I had expected, and having finished it, I strolled
into the kitchen, anxious to havea further talk with the old man.

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He was seated alone by the fire, a great mastiff lying at his feet.
Can you tell me why the houseis supposed to be haunted, I
asked, suddenly stooping down to speakto him. How should I know,
he cried hoarsely. The wife andme have been here twenty years and never
seen nor heard anything. But forcertain folks do die in the house.

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It's mortal unpleasant for me. Forthe doctors come along and the coroner,
and there's an inquest and no enda fuss. The folks die, although
no one has ever laid a fingeron em. The doctors can't prove why
they are dead, but dead theybe. Well. There ain't no use
saying more. You are here,and maybe you'll pass the one night,
all right, I shall go tobed at once, I said, But

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I should like some candles? Canyou supply me? The man turned and
looked at his wife, who atthat moment entered the kitchen. She went
to the dresser, opened a woodenbox, and, taking out three or
four tallow candles, put them intomy hand. I rose, simulating a
yawn. Good night, sir,said the old man. Good night.

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I wish you well. A momentlater, I had entered my bedroom,
and having shut the door, proceededto give it a careful examination. As
far as I could make out,there was no entrance to the room except
by the door, which was shapedto fit the circular walls. I noticed,
however, that there was an unaccountabledraft, and this iye at last
discovered, came from below the oakwainscoting of the wall. I could not

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in any way account for the draft, but it existed to an unpleasant extent.
The bed, I further saw,was somewhat peculiar. It had no
castors on the four legs, whichwere let down about half an inch into
sockets provided for them in the woodenfloor. This discovery excited my suspicions still
further. It was evident that thebed was intended to remain in a particular

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position. I saw that it directlyfaced the little window, sunk deep into
the thick wall, so that anyone in bed would look directly at the
window. I examined my watch,found that it was past eleven, and,
placing both the candles on a tinytable near the bed, I lay
down without undressing. I was onthe alert to catch the slightest noise,
but The hours dragged on, andnothing occurred in the house. All was

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silence, and outside, the splashingand churning of the water falling over the
wheel came distinctly to my ears.I lay awake all night, but as
morning dawn fell into an uneasy sleep, I awoke to see the broad daylight
streaming in at the small window.Making a hasty toilet, I went out
for a walk, and presently camein to breakfast. It had been laid

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for me in the big kitchen,and the old man was seated by the
hearth well, said the woman.I hope you sup comfortable, sir,
I answered in the affirmative, andnow perceived that old been Loss and his
wife were in the humor to beagreeable. They said that if I was
satisfied with the room, I mightspend another night at the inn. I

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told them that I had a greatmany photographs to take and would be much
obliged for the permission. As Ispoke, I looked round for the girl
Liz. She was nowhere to beseen. Where is your granddaughter, I
asked of the old woman. Shehas gone away for the day, was
the reply. It's too much forLiz to see strangers. She gets excited,

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and then the fits come on.What sort of fits, I can't
tell what they are called, butthey're bad and weaken her. Poor thing.
Liz ought never to be excited here. Binloss gave his wife a warning
glance. She lowered her eyes,and, going across to the range,
began to stir the contents of somethingin a saucepan. That afternoon, I

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borrowed some lines from Binloss, and, taking an old boat which was moored
to the bank of the mill pond, set off under the pretense of fishing
for pike. The weather was perfectfor the time of year. Waiting my
opportunity, I brought the boat upto land on the bank that dammed up
the stream, and getting out,walked along it in the direction of the
mill wheel, over which the waterwas now rushing. As I observed it

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from this side of the bank,I saw that the tower in which my
room was placed must at one timehave been part of the mill itself,
and I further noticed that the masonrywas comparatively new, showing that alterations must
have taken place when the house wasabandoned as a mill and was turned into
an inn. I clambered down theside of the wheel, holding on to
the beams, which were green andslippery, and peered through the paddles.

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As I was making my examination,a voice suddenly startled me, What are
you doing down there? I lookedup. Old Binloss was standing on the
bank looking down at me. Hewas alone, and his face was contorted
with a queer mixture of fear andpassion. I hastily hoisted myself up and
stood beside him. What are youpoking about down there? For? He

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said, pushing his ugly old faceinto mine as he spoke, you fool.
If you had fallen, you wouldhave been drowned. No one could
swim a stroke in that mill race, and then there would have been another
death, and all the old fussover again. Look here, sir,
will you have the goodness to getout of the place. I don't want

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you here any more. I intendto leave tomorrow morn, I answered,
in a pacifying voice. And Iam really very much obliged to you for
warning me about the mill. Youhad best not go near it again,
he said, in a menacing voice, and then he turned hastily away.
I watched him as he climbed upa steep bank and disappeared from view.

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He was going in the opposite directionfrom the house. Seizing the opportunity of
his absence, I once more approachedthe mill. Was it possible that Wentworth
had been hurled into it? Buthad this been the case, there would
have been signs and marks on thebody. Having reached the wheel, I
clambered boldly down. It was nowgetting dusk, but I could see that

(30:38):
a prolongation of the axle entered thewall of the tower. The fittings were
also in wonderfully good order, andthe bolt that held the great wheel only
required to be drawn out to setit in motion. That evening, during
supper, I thought very hard.I perceived that been Lost was angry,
also that he was suspicious and alarmed. I saw plainly that the only way

(31:00):
to really discover what had been doneto Wentworth was to cause the old Ruffian
to try similar means to get ridof me. This was a dangerous expedient,
but I felt desperate, and mycuriosity, as well as interest were
keenly aroused. Having finished my supper, I went into the passage. Preparatory
to going into the kitchen, Ihad unfelt slippers and my footfall made no

(31:22):
noise. As I approached the door, I heard Binlass saying to his wife,
he's been poking about the mill wheel. I wish he would make himself
scarce. Oh he can't find outanything, was the reply. You keep
quiet, beIN Lost. He'll beoff in the morning. That's as maybe,
was the answer. And then therecame a harsh and very disagreeable laugh.

(31:45):
I waited for a moment and thenentered the kitchen. Been Loss was
alone. Now he was bending overthe fire smoking. I shall leave early
in the morning, I said,so, please have my bill ready for
me. I then seated myself nearhim, drawing up my chair close to
the blaze. He looked as ifhe resented this, but said nothing.

(32:07):
I am very curious about the deathswhich occur in this house. I said,
after a pause, how many didyou say there were? That is
nothing to you? He answered,we never wanted you here. You can
go when you please. I shallgo tomorrow morning. But I wish to
say something now, and what maythat be. I don't believe in that

(32:30):
story about the place being haunted.Oh you don't, don't you. He
dropped his pipe, and his glitteringeyes gazed at me with a mixture of
anger and ill concealed alarm. No, I paused, Then, I said,
slowly and emphatically, I went backto the mill, even after your
warning. An what? He cried, starting to his feet, Nothing,

(32:52):
I answered, only I don't believein the ghost. His face turned not
only white but livid. I lefthim without another word. I saw that
his suspicions had been much strengthened bymy words. This I intended to induce
the Ruffian to do his worst,was the only way to wring his secret
from him. My hideous room lookedexactly as it had done on the previous

(33:15):
evening. The grotesque pattern on thewalls seemed to start out in bold relief.
Some of the ugly lines seemed,at that moment, to my imagination,
almost to take human shape, toconvert themselves into over like faces,
and to grin at me. WasI too daring? Was it wrong of
me to risk my life in thismanner? I was terribly tired and curious.

(33:37):
As it may seem, my greatestfear at that crucial moment was the
dread that I might fall asleep.I had spent two nights with scarcely any
repose, and felt that at anymoment, notwithstanding all my efforts, slumber
might visit me. In order togive Binlass full opportunity for carrying out his
scheme, it was necessary for meto get into bed and even to fame

(34:00):
in sleep. In my present exhaustedcondition, the pretense of slumber would easily
lapse into the reality. This risk, however, which really was a very
grave, one, must be runwithout undressing. I got into bed,
pulling the bedclothes well over me inmy hand, I held my revolver.
I deliberately put out the candles,and then lay motionless, waiting for events.

(34:23):
The house was quiet as the grave. There was not a stir,
and gradually my nerves, excited asthey were, began to calm down as
I had fully expected. Overpowering sleepinessseized me, and notwithstanding every effort,
I found myself drifting away into theland of dreams. I began to wish
that whatever apparition was to appear,would do so at once and get it

(34:45):
over. Gradually, but surely,I seemed to pass from all memory of
my present world and to live ina strange and terrible phantasmagoria. In that
state, I slept in that state. Also, I dreamt, and dreamt
horribly. I thought that I wasdancing a waltz with an enormously tall woman.
She towered above me, clasping mein her arms, and began to

(35:07):
whirl me round and round at agiddy speed. I could hear the crashing
music of a distant band. Fasterand faster, round and round some great
empty hall was I whirled. Iknew that I was losing my senses and
screamed to her to stop and letme go. Suddenly there was a terrible
crash close to me. Good God, I found myself awake, but I

(35:30):
was still moving. Where was I? Where was I going? I leapt
up on the bed, only toreel and fall heavily backwards upon the floor.
What was the matter? Why wasI sliding sliding? Had I suddenly
gone mad? Or was I stillsuffering from some hideous nightmare? I tried
to move, to stagger to myfeet. Then, by slow degrees,

(35:52):
my senses began to return, andI knew where I was. I was
in the circular room, the roomwhere Wentworth had died. But what was
happening to me? I could notdivine? I only knew that I was
being whirled round and round at avelocity that was every moment increasing By the
moonlight that struggled through the window.I saw that the floor and the bed

(36:14):
upon it was revolving, but thetable was lying on its side, and
its fall must have awakened me.I could not see any other furniture in
the room by what mysterious manner hadit been removed. Making a great effort,
I crawled to the center of thisawful chamber, and, seizing the
foot of the bed, struggled tomy feet. Here I knew there would

(36:35):
be less motion, and I couldjust manage to see the outline of the
door. I had taken the precautionto slip the revolver into my pocket,
and I still felt that if humanagency appeared, I had a chance of
selling my life dearly. But surelythe horror I was passing through was invented
by no living man. As thefloor of the room revolved in the direction
of the door, I made adash for it, but was carried swiftly

(36:59):
past and again fell heavily. WhenI came round again, I made a
frantic effort to cling to one ofthe steps, but in vain. The
head of the bedstead caught me asit flew round and tore my arms away.
In another moment, I believe Ishould have gone raving mad with terror.
My head felt as if it wouldburst. I found it impossible to

(37:19):
think consecutively. The only idea whichreally possessed me was a mad wish to
escape from this hideous place. Istruggled to the bedstead, and, dragging
the legs from their sockets, pulledit into the middle of the room,
away from the wall. With thisout of the way, I managed at
last to reach the door in safety. The moment my hand grasped the handle,
I leapt upon the little step andtried to wrench the door open.

(37:44):
It was locked. Locked from withoutit defied my every effort. I had
only just standing room for my feet. Below me, the floor of the
room was still racing round with terriblespeed. I dared scarcely look at it,
for the giddiness in my head increasedeach moment. The next instant,
a soft footstep was distinctly audible,and I saw a gleam of light through

(38:06):
a chink of the door. Iheard a hand fumbling at the lock.
The door was slowly opened outwards,and I saw the face of been lost.
For a moment, he did notperceive me, for I was crouching
down on the step, and thenext instant, with all my force,
I flung myself upon him. Heuttered a yell of terror. The lantern
he carried dropped and went out,But I had gripped him round the neck

(38:29):
with my fingers, driving them deepdown into his lean, sinewy throat.
With frantic speed, I pulled himalong the passage up to a window through
which the moonlight was shining. HereI released my hold of his throat,
but immediately covered him with my revolver. Down on your knees, or you
are a dead man, I cried, Confess everything, or I shoot you

(38:52):
through the heart. His courage hadevidently forsaken him. He began to whimper
and cry bitterly. Spare my life, he screamed. I will tell everything,
only spare my life. Be quickabout it, I said, I
am in no humor to be merciful. Out with the truth. I was

(39:12):
listening anxiously for the wife's step,But except for the low hum of machinery
and the splashing of the water,I heard nothing speak I said, giving
the old man a shake. Hislips trembled, his words came out falteringly.
It was Wentworth's doing, he panted, Wentworth, not the murdered man,
I cried, No, No,his cousin, the Ruffian, who

(39:37):
has been the curse of my lifeowing to that last death. He inherits
the property. He is the realowner of the mill. And he invented
the revolving floor. There were deaths. Oh yes, oh yes, it
was so easy, and I wantedthe money. The police never suspected,
nor did the doctors. Wentworth wasbitter heart on me, and I got

(39:59):
into his power. Here he chokedand sobbed. I am a miserable old
man. Sir, he gasped.So you killed your victims for the sake
of money, I said, graspinghim by the shoulder. Yes, he
said, yes. The bailiff hadtwenty pounds all in gold. No one
ever knew. I took it andwas able to satisfy Wentworth for a bit.

(40:22):
And what about Archibald Wentworth? Thatwas his doing, and I was
to be paid. And now finallyyou wanted to get rid of me.
Yes, for you suspected as Ispoke, I perceived by the ghastly light
of the moon. Another door nearI opened it and saw that it was
the entrance to a small, darklumber room. I pushed the old man

(40:45):
in, turned the key in thelock, and ran downstairs. The wife
was still unaccountably absent. I openedthe front door, and trembling, exhausted,
drenched in perspiration, found myself inthe open air. Every nerve was
shaken at that terrible moment. Iwas not in the least master of myself.
My one desire was to fly fromthe hideous place. I had just

(41:08):
reached the little gate when a handlight as a feather touched my arm.
I looked up. The girls stoodbefore me. You are saved, she
said, Thank God. I triedall I could to stop the wheel.
See I am drenched to the skin. I could not manage it, but
at least I locked Grannie up.She's in the kitchen, sound asleep.

(41:30):
She drank a lot of gin.What were you all day yesterday? I
asked, Locked up in a roomin the further tower. But I managed
to squeeze through the window, althoughit half killed me. I knew if
you stayed that they would try iton tonight. Thank God, you are
saved. Well, don't keep menow, I said, I have been

(41:52):
saved as by a miracle. Youare a good girl. I am much
obliged to you. You must tellme another time how you managed to live
through all these horrors? Ain't Iall but mad? Was her pathetic reply.
Oh my God, what I suffer. She pressed her hand to her
face. The look in her eyeswas terrible. But I could not wait

(42:13):
now to talk to her further.I hastily left the place. How I
reached Harkhurst I can never tell,but early in the morning I found myself
there. I went straight to doctorStammoor's house, and having got him up,
I communicated my story. He andI together immediately visited the Superintendent of
Police. Having told my exciting tale, we took a trap and all three

(42:37):
returned to the castle in We wereback there before eight o'clock on the following
morning, but as the police officerexpected, the place was empty. Bin
Laws had been rescued from the darkcloset, and he and his wife and
the girl Liz had all flown Thedoctor, the police officer and I all
went up to the circular room.We then descended to the basement and after

(43:00):
to a careful examination, we discovereda low door through which we crept.
We then found ourselves in a darkvault which was full of machinery. By
the light of a lantern, weexamined it. Here we saw an explanation
of the whole trick. The shaftof the mill wheel, which was let
through the wall of the tower,was continuous as the axle of a vertical

(43:20):
cogged wheel, and by a multiplicationaction turned a large horizontal wheel into which
a vertical shaft descended. This shaftwas led into the center of four cross
beams supporting the floor of the roomin which I had slept. All round
the circular edge of the floor wasa steel rim which turned in a circular
socket. It needed but a touchto set this hideous apparatus in motion.

(43:43):
The police immediately started in pursuit ofbeIN lost, and I returned to London
that evening. Edgecombe and I visiteddoctor Miles Gordon, hard headed old physician
that he was, He was literallyaghast when I told him my story.
He explained to me that a manplaced in the position in which I was,
when the floor began to move,would, by means of centrifugal force
suffer from enormous congestion of the brain. In fact, the revolving floor would

(44:07):
induce an artificial condition of apoplexy.If the victim were drugged or even only
sleeping heavily, and the floor beganto move slowly, insensibility would almost immediately
be induced, which would soon passinto coma and death, and a post
mortem examination some hours afterwards would showno cause for death, as the brain

(44:28):
would appear perfectly healthy, the bloodhaving again left it. From the presence
of doctor Miles Gordon, Edgcombe andI went to Scotland Yard and the whole
affair was put into the hands ofthe London Detective Force. With the clue
which I had almost sacrificed my lifeto furnish, they quickly did the rest.
Wentworth was arrested and under pressure,was induced to make a full confession.

(44:51):
But old beIN laws had already toldme the gist of the story.
Wentworth's father had owned the mill,had got into trouble with the law and
changed his name. In fact,he had spent five years in penal servitude.
He then went to Australia and mademoney. He died when his son
was a young man. This youthinherited all the father's vices. He came

(45:13):
home, visited the mill, andbeing of a mechanical turn of mind,
invented the revolving floor. He changeda mill into an inn, put Binlass,
one of his pals, into possession, with the full intention of murdering
unwary travelers from time to time fortheir money. The police, however,
wanted him for a forged bill,and he thought it best to fly.

(45:35):
Bin Loss was left in full possession, worried by Wentworth, who had him
in his power for a grave crimecommitted years ago, he himself, on
two occasions murdered a victim in thecircular room. Meanwhile, several unexpected deaths
had taken place in the older branchof the Wentworth family, and Archibald Wentworth
alone stood between his cousin and thegreat estates. Wentworth came home and with

(45:59):
the aid of bin Lass, gotArchibald into his power. The young artist
slept in the fatal room, andhis death was the result. At this
moment, Wentworth and Binloss are committedfor trial at the Old Bailey, and
there is no doubt what the resultwill be. The ghost mystery and connection
with the castle, and has ofcourse been explained away forever two the warder

(46:22):
of the door. If you don'tbelieve it, you can read it for
yourself, said Alan Clinton, climbingup the steps and searching among the volumes
on the top shelf. I layback in my chair. The beams from
the sinking sun shone through the stainedglass of the windows of the old library
and dyed the rows of black leathervolumes with bands of red and yellow.

(46:43):
Here bell I took a musty volumefrom Alan Clinton, which he had unearthed
from its resting place. It isabout the middle of the book, he
continued eagerly. You will see itin big black, old English letters.
I turned over the pages containing thefamily tree and other archives of the Clintons
till I came to the one Iwas seeking. It contained the curse which

(47:05):
had rested on the family since fourteenhundred. Slowly and with difficulty, I
deciphered the words of this terrible denunciation. And in this cell its coffin leath,
the coffin which hath not human shape, for which reason no holy ground
receiveth it. Here shall it restto curse the family of y Clintons.
From generation to generation. And forthis reason, as soon as the soul

(47:28):
shall pass from the body of eachfirst born, which is the heir,
it shall become the water of thedoor by day and by night. Day
and night shall his spirit stand bythe door to keep the door closed till
the sun shall release the spirit ofthe father from the watch and take his
place, till his son in turnshall die. And whoso entereth into the
cell shall be the prisoner of thesoul that guardeth the door till it shall

(47:51):
let him go. What a ghastlyidea, I said, glancing up at
the young man who was watching meas I read. But you say this
cell has never been found, Ishould say its existence was a myth.
And of course the curse on thesoul of the first born to keep the
door shut as warder is absurd.Matter does not obey witchcraft. The odd

(48:12):
part of it is replied Alan,that every other detail of the abbey referred
to in this record has been identified, but this cell, with its horrible
contents, has never been found.It certainly was a curious legend, and
I allow it made some impression onme. I fancied too, that somewhere
I had heard something similar, butmy memory failed to trace it. I

(48:34):
had come down to Clinton Abbey threedays before for some pheasant shooting. It
was now Sunday afternoon. The family, with the exception of old Sir Henry,
Allan and myself were at church.Sir Henry, now nearly eighty years
of age in a chronic invalid,had retired to his room for his afternoon
sleep. The younger Clinton and Ihad gone out for a stroll round the

(48:57):
grounds, and since we returned,our conversation had run upon the family history
till it arrived at the legend ofthe family curse. Presently, the door
of the library was slowly opened,and Sir Henry, in his black velvet
coat, which formed such a strikingcontrast to his snowy white beard and hair,
entered the room. I rose frommy chair, and giving him my

(49:19):
arm, assisted him to his favoritecouch. He sank down into its luxurious
steps with a sigh. But ashe did so, his eyes caught the
old volume, which I had laidon the table beside it. He started
forward, took the book in hishand, and looked across at his son.
Did you take this book down?He said, sharply. Yes,
father, I got it out toshow it to Bell, he is interested

(49:44):
in the history of the abbey,and then return it to its place at
once, interrupted the old man,his black eyes blazing with sudden passion.
You know how I dislike having mybooks disarranged, and this one above all,
stay give it to me. Hestruggled up from the couch, and
taking the volume, locked it upin one of the drawers of his writing

(50:05):
table, and then sat back againon the sofa. His hands were trembling,
as if some sudden fear had takenpossession of him. Did you say
that Phyllis Curzon is coming tomorrow?Asked the old man, presently of his
son, in an irritable voice.Yes, father, of course, don't
you remember missus Curzon and Phyllis arecoming to stay for a fortnight. And

(50:28):
by the way, he added,starting to his feet as he spoke,
that reminds me. I must goand tell Grace. The rest of the
sentence was lost in the closing ofthe door. As soon as we were
alone, Sir Henry looked across atme for a few moments without speaking.
Then he said, I am sorryI was so short. Just now I
am not myself. I do notknow what is the matter with me.

(50:52):
I feel all to pieces. Icannot sleep. I do not think my
time is very long now, andI am worried about Allan. The fact
is I would give anything to stopthis engagement. I wish you would not
marry. I am sorry to hearyou say that, Sir, I answered,
I should have thought you would havebeen anxious to see your son happily

(51:14):
married. Most men would, wasthe reply. But I have my reasons
for wishing things otherwise, what doyou mean I could not help asking.
I cannot explain myself. I wishI could. It would be best for
Allan to let the old family dieout there. Perhaps I am foolish about
it, and of course I cannotreally stop the marriage. But I am

(51:37):
worried and troubled about many things.I wish I could help you, sir,
I said, impulsively. If thereis anything I can possibly do,
you know you have only to askme. Thank you, Bell. I
know you would, but I cannottell you. Some day I may,
but there I am afraid, horriblyafraid. The trembling again seized him,

(51:59):
and he put his hands over hiseyes as if to shut out some terrible
sight. Don't repeat a word ofwhat I have told you to Allan or
any one else, he said suddenly. It is possible that some day I
may ask you to help me.And remember, Belle, I trust you.
He held out his hand, whichI took. In another moment,
the butler entered with the lamps,and I took advantage of the interruption to

(52:22):
make my way to the drawing room. The next day, the curtains arrived,
and a hasty glance showed me thatPhyllis was a charming girl. She
was tall, slightly built, witha figure both upright and graceful, and
a handsome, somewhat proud face.When in perfect repose, her expression was
somewhat haughty, but the moment shespoke, her face became vivacious, kindly,

(52:44):
charming to an extraordinary degree. Shehad a gay laugh, a sweet
smile, a sympathetic manner. Iwas certain she had the kindest of hearts,
and was sure that Allan had madean admirable choice. A few days
went by, and at last usthe evening before the day when I was
to return to London arrived. Phyllis'smother had gone to bed A short time

(53:06):
before, as she had complained ofheadache, and Allan suddenly proposed, as
the night was a perfect one,that we should go out and enjoy a
moonlight stroll. Phyllis laughed with gleeat the suggestion, and ran at once
into the hall to take a wrapfrom one of the pegs. Allan,
she said to her lover, whowas following her, you and I will

(53:27):
go first. No, young lady, on this occasion, you and I
will have that privilege, said sirHenry. He had also come into the
hall, and, to our astonishment, announced his intention of accompanying us in
our walk. Phyllis bestowed upon hima startled glance. Then she laid her
hand lightly on his arm, noddedback at Allan with a smile, and

(53:47):
walked on in front somewhat rapidly.Allan and I followed in the rear.
Now what does my father mean bythis, said Allan to me. He
never goes out at night, buthe had it has not been well lately.
I sometimes think he grows queerer everyday. He is very far from
well. I am certain, Ianswered. We stayed out for about half

(54:09):
an hour and returned home by apath which led into the house through a
side entrance. Phyllis was waiting forus in the hall. Where is my
father? Asked Allan, going upto her, He is tired and has
gone to bed. She answered,good night, Allan. Won't you come
into the drawing room? He asked, in some astonishment, No, I

(54:31):
am tired. She nodded to himwithout touching his hand. Her eyes,
I could not help noticing, hada queer expression. She ran upstairs.
I saw that Allan was startled byher manner, but as he did not
say anything, either did I.The next day, at breakfast, I
was told that the Curzons had alreadyleft the abbey. Alan was full of

(54:53):
astonishment and I could see a gooddeal Annoyed, he and I breakfasted alone
in the old His father was tooill to come downstairs. An hour later
I was on my way back toLondon. Many things there engaged my immediate
attention, and Allan his engagement,Sir Henry and the old family curse sank

(55:15):
more or less into the background ofmy mind. Three months afterwards, on
the seventh of January, I saw, to my sorrow in the Times the
announcement of Sir Henry Clinton's death fromtime to time. In the interim I
had heard from the Sun saying thathis father was failing fast. He further
mentioned that his own wedding was fixedfor the twenty first of the present month.

(55:37):
Now, of course, it mustbe postponed. I felt truly sorry
for Allan, and wrote immediately along letter of condolence. On the following
day, I received a wire fromhim imploring me to go down to the
abbey as soon as possible, sayingthat he was in great difficulty. I
packed a few things hastily and arrivedat Clinton Abbey at six in the evening.

(55:59):
The house was silent and subdued.The funeral was to take place the
next day. Clinton came into thehall and gripped me warmly by the hand.
I noticed at once how worn andworried he looked. This is good
of you, Bell, he said. I cannot tell you how grateful I
am to you for coming. Youare the one man who can help me,

(56:20):
for I know you have had muchexperience in matters of this sort.
Come into the library and I willtell you everything. We shall dine alone
this evening, as my mother andthe girls are keeping to their own apartments,
for to night. As soon aswe were seated, he plunged at
once into his story. I mustgive you a sort of prelude to what
has just occurred. He began,you remember when you were last here,

(56:45):
how abruptly Phyllis and her mother leftthe abbey. I nodded, I remembered
well. On the morning after youhad left us, I had a long
letter from Phyllis, continued Allan.In it, she told me of an
extraordinary request my father had made toher during that moonlight walk, nothing more
nor less than an earnest wish thatshe would herself terminate our engagement. She

(57:07):
spoke quite frankly, as she alwaysdoes, assuring me of her unalterable love
and devotion, but saying that underthe circumstances, it was absolutely necessary to
have an explanation. Frantic, withalmost ungovernable rage, I sought my father
in his study. I laid Phyllis'sletter before him and asked him what it

(57:27):
meant. He looked at me withthe most unutterable expression of weariness and pathos.
Yes, my boy, I didit, he said. Phyllis is
quite right. I did ask ofher as earnestly as a very old man
could plead that she would bring theengagement to an end. But why,
I asked, why that I amunable to tell you, he replied.

(57:49):
I lost my temper and said somewords to him which I now regret.
He made no sort of reply.When I had done speaking, he said,
slowly, I make all a allowancefor your emotion. Allan, your
feelings are no more than natural.You have done me a very sore injury.
I retorted, what can Phyllis thinkof this? She will never be
the same again. I am goingto see her to day. He did

(58:14):
not utter another word, and Ileft him. I was absent from home
for about a week. It tookme nearly that time to induce Phyllis to
overlook my father's extraordinary request and tolet matters go on exactly as they had
done before. After fixing our engagement, if possible, more firmly than ever,
and also arranging the date of ourwedding, I returned home. When

(58:37):
I did so, I told myfather what I had done. As you
will, he replied, and thenhe sank into great gloom from that moment,
although I watched him day and nightand did everything that love and tenderness
could suggest he never seemed to rally. He scarcely spoke, and remained whenever
we were together, bowed in deepand painful reverie. A week ago he

(59:00):
took to his bed. Here,Alan paused, I now come to events
up to date? He said,Of course, as you may suppose,
I was with my father to thelast. A few hours before he passed
away, he called me to hisbedside, and, to my astonishment,
began once more talking about my engagement. He implored me, with the utmost

(59:22):
earnestness, even now, at theeleventh hour, to break it off.
It was not too late, hesaid, and added further that nothing would
give him ease in dying but theknowledge that I would promise him to remain
single. Of course, I triedto humor him. He took my hand,
looked me in the eyes with anexpression which I shall never forget,
and said, Allan, make mea solemn promise that you will never marry.

(59:45):
This I naturally had to refuse.And then he told me that,
expecting my obstinacy, he had writtenme a letter which I should find in
his safe, but I was notto open it till after his death.
I found it this morning, bellit is the most extraordinary communication. And
either it is entirely a figment ofhis imagination, for his brain powers were

(01:00:07):
failing very much at the last,or else it is the most awful thing
I ever heard of. Here isthe letter. Read it for yourself.
I took the paper from his handand read the following matter in shaky,
almost a legible writing, My dearboy, when you read this, I
shall have passed away. For thelast six months, my life has been

(01:00:27):
a living death. The horror beganin the following way. You know what
a deep interest I have always takenin the family history of our house.
I have spent the latter years ofmy life in verifying each detail. And
my intention was, had health beengiven me, to publish a great deal
of it in a suitable volume.My dear boy, on the special night

(01:00:49):
to which I am about to allude, I sat up late in my study
reading the book which I saw youshow to Bell a short time ago.
In particular, I was much attractedby the terrible curse which the old d
abbot in the fourteenth century had bestowedupon the family. I read the awful
words again and again. I knewthat all the other details in the volume
had been verified, but that thevault with the coffin had never yet been

(01:01:12):
found. Presently, I grew drowsy, and I suppose I must have fallen
asleep. In my sleep, Ihad a dream. I thought that some
one came into the room, touchedme on the shoulder and said come.
I looked up a tall figure beckonedto me. The voice and the figure
belonged to my late father. Inmy dream. I rose immediately, although
I did not know why I wentnor where I was going. The figure

(01:01:37):
went on in front. It enteredthe hall. I took one of the
candles from the table and the keyof the chapel, unbolted the door and
went out. Still, the voicekept saying, come, Come, and
the figure of my father walked infront of me. I went across the
quadrangle, unlocked the chapel door,and entered. A deathlike silence was around

(01:01:57):
me. I crossed the knave tothe north aisle. The figure still went
in front of me. It enteredthe great pew, which is said to
be haunted, and walked straight upto the effigy of the old abbot who
had pronounced the curse. This,as you know, is built into the
opposite wall. Bending forward, thefigure pressed the eyes of the old monk,
and immediately a stone started out ofits place, revealing a staircase behind.

(01:02:22):
I was about to hurry forward whenI must have knocked against something.
I felt a sensation of pain andsuddenly awoke. What was my amazement to
find that I had acted on mydream, had crossed the quadrangle and was
in the chapel. In fact,was standing in the old pew. Of
course, there was no figure ofany sort visible, but the moonlight shed

(01:02:44):
a cold radiance over all the place. I felt very much startled and impressed,
but was just about to return tothe house in some wonder at the
curious vision which I had experienced.When raising my startled eyes, I saw
that part of it, at leastwas real. The old monk seemed to
grin at me from his marble effigy, and beside him was a blank open

(01:03:04):
space. I hurried to it andsaw a narrow flight of stairs. I
cannot explain what my emotions were,but my keenest feeling at that moment was
a strong and horrible curiosity. Holdingthe candle in my hand, I went
down the steps. They terminated atthe beginning of a long passage. This
I quickly traversed, and at lastfound myself beside an iron door. It

(01:03:28):
was not locked, but hasped,and was very hard to open. In
fact, it required nearly all mystrength. At last I pulled it open
towards me, and therein a smallcell lay the coffin. As the words
of the curse said, I gazedat it in horror. I did not
dare to enter. It was awedge shaped coffin, studded with great nails.

(01:03:50):
But as I looked, my bloodfroze within me. For slowly,
very slowly, as if pushed bysome unseen hand, the great heavy door
began to close, quicker and quicker, until with the crash that echoed and
re echoed through the empty vault,it shut. Terror stricken, I rushed
from the vault and reached my roomonce more. Now I know that this

(01:04:11):
great curse is true, that myfather's spirit is there to guard the door
and close it, for I sawit with my own eyes. And while
you read this, know that Iam there. I charge you therefore not
to marry, bring no child intothe world to perpetuate this terrible curse.
Let the family die out. Ifyou have the courage, it is much
I know to ask. But whetheryou do or not, come to me

(01:04:33):
there, and if by sign orword I can communicate with you, I
will do so. But hold thesecret safe. Meet me there before my
body is laid to rest, whenbody and soul are still not far from
each other. Farewell, your lovingfather, Henry Clinton. Henry Clinton.
I read this strange letter over carefullytwice and laid it down for a moment.

(01:04:58):
I hardly knew what to say.It was certainly the most uncanny thing
I had ever come across. Whatdo you think of it? Asked Allan
at last, Well, of course, there are only two possible solutions,
I answered. One is that yourfather not only dreamt the beginning of this
story, which remember he allows himself, but the whole of it. And

(01:05:19):
the other, asked Allan. Seeingthat I paused the other, I continued,
I hardly know what to say.Yet, of course we will investigate
the whole thing. That is ouronly chance of arriving at a solution.
It is absurd to let matters restas they are. We had better try
tonight. Clinton winced and hesitated.Something must be done of course, he

(01:05:44):
answered. But the worst of itis Phyllis and her mother are coming here
early to morrow, in time forthe funeral, and I cannot meet her.
No, I cannot, poor girl, while I feel as I do.
We will go to the vault tonight, I said Clinton. He rose
from his chair and looked at me. I don't like this thing at all,
bell, he continued. I amnot, by nature, in any

(01:06:06):
sense of the word, a superstitiousman. But I tell you, frankly,
nothing would induce me to go aloneinto that chapel to night. If
you come with me, that,of course alters matters. I know the
pew my father refers to, well, it is beneath the window of S.
T. Sebastian. Soon afterwards,I went to my room and dressed,

(01:06:26):
and Allan and I dined tete atete in the great dining room.
The old butler waited on us withfunereal solemnity, and I did all I
could to lure Clinton's thoughts into amore cheerful and healthier channel. I cannot
say that I was very successful.I further noticed that he scarcely ate anything,
and seemed altogether to be in astate of nervous tension, painful to

(01:06:47):
witness. After dinner we went intothe smoking room, and at eleven o'clock
I proposed that we should make astart. Clinton braced himself together and we
went out. He got the chapelkeys, and then going to the stables,
we borrowed a lantern, and amoment afterwards found ourselves in the sacred
edifice. The moon was at herfull, and by the pale light which

(01:07:09):
was diffused through the south windows,the architecture of the interior could be faintly
seen. The Gothic arches that flankedthe center aisle, with their quaint pillars,
each with a carved figure of oneof the saints, were quite visible,
and further in the darkness of thechancel, the dim outlines of the
choir an altar table with its whitemarble rear dose, could be just discerned.

(01:07:29):
We closed the door softly, andClinton, leading the way with the
lantern, we walked up the centeraisle, paved with the brasses of his
dead ancestors. We trod gently ontiptoe, as one instinctively does at night,
turning beneath the little pulpit, wereached the north transept, and here
Clinton stopped and turned round. Hewas very white, but his voice was

(01:07:50):
quiet. This is the pew,he whispered. It has always been called
the haunted pew of Sir Hugh Clinton. I took the lantern from him and
we entered. I crossed the pewimmediately and went up to the effigy of
the old abbot. Let us examinehim closely, I said. I held

(01:08:10):
up the lantern, getting it toshine on each part of the face,
the vestments, and the figure.The eyes, although vacant as in all
statuary, seemed to me at thatmoment to be uncanny and peculiar. Giving
alan the lantern to hold, Iplaced a finger firmly on each. The
next moment, I could not refrainfrom an exclamation. A stone at the
side immediately rolled back, revealing thesteps which were spoken of by the old

(01:08:34):
man and his narrative. It istrue, it is true, cried Clinton
excitedly. It certainly looks like it, I remarked. But never mind,
we have the chance now of investigatingthis matter thoroughly. Are you going down,
asked Clinton? Certainly, I am, I replied. Let us go

(01:08:56):
together. Immediately afterwards, we creptthrough the opening and began to descend.
There was only just room to doso in single file, and I went
first with the lantern. In anothermoment, we were in the long passage,
and soon we were confronted by adoor in an arched stone framework.
Up till now Clinton had shown littlesign of alarm. But here, at

(01:09:16):
the trysting place to which his father'ssoul had summoned him, he seemed suddenly
to lose his nerve. He leantagainst the wall, and for a moment
I thought he would have fallen.I held up the lantern and examined the
door and walls carefully. Then,approaching, I lifted the iron latch of
the heavy door. It was veryhard to move, but at last,

(01:09:38):
by seizing the edge, I draggedit open to its full against the wall
of the passage. Having done so, I peered inside, holding the lantern
above my head. As I didso, I heard Clinton cry out,
Look, look, he said,And turning I saw that the great door
had swung back against me, almostshutting me within the cell. Telling Clinton

(01:09:59):
to hold it back by force,I stepped inside and saw at my feet
the ghastly coffin the legend then,so far was true. I'd bent down
and examined the queer, misshapen thingwith great care. Its shape was that
of an enormous wedge, and itwas apparently made of some dark old wood,
and was bound with iron at thecorners. Having looked at it all

(01:10:19):
round, I went out, and, flinging back the door which Clinton had
been holding open, stood aside towatch. Slowly, very slowly, as
we both stood in the passage,slowly, as if pushed by some invisible
hand, the door commenced to swinground, and, increasing in velocity,
shut with a noisy clang. Seizingit once again, I dragged it open,

(01:10:43):
and while Clinton held it in thatposition, made a careful examination up
to the present. I saw nothingto be much alarmed about. There were
fifty ways in which a door mightshut of its own accord. There might
be a hidden spring or tilted hinges. Draft, of course, was out
of the question. I looked atthe hinges. They were of iron and
set in the solid masonry. Norcould I discover any spring or hidden contrivance,

(01:11:09):
as when the door was wide openthere was an interval of several inches
between it and the wall. Wetried it again, and again with the
same result, and at last,as it was closing, I seized it
to prevent it. I now experienceda very odd sensation. I certainly felt
as if I were resisting an unseenperson who was pressing hard against the door

(01:11:30):
at the other side. Directly itwas released, it continued its course.
I allow, I was quite unableto understand the mystery. Suddenly an idea
struck me. What does the legendsay, I asked, turning to Clinton,
that the soul is to guard thedoor, to close it upon the
coffin. Those are the words,answered Allan, speaking with some difficulty.

(01:11:53):
Now if that is true, Icontinued, and we take the coffin out.
The spirit won't shut the door.If it does shut it, it
disproves the whole thing at once andshows it to be merely a clever mechanical
contrivance. Come, Clinton, helpme to get the coffin out. I
dare not bell, he whispered hoarsely. I daren't go inside. Nonsense,

(01:12:15):
man, I said, feeling nowa little annoyed at the whole thing.
Here, put the lantern down andhold the door back. I stepped in,
and, getting behind the coffin,put out all my strength and shoved
it into the passage. Now,then I cried, I'll bet you fifty
pounds to five the door will shutjust the same. I dragged the coffin

(01:12:36):
clear of the door and told himto let go. Clinton had scarcely done
so before stepping back. He clutchedmy arm. Look, he whispered,
do you see that it will notshut? Now? My father is waiting
for the coffin to be put back. This is awful. I gazed at
the door in horror. It wasperfectly true. It remained wide open and

(01:13:00):
quite still. I sprang forward,seized it, and now endeavored to close
it. It was as if someonewas trying to hold it open. It
required considerable force to stir it,and it was only with difficulty I could
move it at all. At lastI managed to shut it, but the
moment I let go, it swungback open of its own accord and struck
against the wall, where it remainedjust as before. In the dead silence

(01:13:24):
that followed, I could hear Clintonbreathing quickly behind me, and I knew
he was holding himself for all hewas worth. At that moment, there
suddenly came over me a sensation whichI had once experienced before, and which
I was twice destined to experience again. It is impossible to describe it,
but it seized me, laying siegeto my brain till I felt like a

(01:13:45):
child in its power. It wasas if I were slowly drowning in the
great ocean of silence that enveloped us. Time itself seemed to have disappeared.
At my feet lay the misshapen thing, and the lantern behind it cast the
fantastic shadow of its distorted outline onthe cell wall. Before me speak say
something, I cried to Clinton.The sharp sound of my voice broke the

(01:14:10):
spell. I felt myself again andsmiled at the trick my nerves had played
on me. I bent down andonce more laid my hands on the coffin,
But before I had time to pushit back into its place, Clinton
had gone up the passage like aman who is flying to escape a hurled
javelin, exerting all my force toprevent the door from swinging back by keeping

(01:14:30):
my leg against it. I hadjust got the coffin into the cell and
was going out when I heard ashrill cry, and Clinton came tearing back
down the passage. I can't getout. The stone has sunk into its
place. We are locked in,he screamed, and wild with fear,
he plunged headlong into the cell,upsetting me in his career. Before I

(01:14:51):
could check him, I sprang backto the door as it was closing.
I was too late. Before Icould reach it, it had shut with
a loud clang in obedience to theinfernal witchcraft. You have done it now,
I cried angrily. Do you seewhy, man, we are buried
alive in this ghastly hole. Thelantern I had placed just inside the door,

(01:15:15):
and by its dim light, asI looked at him, I saw
the terror of a man an creepinto Clinton's eyes. Buried alive, he
shouted with a peal of hysterical laughter. Yes, and Bell, it's your
doing. You are a devil inhuman shape. With a wild paroxysm of
fury, he flung himself upon me. There was the ferocity of a wild

(01:15:36):
beast in his spring. He upsetthe lantern and left us in total darkness.
The struggle was short. We mightbe buried alive, but I was
not going to die by his hand, and seizing him by the throat,
I pinned him against the wall.Keep quiet, I shouted, It is
your thundering stupidity that has caused allthis. Stay where you are until I

(01:15:59):
strike a man. I luckily hadsome vestas in the little silver box which
I always carry on my watch chain, and striking. When I re lit
the lantern, Clinton's paroxysm was overand sinking to the floor. He lay
there, shivering and cowering. Itwas a terrible situation, and I knew
that our only hope was for meto keep my presence of mind. With

(01:16:19):
a great effort, I forced myselfto think calmly over what could be done.
To shout for help would have beenbut a useless waste of breath.
Suddenly an idea struck me. Haveyou got your father's letter? I cried
eagerly. I have, he answered, it is in my pocket. My

(01:16:39):
last ray of hope vanished. Ouronly chance was that if he had left
it at the house, some onemight discover the letter and come to our
rescue by its instructions. It hadbeen a faint hope, and it disappeared
almost as quickly as it had cometo me. Without it, no one
would ever find the way to thevault that had remained a secret for ages.

(01:17:00):
I was determined, however, notto die without a struggle for freedom.
Taking the lantern, I examined everynook and cranny of the cell for
some other exit. It was afruitless search. No sign of any way
out could I find, and wehad absolutely no means to unfasten the door
from the inner side. Taking afew short steps, I flung myself again

(01:17:21):
and again at the heavy door.It never budged an inch, and bruised
and sweating at every pore. Isat down on the coffin and tried to
collect all my faculties. Clinton wassilent and seemed utterly stunned. He sat
still, gazing with a vacant stareat the door. The time dragged heavily,
and there was nothing to do butto wait for a horrible death from

(01:17:44):
starvation. It was more than likely, too that Clinton would go mad already
his nerves were strained to the utmost. Altogether, I had never found myself
in a worse plight. It seemedlike an eternity that we sat there,
either of us speaking a word.Over and over again. I repeated to
myself the words of the terrible curse, and whoso entereth into the cell shall

(01:18:05):
be the prisoner of the soul thatguardeth the door, till it shall let
him go. When would the shapelessform that was inside the coffin let us
go? Doubtless, when our boneswere dry, I looked at my watch.
It was half past eleven o'clock.Surely we had been more than ten
minutes in this awful place. Wehad left the house at eleven, and

(01:18:27):
I knew that must have been manyhours ago. I glanced at the second
hand. The watch had stopped.What is the time, Clinton, I
asked, My watch has stopped.What does it matter? He murmured,
what is time to us? Now? The sooner we die, the better.
He pulled out his watch as hespoke and held it to the lantern.

(01:18:49):
Twenty five minutes past eleven, hemurmured, dreamily. Good heavens,
I cried, starting up. Hasyour watch stopped too? Then, like
the leap of a lightning flash,an idea struck me. I have got
it. I have got it.My god, I believe I have got

(01:19:09):
it, I cried, seizing himby the arm. Got what, he
replied, staring wildly at me.Why the secret the curse the door,
don't you see. I pulled outthe large knife I always carry by a
chain and swivel in my trouser pocket, and telling Clinton to hold the lantern,
open the little bladesaw and attack thecoffin with it. I believe the

(01:19:31):
secret of our deliverance lies in this. I panted, working away furiously.
In ten minutes, I had sawnhalf through the wooden edge. Then handing
my tool to Clinton, I toldhim to continue the work while I rested.
After a few minutes, I tookthe knife again, and at last,
after nearly half an hour had goneby, succeeded in making a small

(01:19:54):
hole in the lid. Inserting mytwo fingers, I felt some rough,
uneven masses. I was now fearfullyexcited. Tearing at the opening like a
man man, I enlarged it andextracted what looked like a large piece of
coal. I knew in an instantwhat it was. It was magnetic iron
ore. Holding it down to myknife, the blade flew to it.

(01:20:16):
Here is the mystery of the soul, I cried, Now we can use
it to open the door. Ihad known a great conjurer once who had
deceived and puzzled his audience with abox trick on similar lines, the man
opening the box from the inside bydrawing down the lock with a magnet.
Would this do the same? Ifelt that our lives hung on the next

(01:20:38):
moment. Taking the mass, Ipressed it against the door, just opposite
the hasp, and slid it upagainst the wood. My heart leapt as
I heard the hasp fly up outside, and with a push the door opened.
We are saved, I shouted,We are saved by a miracle.
Bell, you are a genius.Gasp poor Clinton. But now, how

(01:21:00):
about the stone at the end ofthe passage. We will soon see about
that, I cried, taking thelantern. Half the danger is over at
any rate, and the worst halftwo. We rushed along the passage and
up the stair until we reached thetop. Why Clinton, I cried,
holding up the lantern. The placewas not shut at all, nor was

(01:21:24):
it in his terror he had imaginedit. I could not see in the
dark, and I was nearly deadwith fright. He said, Oh,
Bell, let us get out ofthis as quickly as we can. We
crushed through the aperture and once morestood in the chapel. I then pushed
the stone back into its place.Dawn was just breaking when we escaped from

(01:21:45):
the chapel. We hastened across tothe house. In the hall, the
clock pointed to five. Well wehave had an awful time, I said,
as we stood in the hall together. But at least Clinton the end
was worth a ghastly terror. Ihave not the bottom out of your family
legend forever. I don't even nowquite understand, he said, don't you.

(01:22:08):
But it is so easy That coffinnever contained a body at all,
but was filled, as you perceive, with fragments of magnetic iron ore.
For what diabolical purposes the cell wasintended, It is of course impossible to
say, but that it must havebeen meant as a human trap. There
is little doubt the inventor certainly exercisedno small ingenuity when he devised his diabolical

(01:22:31):
plot. For it was obvious thatthe door, which was made of iron,
would swing towards the coffin wherever ithappened to be placed. Thus the
door would shut if the coffin wereinside the cell, and would remain open
if the coffin were brought out.A cleverer method for simulating a spiritual agency
it would be hard to find.Of course, the monk must have known

(01:22:53):
well that magnetic iron ore never losesits quality and would ensure the deception remaining
potent for ages. But how didyou discover by means of our watches?
Asked Clinton. Any One who understandsmagnetism can reply to that, I said,
it is a well known fact thata strong magnet plays havoc with watches.

(01:23:14):
The fact of both our watches goingwrong first gave me a clue to
the mystery. Later in the daythe whole of this strange affair was explained
to Miss Curzon, and not longafterwards the passage and entrance to the chapel
were bricked up. It is needlessto add that six months later the pair
were married, and I believe areas happy as they deserve. Three The

(01:23:34):
Mystery of the Felwyn Tunnel. Iwas making experiments of some interest at South
Kensington and hoped that I had perfecteda small but not unimportant discovery, when,
on returning home one evening in lateOctober in the year eighteen ninety three,
I found a visiting card on mytable. On it were inscribed the
words mister Jeffrey Bainbridge. This namewas quite unknown to me, so I

(01:23:59):
rang the bell and inquired of myservant who the visitor had been. He
described him as a gentleman who wishedto see me on most urgent business,
and said further that mister Bainbridge intendedto call again later in the evening.
It was with both curiosity and vexationthat I awaited the return of the stranger.
Urgent business with me generally meant ahurried rush to one part of the

(01:24:20):
country or the other. I didnot want to leave London just then,
And when at half past nine misterJeffrey Bainbridge was ushered into my room,
I received him with a certain coldnesswhich he could not fail to perceive.
He was a tall, well dressed, elderly man. He immediately plunged into
the object of his visit. Ihope you do not consider my unexpected presence

(01:24:43):
and intrusion, mister bell, hesaid, But I have heard of you
from our mutual friends the graves ofUplands. You may remember once doing that
family a great service. I rememberperfectly well, I answered, more cordially,
Pray tell me what you want.I shall listen with attention. I
believe you are the one man inLondon who can help me, he continued.

(01:25:06):
I refer to a matter, especiallyrelating to your own particular study.
I need hardly say that whatever youdo will not be unrewarded. That is
either here nor there, I said. But before you go any further,
allow me to ask one question.Do you want me to leave London at
present? He raised his eyebrows indismay. I certainly do, he answered,

(01:25:30):
very well. Pray proceed with yourstory. He looked at me with
anxiety. In the first place,he began, I must tell you that
I am Chairman of the Lydonvale RailwayCompany in Wales, and that it is
on an important matter connected with ourline that I have come to consult you.
When I explain to you the natureof the mystery, you will not

(01:25:50):
wonder, I think at my solicitingyour aid. I will give you my
closest attention, I answered, andthen I added, and pelled say the
latter words by a certain expression onhis face. If I can see my
way to assisting you, I shallbe ready to do so. Pray accept
my cordial thanks, he replied.I have come up from my place at

(01:26:13):
Felwyn today on purpose to consult you. It is in that neighborhood that the
affair has occurred, as it isessential that you should be in possession of
the facts of the whole matter.I will go over things just as they
happened. I bent forward and listenedattentively. This day fortnight continued mister Bainbridge,
our quiet little village was horrified bythe news that the signaman on duty

(01:26:35):
at the mouth of the Felwyn Tunnelhad been found dead under the most mysterious
circumstances. The tunnel is at theend of a long cutting between Lanley's and
Felwyn stations. It is about amile long, and the signal boxes on
the Felwyn side. The place isextremely lonely, being six miles from the
village across the mountains. The nameof the poor fellow who met his death

(01:26:59):
in this mysterio fashion was David Pritchard. I have known him from a boy
and he was quite one of thesteadiest and most trustworthy men on the line.
On Tuesday evening he went on dutyat six o'clock on Wednesday morning,
the day man who had come torelieve him was surprised not to find him
in the box. It was justgetting daylight and the six point three zero

(01:27:19):
local was coming down, so hepulled the signals and led her through.
Then he went out and looking upthe line towards the tunnel, saw Pritchard
lying beside the line close to themouth of the tunnel. Roberts, the
day man, ran up to himand found to his horror that he was
quite dead. At first, Robertsnaturally supposed that he had been cut down

(01:27:41):
by a train, as there wasa wound at the back of the head,
but he was not lying on themedals. Roberts ran back to the
box and telegraphed through to Felwyn station. The message was sent on to the
village, and at half past seveno'clock the police inspector came up to my
house with the news. He andI, the local doctor, went off
at once to the tunnel. Wefound the dead man lying beside the metals,

(01:28:04):
a few yards away from the mouthof the tunnel, and the doctor
immediately gave him a careful examination.There was a depressed fracture at the back
of the skull which must have causedhis death, but how he came by
it was not so clear. Onexamining the whole place most carefully, we
saw further that there were marks onthe rocks at the steep side of the

(01:28:25):
embankment, as if someone had triedto scramble up them. Why the poor
fellow had attempted such a climb,God only knows. In doing so,
he must have slipped and fallen backon to the line, thus causing the
fracture of the skull. In nocase could he have gone up more than
eight or ten feet, as thebanks of the cutting run sheer up almost

(01:28:45):
perpendicularly beyond that point from more thanone hundred and fifty feet. There are
some sharp boulders beside the line,and it was possible that he might have
fallen on one of these and sosustained the injury. The affair must have
occurred some time between eleven forty fivepm and six a m. As the
engine driver of the express at elevenforty five p m states that the line

(01:29:06):
was signaled clear, and he alsocaught sight of Pritchard in his box as
he passed. This is deeply interesting, I said, pray proceed. Bainbridge
looked at me earnestly. He thencontinued the whole thing is shrouded in mystery.
Why should Prichard have left his boxand gone down to the tunnel.

(01:29:27):
Why, having done so, shouldhe have made a wild attempt to scale
the side of the cutting, animpossible feat. At any time, had
danger threatened, the ordinary course ofthings would have been to run up the
line towards the signal box. Thesepoints are quite unexplained. Another curious fact
is that death appears to have takenplace just before the day man came on

(01:29:47):
duty, as the light at themouth of the tunnel had been put out,
and it was one of the nightsignalman's duties to do this as soon
as daylight appeared. It is possible, therefore, that Pritchard went down to
the tunnel for that purpose. Againstthis theory, however, and an objection
that seems to nullify it, isthe evidence of doctor Williams, who states

(01:30:09):
that when he examined the body,his opinion was that death had taken place
some hours before an inquest was heldon the following day. But before it
took place there was a new andmost important development. I now come to
what I considered the crucial point inthe whole story. For a long time,
there had been a feud between Pritchardand another man of the name of

(01:30:29):
Wynn, a plate layer on theline. The object of their quarrel was
the blacksmith's daughter in the neighboring village, a remarkably pretty girl and an errant
flirt. Both men were madly inlove with her, and she played them
off one against the other. Thenight but one before his death, Pritchard
and Wynn had met at the villageand had quarreled in the bar Lucy,
of course, being the subject oftheir difference. When was heard to say

(01:30:54):
he was a man of powerful buildand subject to fits of ungovernable rage,
that he would have pretty life,Prichard swore a great oath that he would
get Lucy on the following day topromise to marry him. This oath,
it appears, he kept, andon his way to the signal box on
Tuesday evening Medwin and triumphantly told himthat Lucy had promised to be his wife.

(01:31:15):
The men had a hand to handfight on the spot, several people
from the village being witnesses of it. They were separated with difficulty, each
vowing vengeance on the other. Prichardwent off to his duty at the signal
box, and when returned to thevillage to drown his sorrows at the public
house. Very late that same night, when was seen by a villager going

(01:31:35):
in the direction of the tunnel.The man stopped him and questioned him.
He explained that he had left someof his tools on the line and was
on his way to fetch them.The villager noticed that he looked queer and
excited, but not wishing to picka quarrel, thought it best not to
question him further. It has beenproved that whe never return home that night,

(01:31:57):
but came back at an early houron the following morning, looking dazed
and stupid. He was arrested onsuspicion, and at the inquest the verdict
was against him. Has he givenany explanation of his own movements? I
asked, yes, but nothing thatcan clear him. As a matter of
fact, his tools were nowhere tobe seen on the line, nor did

(01:32:18):
he bring them home with him.His own story is that, being considerably
the worse for drink, he hadfallen down in one of the fields and
slept there till morning. Things lookblack against him, I said, they
do, but listen I have somethingmore to add. Here comes a very
queer feature in the affair. LucyRay, the girl who had caused the

(01:32:40):
feud between Pritchard and Wynn, afterhearing the news of Prichard's death, completely
lost her head and ran frantically aboutthe village, declaring that Winn was the
man she really loved, and thatshe had only accepted Pritchard in a fit
of rage with Wynn for not himself. Bringing matters to the point, the
case looks very bad against Wynn,and yesterday the magistrate committed him for trial

(01:33:01):
at the coming assizes. The unhappyLucy Ray and the young man's parents are
an a state bordering on distraction.What is your own opinion with regard to
Win's guilt, I asked before God, mister bell. I believe the poor
fellow is innocent, but the evidenceagainst him is very strong. One of
the favorite theories is that he wentdown to the tunnel and extinguished the light,

(01:33:25):
knowing that this would bring Pritchard outof his box to see what was
the matter, and that he thenattacked him, striking the blow which fractured
the skull. Has any weapon beenfound about with which he could have given
such a blow. No, norhas anything of the kind been discovered on
Win's person. That fact is decidedlyin his favor. But what about the
marks on the rocks, I asked. It is possible that one may have

(01:33:49):
made them in order to divert suspicionby making people think that Prichard must have
fallen and so killed himself. Theholders of this theory based their belief on
the applute want of cause for Pritchard'strying to scale the rock. The whole
thing is the most absolute enigma.Some of the country folk have declared that
the tunnel is haunted, and therecertainly has been such a rumor current among

(01:34:12):
them for years that Pritchard saw someapparition and, in wild terror sought to
escape from it by climbing the rocksis another theory. But only the most
imaginative hold it well. It isa most extraordinary case, I replied,
yes, mister Bell, and Ishould like to get your opinion of it.
Do you see your way to elucidatethe mystery? Not at present?

(01:34:35):
But I shall be happy to investigatethe matter to my utmost ability. But
you do not wish to leave Londonat present? That is so, but
a matter of such importance cannot beset aside. It appears from what you
say that Whens life hangs more orless on my being able to clear away
the mystery. That is, indeedthe case. There ought not to be

(01:34:57):
a single stone left unturned to getat the truth. For the sake of
Wyin Well, mister Bell, whatdo you propose to do to see the
place without delay? I answered?That is right? When can you come?
Whenever you please? Will you comedown to Felwyn with me tomorrow?
I shall leave Paddington by the sevenpoint one zero, and if you will

(01:35:18):
be my guest, I shall beonly too pleased to put you up.
That arrangement will suit me admirably,I replied, I will meet you by
the train you mention, and theaffair shall have my best attention. Thank
you, he said, rising,He shook hands with me and took his
leave. The next day I metBainbridge at Paddington station, and we were

(01:35:41):
soon flying westward in the luxurious privatecompartment that had been reserved for him.
I could see, by his abstractedmanner and his long lapses of silence,
that the mysterious affair at Felwyn tunnelwas occupying all his thoughts. It was
two o'clock in the afternoon when thetrain slowed down at the little station of
Felwyn. The station master was atthe door in an instant to receive us.

(01:36:04):
I have some terribly bad news foryou, sir, he said,
turning to Bainbridge, as we alighted. And yet in one sense it is
a relief, for it seems toclear win. What do you mean,
cried Bainbridge, bad news speak outat once, Well, sir, it
is this. There has been anotherdeath at Felwyn's single box. John Davidson,

(01:36:27):
who was on duty last night,was found dead at an early hour
this morning in the very same placewhere we found poor Prichard. Good God,
cried Bainbridge, starting back, whatan awful thing. What in the
name of Heaven does it mean?Mister Bell, this is too fearful.
Thank goodness you have come down withus. It is as black a business

(01:36:48):
as I ever heard of, sir, echoed the station master. And what
we are to do I don't know. Poor Davidson was found dead this morning
and there was either mark nor signof what killed him. That is the
extraordinary part of it. There's aperfect panic abroad, and not a singleman
on the line will take duty tonight. I was quite in despair and

(01:37:11):
was afraid at one time that theline would have to be closed. But
at last it occurred to me towire to lt and veil, and they
are sending down an inspector. Iexpect him by a special every moment.
I believe this is he coming now, added the station master, looking up
the line. There was the soundof a whistle down the valley, and
in a few moments a single engineshot into the station, and an official

(01:37:34):
in uniform stepped on to the platform. Good evening, sir, he said,
touching his cap to Bainbridge. Ihave just been sent down to inquire
into this affair at the Felwyn Tunnel, and though it seems more of a
matter for a Scotland Yard detective thanone of ourselves, there was nothing for
it but to come all the same, mister Bainbridge, I cannot say that

(01:37:56):
I look forward to spending tonight aloneat the place. You wish for the
services of a detective, But youshall have some one better, said Bainbridge,
turning towards me. This gentleman,mister John Bell, is the man
of all others for our business.I have just brought him down from London
for the purpose. An expression ofrelief flitted across the Inspector's face. I

(01:38:18):
am very glad to see you,sir, he said to me, and
I hope you will be able tospend the night with me in the signal
box. I must say I don'tmuch relish the idea of tackling the thing
single handed, but with your help, sir, I think we ought to
get to the bottom of it somehow. I am afraid there is not a
man on the line who will takeduty until we do so. It is

(01:38:41):
most important that the thing should becleared and without delay. I readily assented
to the Inspector's proposition, and Bainbridgeand I arranged that we should call for
him at four o'clock at the villagein and drive him to the tunnel.
We then stepped into the wagonette,which was waiting for us, and drove
to Bainbridge's house. Missus Bainbridge cameout to meet us and was full of

(01:39:03):
the tragedy. Two pretty girls alsoran to greet their father and to glance
inquisitively at me. I could seethat the entire family was in a state
of much excitement. Lucy Ray hasjust left, father, said the elder
of the girls. We had muchtrouble to soothe her. She is in
a frantic state. You have heard, mister Bell all about this dreadful mystery,

(01:39:27):
said Missus Bainbridge, as she ledme towards the dining room. Yes,
I answered, Your husband has beengood enough to give me every particular
and you have really come here tohelp us. I hope I may be
able to discover the cause, Ianswered. It certainly seems most extraordinary,
continued Missus Bainbridge. My dear,she continued, turning to her husband.

(01:39:53):
You can easily imagine the state wewere all in this morning when the news
of the second death was brought tous. For my said Ella Bainbridge.
I am sure that Felwyn Tunnel ishaunted. The villagers have thought so for
a long time, and this seconddeath seems to prove it, does it
not? He or she looked anxiouslyat me. I can offer no opinion,

(01:40:15):
I replied, until I have siftedthe matter thoroughly. Come, Ella,
don't worry, mister Bell, saidher father. If he is as
hungry as I am, he mustwant his lunch. We then seated ourselves
at the table and commenced the meal. Bainbridge, although he professed to be
hungry, was in such a stateof excitement that he could scarcely eat.

(01:40:36):
Immediately after lunch, he left meto the care of his family and went
into the village. It is justlike him, said missus Bainbridge. He
takes these sort of things to heartdreadfully. He is terribly upset about Lucy
Ray and also about the poor fellowwin. It is certainly a fearful tragedy
from first to last. Well,at any rate, I said, this

(01:41:00):
fresh death will upset the evidence againstWynn. I hope so, and there
is some satisfaction in the fact.Well, mister bell I see you have
finished lunch. Will you come intothe drawing room? I followed her into
a pleasant room overlooking the valley ofthe Litton by in by Bainbridge returned,
and soon afterwards the dog cart cameto the door. My host and I

(01:41:23):
mounted. Bainbridge took the reins andwe started off at a brisk pace.
Matters get worse and worse, hesaid, the moment we were alone.
If you don't clear things up tonight. Bell, I say frankly that
I cannot imagine what will happen.We entered the village, and as we
rattled down the ill paved streets,I was greeted with curious glances. On

(01:41:43):
all sides. The people were standingabout in groups, evidently talking about the
tragedy and nothing else. Suddenly,as our trap bumped noisily over the paving
stones, a girl darted out ofone of the houses and made frantic motions
to Bainbridge to stop the horse.He pulled the mare nearly up on her
haunches, and the girl came upto the side of the dog cart.

(01:42:04):
You have heard it, she said, speaking eagerly and in a gasping voice.
The death which occurred this morning willclear, Stephen Win, won't it,
mister Bainbridge, it will? Youare sure, are you not?
It looks like it Lucy, mypoor girl, he answered, But there
the whole thing is so terrible thatI scarcely know what to think. She

(01:42:26):
was a pretty girl with dark eyes, and under ordinary circumstances, must have
had the vivacious expression of face andthe brilliant complexion which so many of her
country women possess. But now hereyes were swollen with weeping, and her
complexion more or less disfigured by theagony she had gone through. She looked
piteously at Bainbridge, her lips trembling. The next moment she burst into tears.

(01:42:50):
Come away, Lucy, said awoman who had followed her out of
the cottage. Fie for shame.Don't trouble the gentleman. Come back and
stay quiet. I can't, mother, I can't, said the unfortunate girl.
If they hang him, I'll goclean off my head. Oh,
mister Bainbridge, do say that thesecond death has cleared him. I have

(01:43:13):
every hope that it will do so, Lucy, said Bainbridge. But now
don't keep us. There's a goodgirl. Go back into the house.
This gentleman has come down from Londonon purpose to look into the whole matter.
I may have good news for youin the morning. The girl raised
her eyes to my face with alook of intense pleading. Oh, I
have been cruel and a fool,and I deserve everything, she gasped.

(01:43:38):
But sir, for the love ofHeaven, try to clear him. I
promise to do my best. Bainbridgetouched up the mare. She bounded forward,
and Lucy disappeared into the cottage withher mother. The next moment we
drew up at the end where theinspector was waiting, and soon afterwards were
bowling along between the high banks ofthe country lanes to the tunnel. It

(01:44:00):
was a cold, still afternoon.The air was wonderfully keen, for a
sharp frost had held the countryside inits grip for the last two days.
The sun was just tipping the hillsto westward. When the trap pulled up
at the top of the cutting,we hastily alighted, and the Inspector and
I bade Bainbridge good bye. Hesaid that he only wished that he could
stay with us for the night,assured us that little Sleep would visit him,

(01:44:24):
and that he would be back atthe cutting at an early hour on
the following morning. Then the noiseof his horses feet was heard fainter and
fainter as he drove back over thefrost bound roads. The Inspector and I
ran along the little path to thewicket gate in the fence, stamping our
feet on the hard ground to restorecirculation after our cold drive. The next

(01:44:44):
moment we were looking down upon thescene of the mysterious deaths, and a
weird and lonely place it looked.The tunnel was at one end of the
rock cutting, the sides of whichran sheered down to the line for over
a hundred and fifty feet. Abovethe tunnel's mouth, the hills rose one
upon the other, a more drearyplace that would have been difficult to imagine
from a little clump of pines.A delicate film of blue smoke rose straight

(01:45:09):
up on the still air. Thiscame from the chimney of the signal box.
As we started to descend the precipitouspath, the inspector sang out a
cheery hullo. The man on dutyin the box immediately answered. His voice
echoed and reverberated down the cutting,and the next moment he appeared at the
door of the box. He toldus that he would be with us immediately,

(01:45:30):
but we called back to him tostay where he was, and the
next instant, the Inspector and Ientered the box. The first thing to
do, said Henderson, the inspectoris to send a message down the line
to announce our arrival. This hedid, and in a few moments,
a crawling goods train came panting upthe cutting. After signaling her through,

(01:45:51):
we descended the wooden flight of stepswhich led from the box down to the
line, and walked along the metalstowards the tunnel till we stood on the
spot where poured Davidson had been founddead that morning. I examined the ground
and all around it most carefully.Everything tallied exactly with the description I had
received. There could be no possibleway of approaching the spot except by going

(01:46:13):
along the line, as the rockysides of the cutting were inaccessible. It
is a most extraordinary thing, sir, said. The Sigma men whom we
had come to relieve Davidson had neithermark nor sign on him. There he
lay stone, dead and cold,and not a bruise nowhere. But Pritchard
had an awful wound at the backof the head. They said he got
it by climbing the rocks. Here. You can see the marks for yourself,

(01:46:38):
sir, But now, is itlikely that Pritchard would try to climb
rocks like these so steep as theyare certainly not? I replied, Then
how do you account for the wound? Sir? Asked the man with an
anxious face. I cannot tell youat present, I answered, And you
and Inspector Henderson are going to spendthe night in the signal box. Yes,

(01:47:01):
a horrified expression crept over the SignAllman's face. God preserve you both,
he said. I wouldn't do it, not for fifty pounds. It's
not the first time I have heardtell that Felwyn Tunnel is haunted. But
there I won't say any more aboutthat. It's a black business and has
given trouble enough. There's poor Win, the same thing as convicted of the

(01:47:25):
murder of Pritchard, but now theysay that Davidson's death will clear him.
Davidson was as good a fellow asyou would come across this side of the
country. But for the matter ofthat, so is Pritchard. The whole
thing is terrible. It upsets onethat it do, sir. I don't
wonder at your feelings, I answered, But now see here I want to

(01:47:46):
make a most careful examination of everything. One of the theories is that when
crept down this rocky side and fracturedPrichard's skull, I believe such a feat
to be impossible. On examining theserocks, I see that that a man
might climb up the side of thetunnel as far as from eight to ten
feet, utilizing the sharp projections ofrock for the purpose. But it would

(01:48:08):
be out of the question for anyman to come down the cutting. No,
the only way wind could have approachedPritchard was by the line itself.
But after all, the real thingto discover is this, I continued,
what killed Davidson. Whatever caused hisdeath, is beyond doubt equally responsible for
Pritchard's. I am now going intothe tunnel. Inspector Henderson went in with

(01:48:31):
me. The place struck damp andchill. The walls were covered with green,
evil smelling fungi, and through thebrickwork the moisture was oozing and had
trickled down in long lines to theground. Before us was nothing but dense
darkness. When we reappeared, thesignalman was lighting the red lamp on the
post, which stood about five feetfrom the ground, just above the entrance

(01:48:54):
to the tunnel. Is there plentyof oil? Asked the inspector. Yes,
Sir Plenty, replied the man.Is there anything more I can do
for either of you? Gentlemen?He asked, pausing and evidently dying to
be off nothing, answered Henderson.I will wish you good evening. Good
evening to you both, said theman. He made his way quickly up

(01:49:17):
the path and was soon lost tosight. Henderson and I then returned to
the signal box. By this timeit was nearly dark. How many trains
pass in the night, I askedof the inspector. There's the ten point
two zero down Express, he said, it will pass here at about ten
point four zero, Then there's theeleven point four five up, and then

(01:49:40):
not another train till the six pointthree zero local tomorrow morning. We shan't
have a very lively time, headded. I approached the fire and bent
over it, holding out my handsto try and get some warmth into them.
It will take a good deal topersuade me to go down to the
tunnel, whatever I may see there, said the man. I don't think,

(01:50:01):
mister bell I am a coward inany sense of the word. But
there's something very uncanny about this place, right away from the rest of the
world. I don't wonder one oftenhears of signal men going mad in some
of these lonely boxes. Have youany theory to account for these deaths,
Sir, none at present, Ireplied. This second death puts the idea

(01:50:23):
of Pritchard being murdered quite out ofcourt, he continued. I am sure
of it, I answered, andso am I. And that's one comfort,
continued Henderson. That poor girl LucyRay, although she was to be
blamed for her conduct, is muchto be pitted now. And as to
poor Wynn himself, he protests hisinnocence too thick and thin. He was

(01:50:45):
a wild fellow, but not thesort to take the life of a fellow
creature. I saw the doctor thisafternoon while I was waiting for you at
the inn, mister Bell, andalso the police sergeant. They both say
they do not know what David's anddied of. There was not the least
sign of violence on the body.Well, I am as puzzled as the
rest of you, I said,I have one or two theories in my

(01:51:10):
mind, but none of them willquite fit the situation. The night was
piercingly cold, and although there wasnot a breath of wind, the keen
and frosty air penetrated into the lonelysignal box. We spoke little, and
both of us were doubtless absorbed byour own thoughts and speculations. As to
Henderson, he looked distinctly uncomfortable,and I cannot say that my own feelings

(01:51:32):
were too pleasant. Never had Ibeen given a tougher problem to solve,
and never had I been so utterlyat my wits end for a solution.
Now and then the inspector got upand went to the telegraph instrument, which
intermittently clicked away in its box.As he did so. He made some
casual remark, and then sat downagain. After the ten point four zero

(01:51:55):
had gone through, there followed aperiod of silence which seemed almost suppressive.
All at once, the stillness wasbroken by the whirr of the electric bell,
which sounded so sharply in our earsthat we both started. Henderson rose,
that's the eleven point four five coming, he said, and going over
to the three long levers, hepulled two of them down with a loud

(01:52:15):
clang. The next moment, witha rush and a scream, the express
tore down the cutting The carriage lightstreamed past in a rapid flash. The
ground trembled, A few sparks fromthe engine whirled up into the darkness,
and the train plunged into the tunnel. And now, said Henderson, as
he pushed back the levers, notanother train till daylight. My word,

(01:52:40):
it is cold. It was intenselyso I piled some more wood on the
fire, and, turning up thecollar of my heavy ulster, sat down
at one end of the bench andleaned my back against the wall. Henderson
did likewise. We raither of usinclined to speak. As a rule,
whenever I have any night work todo, I am never troubled with sleepiness.

(01:53:01):
But on this occasion I felt unaccountablydrowsy. I soon perceived that Henderson
was in the same condition. Areyou sleepy? I asked of him.
Dead with it, sir, washis answer. But there's no fear.
I won't drop off. I gotup and went to the window of the
box. I felt certain that ifI sat still any longer, I should

(01:53:23):
be in a sound sleep. Thiswould never do. Already it was becoming
a matter of torture to keep myeyes open. I began to pace up
and down. I opened the doorof the box and went out on the
little platform. What's the matter,sir, inquired Henderson, jumping up with
a start. I cannot keep awakeI said, nor can I, he

(01:53:45):
answered, And yet I have spentnights and nights of my life in signal
boxes and never was the least bitdrowsy. Perhaps it's the cold. Perhaps
it is, I said, butI have been out on as freezing nights
before. Aunt. The man didn'tnot reply. He had sat down again.
His head was nodding. I wasjust about to go up to him
and shake him, when it suddenlyoccurred to me that I might as well

(01:54:09):
let him have his sleep out.I soon heard him snoring, and he
presently fell forward in a heap onthe floor. By dint of walking up
and down, I managed to keepfrom dropping off myself, and, in
torture which I shall never be ableto describe, the night wore itself away.
At last, towards morning, Iawoke Henderson. You have had a

(01:54:30):
good nap, I said, Butnever mind, I have been on guard
and nothing has occurred. Good God, have I been asleep? Cried the
man sound, I answered, Well, I never felt anything like it,
he replied. Don't you find theair very close, sir, No,
I said, it is as freshas possible. It must be the cold.

(01:54:54):
I'll just go and have a lookat the light at the tunnel,
said the man. It will rouseme me. He went on to the
little platform whilst I bend over thefire and began to build it up.
Presently he returned with a scared lookon his face. I could see by
the light of the oil lamp whichhung on the wall, that he was
trembling. Mister bell, he said, I believe there is somebody or something

(01:55:17):
down at the mouth of the tunnel. Now as he spoke, he clutched
me by the arm. Go andlook, he said, whoever it is,
it has put out the light.Put out the light, I cried,
why, what's the time? Hendersonpulled out his watch. Thank goodness,
most of the night is gone,he said, I didn't know it

(01:55:39):
was so late. It is halfpast five. Then the local is not
due for an hour yet, Isaid no. But who should put out
the light? Cried Henderson. Iwent to the door, flung it open
and looked out. The dim outlineof the tunnel was just visible looming through
the darkness, but the red lightwas out. What the dickens does it

(01:56:00):
mean, sir, gasped the inspector. I know the lamp had plenty of
oil in it can there be anyone standing in front of it. Do
you think we waited and watched fora few moments, but nothing stirred.
Come along, I said, letus go down together and see what it
is. I don't believe I cando it, sir. I really don't

(01:56:23):
nonsense, I cried. I shallgo down alone. If you won't accompany
me, just hand me my stick, will you. For God's sake,
be careful, mister Bell. Don'tgo down whatever you do. I expect
this is what happened before, andthe poor fellows went down to see what
it was and died there. There'ssome devilry at work, that's my belief.

(01:56:45):
That is as it may be,I answered shortly, But we certainly
shall not find out by stopping here. My business is to get to the
bottom of this, and I amgoing to do it. That there is
danger of some sort, I havevery little doubt, but danger or not,
I am going down. If you'llbe warned by me, sir,
you'll just stay quietly here. Imust go down and see the matter out,

(01:57:10):
was my answer. Now listen tome, Henderson. I see that
you are alarmed, and I don'twonder. Just stay quietly where you are
and watch. But if I call, come at once. Don't delay a
single instant. Remember, I amputting my life into your hands. If
I call, come, just cometo me as quick as you can,
for I may want help. Giveme that lantern. He unhitched it from

(01:57:33):
the wall, and taking it fromhim, I walked cautiously down the steps
on to the line. I stillfell curiously, unaccountably, drowsy and heavy.
I wondered at this, for themoment was such a critical one as
to make almost any man wide awake. Holding the lamp high above my head,
I walked rapidly along the line.I hardly knew what I expected to

(01:57:56):
find. Cautiously along the metals,I made my way, peering right and
left until I was close to thefatal spot where the bodies had been found.
An uncontrollable shudder passed over me thenext moment, to my horror.
Without the slightest warning, the lightI was carrying went out, leaving me
in total darkness. I started back, and, stumbling against one of the

(01:58:17):
loose boulders, reeled against the walland nearly fell. What was the matter
with me? I could hardly stand. I felt giddy and faint, and
A horrible sensation of great tightness seizedme across the chest. A loud,
ringing noise sounded in my ears.Struggling madly for breath and with the fear
of impending death upon me, Iturned and tried to run from a danger

(01:58:41):
I could neither understand nor grapple with. But before I had taken two steps,
my legs gave way from under me, and, uttering a loud cry,
I fell insensible to the ground,out of an oblivion which, for
all I knew, might have lastedfor moments or centuries. A dawning consciousness
came to me. I knew thatI was lying on hard ground, that
I was absolutely incapable of realizing,nor had I the slightest inclination to discover

(01:59:06):
where I was. All I wantedwas to lie quite still and undisturbed.
Presently I opened my eyes. Someone was bending over me and looking into
my face. Thank God, heis not dead, I heard in whispered
tones. Then with a flash,memory returned to me. What has happened?

(01:59:28):
I asked, you may well askthat, sir, said the inspector
gravely. It has been touch andgo with you for the last quarter of
an hour and a near thing forme too. I sat up and looked
around me. Daylight was just beginningto break, and I saw that we
were at the bottom of the stepsthat led up to the signal box.
My teeth were chattering with the cold, and I was shivering like a man

(01:59:50):
with ague. I am better now, I said, just give me your
hand. I took his arm andholding the rail with the other hand,
and staggered up into the box andsat down on the bench. Yes,
it has been a near shave,I said, and a big price to
pay for solving a mystery. Doyou mean to say you know what it

(02:00:11):
is? Asked Henderson eagerly, Yes, I answered, I think I know
now, But first tell me howlong was I unconscious? A good bit
over half an hour, sir,I should think. As soon as I
heard you call out, I randown, as you told me. But
before I got to you, Inearly fainted. I never had such a
horrible sensation in my life. Ifelt as weak as a baby. But

(02:00:34):
I just managed to seize you bythe arms and drag you along the line
to the steps, and that wasabout all I could do. Well,
I owe you my life, Isaid, Just hand me that brandy flask
I shall be the better for someof its contents. I took a long
pull. Just as I was layingthe flask down, Henderson started from my

(02:00:55):
side. There he cried, thesix point three zero is come. The
electric bell at the instrument suddenly beganto ring. Ought I to let her
go through, sir, he inquired, certainly, I answered, that is
exactly what we want. Oh,she will be all right. No danger

(02:01:15):
to her, Sir, none,none. Let her go through. He
pulled the lever, and the nextmoment the train tore through the cutting.
Now I think it will be safeto go down again, I said,
I believe I shall be able toget to the bottom of this business.
Henderson stared at me, aghast.Do you mean that you are going down
again to the tunnel? He gaspedyes. I said, give me those

(02:01:40):
matches. You had better come too. I don't think there will be much
danger now, and there is daylight, so we can see what we are
about. The man was very lothto obey me, but at last I
managed to persuade him. We wentdown the line, walking slowly, and
at this moment we both felt ourcourage revived by a brut odd and cheerful
ray of sunshine. We must advancecautiously, I said, and be ready

(02:02:05):
to run back at a moment's notice. God knows, Sir. I think
we are running a great risk,panted poor Henderson. And if that devil
or whatever else it is, shouldhappen to be about why daylight or no
daylight? Nonsense, man, Iinterrupted. If we are careful, no

(02:02:25):
harm will happen to us. Now. Ah, and here we are.
We had reached the spot where Ihad fallen. Just give me a match,
Henderson. He did so, andI immediately lit the lamp, opening
the glass of the lamp. Iheld it close to the ground and passed
it to and fro. Suddenly theflame went out. Don't you understand now,

(02:02:46):
I said, looking up at theinspector. No, I don't,
sir, he replied with a bewilderedexpression. Suddenly, before I could make
an explanation, we both heard shoutsfrom the top of the cutting, and
looking up, I saw Bainbridge hurryingdown the path. He had come in
the dogcart to fetch us. Here'sthe mystery, I cried, as he

(02:03:08):
rushed up to us, and adeadlier scheme of dame Nature's to frighten and
murder poor humanity I have never seen. As I spoke, I lit the
lamp again and held it just abovea tiny fissure in the rock. It
was at once extinguished. What isit? Said Bainbridge, panting with excitement,
something that nearly finished me? Ireplied, why? This is a

(02:03:31):
natural escape of choke damp carbonic acidgas, the deadliest gas imaginable because it
gives no warning of its presence andit has no smell. It must have
collected here during the hours of thenight, when no train was passing,
and gradually rising put out the signallight. The constant rushing of the trains
through the cutting all day would temporarilydisperse it. As I made this explanation,

(02:03:57):
Bainbridge stood like one electrified, whilea curious expression of mingled relief and
horror swept over Henderson's face. Anescape of carbonic acid gas is not an
uncommon phenomenon in volcanic districts, Icontinued, as I take this to be,
but it is odd what should havestarted it? It has sometimes been
known to follow earthquake shocks when thereis a profound disturbance of the deep strata.

(02:04:21):
It is strange that you should havesaid that, said Bainbridge, when
he could find his voice. Whatdo you mean, why that about the
earthquake? Don't you remember Henderson,he added, turning to the inspector.
We had felt a slight shock allover South Wales about three weeks back then.
That I think explains it, Isaid. It is evident that Pritchard

(02:04:45):
really did climb the rocks in afrantic attempt to escape from the gas,
and fell back on to these boulders. The other man was cut down at
once before he had time to fly. But what is to happen now,
asked Bainbridge. Will it go onforever? How are we to stop it?
The fissure ought to be drenched withlime water and then filled up,

(02:05:08):
But all really depends on what isthe size of the supply and also the
depth. It is an extremely heavygas and would lie at the bottom of
a cutting like water. I thinkthere is more here just now than is
good for us, I added,But how continued Bainbridge. As we moved
a few steps from the fatal spot. Do you account for the interval between

(02:05:30):
the first death and the second?The escape must have been intermittent. If
wind blew down the cutting, asprobably was the case before this frost set
in, it would keep the gasso diluted that its effects would not be
noticed. There was enough down herethis morning before that train came through to
poison an army. Indeed, ifit had not been for Henderson's promptitude,

(02:05:51):
there would have been another inquest onmyself. I then related my own experience.
Well, this clears wind without doubt, said Bainbridge. But alas for
the two poor fellows who are victims, Bell, the Lyddonvale Railway Company owe
you unlimited thanks. You have doubtlesssaved many lives. And also the company

(02:06:14):
for the line must have been closedif you had not made your valuable discovery.
But now come home with me tobreakfast. We can discuss all those
matters later. On four the eightMile Lock. It was in the August
of eighteen eighty nine, when Iwas just arranging my annual holiday that I
received the following letter. I toreit open and read Theodora Houseboat, Goring,

(02:06:39):
Goring, Dear mister Bell, Dearmister Bell, can you come down
on Wednesday and stay with us fora week. The weather is glorious and
the river looking its best. Weare a gay party and there will be
plenty of fun going on. Yoursvery truly, Helena Ridsdale, Helena Ridsdale.

(02:07:00):
This was exactly what I wanted.I was fond of the river,
and scarcely a summer passed that Idid not spend at least a fortnight on
the Thames. I could go fora week to the Ridsdales and then start
off on my own quiet holiday afterwards. I had known Lady Ridsdale since she
was a girl, and I hadno doubt my visit would prove a most
enjoyable one. I replied, immediatelyaccepting the invitation, and three days later

(02:07:26):
arrived at Goring. As the wellcushioned little punt which had been sent to
bring me across the river, drewup alongside the Theodora, the Countess came
down from the deck to welcome me. I am so glad you could come,
mister Bell, she said, Iwas afraid you might be away on
some of your extraordinary campaigns against thesupernatural. This is mister Ralph Finer.

(02:07:47):
He is also, like yourself,devoted to science. I am sure you
will find many interests in common.A short, thick set, wiry little
man dressed in white flannels, whohad been lolling in a deck chair,
now came forward and shook hands withme. I know of you by reputation,
mister Bell, he said, andI have often hoped to have the

(02:08:09):
pleasure of meeting you. I amsure we shall all be anxious to hear
of some of your experiences. Weare such an excessively frivolous party that we
can easily afford to be leavined witha little serious element. But I don't
mean to be serious in the least, I answered, laughing. I have
come here to enjoy myself and intendto be as frivolous as the rest of

(02:08:31):
you. You will have an opportunitythis evening, said the Countess. We
are going to have a special bandfrom town and intend to have a moonlight
dance on deck. Ah, herecomes Charley with the others, she added,
shading her eyes and looking down thestream. In a few moments,
a perfectly appointed little electric launch shotup, and my host, with the

(02:08:54):
rest of the party, came onboard. We shortly afterwards sat down to
lunch, and a gayer and pleasanterset of people I have seldom met.
In the afternoon, we broke upinto detachments, and Viner and I went
for a long pull up stream.I found him a pleasant fellow, ready
to talk at any length, notonly about his own hobbies, but about
the world at large. I discoveredpresently that he was a naval engineer of

(02:09:18):
no small attainments. When we returnedto the house boat, it was nearly
time to prepare for dinner. Mostof the ladies had already retired to their
cabins. Lady Ridsdale was standing aloneon deck when she saw us both.
She called to us to come toher side. This quite dazzles me,
she said, in a low,somewhat mysterious tone, and I must show

(02:09:41):
it to you. I know you, at least mister Viner will appreciate it.
As she spoke, she took asmall leather case out of her pocket.
It was ornamented with a monogram andopened with a catch. She pressed
the lid. It flew up andI saw, resting on a velvet bed,
a glittering circlet of enormous diamonds.The Countess lifted them out and slipped

(02:10:03):
them over her slender wrist. Theyare some of the family diamonds, she
said, with excitement and of greatvalue. Charley is having all the jewels
reset for me, but the restare not ready yet. He has just
brought this down from town. Isit not superb? Did you ever see
such beauties? The diamonds flashed onher white wrist. She looked up at

(02:10:26):
me with eyes almost as bright.I love beautiful stones, she said,
and I feel as if these werealive. Oh, do look at the
rays of color in them, asmany as in the rainbow. I congratulated
Lady Ridsdale on possessing such a splendidornament, and then glanced at Viner,
expecting him to say something. Theexpression on his face startled me, and

(02:10:48):
I was destined to remember it.By and by the ruddy look had completely
left it. His eyes were halfstarting from his head. He peered close,
and suddenly, without the slightest warning, stretched out his hand and touched
the diamonds as they glittered round LadyRidsdale's wrist. She started back haughtily,
then, recovering herself, took thebracelet off and put it into his hand.

(02:11:13):
Charlie tells me she said that thisbracelet is worth from fifteen to twenty
thousand pounds. You must take careof it, remarked Viner. Don't let
your maid see it, for instance. Oh nonsense, laughed Lady Ridsdale.
I would trust Louise as I wouldtrust myself. Soon afterwards we separated,

(02:11:33):
and I went down to my littlecabin to prepare for dinner. When we
met in the dining saloon, Inoticed that Lady Ridsdale was wearing the diamond
bracelet. Almost immediately after dinner,the band came on board and the dancing
began. We kept up our festivitiesuntil two o'clock, and more than once,
as she flashed past me, Icould not help noticing the glittering circlet

(02:11:56):
round her wrist. I considered myselfa fair judge precious stones, but had
never seen any diamonds for size andbrilliancy to equal these. As Viner and
I happened to stand apart from theothers, he remarked upon them it was
imprudent of Ridsdale to bring those diamondshere, He said, suppose they are
stolen? Scarcely likely? I answered, there are no thieves on board.

(02:12:22):
He gave an impatient movement. Asfar as we know, there are not,
he said slowly. But one cannever tell. The diamonds are of
exceptional value, and it is notsafe to expose ordinary folk to temptation.
That small circlet means a fortune.He sighed deeply, and when I spoke
to him next, did not answerme. Not long afterwards, our gay

(02:12:43):
party dispersed and we retired to ourrespective cabins. I went to mine and
was quickly in bed. As anewly arrived guest, I was given a
cabin on board, but several othermembers of the party were sleeping in tents
on the shore. Viner and LordRideale were amongst the latter number. Whether
it was the narrowness of my bunkor the heat of the night, I

(02:13:05):
cannot tell, but sleep I couldnot. Suddenly, through my open window
I heard voices from the shore nearby. I could identify the speakers by
their tones. One was my host, Lord Ridsdale, the other Ralph Viner.
Whatever formed the subject of discourse,it was evidently far from amicable.
However much a verse I might feelto the situation, I was compelled to

(02:13:28):
be an unwilling eavesdropper. For thevoices rose, and I caught the following
words from Viner, Can you lendme five thousand pounds till the winter?
No, Viner, I have toldyou so before, and the reason too.
It is your own fault and youmust take the consequences. Do you
mean that to be final? AskedVina. Yes, very well. Then

(02:13:50):
I shall look after myself. ThankGod, I have got brains. If
I have not money, and Ishall not let the means interfere with the
end, you can go to thedevil for all I care, was the
angry answer. And after what Iknow, I won't raise a finger to
help you. The speakers had evidentlymoved further off for the last words I

(02:14:11):
could not catch. But what littleI heard by no means conduced to slumber.
So Viner, for all his jovialand easy manner, was in a
fix for money, and Ridsdale knewsomething about him, scarcely to his credit.
I kept thinking over this, andalso recalling his words when he spoke
of Lady Ridsdale's diamonds as representing afortune. What did he mean by saying

(02:14:33):
that he would not let the meansinterfere with the end. That brief sentence
sounded very much like the outbursts ofa desperate man. I could not help
heartily wishing that Lady Ridsdale's diamond circletwas back in London, and just before
I dropped to sleep, I madeup my mind to speak to Ridsdale on
the subject. Towards morning, Idid doze off, but I was awakened

(02:14:56):
by hearing my name called and startingup, I saw Ridsdale's stand by my
side. His face looked queer andexcited. Wake up, bell, he
cried, A terrible thing has happened. What is it? I asked.
My wife's bracelet is stolen. Likea flash, I thought of Viner,
and then as quickly I knew thatI must be careful to give no voice

(02:15:18):
to hastily formed suspicions. I won'tbe a moment dressing, and then I'll
join you, I said. Ridsdalenodded and left my cabin. In five
minutes I was with him on deck. He then told me briefly what had
happened. Helena most imprudently left thecase on her dressing table last night,

(02:15:39):
he said, and owing to theheat, she kept the window open.
Some one must have waded into thewater in the dark and stolen it.
Perhaps one of the band's men mayhave noticed the flashing of the diamonds on
her wrist and returned to secure thebracelet. There's no saying the only too
palpable fact is that it is gone. It was valued at twenty thousand pounds.

(02:16:00):
Have you sent for the police,I asked, yes, and have
also wired to Scotland Yard for oneof their best detectives. Viner took the
telegram for me and was to callat the police station on his way back.
He is nearly as much upset asI am. This is a terrible
loss. I feel fit to killmyself for my folly in bringing that valuable

(02:16:22):
bracelet on board a houseboat. Itwas a little imprudent, I answered,
But you are sure to get itback. I hope, so, he
replied moodily. Just then, thepunt with Viner and a couple of policemen
on board, was seen rapidly approaching. Ridsdale went to meet them and was
soon in earnest conversation with the Superintendentof Police. The moment Viner leapt on

(02:16:45):
board, he came to the partof the deck where I was standing.
Ah bell, He cried, whatabout my prognostications of last night. They
have been verified too soon, Ianswered. I gave him a quick glance.
His eyes looked straight into mine.Have you any theory to account for
the theft? I asked, yes, a very simple one. Owing to

(02:17:07):
the heat of the evening, theCountess slept with her window open. It
was an easy matter to wade throughthe water, introduce a hand through the
open window and pulloin the diamonds withoutbeing seen by any occupants of the tents,
I queried, certainly, he answered, speaking slowly and with thought.
Then you believe the thief came fromwithout I do. What about your warning

(02:17:31):
to Lady Ridsdale yesterday evening not totrust her maid? I saw his eyes
flash. It was the briefest ofsummer lightning that played in their depths.
I knew that he longed to adoptthe suggestion that I had on purpose thrown
out, but dared not. Thatone look was enough for me. I
had guessed his secret. Before hecould reply to my last remark, Lord

(02:17:54):
Ridsdale came up. What is tobe done? He said? The police
pretended insists on our all without respectof persons being searched. There is nothing
in that, I said, Itis the usual thing. I will be
the first to submit to the examination. The police went through their work thoroughly,
and of course came across neither cluenor diamonds. We presently sat down

(02:18:18):
to breakfast, but I don't thinkwe any of us had much appetite.
Lady Ridsdale's eyes were red with crying, and I could see that the loss
had shaken both her nerve and fortitude. It was more or less of a
relief when the posts came in.Amongst the letters, I found a telegram
for myself. I knew what itmeant before I opened it. It was

(02:18:39):
from a man in a distant partof the country whom I had promised to
assist in a matter of grave importance. I saw that it was necessary for
me to return to town without delay. I was very loath to leave my
host and hostess in their present dilemma, but there was no help for it,
and soon after breakfast I took myleaved. Dale promised to write me

(02:19:01):
if there was any news of thediamonds, and soon the circumstance passed more
or less into the background of mybrain. Owing to the intense interest of
the other matter which I had takenup my work in the North was over
and I had returned to town whenI received a letter from Ridsdale. We
are in a state of despair,he wrote. We have had two detectives

(02:19:22):
on board, and the police havemoved heaven and earth to try and discover
the bracelet, all in vain.Not the slightest clue has been forthcoming.
No one has worked harder for usthan Viner. He has a small place
of his own further down the river, and comes up to see us almost
daily. He has made all sortsof suggestions for the recovery of the diamonds,

(02:19:43):
but hitherto they have led to nothing. In short, our one hope
now turns upon you Bell. Youhave done as difficult things as this before.
Will you come and see us andgive us the benefit of your advice?
If any man can solve this mystery, you are the person. I
wrote immediately to say that I wouldreturn to the Theodora on the following evening,

(02:20:05):
and for the remainder of that daytried to the best of my ability
to think out this most difficult problem. I felt morally certain that I could
put my hand on the thief,but I had no real clue to work
upon nothing beyond a nameless suspicion.Strange as it may seem, I was
moved by sentiment. I had spentsome pleasant hours in Vinus society. I

(02:20:26):
had enjoyed his conversation. I hadliked the man for himself. He had
abilities above the average of that.I was certain if he were proved guilty,
I did not want to be theone to bring his crime home to
him. So uncomfortable were my feelingsthat at last I made up my mind
to take a somewhat bold step.This was neither more nor less than to
go to see Viner himself before visitingthe houseboat. What I was to do

(02:20:50):
and say when I got to him. I was obliged to leave altogether to
chance. But I had a feelingalmost amounting to a certainty that by means
of this visit I should ultimately returnedthe bracelet to my friends the Ridsdales.
The next afternoon, I found myselfrowing slowly down the river, thinking what
the issue of my visit to Vinawould be. It happened to be a

(02:21:11):
perfect evening. The sun had justset. The long reach of rivers stretched
away to the distant bend, wherethrough the gathering twilight, I could just
see the white gates of the eightmile lock. Raising my voice, I
sang out in a long, drawnsonoris monotone. The familiar cry of lock,
lock, lock, and bending tothe skulls sent my little skiff flying

(02:21:35):
downstream. The sturdy figure of oldJames Pegg, the lock keeper, whom
I had known for many years,instantly appeared on the bridge. One of
the great gates slowly swung open andshipping my skulls. I shot in and
called out a cheery good evening tomy old friend, mister Bell, exclaimed
the old fellow, hurrying along theedge of the loch. Well, I

(02:21:58):
never I did not see see itwas you at first, and yet I
ought to have known that long swingingstroke of yours. You are the last
person I expected to see. Iwas half afraid it might be someone else,
although I don't know that I wasexpecting any one in particular. Excuse
me, sir, but was ityou called out lock just now? Of

(02:22:18):
course it was, I answered,laughing. I'm in the deuce of a
hurry tonight, Jimmy, as Iwant to get on to Watten before dark.
Look sharp, will you and letme down all right, sir,
But you did frighten me just now. I wish you hadn't called out like
that. As I glanced up athim, I was surprised to see that

(02:22:39):
his usually ruddy round face was aswhite as a sheet, and he was
breathing quickly. Why what on earthis the matter, Jimmy, I cried,
How can I have frightened you?Oh it's nothing, sir. I
suppose I'm an old fool, hefaltered, smiling. I don't know what's
the matter with me, sir,I'm all of a train. The fact

(02:23:01):
is something happened here last night,and I don't seem to have got over
it. You know. I amall by myself here now, sir,
and a lonely place. It issomething happened, I said. Not an
accident, I hope, no,sir, No accident that I know of.
And yet I have been half expectingone to occur all day, and

(02:23:22):
I have been that week. Icould hardly wind up the sluices. I
am getting old now and I'm notthe man I was. But I'm right
glad to see you, mister Bell. That I am. He kept pausing
as he spoke, and now andthen glanced up the river as if expecting
to see a boat coming round thebend every moment. I was much puzzled
by his extraordinary manner. I knewhim to be a steady man and one

(02:23:46):
whose services were much valued by theConservancy, but it needed only a glance
now to show that there was somethingvery much amiss with him. The darkness
was increasing every moment, and beinganxious to get on as soon as possible,
I was just going to tell himagain to hurry up with the sluices
when he bent down close to meand said, would you mind stepping out

(02:24:07):
for a moment, sir, ifyou can spare the time I wished to
speak to you, Sir, I'dbe most grateful if you would wait a
minute or two. Certainly, Jimmy, I answered, hauling myself to the
side with the boat hook and gettingout. Is there anything I can do
for you? I am afraid youare not well. I never saw you
like this before, no, sir, and I never felt like it before

(02:24:31):
that I can remember something happened herelast night that has taken all the nerve
out of me, and I wantto tell you what it was. I
know you are so clever mister Bell, and I have heard about your doings
up at Wallinghurst's last autumn, whenyou cleared up the manor house ghosts and
got Old Monkford six months well fireaway, I said, filling my pipe

(02:24:54):
and wondering what was coming. Itis this way, sir, he began.
Last night, after I had hadmy supper, I thought i'd like
a stroll and a quiet smoke alongthe towing path before turning in. I
did not expect any more boats,as it was getting on for ten o'clock.
I walked about three quarters of amile and was just going to turn
round when I saw a light downon the surface of the water in midstream.

(02:25:18):
It was pretty dark, for themoon was not up yet, and
there was a thick white mist risingfrom the water. I thought it must
be someone in a canoe at first, so I waited a bit and watched.
Then it suddenly disappeared, and thenext instant I saw it again,
about a hundred yards or so higherup the stream, but only for a
second, and then it went out. It fairly puzzled me to know what

(02:25:41):
it could be, as I hadnever seen anything like it before. I
felt sure it wasn't any sort ofcraft. But I had heard of strange
lights being seen at times on thewater, what they called jack o' lanterns.
I believe, Sir I reckoned itmight be one of them. But
I thought i'd get back to thelock so that if it was a canoe,
I could let it through. However, nothing came of it, and

(02:26:03):
I waited and watched and worried allthe evening about it, but couldn't come
to any sort of idea. SoI went to bed. Well about one
o'clock this morning. I suddenly wokeup and thought I could hear someone a
long way off calling exactly as youdid just now. Lock, Lock,
Lock, but it sounded ever sofar away. It's some of those theater

(02:26:24):
people coming back to the willow ofthe Wispouse boat, I said to myself,
and I'm not going to turn outfor them. The lock was full
at the time, so I thoughtI would just let them work it for
themselves. I waited a bit,expecting to hear them every minute come up,
singing and swearing as they do,but they never came, and I
was just dropping off when I heardthe call again. It was not an

(02:26:46):
ordinary sort of voice, but along wailing cry, just as if someone
was in trouble or drowning. Hi, Hi, lock lo, luke it
went. I got up then andwent out. The moon was up now
and quite bright, and the misthad cleared off. So I went to
the bridge on the upper gates andlooked up stream. This is where I

(02:27:09):
was standing, sir, just aswe are standing now. I could see
right up to the bend, andthere was not the sign of a boat.
I stood straining my eyes, expectingto see a boat come round every
moment. When I heard the cryagain, and this time it sounded not
fifty yards upstream, I could notmake it out at all. So I
shouted out as loud as I could, who are you? What's the matter?

(02:27:31):
But there was no answer. Andthen suddenly the next instant close below
me from inside the lock. Thistime just here came a shout, piercing,
shrill and loud. Open the lock, quick, quick, open the
lock, I tell you, sir. My heart seemed to stand dead still,
and I nearly fell back over thebridge. I wheeled round sharp,

(02:27:54):
but there was nothing in the lock. That I'll swear to my dying day,
for I could see all over itand nothing could have gotten there without
passing me. The moon was quitebright and I could see all round it.
Without knowing what I was doing,I rushed down like mad to the
lower gates and began to wind upone of the sluices. And then I
stood there and waited, but nothingcame. As the lock emptied, I

(02:28:16):
looked down, but there was nosign of anything anywhere. So I let
down the sluice without opening the gates, and then filled up the lock again.
I stood by the post, hardlydaring to move, when about half
past five, thank god, Iheard the whistle of a tug, and
after seeing her through, it wasbroad daylight. That's the whole story,

(02:28:37):
sir, And how I'm going tolive through the night again. I don't
know it was a spirit, ifever there was one in the world.
It's a warning to me, sir, And what's going to happen? I
don't know. Well, Jimmy,I answered, It certainly is a most
extraordinary story. And if I didn'tknow you as well as I do,
I should say you had taken somethingmore than a smoke before you turned in

(02:29:01):
last night. I never touch adrop, sir, except when I go
into Farley and have a glass ofbeer. But I have not been there
for more than a week now.I confess that Jimmy's story had left a
most unpleasant impression on me. Ihave little doubt that the whole thing was
some strange subjective hallucination. But fora weird and ghostly experience, it certainly

(02:29:22):
beat most of the tales I hadever heard. I thought, for a
moment. It was now quite dark, and I felt little inclined to go
on to Wotton. My keenest interestswere awakened. Look here, I said,
what do you say if I stayhere tonight? Can you give me
a shakedown of any sort that Iwill? Sir, and write gladly and

(02:29:43):
thank God if you will, butstay with me. If I was alone
here again and heard that voice,I believe it would kill me. I'll
tie up your boat outside and bringyour things in, and then we'll have
supper. I'll feel a new manwith you staying here, sir. In
a few minutes we were both insideold Jimmy's cozy quarters. His whole bearing
seemed to have changed suddenly, andhe ran about with alacrity, getting supper

(02:30:07):
ready and seeming quite like himself again. During the whole evening he kept harping
at intervals on the subject of themysterious voice, but we heard no sound
whatever, and I felt more andmore certain that the whole thing was due
to hallucination on the part of theold man. At eleven o'clock a skiff
came up through the lock, andalmost immediately afterwards, I bade Jimmy good

(02:30:30):
night and went into the little roomhe had prepared for me. I went
quickly to bed, and, tiredafter my long pull, despite the originality
of the situation, fell fast asleep. Suddenly I awoke someone was bending over
me and calling me by my name. I leapt up, and, not
realizing where I was for the moment, but with a sword of dim idea

(02:30:52):
that I was engaged in some exposure, instinctively seized the man roughly by the
throat. In a moment, Iremembered everything and quickly released my grip of
poor old Jimmy, who was gurglingand gasping with horror. I burst out,
laughing at my mistake, and beggedhis pardon for treating him so roughly.
It is all right, sir,he panted. I hope I didn't

(02:31:13):
frighten you. But I have heardit again, not five minutes ago.
The deuce you have, I said, striking a match, and looking at
my watch, it was nearly twoo'clock, and before the minute was up,
I heard distinctly a cry, asif from some great distance of lock,
lock, lock, And then allwas silence again. Did you hear

(02:31:35):
it, sir, whispered the oldman, clutching me by the arm with
a trembling hand. Yes, Iheard it, I said, don't you
be frightened, Jimmy, just waittill I get my clothes on. I
am going to see this thing through. Be careful, sir, for God's
sake, be careful, he whispered. All right, I said, slipping

(02:31:56):
on some things. Just get mea good strong boat hook, and don't
make too much noise. If thismystery is flesh and blood, I'll get
to the bottom of it somehow.You stay here, and if I call,
come out. I took the thickshort boat hook which he had brought
me in softly, unlatching the doorwent out. The moon was now riding

(02:32:16):
high overhead and casting black, fantasticshadows across the little white cottage. All
my senses were on the keenest alert. My ears were pricked up for the
slightest sound. I crept softly tothe bridge on the upper gate, which
was open. I looked up streamand thought I could see some little ripples
on the surface of the water,as if a swift boat had just passed

(02:32:37):
down, But there was no signof any craft whatever to be seen.
It was intensely still, and nosound broke the silence, save the intermittent
croaking of some bullfrogs, and thedark shadows of the pollids on the further
bank. Behind me. Could alsobe heard the gurgling twinkle of the overflow
through the chinks of the lower gate. I stood quite still, gripping the

(02:32:58):
boat hook in my hand and lookingright and left, straining my eyes for
the slightest movement of anything around,when suddenly, close below me from the
water inside the lock, came aloud cry, Open the lock, for
God's sake, open the lock.I started back, feeling my hair rise
and stiffen. The sound echoed andreverberated through the silent night, and then

(02:33:20):
died away. But before it haddone so, I had sprung to the
great beam and closed the upper gate. As I did so, I caught
sight of the old man, tremblingand shaking at the door of the cottage.
I called to him to go andwatch the upper gate, and racing
down to the lower ones, woundup one of the sluices with a few
pulls, so as to let outthe water with as little escape room as

(02:33:43):
possible. I knew by this meansif there were any creature of tangible form
in the water, we must findit when the lock was emptied. As
its escape was cut off, eachof the following minutes seemed stretched into a
lifetime. As with eyes riveted onthe dark water in the lock, I
watched its great adual descent. Ihardly dared to think of what I expected

(02:34:03):
to see rise to the surface anymoment. Would the lock never empty?
Down? Down sank the level,and still I saw nothing. A long,
misshapen arm of black cloud was slowlystretching itself across the moon hark.
There was something moving about down inthe well of darkness below me, And
as I stood and watched, Isaw that the water was uncovering along black

(02:34:26):
mass, and that something ran slowlyout of the water and began to clamber
up the slimy, slippery beams.What in the name of Heaven could it
be? By the uncertain light,I could only see its dim outline.
It seemed to have an enormous,bulbous head in dripping, glistening body.
The sound of a rapid patter upthe tow path told me that the old

(02:34:46):
man had seen it and was runningfor his life. I rushed down to
where the thing was, and asits great head appeared above the edge,
with all my force, struck ita terrific blow with the boat hook.
The weapon flew into splinters in myhand, and the next moment the creature
had leapt up beside me and dashedme to the ground with almost superhuman force.

(02:35:07):
I was up and on to itagain in a second, and as
I caught and closed with it,saw that I had at least to deal
with a human being, and thatwhat he lacked in stature he more than
made up for in strength. Thestruggle that ensued was desperate and furious.
The covering to his head that hadsplintered the boat hook was I saw a

(02:35:28):
sort of helmet, completely protecting thehead from any blow, and the body
was cased in a slippery, closelyfitting garment that kept eluding my grasp to
and fro We swayed and wrestled,and for a moment I thought I had
met my match, till suddenly,freeing my right arm, I got in
a smashing blow in the region ofthe heart. The creature uttered a cry

(02:35:48):
of pain and fell headlong to theground. Old Jimmy Pegg had hurried back
as soon as he heard our strugglesand knew that he was not dealing with
a being of another world. Heran up eagerly to me, here's your
ghost, you old coward, Ipanted. He has got the hardest bone
and muscle I ever felt in aghost. Yet I am not used to

(02:36:09):
fighting men in helmets, and heis as slippery as an eel. But
I hope to goodness I have notdone more than knock the wind out of
him. He is a specimen.I should rather like to take alive.
Catch hold of his feet, andwe'll get him inside and see who he
is between us. We carried theprostrate figure inside the cottage and laid him

(02:36:30):
down like a log on the floor. He never moved nor uttered a sound,
and I was afraid at first thatI had finished him for good and
all. I next knelt down andproceeded to unfasten the helmet, which from
its appearance, was something like thekind used by divers. While the old
man brought the lantern close to hisface. At the first glance, I
knew in an instant that I hadseen the face before, and the next

(02:36:54):
second recognized, to my utter astonishmentand horror, that it belonged to Ralph
Finer. For the moment I wascompletely dumbfounded and gazed at the man without
speaking. It was obvious that hehad only fainted from the blow, for
I could see that he was breathing, and in a few minutes he opened
his eyes and fixed them on mewith a dull and vacant stare. Then

(02:37:15):
he seemed to recall the situation,though he evidently did not recognize me.
Let me go, he cried,making an effort to rise. My God,
you have killed me. He pressedhis hand to his side and fell
back again. His face was contortedas if in great pain. There was
obviously only one thing to be done, and that was to send for medical

(02:37:37):
assistance. At once. It wasclear that the man was badly injured,
but to what extent I could notdetermine. It was impossible to extract the
slightest further communication from him. Helay quite still, groaning from time to
time. I told Jimmy to gooff at once to Farley and bring the
doctor. I scribbled a few directionson a piece of paper. The old

(02:38:00):
man hurried out of the cottage,but in less than a minute he was
back again in great excitement. Lookhere, sir, what I have just
picked up? He said, it'ssomething he has dropped. I reckon.
As Jimmy spoke, he held outa square leather case. There was a
monogram on it. I took itin my hand and pressed the lid.
It flew open, and inside,resting on its velvet bed, lay the

(02:38:24):
glittering circlet of diamonds. I heldLady Ridsdale's lost bracelet in my hand.
All my suspicions were confirmed. Vinerwas the thief. Without saying a word,
I shut the box and despatched theold man at once for the doctor,
bidding him go as fast as hecould. Then I sat down by
the prostrate man and waited. Iknew that Jimmy could not be back for

(02:38:46):
at least two hours. The greatDawn was beginning to steal and through the
little lattice window. When Viner moved, opened his eyes and looked at me.
He started as his eyes fell onthe case. You are, mister
Bell, he said slowly. Riddsdaletold me that you were coming to the
Theodora on purpose to discover the mysteryof the lost diamonds. You didn't know

(02:39:07):
that I should give you an opportunityof discovering the truth even before you arrived
at the houseboat. Bend down closeto me. You have injured me.
I may not recover. Hear whatI have to say. I bend over
him, prepared to listen to hiswords, which came out slowly. I
am a forger and a desperate man. Three weeks ago I forged one of

(02:39:28):
Ridsdale's checks and lessen my friend's balanceto the tune of five thousand pounds.
He and his wife were old friendsof mine. But I wanted the money
desperately and was impervious to sentiment oranything else. On that first day when
you met me, although I seemedcheery enough, I was fit to kill
myself. I had hoped to beable to restore the stolen money long before

(02:39:50):
Ridsdale was likely to miss it.But this hope had failed. I saw
no loophole of escape, and theday of reckoning could not be far off.
What devil prompted Ridsdale to bring thosediamonds on board. Heaven only knows.
The moment I saw them, theyfascinated me, and I knew I
should have a try for them.All during that evening's festivity, I could

(02:40:13):
think of nothing else. I madeup my mind to secure them by hook
or by crook before we retired forthe night. However, I thought I
would give Ridsdale a chance. Iasked him if he would lend me the
exact sum I had already stolen fromhim five thousand pounds, But he had
heard rumors to my discredit and refusedpoint blank. I hated him for it.

(02:40:35):
I went into my tent under thepretense of lying down, but in
reality to concoct and if possible,carry out my plot. I waited until
the quietest hour before dawn. ThenI slipped out of my tent, waded
into the water, approached the openwindow of the Countess's cabin, thrust in
my hand, took out the case, and, going down the river about

(02:40:56):
a quarter of a mile, throughthe diamonds into the middle of the I
marked well the place where they sank. I then returned to my tent and
went to bed. You know whatoccurred the following morning. I neither feared
Ridsdale nor his wife, but youBell gave me a considerable amount of uneasiness.
I felt certain that, in anevil moment on the night before,

(02:41:18):
I had given you a clue.To a man of your ability, the
slightest clue was all sufficient. Ifelt that I must take the bull by
the horns and find out whether yoususpected me or not. I talked to
you and guessed by the tone ofyour remarks that you had your suspicions.
My relief was immense when that telegramarrived, which hurried you away from the
Theodora. On the following day,I returned to my own little place on

(02:41:43):
the banks of the river, fourmiles below this lock. I knew it
was necessary for me to remain quietfor a time, but all the same,
my plans were clearly made, andI only waited until the first excitement
of the lass had subsided and thepolice and detectives were off their guard.
In the meantime, I went tosee Ridsdale almost daily, and suggested many

(02:42:03):
expedients for securing the thief and gettinghold of the right clue. If he
ever suspected me, which I don't, for a moment's suppose, I certainly
put him off the scent. Myintention was to take the diamonds out of
the country, sell them for allthat I could get, then return the
five thousand pounds which I had stolenfrom his bank, and leave England forever.

(02:42:24):
As a forger, I should befollowed to the world's end, But
as the possessor of stolen diamonds,I felt myself practically safe. My scheme
was too cleverly worked out to givethe ordinary detective a chance of discovering me.
Two days ago I had a letterfrom Ridsdale, and which he told
me that he intended to put thematter into your hands. Now this was

(02:42:45):
by no means to my mind,for you Bell happened to be the one
man in the world whom I reallydreaded. I saw that I must no
longer lose time under my little boathouse. I had a small submarine boat
which I had lately finished, moreas a hobby than anything else. I
had begun it years ago. Inmy odd moments on a model I had
seen of a torpedo used in theAmerican War. My boat is now in

(02:43:09):
the lock outside, and you willsee for yourself what ingenuity was needed to
construct such a thing. On thenight before the one which has just passed,
I got it ready, and assoon as it was dark, started
off in it to recover the diamonds. I got through the lock easily by
going in under the water with abarge. But when I reached the spot
where I had sunk the diamonds,found to my dismay that my electric light

(02:43:31):
would not work. There was nohelp for it. I could not find
the bracelet without the aid of thelight, and was bound to return home
to repair the lamp. This delaywas fraught with danger, but there was
no help for it. My difficultynow was to get back through the lock,
for though I waited for quite threehours, no boats came along.

(02:43:52):
I saw the upper gates were open, but how to get through the lower
ones I could not conceive. Ifelt sure that my only chance was to
frighten the lock keeper and get himto open the sluices, for I knew
I could pass through them unobserved ifthey were open, as I had done
once before. In my diver's helmetwas a thick glass face piece. This

(02:44:13):
had an opening closed by a capwhich could be unscrewed and through which I
could breathe when above water, andalso through which my voice would come,
causing a peculiar hollowness, which Iguessed would have a very startling effect,
especially as I myself would be quiteinvisible. I got into the lock and
shouted to Peg. I succeeded infrightening him. He hurried to do what

(02:44:35):
I ordered. He wound up thelower sluice. I shot through under water,
and so got back unseen. Allyesterday I hesitated about trying the experiment
again. The risk was so great, But I knew that Ridsdale was certain
to see his bank book soon,that my forgery was an imminent danger of
being discovered. Also that you Bellwere coming upon the scene. Yes,

(02:44:58):
at any risk, I must nowgo on. I repaired my light,
and again last night passed through thelock on my way up by simply waiting
for another boat. As a matterof fact, I passed up through this
lock under a skiff about eleven o'clock. My light was now all right.
I found the diamond case easily andturned to pass down the stream by the

(02:45:18):
same method as before. If youhad not been here, I should have
succeeded and should have been safe.But now it is all up. He
paused, and his breath came quickly. I doubt if I shall recover,
he said in a feeble voice.I hope you will, I replied,
and hark, I think I hearthe doctor's steps. I was right.

(02:45:41):
For a moment or two later,Old Jimmy Peg and doctor Simmons entered the
cottage. While the doctor was examiningthe patient and talking to him, I
went out with Jimmy to have alook at the submarine boat. By fixing
a rope round it, we managedto haul it up and then proceeded to
examine it. It certainly was themost wonderful piece of ingenious engineering I had

(02:46:03):
ever seen. The boat was inthe shape of an enormous cigar and was
made of aluminium. It was sevenfeet long and had a circular beam of
sixteen inches. At the pointed end, close to where the occupant's feet would
be, was an air chamber capableof being filled or emptied at well by
means of a compressed air cylinder.Enabling the man to rise or sink whenever

(02:46:24):
he wished to. Inside the boatwas lined with flat chambers of compressed air
for breathing purposes, which were governedby a valve. It was also provided
with a small accumulator, an electricmotor which drove the tiny propeller astern the
helmet which the man wore fitted aroundthe opening at the head end. After
examining the boat, it was easyto see how Viner had escaped through the

(02:46:48):
lock the night before I arrived,as this submarine wonder of ingenuity would be
able to shoot through the sluice gateunder water when the sluice was raised to
empty the lock. After exchanging afew remarks with Jimmy, I returned to
the cottage to learn the doctor's verdict. It was grave, but not despairing.
The patient could not be moved fora day or two. He was,

(02:47:09):
in doctor Simmons's opinion, suffering morefrom shock than anything else. If
he remained perfectly quiet, he wouldin all probability recover. If he were
disturbed, the consequences might be serious. An hour afterwards, I found myself
on my way up stream, scullingas fast as I could in the direction
of the Theodora. I arrived thereat an early hour and put the case

(02:47:33):
which contained the diamonds, into LadyRidsdale's hands. I shall never forget the
astonishment of Ridsdale and his wife.When I told my strange tale. The
Countess burst into tears, and Ridsdalewas terribly agitated. I have known Viner
from a boy, and so hasmy wife, he exclaimed. Of course
this proves him to be an unmitigatedscoundrel, but I cannot be the one

(02:47:56):
to bring him to justice. Ohno, Charlie, whatever happens, we
must forgive him, said Lady Ridsdale, looking up with a white face.
I had nothing to say to this. It was not my affair. Unwittingly,
I had been the means of restoringto the Ridsdales their lost bracelet.
They must act as they thought wellwith regard to the thief. As a

(02:48:18):
matter of fact, Viner did escapethe full penalty of his crime, having
got back the diamonds. Lord Ridsdalewould not prosecute. On the contrary,
he helped the broken down man toleave the country. From the view of
pure justice, he was, ofcourse wrong, but I could not help
being glad as an example of whata desperate man will do. I think

(02:48:39):
it would be difficult to beat Vinu'sstory. The originality and magnitude of the
conception the daring which enabled the mansingle handed to do his own dredging in
a submarine boat in one of thereaches of the Thames, have seldom been
equalled. As I thought over thewhole scheme, my only regret was that
such ability should not have been devotit to noblerands. V how Shiva spoke.

(02:49:03):
During the summer of the past year, a medical friend of mine send
me an invitation to dine with himand two of his fellow craftsmen at the
Welcome Club at the Earl's Court Exhibition. One of our party was a certain
doctor Laurier, a young man ofconsiderable ability whose special attention had been directed
to mental diseases. He was indeeda noted authority on this subject, and

(02:49:26):
had just completed an appointment at oneof the large London asylums. During dinner,
he entertained us with a few ofhis late experiences. I assure you,
mister Bell, he said, thereis absolutely no limit to the vagaries
of the human mind at the presentmoment, a most grotesque and painful form
of mental disease has come under mynotice. The patient is not a pauper,

(02:49:50):
but a gentleman of good standing andmeans. He is unmarried and owns
a lovely place in the country.He spent the early years of his life
in a and when there the crazebegan, which now assumes the magnitude of
a monomania. Pray, let mehear about him, if your professional etiquette
allows you to talk on the subject, I answered, I will certainly tell

(02:50:11):
you what I can. He replied, I have known the man for years,
having met him in town on severaloccasions. Last week, his nephew
came to see me and spoke seriouslywith regard to his uncle's state of mind.
His great craze for years has beenspiritualism, theosophy and Mahatmas, with

(02:50:31):
all their attendant hocus pocus. Hefirmly believes in his power to call up
spirits from the vasty deep, andholds many extraordinary seances. But surely such
a craze is not sufficient to proveinsanity, I said. Hundreds of people
believe in such manifestations at the presentday. I know that well and perfectly

(02:50:52):
harmless. Such crazes are so longas the victims confine their beliefs to spirit
rapping, table turning, and humbugof that sort. But when their convictions
lead them to commit actions which compromiseserious interests, and when, as in
this case, there is a possibilityof life itself being in danger, it
is time they should be looked after. What is the particular nature of your

(02:51:13):
friend's delusion, I asked this.He is practically a Brahmin, having been
deeply imbued with the peculiar doctrines ofBrahmanism. When in India, amongst his
friends in the east was a Brahminof high degree, in whose house were
three idols representing the Hindu trinity,Vishnu, Brahma and Shiva. By some
means which have never been explained tome, my friend managed to get possession

(02:51:37):
of Shiva and brought the idol home. He placed it in a gallery which
he has in his house, believingfrom the first that it possessed mystical properties
which it was his duty to fathom. The nephew now tells me that he
has brought his craze to such apass that he firmly believes that Shiva speaks
to him in hindestiny. The unhappyman kneels nightly at the altar in front

(02:51:58):
of the idol, receiving, ashe imagines, directions from him. The
consequence is that he does all sortsof mad and extraordinary things, spending his
large fortune lavishly in the decoration ofthis hideous monster, buying pearls, rubies,
and even diamonds for the purpose,and really being, as he imagines,

(02:52:18):
guided by it in the disposition ofhis life and property. He has
a young niece residing with him,to whom he has always been very much
attached, but of late he hasbeen cruel to her, banishing her from
his presence, refusing her his sympathy, and has even gone to the length
of threatening to take her life,saying quite openly that Shiva informs him night

(02:52:39):
after night of her treachery towards him. Now, the nephew is engaged to
this girl and is naturally anxious abouther, but say what he will,
nothing will induce her to turn againsther uncle, to whom she is deeply
attached. She denies that he threatensher life, although the nephew declares that
he did so in his own presence. Under such circumstances, her friends are

(02:53:01):
naturally most anxious about her, andfeel it their duty to get a medical
opinion with regard to the uncle.I am going down to his place tomorrow,
and shall there meet his regular medicalattendant in consultation. And then I
suppose certify as to his insanity,I answered, doubtless. That is,
if we come to the conclusion thatthe man is really insane. What an

(02:53:26):
awful responsibility is reposed in you,doctors, I said, Think what it
means to condemn a man to alunatic asylum in the hands of the unscrupulous.
Such a power is terrible. DoctorLaurey knitted his brows and looked keenly
at me. What do you mean, he said, in a curious tone.
Of course, mistakes are made nowand then, but not I believe

(02:53:48):
often. To act in good faithand exercise reasonable care are the two requisites
of the law. Of course,I replied, there are great difficulties on
both sides of this momentous question.But if I belonged to the profession,
I can frankly say that nothing wouldinduce me to sign a certificate of lunacy.
A few moments afterwards, we allrose and strolled about the grounds.

(02:54:11):
As we were parting at the exitgates, I called doctor Larier aside.
The love of mystery is to mea ruling passion, I said, will
you excuse the great liberty I takewhen I ask you to let me know
the result of your visit of tomorrow. I am immensely interested in your spiritualist
patient. As I spoke, Iscribbled my address on a card and handed

(02:54:33):
it to him, half expecting thathe would resent my intrusiveness. A smile
flitted across his clever face, andhe stood looking at me for a moment
under the glare of the great arclights. I will certainly give you the
result of my visit, as youare so much interested, he replied.
Good night. We got into ourrespective hansoms and drove off in different directions.

(02:54:58):
I had much to do, andsoon for God, both doctor Larey
and his patient. Therefore, onthe following Monday, when he was ushered
into my presence, my surprise wasgreat. I have come to fulfill my
promise, he began. I amhere not only to satisfy your curiosity about
my patient, but also to askyour advice. The fact is the matter

(02:55:20):
has I think now merge more intoyour domain than mine. Pray tell me
what has happened, I asked.That is what I am about to do.
But first I must ensure your absoluteconfidence and secrecy, for my professional
reputation may be seriously compromised if itis known that I consulted you. I
gave him the assurance, and heproceeded. My patient's name is Edward Desaiger.

(02:55:45):
He lives in a place called theHind in Somersetshire. I went down
as I had arranged, and wasmet at the station by his nephew,
Jasper Bagwell. Bagwell is a thin, anxious looking man of about five thirty.
He drove me over tod and Iwas there met by Fesseng's own physician,
doctor Dalton. Dalton and I eachmade a separate examination of the patient

(02:56:07):
and came to the conclusion that hewas undoubtedly queer. In the course of
the afternoon, we were all wanderinground the grounds when we were joined by
the young girl to whom Bagwell isengaged. When she saw me, she
gave me a very eager glance andsoon attached herself to my side. I
want to speak to you, doctorLaurey, she said in a low voice.

(02:56:30):
I managed to drop behind in orderto give her an opportunity. I
know what you have come about,she said, what do you think of
my uncle's case? I am notprepared to hazard an opinion, I replied,
Well, please listen to something Ihave got to say. Jasper Bagwell
has his own reasons for what hetells you. You do very wrong to
listen to him. Uncle Edward isqueer, I grant with regard to the

(02:56:54):
idle Shiva. That is because heis in reality a Brahmin. But if
you sign a certificate to the factthat he is mad, you will be
making a very terrible mistake. Asshe spoke, her lips trembled and tears
filled her eyes. I am terriblyunhappy about it all, she continued.
I looked at her earnestly. ThenI said, in a low voice,

(02:57:16):
forgive me. If I replied toyou as plainly as you have just spoken
to me, you arouse my surprisewhen you speak as you do of mister
Bagwell. Is it not the casethat you are engaged to marry him?
She gave a visible start. Itis the case, she answered, slowly.
Then she continued speaking with great emphasis. I only marry my cousin because

(02:57:37):
it is the one, the onechance of saving Uncle Edward. What do
you mean, I asked in astonishment. I wish I could tell you,
but I dare not. I ama very miserable girl. There is foul
play somewhere. Of that I amconvinced. Oh believe me, won't you
believe me? To these extraordinary words. I made a somewhat dubious report,

(02:58:00):
and she soon left me to walkby her uncle's side. Late that evening,
I was alone with the patient,and he then confided to me much
which he had withheld at first.He spoke about the years he had spent
in India, and in a specialalluded to the Brahman religion. He told
me also that he now possesses theIdle Shiva and has set it up in
a marble gallery where he can holdhis spiritualistic seances. Bending forward as he

(02:58:26):
spoke and fixing me with his intelligentand yet strange glance, he said solemnly,
and with an appearance of perfect truthon his face, that by certain
incenses and secret incantations, he couldmake the idol speak to him in hindestiny.
He said further that he felt himselfcompletely dominated by it and was bound
to obey all its dictates. Ashe said the latter words, his face

(02:58:48):
grew white to the lips. Shivais exigent in his demands, he said,
slowly, exigent and terrible. Butcome, I will take you into
the gallery and you shall see foryourself. I went gladly. We had
to go through a long conservatory whichopened out of the dining room. From
there we entered an oval shaped room. Thessiger brought me straight up to the

(02:59:11):
idol. It was placed upon apedestal. It is a hideous monster made
of wood and has five heads.In its hand, it holds a trident.
I could hardly refrain from smiling whenI first saw it. It was
difficult to believe that any man,sane or insane, could hold faith in
such a monstrosity. My object,however, was to draw the poor mad

(02:59:33):
fellow out, and I begged ofhim to take what steps he considered necessary
in order to induce the creature tospeak. He willingly obeyed my desire,
and with great solemnity, went throughelaborate operations, then turning the lamp very
low, knelt at the altar infront of the idol, and began to
address it. He waited for itsreplies, which were of course inaudible,

(02:59:54):
and then continued speaking again. Aftersome moments spent in this way, he
declared solemnly that it had replied tohim, and practically called me a liar
when I said I had not heardit. When he turned up the lamp
at the end of this strange scene, I noticed for the first time that
the idol was decorated with precious stonesof extraordinary value. To leave such valuables

(03:00:16):
in a room with an unlocked doorwas in itself a symptom of insanity,
and when I parted with Thessiger forthe night, I had not the least
doubt that my unfortunate host was reallyinsane. All the same, I had
a curious unwillingness with regard to signingthe certificate. Bagwell eagerly asked me if
I did not intend to sign.To his astonishment, I replied in the

(03:00:37):
negative. I said that the casewas a very peculiar one, and that
it would be necessary for me topay a second visit to the patient before
I could take this extreme step.He was I could see intensely annoyed,
but I remained firm. Laurier stoppedspeaking and looked me full in the face.
Well, I asked, I havecome to consult with you over the

(03:01:00):
matter. You remember what you saidabout the responsibility of signing such certificates.
It is on account of those wordsI have come to you. Well,
doctor Laurier, I answered, Ishall, of course be happy to do
anything I can to help you,but I must frankly confess that I failed
to see exactly on what point Ican be of service. I know little

(03:01:22):
about disease in general, and nothingabout mental diseases in particular. Miss Thesiger
seems to think that there is foulplay. But have you any suspicions on
your own account? I have noproofs, but all the same I do
suspect foul play, although perhaps Ihave no right to say so. Then
what do you want me to do? I asked this. He answered,

(03:01:46):
will you come down with me toSomerset. Your as my friend and in
the role of a great spiritualist,Thessiger will be only too delighted to meet
someone of his own way of thinking. Will you come? I thought,
for a moment it was not arole I cared to assume, but the
case was peculiar and might possibly liewithin my province. I eventually agreed to

(03:02:07):
accompany Larier into Somersetshire, and asa matter of fact, went down with
him the next day. He hadtelegraphed our arrival to the hind and a
hearty invitation was accorded to me.As we were driving through the grounds late
the following afternoon, we were metby a tall girl who was accompanied by
two thoroughbred retrievers. Here is missDa Siger, said Larier. He called

(03:02:31):
to the driver to stop, and, jumping down, went to her side.
I accompanied him, Miss Dasiger,said Larier. Let me introduce my
friend, mister John Bell. Shelooked me full in the face. Then
her gray eyes seemed to lighten withmomentary pleasure, and she held out her
hand. What have you come backfor? She asked, the next moment,

(03:02:52):
turning to Larier, to see youruncle. Are you to me,
doctor Dalton? Her lips trembled.I believe so, I assure you,
Miss d Siger, I have comewith no sinister design. Laurier smiled as
he spoke on the contrary, Iam here to day in order if possible
to get at the truth. Thereis no one who can help me better

(03:03:16):
than this gentleman. Then you dosuspect faul play, she said, her
eyes lighting up with sudden hope.I have no reason to do so,
he answered, it exists. Shereplied, I know what I am saying.
Will you not believe me? Asshe spoke, she glanced hurriedly behind
her. Footsteps were heard rapidly approaching. There is my cousin, she said.

(03:03:39):
He follows me like a shadow.Doctor Laurier and mister Bell. I
must see you both, or oneof you in private. I have something
of great importance which you ought toknow. Before either of us could answer
her, Jasper Bagwell came up.He gave us a polite welcome, and
glanced keenly at his cousin, whotook no notice of him, but continued

(03:04:01):
her walk. Poor girl, hesaid, with a deep sigh, as
we three walked slowly to the house. Why do you pity her? I
could not help asking, because sheis nearly as much under a delusion as
my uncle himself. The fact isshe is in the utmost danger, and
yet refuses absolutely to believe it.The more eccentric my unfortunate uncle grows the

(03:04:24):
more she clings to him. Shescarcely leaves his side, although it is
most unsafe for her to be withhim. I think it my absolute duty
to watch her day and night,and am really almost worn out with anxiety.
The whole of last night I spentin the corridor which divides her room
from mister Thessiger's. Three times inthe course of the night I saw the

(03:04:45):
unfortunate man and gliding down this corridor, And but for my timely appearance on
the scene, I have not theslightest doubt that he would have entered Helen's
room with the most felled design.I see the madness in his eye when
he even glances at her. Hetold me solemnly, not later than yesterday,
that Shiva had laid it upon himto take her life, as she
was opposed heart and sold to thedoctrines of Brahminism, and was a serious

(03:05:09):
obstacle in the way of the greatwork which my uncle was meant by the
Idol to undertake. I told Helenexactly what he said, but she goes
on as if nothing were wrong.The fact is this, Laarier, if
you don't sign that certificate. Imust get another doctor who will Bagwell's communications
were certainly alarming, but we hadscarcely time to reply to them before we

(03:05:31):
reached the house. When we enteredthe hall, the frown departed from his
face like magic. He assumed athoroughly pleasant manner and conducted us quickly into
the presence of the owner of thehouse. Edward Thesiger, was a handsome
old man, tall and dignified inappearance. He possessed a particularly lofty and
intelligent cast of face, aquiline features, and silver hair which flowed down over

(03:05:54):
his shoulders. His face was cleanshaven, which allowed the hands some curves
of his mobile mouth to be plainlyseen. His conversation betokened the man of
learning. His words were well chosen, his manner was extremely calm and quiet.
At a first glance, no onecould look more thoroughly saying. During

(03:06:15):
dinner that night, I happened tobe seated opposite Miss Thesiger. She was
very silent and seemed terribly depressed.I noticed that she often glanced at her
uncle, and further observed that hecarefully avoided meeting her eyes when she came
into the room. He manifested distinctuneasiness, and when she retired to the
drawing room after dinner, a lookof relief filled his fine face. He

(03:06:37):
drew up his chair near mine andbegan to talk. I am glad you
were able to come, he said. It is not often one has the
privilege of meeting a thoroughly kindred spirit. Now tell me have you carefully studied
Brahminism. I have done so cursorily, I replied, and have had from

(03:06:58):
time to time curious dealings with thesupernatural. I then added abruptly, I
am much interested to hear from Larierthat you, mister Thesiger, possessed the
idle Shiva in this house. Hush, he said, starting and turning very
pale. Do not say the namein such a loud and reckless tone.
As he spoke, he bent towardsme, and his voice dropped. Mister

(03:07:20):
Bell, I have extraordinary confidences whichI can make to you by and by
I shall be happy to hear them. I answered, Have you had wine
enough? Shall we go into thegallery? Now? I rose. Immediately
My host led me into a conservatory, and from there straight into a marble
gallery. It was a curious lookingplace, being a large oval chamber forty

(03:07:43):
feet long. The walls were facedwith marble, and a dado painted in
Egyptian style ran round the room.Half Way between the middle of the room
and the end stood a fountain ofcurious design. It consisted of the browns
figure of a swan with wings outspread. From its fill, the water issued
and fell into a circular basin.Facing this fountain, twenty feet away stood

(03:08:05):
the Idol, with its little altarin front of it. I went up
and examined it with intense interest.The pedestal on which it rested was about
three feet high. The idol itselfwas the same height, so that its
five heads were almost on a levelwith my face. Round the neck and
decorating each of the heads were jewelsof extraordinary magnificence. The hand which held

(03:08:28):
the trident was loaded with diamond rings. It is almost impossible to describe the
sinister effect of this grotesque and horriblemonster. And when I saw mister Thessiger
gazing at it with a peculiar expressionof reverence not unmixed with fear, I
felt certain that Bagwell was right,and that the man was dangerously insane.
As I was thinking these thoughts.My host grown quite audibly, and then

(03:08:50):
looked steadily at me. I amliving through a very terrible time, he
said, in a low voice.I am the victim of a strain and
awful power. Here his words droppedto an intense whisper. Years ago,
when I became a Brahmin, hecontinued voluntarily giving up the faith in which
I was born. I little knewto what such a step would lead.

(03:09:13):
I stole Siva from the house ofmy Indian friend and brought the idle home.
From the first it began to exercisea marvelous power over me. I
had made a large fortune in India, and when I came to England,
bought this place, and, findingthis curious gallery already in existence, had
it lined with marble and set upShiva in its midst. The study of

(03:09:35):
the faith which I had adopted,the holding of spiritualistic seances and matters of
that sort, occupied my time,and I became more and more imbued with
the strange mysticism of my belief.As the years flew by, I was
more and more firmly convinced that whatlooks like mere wood is in reality imbued
with strange and awful qualities. Ishall never forget that terrible evening when Shiva

(03:09:58):
first spoke to me. How longlong ago was that I interrupted some months
ago. Now I was kneeling bythe altar and was speaking to him as
usual when I heard words uttered inhindestiny. At first I could scarcely credit
my own ears, But soon Igrew accustomed to the fact that Shiva wish
to hold communication with me, andlistened to him nightly. At the beginning

(03:10:20):
of our remarkable intercourse, he laidcertain mandates upon me, which resulted,
as you see in my decorating himwith these precious stones. I felt bound
to obey him whatever he dictated.But of late he has told me.
He has told me the old manbegan to shudder and tremble. While he
had been speaking to me, hehad been gazing at the idol. Now

(03:10:41):
he walked a few steps away andturned his back on it. Sooner or
later I must obey him, hesaid, in a feeble voice. But
the thing is driving me crazed.Crazed, What is it? I asked,
Tell me, I beseech you.I cannot it is It's too awful.
It relates to the one I lovebest in the world. The sacrifice

(03:11:03):
is too horrible, and yet Iam drawn to it. I am drawn
to the performing of an awful deedby a terrific power. Ask me no
more, mister bell, I seeby your face that I have your pity.
You have, truly, I answered. I had scarcely said the last
words before the door of the gallerywas opened, and Miss Thesiger, Bagwell

(03:11:24):
and Larier appeared. Miss Thesiger wentstraight to her uncle's side and laid her
hand on his shoulder. Must youstay up any longer? She asked,
in a gentle voice. I heardyou walking about last night. You were
restless and did not sleep. Dogo to bed now? You seem so
tired. I know these gentlemen willexcuse you, she added, glancing from

(03:11:48):
Marie to me. Certainly, saidLarier, I should recommend mister Thesiger to
retire at once. He looks quiteworn out. I shall go presently,
presently, said Thesiger, in asomewhat curt voice. Leave us, Helen,
there's a good child. Go mydear go Helen. Don't irritate him,

(03:12:09):
I heard Bagwell say. She gavea quick, despairing glance from one
man to the other, then,turning left the room. And now,
mister Thesiger, I said, willyou not grant me the favor of a
seance? Mister Thesiger remained gravely silentfor a moment. Then he said,
by virtue of your power as amedium, you may be able to hear

(03:12:31):
the voice, and so convinced DoctorLauray of its reality. He then proceeded
to go through some elaborate operations,and finally, kneeling at the altar,
began to speak hindestiny. It wasabout the strangest scene I had ever witnessed,
And though I stood almost at hiselbow, I could hear no sound
whatever but his own voice. Shivawill not speak to night, he said,

(03:12:54):
rising. There must be some onehere whose influence is at verse.
I cannot hear him. It isstrange. He looked puzzled and more relieved
than otherwise. You will go tobed now, sir, said, Bagwell,
you look very tired. I am, he replied, I will leave
my friends with you. Jasper,you will see that they have all they

(03:13:16):
want. He bade Laurier and mea courteous good night, nodded to his
nephew, and left the room.This is the most extraordinary phase of mental
delusion I ever heard of. Isaid, if you will permit me,
mister Bagwell, I will examine thisidol more particularly. You can do so
if you please, he said,but he did not speak in a cordial

(03:13:39):
tone. Examine it to your heart'scontent, he continued a moment later,
Only pray, don't disarrange it.He seems to know by instinct if it
is touched, Bah, it issickening. Shall we go into another room,
gentlemen? Watching his face carefully,I resolved to make my examination in
private, and now followed him intothe smoking room. We stayed there for

(03:14:03):
a short time, talking in adesolatory manner, and soon afterwards retired for
the night. On my dressing table, a note awaited me. I opened
it hastily and saw to my surprisethat it was from miss Thesiger. I
could not get the opportunity I neededto night. She wrote, but will
you meet me in the Laurel Walktomorrow morning at five o'clock. I tore

(03:14:24):
up the letter after reading it,and soon afterwards got into bed. I
must confess that I slept badly thatnight. I felt worried and anxious.
There was not the least doubt thatThessiger was mad. It was all too
apparent that his madness was daily andhourly, assuming a more and more dangerous
form. The affectionate girl who clungto him ought, undoubtedly to be removed

(03:14:48):
from his neighborhood. At the hournamed by miss Thesiger, I rose dressed
and stole downstairs through the silent house. I found her, as she had
indicated in the laurel walk. Howgood of you to come, she said,
But we must not talk here.It would not be safe. What
do you mean, I answered,No one can possibly watch us at this

(03:15:11):
hour. Jasper may be about,she said, As far as I can
tell, he seems never to sleep. I believe he paces outside my room
the greater part of the night.You can scarcely blame him for that,
I said, He does it inorder to insure your safety. She gave
me an impatient glance. I seehe has been talking to you, she

(03:15:33):
replied, But now it is necessaryfor you to hear my side of the
story. Come into this summer house. He will never guess that we are
here. Turning abruptly, she ledthe way into a small, tastefully arranged
summer house. Shutting the door behindher, She turned at once and faced
me. No, she said,in an eager voice, I will tell

(03:15:56):
you everything. There is an unexplainedmystery about all this, and I am
convinced that Jasper is at the bottomof it. What do you mean,
I asked, I have nothing whateverbut a woman's intuition to guide me.
But all the same, I amconvinced of what I am saying. Before
Jasper came home, Uncle Edward wasa Brahmin beyond doubt. His seances were

(03:16:18):
intensely disagreeable to me, and Itook care never to witness them, nor
to speak to him on the terriblesubject of Shiva. But beyond the fact
that he was a Brahmin deeply imbuedwith the mysteries of his so called religion,
he was a perfectly sane, happy, intelligent, and affectionate man.
He loved me devotedly, as Iam the child of his favorite brother,

(03:16:39):
and told me, just before Jasper'sarrival that he had made me his heiress,
leaving me all that he possessed inthe world. He had never liked
Jasper and was annoyed when he camehere and made this house his headquarters.
I had not met my cousin sinceI was a little child, and when
he arrived on the scene took agreat dislike to him. He began at

(03:17:00):
once to pay me hateful attentions andto question me eagerly with regard to Uncle
Edward and his ways. By acurious coincidence, he had known this house
before he went to India, havingstayed here as a boy. He showed
particular interest in the oval gallery andencouraged Uncle Edward to talk of Shiva,
although he saw that the subject excitedhim considerably. Jasper had been about a

(03:17:24):
fortnight in the house when my pooruncle maide as he considered the astounding discovery
that Shiva could speak to him.I shall never forget the first day when
he told me of this, thesparkle in his eyes, the tremble of
his hands, the nervous energy whichseemed to animate him. From that hour.
Day by day came the gradual diminutionof strength, both of mind and

(03:17:45):
body, the loss of appetite,the feverish touch. All these things puzzled
and distressed me, but I couldnot bear to confide my fears to Jasper.
These things went on for over amonth, and Uncle Edward certainly deteriorated
in every way. He spent agreater part of both day and night in
the gallery, begging of me tocome with him, imploring me to listen

(03:18:07):
for the voice. During that monthhe spent a large fortune in precious stones
for Shiva, showing them to mefirst before he decorated the hideous thing with
them. I felt wild with misery, and all the time Jasper was here,
watching and watching. At the endof the first month, there came
a distinct change. Uncle Edward,who had been devoted to me up to

(03:18:28):
then, began to show a newattitude. He now began to dislike to
have me in his presence, oftenasking me as a special favor to leave
the room. One day he saidto me, do you keep your door
locked at night? I laughed whenhe spoke, certainly not, I answered,
I wish you would do so.He said, very earnestly, will

(03:18:50):
you as a personal favor to me. Jasper was in the room when he
spoke. I saw a queer lightflashing through his eyes, and then he
bent over his book as if hehad not heard. As a special favor
to me, keep your door lockedHelen said, uncle Edward. I made
him a soothing answer and pretended toassent. Of course, I never locked

(03:19:11):
my door. Then Jasper began totalk to me. He said that Uncle
Edward was not only mad, butthat his mania was assuming a terrible form,
and against me. He said thatmy life was in danger. He
thought, to frighten me little heknew. Here the brave girl drew herself
up, indignation sweeping over her faceand filling her eyes. I told him

(03:19:33):
I did not believe a word ofwhat he said. I declared that Uncle
Edward could not hate me. Ishe not the one I love best in
the world? Jasper grew very angry. Look here, Helen, he said,
I know enough to lock him up, To lock him up in a
lunatic asylum. I cried, yes, he answered, I have only to
get two doctors to certify to thefact of his insanity, and the deed

(03:19:56):
is done. I have made upmy mind to do it. You can
never be so cruel, I replied, Think of his gray hairs, Jasper,
I pleaded, he is the dearestto me in all the world.
You can not take his liberty away. Do just respect his one little craze.
Believe me he is not really mad. Go away if you are afraid

(03:20:18):
of him. I am not.Oh, why don't you leave us both
in peace? I dare not,he answered, I love you, and
I am determined you shall marry me. Engage yourself to me at once,
and I will do nothing to takeaway Uncle Edward's liberty. For at least
a month I struggled against this horriblewish of my cousins, but in the
end I yielded to it. Ibecame engaged to him secretly, for he

(03:20:43):
did not wish Uncle Edward to know. I knew, of course, why
he wished to marry me. Hehad heard that I am some day to
inherit my uncle's wealth. Jasper himselfis a very poor man now, mister
Bell, you know everything. Thingsget worse and worse, and at times
I am almost inclined to believe thatmy life is in some danger. A

(03:21:03):
fiend has taken possession of the unclewhose heart was so warm and loving.
Ah, it is fearful. Ido not believe a bitter trial could be
given to any girl. It istoo awful to feel that the one she
loves best in all the world haschanged in his feelings towards her. It
is not so much the sacrifice ofmy poor life I mind, as the

(03:21:24):
feeling that things are so bitterly alteredwith him. Jasper put an alternative to
me last night. Either I amto marry him within a week, or
I am to use my influence toinduce doctor Laurey to sign the certificate.
If I accept by the proposal,he will get down two other doctors from
London for the purpose. What haveyou decided to do, I asked,

(03:21:46):
I will marry Jasper. Yes,within a week. I shall be his
wife unless something happens to show uswhat is the meaning of this fearful mystery.
For I cannot, never, nevercan I deprive Uncle Edward of his
liberty. I am glad you haveconfided in me, I said, after
a pause, and I will domy utmost for you. When did you

(03:22:07):
say that your uncle first heard theidol speak two or three months ago?
Now soon after Jasper came home,mister Bell, is there any chance of
your being able to help me?I will promise to do my utmost,
But just at present I can seeno special light. By the way,
would it not be well for youto leave the hind for a short time.
No, I am not at allafraid. I can take care of

(03:22:30):
myself. It is not my dearuncle whom I fear. It is Jasper.
Soon afterwards she left me, andas it was still quite early and
the servants were not yet even up, I considered that an excellent opportunity had
occurred for examining the idol. Imade my way to the gallery, and
softly opening the door stolen The brightsunlight which was now flooding the chamber seemed

(03:22:54):
to rob the grotesque old idol ofhalf its terrors, and I made up
my mind not to leave a stoneunturned to discover if any foul play in
connection with it could possibly be perpetrated. But the impossibility of such being the
case seemed more and more evident asI went on with my search. Only
a pigmy could be secreted inside theidol. There was no vulgar form of

(03:23:15):
deception possible on the lines. Forinstance, of the ancient priests of POMPEII
who conducted a speaking tube to anidol's mouth, Shiva was not even standing
by the wall, thus precluding thepossibility of the sounds being conducted on the
plan of a whispering gallery. No. I was, against my own will,
forced to the absolute conviction that thevoice was an hallucination of the diseased

(03:23:37):
mind of Edward Thesiger. I wasjust going to abandon my investigations and return
to my own room, when,more by chance than design, I knelt
down for a moment at the littlealtar. As I was about to rise,
I noticed something rather odd. Ilistened attentively. It was certainly remarkable.

(03:23:58):
As I knelt I could just heara low, continuous hissing sound.
Directly I moved away, it ceased. As I tried it several times,
with the same invariable result. Ibecame seriously puzzled to account for it.
What devilry could be at work toproduce this? Was it possible that someone
was playing a trick on me?And if so, by what means?

(03:24:18):
I glanced rapidly round, and asI did so, a mad thought struck
me. I hurried across to thefountain and put my ear close to the
swan's mouth, from which a tinyjet of water was issuing. The low,
scarcely audible noise that the water madeas it flowed out through the swan's
bill was exactly the same sound Ihad heard nearly twenty feet away at the

(03:24:39):
altar. The enormity of the situationstunned me for a moment, then gradually,
piece by piece, the plot revealeditself. The shape of the gallery
was a true oval, a geometricalellipse, the extraordinary acoustic properties of which
I knew well. This peculiarly shapedgallery contained two foci, one towards each

(03:25:00):
end, and the nature of thecurve of the walls was such that sound
issuing from either focus was directed byreflection at various points to the other focus,
and to the other focus alone,even across an enormous distance between such
would be the case. The swan'smouth was evidently at one focus the position
of a man's head as he kneltthat the altar would be without the slightest

(03:25:22):
doubt at the other could the pipebe used as a speaking tube when the
water was turned off. I feltso excited by this extraordinary discovery that it
was only with an effort that Imaintained my self control. I knew that
presence of mind was absolutely necessary inorder to expose this horrible scheme. I
left the gallery and passed through theconservatory. Here I found the gardener arranging

(03:25:45):
some pots. I chatted to himfor a few moments. He looked surprised
at seeing me up at such anunusual hour. Can you tell me how
the fountain in the gallery is turnedon or off? I asked, yes,
I can, sir. He replied, The pipe runs along outside this
stand, and here's the tap.I went across and looked at it.

(03:26:07):
In the leaden pipe that was fastenedto the wall were two nuts which could
be turned by a small spanner,and between them was a brass cap which
fitted on to a circular outlet fromthe pipe. What is this use for,
I asked, pointing to the littleoutlet which was closed by the cap.
We screwed the hose on there,sir, to water the flowers I

(03:26:28):
see, I answered, So whenyou use the hose, you shut off
the water from the fountain in thegallery. That's it, sir, and
a wonderful deal of trouble. Itsaves. Why it was never done before.
I can't think when was it done? Then? I asked, My
heart was beating fast. It wasmister Bagwell's thought, sir. He had

(03:26:48):
it fixed on soon after he came. He wanted to have plenty of water
handy in order to water the plantshe brought back from India. But lore,
sir, they'll never live through thewinter, even under glass, I
waited to hear no more. Thewhole infernal plot was laid bare. The
second tap, which shut off thewater both from the fountain and the hose

(03:27:09):
pipe, was of course quite uselessexcept for Bagwell's evil purpose. I hurried
straight up to Larier's room. Hewas just preparing to rise. His astonishment
when I told him of my discoverywas beyond words. Then, by shutting
off the water and applying his mouthto the place where the hose is fixed

(03:27:30):
on, he could convey his voiceto the swan's mouth like an ordinary speaking
tube, which, owing to thepeculiar construction of the gallery, would be
carried across to the other focus atthe altar. He said exactly, I
replied, And now, doctor Laurier, you must please allow me to regulate
our future plans. They're simply these. You must tell Bagwell that you absolutely

(03:27:54):
refused to sign the certificate unless Thesigerdeclares that he hears the voice again in
your presence, and arranged that theseance takes place at nine o'clock to night.
I, in the meantime shall ostensiblytake my departure, and so leave
the ground clear for Bagwell. Heis evidently rather afraid of me. My
going will throw him completely off hisguard. But I shall, in reality

(03:28:16):
only leave the train at the nextstation and return here after dark. You
will have to see that the conservatorydoor leading on to the terraces left unlocked.
I shall steal in, and,hiding myself in the conservatory, shall
await Bagwell. You, in themeantime will be in the gallery with Thessiger
when you hear me call out comingat once. Our only hope is to

(03:28:39):
take that wretch red handed to thishastily constructed scheme. Larier instantly agreed,
and at four o'clock that afternoon Itook my leave, Miss Thesiger, looking
white and miserable, standing on thesteps to see me off. Bagwell drove
me himself to the station and bademe goodbye with a heartiness, which was
at least sincere. I was backagain at the hind at half past eight

(03:29:01):
that evening, Larier had left theconservatory door unlocked and slipping in it,
being now quite dark. I hidmyself behind some large flowering shrubs and waited.
Presently. I heard the door ofthe conservatory open and in stole Bagwell.
I saw him approach the pipe,turned the spanner which shut off the
water from the fountain and also fromthe host pipe, and then proceed to

(03:29:24):
unscrew the brass cap. I waitedtill I saw him place his mouth to
the opening and begin to speak,And then I dashed out upon him and
called loudly for Larier. Bagwell's surpriseand terror at my unexpected attack absolutely bereft
him of speech, and he stoodgazing at me with a mixed expression of
fury and fear. The next minute, Larey and Thesiger both burst in from

(03:29:46):
the gallery. I still retained myhold of Bagwell. The moment I saw
the sign, I went up tohim and in a few words explained the
whole fraud. But it was notuntil I had demonstrated the tree and the
oval gallery that he became convinced.Then the relief on his face was marvelous.
You leave my house at once,he said to Bagwell, go,

(03:30:09):
sir, if you do not wishto be in the hands of the police.
Where is Helen? Where is mychild? He had scarcely said the
words, and Bagwell was just slinkingoff with a white face like a whipker,
towards the door. When Helen appearedupon the scene, What is it,
she cried? Is anything the matter? The old man strode up to

(03:30:31):
her. He took her in hisarms. It is all right, Helen,
he said, all right. Ican never explain, but take my
word it is all right. Iwas a fool and worse nay, I
was mad, but I am sanenow, mister Bell. I can never
express my obligations to you, Butnow, will you do one thing more?

(03:30:54):
What is that? Be assured?I will do anything in my power,
I answered, Then return here tonightand destroy Shiva. How I could
have been infatuated enough to believe inthat senseless piece of what is beyond my
power to understand? But destroy it, sir, take it away. Let
me never lay eyes on it again. Early on the following morning, when

(03:31:16):
I was leaving the house, Bagwell, who must have been waiting for the
purpose, suddenly stepped across my path. I have a word of explanation to
give, he said, you,mister Bell, have one, and I
have lost I played a deep game, and for a large cause, it
did not occur to me as possiblethat any one could discover the means by

(03:31:37):
which I made Shiva speak. Iam now about to leave England forever.
But before I do so, itmay interest you to know that the temptation
offered to me was a very peculiarand strong one. I had not been
an hour at the hind before Isuddenly remembered, having spent some months in
the old house when a boy Irecollected the Oval Gallery. Its peculiar acoustic

(03:31:58):
quality had been pointed out to meby a scientist who happened to live there
at the time. The desire towin not Helen, but my uncle's property
was too strong to be resisted bya penniless man. My object was to
terrify Thessiger, whose brain was alreadynearly overbalanced into complete insanity, get him
locked up, and marry Helen.How I succeeded and in the end failed,

(03:32:24):
you know well. Six to provean alibi. I first met Arthur
Cresley in the late spring of eighteenninety two. I had been spending the
winter in Egypt and was returning toLiverpool one calm evening. About eleven o'clock,
while we were still in the Mediterranean, I went on deck to smoke
a final cigar before turning in.After pacing up and down for a time,

(03:32:48):
I leant over the taffrail and beganidly watching the tiny wavelets with their
crests of white fire, as theyrippled away from the vessel's side. Presently,
I became aware of some one standingnear me, and turning saw that
it was one of my fellow passengers, a young man whose name I knew,
but whose acquaintance I had not yetmade. He was entered in the
passenger list as Arthur Cresley, belongedto an old family in Derbyshire, and

(03:33:13):
was returning home from Western Australia,where he had made a lot of money.
I offered him a light, andafter a few preliminary remarks, we
drifted into a desolatory conversation. Hetold me that he had been in Australia
for fifteen years, and, havingdone well, was now returning to settle
in his native land. Then youdo not intend going out again, I

(03:33:33):
asked, no, He replied,I would not go through the last fifteen
years for double the money I havemade. I suppose you will make London
your headquarters, not altogether, butI shall have to spend a good deal
of time there. My wish isfor a quiet country life, and I
intend to take over the old familyproperty. We have a place called Cresley

(03:33:56):
Hall in Derbyshire which has belonged tous for Sene it would be a sort
of white elephant, for it hasfallen into pitiable decay. But luckily I
am now in a position to restoreit and set it going again in renewed
prosperity. You are a fortunate man, I answered, Perhaps I am,
He replied, yes, as faras this world's goods go, I suppose

(03:34:20):
I am lucky considering that I arrivedin Australia fifteen years ago with practically no
money in my pocket. I shallbe glad to be home again for many
reasons, chiefly because I can savethe old property from being sold. It
is always a pity when a fineold family seat has to go to the
hammer for want of funds. Iremarked, that is true, and Cresley

(03:34:41):
Hall is a superb old place.There is only one drawback to it.
But I don't believe there is anythingin that, added Kresley, in amusing
tone. Knowing him so little,I did not feel justified in asking for
an explanation. I waited therefore,without speaking, he soon proceeded. I
suppose I am rather foolish about it, he continued. But if I am

(03:35:05):
superstitious, I have abundant reason.For more than a century and a half
there has been a strange fatality aboutany Kresley occupying the Hall. This fatality
was first exhibited in seventeen hundred,when Barrington Kresley, one of the most
abandoned libertines of that time, ledhis infamous orgies there. Of these,
even history takes note. There areendless legends as to their nature, one

(03:35:28):
of which is that he had personaldealings with the devil in the large turret
room, the principal bedroom at theHall, and was found dead there on
the following morning. Certainly, sincethat date a curious doom has hung over
the family, and this doom showsitself in a strange way, only attacking
those victims who are so unfortunate asto sleep in the turret room. Gilbert

(03:35:50):
Kresley, the young court favorite ofGeorge the Third, was found mysteriously murdered
there, and my own great grandfatherpaid the penalty by losing his reason within
those gloomy walls. If the roomhas such an evil reputation, I wonder
that it is occupied, I replied. It happens to be far and away
the best bedroom in the house,and people always laugh at that sort of

(03:36:11):
thing until they are brought face toface with it. The owner of the
property is not only born there asa rule, but also breathes his last
in the old four poster the mostextraordinary, wonderful old bedstead you ever laid
eyes on. Of course, Ido not believe in any malevolent influences from
the unseen world, but the recordof disastrous coincidences in that one room is,

(03:36:35):
to say the least of it curious. Not that this sort of thing
will deter me from going into possession, and I intend to put a lot
of money into Cresley Hall. Hasno one been occupying it lately? I
asked? Not recently. An oldhousekeeper has had charge of the place for
the last few years. The agenthad orders to sell the hall long ago.

(03:36:56):
But though it has been in themarket for a long time, I
do not believe there was a singleoffer. Just before I left Australia,
I wired to Murdock, my agent, that I intended taking over the place
and authorized its withdrawal from the market. Have you no relations I inquired none
at all. Since I have beenaway my only brother died. It is

(03:37:18):
curious to call it going home whenone has no relatives and only friends who
have probably forgotten one. I couldnot help feeling sorry for Cresley as he
described the lonely outlook. Of course, with heaps of money in an old
family place, he would soon makenew friends, but he looked the sort
of chap who might be imposed upon, And although he was as nice a

(03:37:39):
fellow as I had ever met,I could not help coming to the conclusion
that he was not specially strong,either mentally or physically. He was essentially
good looking, however, and hadthe indescribable bearing of a man of old
family. I wondered how he hadmanaged to make his money. What he
told me about his old hall alsoexcited my interest, and as we talked,

(03:38:01):
I managed to allude to my ownpeculiar hobby and the delight I took
in such old legends as the voyageflew by our acquaintance grew apace, rightening
into a warm friendship. Cresley toldme much of his past life, and
finally confided to me one of hisreal objects in returning to England. While
prospecting up country, he had comeacross some rich veins of gold, and

(03:38:24):
now his intention was to bring outa large syndicate in order to acquire the
whole property, which he anticipated wasworth at least a million. He spoke
confidently of this great scheme, butalways wound up by informing me that the
money which he hoped to make wasonly of interest to him for the purpose
of re establishing Cresley Hall in itsancient splendor. As we talked, I

(03:38:46):
noticed once or twice that a manstood near us who seemed to take an
interest in our conversation. He wasa thickly set individual, with a florid
complexion and a broad German cast offace. He was an inveterate smoker,
and when he stood near us witha pipe in his mouth, the expression
of his face was almost a blank. But watching him closely, I saw
a look in his eyes which betokenedthe shrewd man of business. And I

(03:39:09):
could scarcely tell why, but Ifelt uncomfortable in his presence. This man,
Wickham by name, managed to pickup an acquaintance with Cresley, and
soon they spent a good deal oftime together. They made a contrast as
they paced up and down on deckor played cards in the evening, the
Englishman being slight and almost fragile inbuild, the German of the bulldog order,

(03:39:33):
with a manner at once curt andoverbearing. I took a dislike to
Wickham and wondered what Cresley could seein him. Who is the fellow?
I asked on one occasion, linkingmy hand in Cresley's arm and drawing him
aside as I spoke, Do youmean Wickham? He answered, I am
sure. I cannot tell you.I never met the chap before this voyage.

(03:39:54):
He came on board at King George'sSound, where I also embarked,
but he he never spoke to meuntil we were in the Mediterranean. On
the whole bell I am inclined tolike him. He seems to be downright
and honest. He knows a greatdeal about the Bush too, as he
has spent several years there, andhe gives you the benefit of his information.

(03:40:16):
I asked, I don't suppose heknows more than I do, and
it is doubtful whether he has hadso rough a time. Then in that
case he picks your brains. Whatdo you mean, The young fellow looked
at me with those clear gray eyes, which were his most attractive feature.
Nothing, I answered, nothing.Only if you will be guided by a

(03:40:37):
man nearly double your age, Iwould take care to tell Wickham as little
as possible. Have you ever observedthat he happens to be about when you
and I are engaged in serious conversation. I can't say that I have.
Well, keep your eyes open andyou'll see what I mean. Be as
friendly as you like, but don'tgive him your confidence. That is all.

(03:40:58):
You are rather late in advising meon that score, said Cresley,
with a somewhat nervous laugh. Wickhamknows all about the old Hall by this
time, and your superstitious fears withregard to the turret room, I queried,
Well, I have hinted at them. You will be surprised, but
he is full of sympathy. Tellhim no more, I said. In

(03:41:20):
conclusion. Cresley made a sort ofhalf promise, but looked as if he
rather resented my interference. A dayor two later we reached Liverpool. I
was engaged long ago to stay withsome friends in the suburbs, and Cresley
took up his abode at the Prince'sHotel. His property was some sixty miles
away, and when we parted,he insisted on my agreeing to come down

(03:41:43):
and see his place as soon ashe had put things a little straight.
I readily promised to do so,provided we could arrange a visit before my
return to London. Nearly a weekwent by and I saw nothing of Cresley.
Then on a certain morning he calledto see me. How are you
getting on, I asked capitally.He replied, I have been down to

(03:42:05):
the Hall several times with my agentMurdoch, and though the place is in
the most shocking condition, I shallsoon put things in order. But what
I have come specially to ask younow is whether you can get away today
and come with me to the Hallfor a couple of nights. I had
arranged with the agent to go downthis afternoon in his company, but he
has been suddenly taken ill. Heis rather bad, I believe, and

(03:42:28):
cannot possibly come with me. Hehas ordered the housekeeper to get a couple
of rooms ready, and though Iam afraid it will be rather roughing it,
I shall be awfully glad if youcan come. I had arranged to
meet a man in London on specialbusiness that very evening and could not put
him off. But my irresistible desireto see the old place from the description

(03:42:50):
I had heard of it decided meto make an effort to fall in as
well as I could with Cresley's plans. I wish I could go with you
today, I said, but that, as it has happens, is out
of the question. I must runup to town on some pressing business.
But if you will allow me,I can easily come back again tomorrow.
Can you not put off your visituntil tomorrow evening? No, I am

(03:43:13):
afraid I cannot do that. Ihave to meet several of the tenants and
have made all arrangements to go bythe five o'clock train this afternoon. He
looked depressed at my refusal, andafter a moment said thoughtfully, I wish
you could have come with me today when Murdoch could not come, I
thought of you at once. Itwould have made all the difference. I

(03:43:33):
am sorry, I replied, butI can promise faithfully to be with you
tomorrow. I shall enjoy seeing yourwonderful old hall beyond anything, and as
to roughing it, I am usedto that you will not mind spending one
night there by yourself. He lookedat me as if he were about to
speak, but no words came fromhis lips. What is the matter,

(03:43:56):
I said, giving him an earnestglance. By the way, are you
going to sleep in the turret room? I am afraid there is no help
for it. The housekeeper is certainto get it ready for me. The
owner of the property always sleeps there, and it would look like a confession
of weakness to ask to be putinto another bedroom. Nevertheless, if you
are nervous, I should not mindthat, I said. Oh I don't

(03:44:20):
know that. I am absolutely nervous, Bell, But all the same,
I have a superstition. At thepresent moment, I have the queerest sensation.
I feel as if I ought notto pay this visit to the hall.
If you intend to live there byand by, you must get over
this sort of thing, I remarked, Oh yes, I must, and
I would not yield to it onany account. Whatever I am sorry I

(03:44:43):
even mentioned it to you. Itis good of you to promise to come
tomorrow, and I shall look forwardto seeing you. By What train will
you come? We looked up thelocal timetable and I decided on a train
which would leave Liverpool about five o'clock, the very one that I shall go
down by ten, said Cresley.That's capital. I'll meet you with a

(03:45:03):
conveyance of some sort and drive youover the house is a good two hours
drive from the station, and youcannot get a trap there for love or
money. By the way, Isaid, is there much the matter with
your agent? I cannot tell you. He seems bad enough. I went
up to his house this morning andsaw the wife. It appears that he

(03:45:24):
was suddenly taken ill with a sortof asthmatic attack to which he is subject.
While I was talking to missus Murdoch, a messenger came down to say
that her husband specially wished to seeme. So we both went to his
room, but he had dozed offinto a queer, restless sleep before we
arrived. The wife said he mustnot be awakened on any account. But

(03:45:46):
I caught a glimpse of him,and he certainly looked bad and was moaning
as if in a good deal ofpain. She gave me the keys of
a bureau in his room, andI took out some estimates and left a
note for him, telling him tocome on as soon as he was well
enough. And your visit to hisroom never roused him, I said no,
although missus Murdoch and I made apretty good bit of noise moving about

(03:46:09):
and opening and shutting drawers. Hismoans were quite heart trending. He was
evidently in considerable pain, and Iwas glad to get away, as that
sort of thing always upsets me.Who is this Murdoch, I asked,
Oh, the man who has lookedafter the place for years. I was
referred to him by my solicitors.He seems a most capable person, and

(03:46:31):
I hope to goodness he won't beill long. If he is, I
shall find myself in rather a fix. I made no reply to this,
and soon afterwards Cresley shook hands withme and departed on his way. I
went to my room, packed mybelongings, and took the next train to
town. The business which I hadto get through occupied the whole of that

(03:46:52):
evening, and also some hours ofthe following day. I found I was
not able to start for Liverpool beforethe twelve point one zero train at Euston,
and should not therefore arrive at LimeStreet before five o'clock, too late
to catch the train for Brent,the nearest station to Cresley's place. Another
train left Central Station for Brent,however, at seven o'clock, and I

(03:47:15):
determined to wire to Kresley to tellhim to meet me by the latter train.
This was the last train in theday, but there was no fear
of my missing it. I arrivedat Lime Street almost to the moment and
drove straight to the Prince's Hotel,where I had left my bag the day
before. Here a telegram awaited me. It was from Cresley and ran as
follows, hope this will reach youtime. If so, call at Murdoch's

(03:47:41):
house, number twelve Melville Gardens.If possible, see him and get the
documents referred to in Schedule A.He will know what you mean most important,
Presley. I glanced at the clockin the hall. It was now
a quarter past five. My trainwould leave at seven. I had plenty
of time to get something to eatand then go to Murdoch's. Having despatched

(03:48:03):
my telegram to Kresley, telling himto look out for me by the train,
which arrived at Brent at nine o'clock. I ordered a meal, ate
it, and then hailing a cab, gave the driver the number of Murdoch's
house. Melville Gardens, was situatedsomewhat in the suburbs, and it was
twenty minutes drive from my hotel.When we drew up at Murdoch's door,

(03:48:24):
I told the cabman to wait,and getting out, rang the bell.
The servant who answered my summons toldme that the agent was still very ill
and could not be seen by anyone. I then inquired for the wife.
I was informed that she was outbut would be back soon. I looked
at my watch. It was justsix o'clock. I determined to wait to

(03:48:45):
see Missus Murdoch if possible. Havingpaid and dismissed my cab, I was
shown into a small, untidily keptparlor, where I was left to my
own meditations. The weather was hotand the room close. I paced up
and down restlessly. The minutes flewby. A Missus Murdoch did not put
in an appearance. I looked atmy watch, which now pointed to twenty

(03:49:09):
minutes past six. It would takeme in an ordinary cab nearly twenty minutes
to reach the station. In orderto make all safe, I ought to
leave Murdoch's house in ten minutes fromnow at the latest. I went and
stood by the window, watching anxiouslyfor missus Murdoch to put in in appearance.
Melville Gardens was a somewhat lonely place, and few people passed the house,

(03:49:31):
which was old and shabby. Ithad evidently not been done up for
years. I was just turning roundin order to ring the bell to leave
a message with the servant, whenthe room door was opened, and to
my astonishment and walked Wickham, theman I had last seen on board the
Euphrates. He came up to meat once and held out his hand.

(03:49:52):
No doubt you are surprised at seeingme here, mister Bell, he exclaimed.
I certainly was for a moment,I answered, But then I added,
the world is a small place,and one soon gets accustomed to acquaintances
cropping up in all sorts of unlikelyquarters. Why unlikely, said Wickham?
Why should I not know Murdoch whohappens to be a very special and very

(03:50:16):
old friend of mine. I mightas well ask you why you are interested
in him? Because I happen tobe a friend of Arthur Cresley's, I
answered, and have come here onhis business, and so am I also
a friend of Kresley's. He hasasked me to go and see him at
Cresley Hall some day, and Ihope to avail myself of his invitation.

(03:50:37):
The servant told me that you werewaiting for missus Murdoch. Can I give
her any message from you? Iwant to see Murdoch himself, I said,
after a pause. Do you thinkthat it is possible for me to
have an interview with him? Ileft him just now and he was asleep,
said Wickham. He is still veryill, and I think the doctor

(03:50:58):
is a little anxious about him.It would not do to disturb him on
any account. Of course, ifhe happens to a wake, he might
be able to tell you what youwant to know. By the way,
has it anything to do with KresleyHall? Yes, I have just had
a telegram from Kresley and the messageis somewhat important. You are quite sure

(03:51:18):
that Murdoch is asleep. He waswhen I left the room, but I
will go up again and see.Are you going to London to night,
mister Bell. No, I amgoing down to Cresley Hall and must catch
the seven o'clock train. I havenot a moment to wait. As I
spoke, I took up my watch. It only wants five and twenty minutes

(03:51:39):
to seven, I said, AndI never care to run a train to
the last moment. There is nohelp for it. I suppose I must
go without seeing Murdoch. Kresley will, in all probability send down a message
tomorrow for the papers he requires.Just stay a moment, said Wickham,
putting on an anxious expression. Itis it's a great pity that you should

(03:52:01):
not see Cresley's agent, if itis as vital as all that. Ah,
and here comes missus Murdoch. Waitone moment, I'll go and speak
to her. He went out ofthe room, and I heard him say
something in a low voice. Inthe passage, A woman's voice replied,
and the next instant Missus Murdoch stoodbefore me. She was a tall woman

(03:52:22):
with a sallow face and sandy hair. She had a blank sort of stare
about her, and scarcely any expression. Now she fixed her dull, light
blue eyes on my face and heldout her hand. You are, mister
Bell, she said. I haveheard of you, of course, from
mister Presley, so you are goingto spend tonight with him at Cresley Hall.

(03:52:43):
I am glad, for it isa lonely place, the most lonely
place I know. Pardon me,I interrupted, I cannot stay to talk
to you now or I shall missmy train. Can I see your husband
or can I not? She glancedat Wickham. Then she said, with
hesitation, if he is asleep,it would not do to disturb him.

(03:53:03):
But there is a chance of hisbeing awake. Now I don't quite understand
about the papers I wish I did. It would be best for you to
see him. Certainly, follow meupstairs, and I tell you what called
Wickham after us, I'll go andengage a cab so that you shall lose
as short a time as possible.Mister Bell, I thanked him and followed

(03:53:26):
the wife upstairs. The stairs werenarrow and steep, and we soon reached
the small landing at the top forbedrooms. Opened into it. Missus Murdock
turned the handle of the one whichexactly faced the stairs, and we both
entered here. The blinds were downand the chamber was considerably darkened. The
room was a small one, andthe greater part of the space was occupied

(03:53:48):
by an old fashioned Albert bedstead,with the curtains pulled forward. Within.
I could just see the shadowy outlineof a figure, and I distinctly heard
the feeble groans of the sick man. Ah, what a pity my husband
is still asleep, said missus Murdock, as she turned softly round to me
and put her finger to her lips. It would injure him very much to

(03:54:11):
awaken him, she said. Youcan go and look at him if you
like. You will see how veryill he is. I wonder if I
could help you with regard to thepapers you want, mister Bell, I
want the documents referred to in ScheduleA, I answered, Schedule A.
She repeated, speaking under her breath. I remember that name. Surely all

(03:54:33):
the papers relating to it are inthis drawer. I think I can get
them for you. She crossed theroom as she spoke, and, standing
with her back to the bedstead,took a bunch of keys from a table
which stood near, and fitted oneinto the lock of a high bureau made
of mahogany. She pulled open adrawer and began to examine its contents.
While she was so occupied, Iapproached the bed, and, bending slightly

(03:54:56):
forward, took a good stare atthe sick man. I had never seen
Murdoch before. There was little doubtthat he was ill. He looked very
ill. Indeed, his face waslong and cadaverous. The cheek bones were
high, and the cheeks below weremuch sunken in the lips, which were
clean shaven, were slightly drawn apart, and some broken, irregular teeth were

(03:55:18):
visible. The eyebrows were scanty,and the hair was much worn away from
the high and hollow forehead. Theman looked sick unto death. I had
seldom seen any one with an expressionlike his. The closed eyes were much
sunken, and the moaning which camefrom the livid lips was horrible to listen
to. After giving Murdoch a longand earnest stare, I stepped back from

(03:55:41):
the bed and was just about tospeak to missus Murdoch, who was rustling
papers in the drawer, when themost strong and irresistible curiosity assailed me.
I could not account for it,but I felt bound to yield to its
suggestions. I turned again and bentclose over the sick man. Surely there
was something monotonous about that deep drawnbreath. Those moans, too, came

(03:56:03):
at wonderfully regular intervals. Scarcely knowingwhy I did it, I stretched out
my hand and laid it on theforehead. Good God, what was the
matter? I felt myself turning cold. The perspiration stood out on my own
brow. I had not touched aliving forehead at all. Flesh was flesh.
It was impossible to mistake the feel. But there was no flesh here.

(03:56:28):
The figure in the bed was eithera living nor a dead man.
It was a wax representation of one. But why did it moan? And
how was it possible for it notto breathe? Making the greatest effort of
my life, I repressed an exclamation, and when missus Murdock approached me with
the necessary papers in her hand,took them from her in my usual manner.
These all relate to schedule A.She said, I hope I am

(03:56:52):
not doing wrong in giving them toyou without my husband's leave. He looks
very ill, does he not?He looked as bad as he can look,
I answered, I moved towards thedoor. Something in my tone must
have alarmed her, for a curiousexpression of fear dilated the pupils of her
light blue eyes. She followed medownstairs. A hansom was waiting for me.

(03:57:16):
I nodded to Wickham, did noteven wait to shake hands with missus
Murdoch, and sprang into the cab. Central Station, I shouted to the
man, and then as he whippedup his horse and flew down the street,
a sovereign, if you'd get therebefore seven o'clock, we were soon
dashing quickly along the streets. Idid not know Liverpool well and consequently could

(03:57:39):
not exactly tell where the man wasgoing. When I got into the hansom,
it wanted twelve minutes to seven o'clock. These minutes were quickly flying,
and still no station. Are yousure you are going right? I shouted
through the hole in the roof.You'll be there in a minute, sir,
he answered. It's Lime Street stationyou want, isn't it? No

(03:58:00):
Central Station? I answered, Itold you Central Station. Drive there at
once, like the very devil.I must catch that train, for it
is the last one tonight, allright, Sir, I can do it,
he cried, whipping up his horseagain. Once more. I pulled
out my watch. The hands pointedto three minutes to seven. At ten

(03:58:22):
minutes past we were driving into thestation. I flung the man half a
sovereign and darted into the booking officeto brent. Sir, the last train
has just gone, said the clerk, with an impassive stare at me through
the little window. I flung mybag down in disgust and swore a great
oath. But for that idiot ofa driver, I should have just caught

(03:58:43):
the train. All of a sudden, a horrible thought flashed through my brain.
Had the cabman been bribed by Wickham, No directions could have been plainer
than mine. I had told theman to drive to Central Station. Central
Station did not sound the least likeLifemes Street Station. How was it possible
for him to make so grave amistake. The more I considered the matter,

(03:59:05):
the more certain I was that ablack plot was brewing, and that
Wickham was in the thick of it. My brain began to whirl with excitement.
What was the matter? Why wasa lay figure in Murdoch's bed?
Why had I been taken upstairs tosee it. Without any doubt, both
missus Murdoch and Wickham wished me tosee. What was such an admirable imitation

(03:59:26):
of a sick man, an imitationso good with those ghastly moans coming from
the lips, that it would havetaken in the sharpest detective in Scotland yard.
I myself was deceived until I touchedthe forehead. This state of things
had not been brought to pass withouta reason. What was the reason?
Could it be possible that Murdoch waswanted elsewhere? And it was thought well

(03:59:50):
that I should see him in orderto prove an alibi should he be suspected
of a ghastly crime? My god, what could this mean? From the
first I had mistrus to Wickham?What was he doing in Murdock's house?
For what purpose? Had he bribedthe driver of the cab in order to
make me lose my train? Themore I thought, the more certain I
was that Cresley was in grave danger, and I now determined cost what it

(04:00:15):
might to get to him. Thatnight, I left the station, took
a cab and drove back to myhotel. I asked to see the manager
a tall, dark man in afrock coat emerged from a door at the
back of the office and inquired whathe could do for me. I begged
permission to speak to him alone,and we passed into his private room.

(04:00:35):
I am in an extraordinary position.I began. Circumstances of a private nature
make it absolutely necessary that I shouldgo to a place called Cresley Hall,
about fourteen miles from Brent. Brentis sixty miles down the line, and
the last train has gone. Icould take a special, but there might
be an interminable delay at Brent,and I preferred to drive straight to Cresley

(04:00:58):
Hall across country. Can you assistme by directing me to some good job
master from whom I can hire acarriage and horses. The man looked at
me with raised eyebrows. He evidentlythought I was mad. I mean what
I say, I added, andam prepared to back my words with a
substantial sum. Can you help me? I dare say you might get a

(04:01:20):
carriage and horses to do it,he replied, But it is a very
long way, and over a hillycountry. No two horses could go such
a distance without rest. You wouldhave to change from time to time as
you went, I will send acrossto the hotel stables from my man,
and you can see him about it. He rang the bell and gave his

(04:01:41):
orders. In a few moments thejob master came in. I hurriedly explained
to him what I wanted. Atfirst he said it was impossible that his
best horses were out, and thatthose he had in his stables could not
possibly attempt such a journey. Butwhen I brought out my check book and
offered to advance it's any sum inreason, he hesitated. Of course,

(04:02:03):
there is one way in which itmight be managed, sir. I would
take you myself as far as Ovenden, which is five and twenty miles from
here. There I know we couldget a pair of fresh horses from the
Swan, and if we wired atonce from here, horses might be ready
at Carlton, which is another twentymiles on the road. But at our
best, sir, it will bebetween two and three in the morning before

(04:02:26):
we get to Brent. I amsorry to hear you say so, I
answered, but it is better toarrive than then to wait until tomorrow.
Please send the necessary telegram off withouta moment's delay. And get the carriage
ready put the horses in at once. John said the manager, you had
better take the light wagonet. Youought to get there between one and two

(04:02:48):
in the morning with that. Then, he added, as the man left
the room, I suppose, sir, your business is very urgent. It
is, I replied shortly. Helooked as if he would like to question
me further, but refrained. Afew moments later I had taken my seat
beside the driver, and we werespeeding at a good round pace through the

(04:03:09):
streets of Liverpool. We passed quicklythrough the suburbs and out into the open
country. The evening was a lovelyone, and the country looked its best.
It was difficult to believe, asI drove through the peaceful landscape that
in all probability a dark deed wasin contemplation, and that the young man
to whom I had taken a mostsincere liking was in danger of his life.

(04:03:33):
As I drove silently by my companion'sside, I reviewed the whole situation.
The more I thought of it,the less I liked it. On
board the Euphrates, Wickham had beenabnormally interested in Cresley. Cresley had himself
confided to him his superstitious dread withregard to the turret room. Cresley had
come home with a fortune, andif he floated his syndicate, he would

(04:03:54):
be a millionaire. Wickham scarcely lookedlike a rich man. Then why should
he know Murdoch? And why shoulda lay figure be put in Murdoch's bed?
Why also, through a most unnaturalaccident, should I have lost my
train? The more I thought,the graver and graver became my fears.
Gradually darkness settled over the land,and then a rising moon flooded the country

(04:04:18):
in its weird light. I hadbeen on many a wild expedition before,
but in some ways never a wilderthan this. Its very uncertainty, rapt
as it was in unformed suspicions,gave it an air of inexpressible mystery.
On and on we went, reachingof and End between nine and ten a
night. Here horses were ready forus, and we again started on our

(04:04:41):
way. When we got to Carlton, however, there came a hitch in
my well formed arrangements. We drewup at the little Inn to find the
place in total darkness, and allthe inhabitants, evidently in bed and asleep.
With some difficulty, we roused thelandlord and asked why the horses which
had been telegraphed for had not beengot ready. We did not get them

(04:05:01):
when the second telegram arrived. Wasthe reply the second telegram? I cried,
my heart beating fast. What doyou mean? There were two sir,
both coming from the same stables.The first was ridden, desiring us
to have the horses ready at anycost. The second contradicted the first and

(04:05:22):
said that the gentleman had changed hismind and was not going on receipt of
that sir. I shut up thehouse as usual, and we all went
to bed. I am very sorry. If there has been any mistake,
there has a terrible one. Icould not help muttering under my breath.
My fears were getting graver than ever. Who had sent the second telegram?

(04:05:45):
Was it possible that I had beenfollowed by Wickham who took these means of
circumventing me. We must get horses, And at once I said, never
mind about the second telegram. Itwas a mistake. Peach the job master
uttered an oath. I can't understandwhat is up, he said. He
looked mystified and not too well pleased. Then he added, these horses can't

(04:06:09):
go another step, Sir, theymust if we can get no others,
I said, I went up tohim and began to whisper in his ear.
This is a matter of life anddeath, my good friend. Only
the direst necessity takes me on thisjourney. The second telegram, without doubt,
was sent by a man whom Iam trying to circumvent. I know

(04:06:31):
what I am saying. We mustget horses or these must go on.
We have not an instant to lose. There is a conspiracy afoot to do
serious injury to the owner of CresleyHall. What the young gentleman who has
just come from Australia. You don'tmean to say he is in danger,
said Peach. He is in thegravest danger. I don't mind who knows.

(04:06:56):
I have reason for my fears.While I was speaking, the Landlord
drew near. He overheard some ofmy last words. The Landlord and Peach
now exchanged glances. After a moment, the Landlord spoke, a neighbor of
ours, Sir, has got twogood horses, he said. He is
the doctor in this village. Ibelieve he'll lend them if the case is

(04:07:18):
as urgent as you say. Goand ask him, I cried, you
shall have ten pounds if we areon the road in five minutes from the
present moment. At this hint,the landlord flew. He came back in
an incredibly short space of time,accompanied by the doctor's coachmen leading the horses.
They were quickly harnessed to the wagonet, and once more we started on

(04:07:41):
our way. Now drive as younever drove before in the whole course of
your life. I said to Peach. Money is no object. We have
still fifteen miles to go, andover a rough country. You can claim
any reward in reason if you getto Cresley Hall within an hour. It
can be done, sir, hereplied, But then he glanced at me,

(04:08:03):
and some of the determination in myface was reflected in his. He
whipped up the horses. They werethoroughbred animals and worked well under pressure.
We reached the gates of Cresley Hallbetween two and three in the morning.
Here I thought it best to drawup and told my coachman that I should
not need his services any longer.If you are afraid of mischief. Sir,

(04:08:26):
would it not be best for meto lie about here? He asked,
I'd rather be in the neighborhood incase you want me. I am
interested in this here job. Sir, you may well be my man god
grand it is not a black business. Well, walk the horses up and
down if you like. If yousee nothing of me within the next couple
of hours, judge that matters areall right, and return with the horses

(04:08:50):
to Carlton. This being arranged,I turned from Peach and entered the lodge
gates. Just inside was a lowcottage surrounded by trees. I paused for
a moment to consider what I hadbetter do. My difficulty now was how
to obtain admittance to the hall,for of course it would be shut up
and all its inhabitants asleep at thishour. Suddenly, an idea struck me.

(04:09:13):
I determined to knock up the lodgekeeper and to enlist her assistance.
I went across to the door,and presently succeeded in rousing the inmates.
A woman of about fifty appeared.I explained to her my position and begged
of her to give me her help. She hesitated at first, and unutterable
astonishment, but then seeing something inmy face which convinced her, I suppose

(04:09:37):
of the truth of my story,for it was necessary to alarm her in
order to induce her to do anything. She said she would do what I
wished. I know the room whereMitchell, the old housekeeper sleeps, she
said, and we can easily wakehim by throwing stones up at his window.
If you'll just wait a minute,I'll put a shawl over my head
and go with you. She raninto an inner room and quickly reappeared.

(04:10:01):
Together we made our way along thedrive, which far as I could see,
ran through a park studded with oldtimber. We went round the house
to the back entrance, and thewoman, after a delay of two or
three moments, during which I wason thorn's, managed to wake up Mitchell
the housekeeper. He came to hiswindow, threw it open and poked out
his head. What can be wrong, he said, It is, mister

(04:10:26):
Bell James, was the reply.The gentleman who has been expected at the
hall all the evening. He hascome now and wants you to admit him.
The old man said that he wouldcome downstairs. He did so,
and opening a door stood in frontof it, barring my entrance. Are
you really the gentleman mister Cresley hasbeen expecting, he said, I am,

(04:10:48):
I replied, I missed my trainand was obliged to drive out.
There is urgent need. Why Ishould see your master immediately? Where is
he? I hope in bed,sir, and asleep. It is nearly
three o'clock in the morning. Nevermind the hour, I said, I
must see mister Cresley immediately. Canyou take me to his room? If

(04:11:11):
I am sure that you are,mister John Bell, said the old man,
glancing at me with not unnatural suspicion, rest assured on that point.
Here this is my card, andhere is a telegram which I received to
day from your master. But Mastersent no telegram to day. You must
be mistaken. This is from him. I don't understand it, sir,

(04:11:33):
but you look honest, and Isuppose I must trust you. You will
do well to do so, Isaid. He moved back, and I
entered the house. He took medown a passage and then into a lofty
chamber which probably was the old banquetinghall as well as I could see by
the light of the candle, itwas floored and paneled with black oak.

(04:11:56):
Round the wall stood figures of knightsand armor, with flags and banners hanging
from the panels above. I followedthe old man up a broad staircase and
a long endless corridors to a moredistant part of the building. We turned
now abruptly to our right, andsoon began to ascend some turret stairs.
In Which room is your master?I asked? This is his room,

(04:12:18):
sir, said the man. Hestood still and pointed to a door.
Stay where you are, I maywant you, I said. I seized
his candle, and, holding itabove my head, opened the door.
The room was a large one,and when I entered, was in total
darkness. I fancied I heard arustling in the distance, but could see
no one. Then, as myeyes got accustomed to the faint light caused

(04:12:43):
by the candle, I observed atthe further end of the chamber a large
four poster bedstead. I immediately noticedsomething very curious about it. I turned
round to the old housekeeper. Didyou really say that mister Cresley was sleeping
in this room? I asked,yes, sir, he must be in
bed some hours ago I left himin the library hunting up old papers,

(04:13:05):
and he told me he was tiredand was going to rest early. He
is not in the bed, Isaid, not in the bed, sir,
good God. A note of horrorcame into the man's voice. What
in the name of fortune is thematter with the bed? As the man
spoke, I rushed forward. Wasit really a bed at all? If

(04:13:26):
it was, I had never seena stranger one upon it? Covering it
from head to foot was a thickmattress, from the sides of which tassels
were hanging. There was no humanbeing lying on the mattress, nor was
it made up with sheets and blanketslike an ordinary bed. I glanced above
me. The posts at the fourcorners of the bedsteads stood like masts.

(04:13:48):
I saw at once what had happened. The canopy had descended upon the bed
was cresley beneath. With a shout, I desired the old man to come
forward, and between us we seizedthe mattress, and, exerting all our
force, tried to drag it fromthe bed. In a moment, I
saw it was fixed by cords thatheld it tightly in its place. Whipping

(04:14:09):
out my knife, I severed these, and then hurled the heavy weight from
the bed. Beneath lay Cressley,still as death. I put my hand
on his heart and uttered a thankfulexclamation. It was still beating. I
was in time. I had savedhim, after all. Nothing else mattered
during that supreme moment of thankfulness.A few seconds longer beneath that smothering mass,

(04:14:33):
and he would have been dead bywhat a strange sequence of events had
I come to his side, justin the nick of time. We must
take him from this room before herecovers consciousness, I said to the old
man, who was surprised and horrorstricken. But sir, in the name
of Heaven, what has happened,let us examine the bed, and I

(04:14:54):
will tell you, I said.I held up the candle as I spoke.
A glance at the post was allsufficient to show me how the deed
had been done. The canopy aboveon which the heavy mattress had been placed
was held in position by strong cordswhich ran through pulleys at the top of
the posts. These were thick andheavy enough to withstand the string. When

(04:15:16):
the cords were released, the canopy, with its heavy weight, must quickly
descend upon the unfortunate sleeper who wouldbe smothered beneath it in a few seconds,
who had planned and executed this murderousdevice. There was not a soul
to be seen. We will takemister Cresley into another room and then come
back, I said to the housekeeper. Is there one where we can place

(04:15:37):
him? Yes, sir, wasthe instant reply. There's a room on
the next floor which was got readyfor you. Capital I answered, we
will convey him there at once.We did so, and after using some
restoratives, he came to himself.When he saw me, he gazed at
me with an expression of horror onhis face. Am I alive? Or

(04:16:00):
is it a dream? He said? You are alive, but you have
had a narrow escape of your life, I answered. I then told him
how I had found him. Hesat up as I began to speak,
and as I continued my narrative,his eyes dilated with an expression of terror
which I have seldom seen equaled.You do not know what I have lived

(04:16:21):
through, he said, at last, I only wonder I retain my reason,
Oh that awful room. No wondermen died and went mad. There.
Well, speak Cressley, I amall attention, I said, you
will be the better when you haveunburdened yourself. I can tell you what
happened in a few words, heanswered, you know, I mentioned the

(04:16:44):
horrid sort of presentiment I had aboutcoming here at all. That first night
I could not make up my mindto sleep in the house, so I
went to the little inn at Brent. I received your telegram yesterday and went
to meet you by the last train. When you did not come, I
had a tussle with myself, butI could think of no decent excuse for
deserting the old place, and socame back. My intention was to sit

(04:17:07):
up the greater part of the nightarranging papers in the library. The days
are long now, and I thoughtI might go to bed. When morning
broke, I was irresistibly sleepy,however, and went up to my room
soon after one o'clock. I wasdetermined to think of nothing unpleasant, and
got quickly into bed, taking theprecaution first to lock the door. I

(04:17:30):
placed the key under my pillow,and, being very tired, soon fell
into a heavy sleep. I awokesuddenly after what seemed but a few minutes,
to find the room dark, Forthe moon must just have set.
I was very sleepy, and Iwondered vaguely why I had awakened. And
then, suddenly, without warning andwithout cause, a monstrous, unreasonable fear

(04:17:52):
seized me. An indefinable intuition toldme that I was not alone, that
some horrible presence was near. Ido not, I do not think the
certainty of immediate death could have inspiredme with a greater dread than that which
suddenly came upon me. I darednot stir hand nor foot. My powers
of reason and resistance were paralyzed.At last by an immense effort, I

(04:18:14):
nerved myself to see the worst.Slowly, very slowly, I turned my
head and opened my eyes against thetapestry. At the further corner of the
room, in the dark shadow,stood a figure. It stood up quite
boldly, emanating from itself a curiouslight. I had no time to think
of phosphorus. It never occurred tome that any trick was being played upon

(04:18:37):
me. I felt certain that Iwas looking at my ancestor, Barrington Cresley,
who had come back to torture mein order to make me give up
possession. The figure was that ofa man six feet high and broad in
proportion. The face was bent forwardand turned toward me, but in the
uncertain light, I could neither seethe features nor the expression. The figure

(04:18:57):
stood as still as a stat andwas evidently watching me. At the end
of a moment which seemed to mean eternity, it began to move,
and, with a slow and silentstep, approached me. I lay perfectly
still, every muscle braced, andwatched a figure between half closed eyelids.
It was now within a foot ortwo of me, and I could distinctly

(04:19:19):
see the face. What was myhorror to observe that it wore the features
of my agent, Murdoch? Murdoch, I cried, the word, coming
in a strangled sound from my throat. The next instant he had sprung upon
me, I heard a noise ofsomething rattling above, and saw a huge
shadow descending upon me. I didnot know what it was, and I

(04:19:41):
felt certain that I was being murdered. The next moment all was lost in
unconsciousness. Bell, how queer youlook? Was it? Was it Murdoch?
But it could not have been.He was very ill in bed at
Liverpool. What in the name ofgoodness was the awful horror through which which
I had lived, I can assureyou on one point, I answered,

(04:20:04):
it was no ghost, and asto Murdock, it is more than likely
that you did see him. Ithen told the poor fellow what I had
discovered with regard to the agent,and also my firm conviction that Wickham was
at the bottom of it. Cresley'sastonishment was beyond bounds, and I saw
at first that he scarcely believed me. But when I said that it was

(04:20:25):
my intention to search the house,he accompanied me. We both, followed
by Mitchell, returned to the illfated room, But though we examined the
tapestry and paneling, we could notfind the secret means by which the villain
had obtained access to the chamber.The carriage which brought me here is still
waiting just outside the lodge gates.I said, what do you say to

(04:20:47):
leaving this place at once and returningat least as far as Carlton. We
might spend the remainder of the nightthere and take the very first train to
Liverpool. Anything to get away,said Cresley. I do not feel that
I can ever come back to CresleyHall again. You feel that now but
by and by your sensations will bedifferent, I answered. As I spoke,

(04:21:11):
I called Mitchell to me. Idesired him to go at once to
the lodge gates and asked the driverof the wagonet to come down to the
hall. This was done, andhalf an hour afterwards Kresley an hour on
our way back to Carlton. Earlythe next morning we went to Liverpool.
There we visited the police and Iasked to have a warrant taken out for
the apprehension of Murdoch. The Superintendent, on hearing my tale, suggested that

(04:21:37):
we should go at once to Murdoch'shouse and Malville Gardens. We did so,
but it was empty. Murdoch,his wife and Wickham, having thought
it best to DeCamp. The Superintendentinsisted, however, on having the house
searched, and in a dark closetat the top, we came upon a
most extraordinary contrivance. This was noless than an exact representation of the age's

(04:22:00):
head and neck in wax, andit was a wonderfully skillful imitation of a
human larynx, which, by acunning mechanism of clockwork, could be made
exactly to simulate the breathing and lowmoaning of a human being. This the
man had, of course utilized,with the connivance of his wife and Wickham,
in order to prove an alibi,And the deception was so complete that

(04:22:22):
only my own irresistible curiosity could haveenabled me to discover the secret. That
night, the police were fortunate enoughto capture both Murdoch and Wickham in a
Liverpool's slum. Seeing that all wasup, the villains made complete confession and
the whole of the Black plot wasrevealed. It appeared that two adventurers,
the worse form of scoundrels, knewof Cresley's great discovery in Western Australia and

(04:22:45):
had made up their minds to forestallhim in his claim. One of these
men had come some months ago toEngland, and while in Liverpool, had
made the acquaintance of Murdoch. Theother man, Wickham, accompanied Cressley on
the voyage in order to keep himin view and worm as many secrets as
possible from him. When Kresley spokeof his superstition with regard to the turret

(04:23:07):
room, it immediately occurred to Wickhamto utilize the room for his destruction.
Murdoch proved a ready tool in thehands of the rogues. They offered him
an enormous bribe, and then thethree between them evolved the intricate and subtle
details of the crime. It wasarranged that Murdoch was to commit the ghastly
deed, and for this purpose hewas sent down quietly to Brent disguised as

(04:23:30):
a journeyman the day before Kresley wentto the hall. The men had thought
that Kresley would prove an easy prey, but they distrusted ME from the first.
Their relief was great when they discoveredthat I could not accompany Kresley to
the Hall, and had he spentthe first night there, the murder would
have been committed, but his nervousterrors inducing him to spend the night at

(04:23:51):
Brent, foiled this attempt. Seeingthat I was returning to Liverpool, the
men now thought that they would useme for their own devices, and made
up their minds to decoy me intoMurdoch's bedroom in order that I might see
the wax figure, their object,of course, being that I should be
forced to prove an alibi in caseMurdoch was suspected of the crime. The
telegram which reached me at Prince's Hotelon my return from London, was sent

(04:24:15):
by one of the Ruffians who waslying in ambush at Brent. When I
left Murdoch's house, the wife informedWickham that she thought from my manner I
suspected something. He had already takensteps to induce the cab driver to take
me in a wrong direction in orderthat I should miss my train, and
it was not until he visited thestables outside the Prince's Hotel that he found

(04:24:37):
that I intended to go by road. He then played his last card when
he telegraphed to the Inn at Carltonto stop the horses. By Murdoch's means.
Wickham and his confederate had the runof the rooms at the hall ever
since the arrival of Wickham from Australia, and they had rigged up the top
of the old bedstead in the wayI have described. There was, needless

(04:24:57):
to say, a secret passage atthe back of the tapestry, which was
so cunningly hidden in the paneling asto baffle all ordinary means of discovery.
Butler Antanner the Cellwood Printing Works,Frome and London, George Meredith. The
Tale of Chloe, The House onthe Beach and the Case of General Ople

(04:25:17):
and Lady Camper by George Meredith,author of Diana of the Crossways, The
Ordeal of Richard Feverel, The TragicComedians, and see Crown eight v O
Cloth Si EXSS Cheaper Edition threes sixtyGeorge Meredith. The Tale of Chloe is
one of the gems of English fiction. Mister Meredith is a cunning delineator of

(04:25:41):
women, no living writer more so. But we question whether even in mister
Meredith's rich array of female characters,there is any more lovable than Chloe.
Daily Telegraph. It is handled withsuch supreme skill that it becomes really tragic
for us, while never for amoment leaving its proper plane. A comedy
of manners, The Athenaeum A.Kevill Davies, Pharisees by A. Kevel

(04:26:07):
Davies, author of An American Widow. Dollars are Trumps n C N C.
Crown eight vo Cloth Gilt six s. A. Kevel Davies appeals strongly
to the human sympathy. An admirabletale. The scenes and incidents are described
and related with excellent spirit, ScotsmanE H Strain, A Man's Foes,

(04:26:33):
A Tale of the Siege of Londonderry, New and cheap edition with three full
page illustrations by A for SDA Crown, eight vo cloth, six s A
for SDA. Quite the best historicalnovel of the day. The Sketch a
powerful and impressive historical novel. Achronicle of intense and unflagging interest. Daily

(04:26:59):
Telegraph. A Man's Foes is thebest historical novel that we have had since
mister Conan Doyle published Micah Clarke.An exceptionally fine romance daily Chronicle. Guy
boothby in Strange Company. A Storyof Chili and the Southern Seas by Guy
boothby author of Doctor Nikola, withsix full page illustrations by Stanley el Would

(04:27:22):
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world. The best of them isin Strange Company. The book is a

(04:27:45):
good tale of adventure. It hasplenty of astonishing incidents which yet have an
air of verisimilitude. The Pall MallBudget, The Marriage of Esther a Torres
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page illustrations by Stanley L. Would, Crown eight v o cloth gilt Fives.

(04:28:08):
Guy boothby Stanley ell Would A storyfull of action, life and dramatic
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(04:28:32):
style and happy description giving the bookan interest entirely apart from that of the
adventuress The Star A Bid for Fortuneor Doctor Nicholas Vendetta by Guy boothby author
of in Strange Company, The Marriageof Esther and c. With about fifty
illustrations by Stanley L. Wood andothers. Crown eight vo cloth gilt fives

(04:28:56):
Guy boothby Stanley ell Would. Henever allows the interest to drop from first
page to last. The plot ishighly ingenious, and when once it has
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(04:29:18):
be congratulated on having produced about themost original novel of the year Manchester Courier.
The Beautiful White Devil by Guy Boothby, author of Doctor Nicola and See
with six full page illustrations by StanleyEll, would crown eight vo cloth gilt
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(04:29:45):
fiction than The Beautiful White Devil.It would be hard to indicate. It
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(04:30:07):
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another with rapidity that scarce leaves thereader breathing space. The interest of their
experience is sufficient to stay criticism andcarry him through a story ingeniously invented and
skillfully told Scotsman. The Manchester Couriersays few authors can depict action as brilliantly

(04:30:32):
and resourcefully as the creator of D. R. Nikola. The Fascination of
the King by guy boothby Crown eightvo cloth gilt, special design, bevel
Board's Fives illustrated by Stanley L.Would. Guy boothby Stanley ell Would a
tale of much power and sustained interest, narrated with dramatic effect The Scotsman.

(04:30:57):
The interest is sustained from first tolast, and thrilling incidents crop up at
almost every page. The People unquestionablythe best work we have yet seen from
the pen of mister guy Boothby TheFascination of the King is one of the
books of the season. Bristol Mercury, undoubtedly dramatic, A wonderfully interesting story.

(04:31:19):
Morning Leader Boushi Grams by guy boothbyfully illustrated Crown eight vo cloth gilt
Fives. Guy boothby intensely interesting forcesfrom us by its powerful artistic realism,
those choky sensations which it should bethe aim of the humane writer to elicit,

(04:31:40):
whether in comedy or tragedy. Thebook will enhance mister Boothby's reputation and
bring him into the very front rankof emotional writers, as well as confirm
our opinion of him as a mostpowerful imaginative author. His humorous vein is
fascinating and attractive, his pathos istrue and often the most touching. Manchester

(04:32:02):
Guardian Arthur Morrison. Martin Hewitt Investigatorby Arthur Morrison, author of Tales of
Mean Streets and c with fifty illustrationsby Sidney Paget, Crown, eight vo
cloth gilt fives Arthur Morrison, SidneyPaget, Chronicles of Martin Hewitt being the

(04:32:23):
second series of Martin Hewitt Investigator byArthur Morrison, with thirty illustrations by D.
Murray Smith Crown eight vo cloth giltfives Arthur Morrison, D Murray Smith
Adventures of Martin Hewitt being the thirdseries of Martin Hewitt Investigator by Arthur Morrison,

(04:32:47):
illustrated by T. S. C. Crowther, Crown, eight vo
canvas gilt fives Arthur Morrison, T. S. C. Crowther, The
Dorrington d Box by Arthur Morrison,fully illustrated by Stanley L. Would,
Harold Piffid, Sidney Cowell and Seaand c Arthur Morrison, Stanley Ell,

(04:33:11):
Would, Harold Pifid, Sidney Cowell. Most people like tales of this sort,
and no one writes them better thanmister Morrison does. The narratives are
written not only with ingenuity, butwith conviction, which is perhaps even the
more valuable quality. They are essentiallyof the breathless and absorbing order, and
their attractiveness is enhanced by the excellentpictures that accompany them. The Globe certainly

(04:33:37):
the most ingenious and entertaining of thenumerous successors to Sherlock Holmes. There is
not one of the stories in thiscollection that is not ingeniously constructed and cleverly
written. The Academy Percy Andrea,The Vanished Emperor, A Romance of Today
by Percy Andrea, Crown eight voCanvas Guilt Si Excess, Percy Andrea.

(04:34:02):
We can honestly say it is yearssince we read a story so original,
so striking, or so absorbing.Manchester Courier, Francis hins Groom Creek Spiel
The War Game by Francis hins GroomCrown eight vo Cloth Gilt six s Francis
hins Groom, seemingly at one boundmister Groom has taken rank amongst the most

(04:34:25):
promising novelists of the day. Sofull is Creek's speel of interest, of
stirring incident, and of vivid andvaried sketches of men and manners from contemporary
English life, Illustrated London News ShawnF. Bullock by Thrasna River, The
Story of a Townland given by oneJohn Farmer and edited by his friend Shawn

(04:34:48):
F. Bullock, with full pageillustrations by S. T. Claire Simmons
Crown eight vo Cloth Gilt six sShawn F. Bullock, S. T.
Claires Simons. This is a charmingbook and affords quite the best picture
of Irish rural life that we haveever come across the Athenaeum. It is

(04:35:08):
in Irish thrums in which the characteris drawn as straight from life as in
mister Barry's delightful Annals of Crimia.The sketch Francis Prevost Falls Down by Francis
Prevost Crown ad Vo Canvas Full Guiltsixs. Francis Pravost. There is a

(04:35:29):
mingled delicacy and power. Intensely interesting. The book is one to be read
and remembered. Speaker beautifully written withreal and rare powers, both of psychology
and of word Painting. Academy Rustof Gold by Francis Prevost Crown, eight
vo art canvas, fives, FrancisPrevost, a series of nine Findsiaclas,

(04:35:55):
stories of great power and picturesqueness amore appalling tale than when a ghost of
the sea has not been recounted formany years past. Nor have the tragical
potentialities of modern life as lived bypeople of culture and refinement, been more
graphically illustrated than in Grass upon thehousetops, the skirts of chance and false
equivalents. As word pictures, theyare simply masterpieces. Daily Telegraph On the

(04:36:21):
Verge by Francis Prevost Crown, eightvo art canvas, fives. Francis Prevost
Rust of Gold was good, butOn the Verge is better. Star Max
Pemberton Jewel Mysteries I have known byMax Pemberton, author of the Iron Pirate,
and see with about fifty illustrations byour cotton Woodville and Fred Barnard Demi

(04:36:48):
eight vill cloth, gilt bevel boards, gilt edges fives Max Pemberton are cotton
Woodville, Fred Barnard the most interestingand entrancing mystery stories that have appeared since
the publication of the Doings of SherlockHolmes. The literary world. Mister Pemberton

(04:37:08):
has attempted a great deal more thanto give mere plots and police cases,
and he has succeeded in capturing ourattention and never letting it go, from
the first story to the last.The Bookman, Bertram Mitford. The Curse
of Clement Wainfleet, A story oftwo Wars by Bertram Mitford, author of

(04:37:29):
The King's Assegai, The gun Runner, and c. With four full page
illustrations by Stanley L. Wood Crowneight vo cloth gilt, threes sixty.
Bertram Mitford Stanley ell Wood telling uswonderful incidents of interracial warfare, of ambuscades,
sieges, surprises, and assaults almostwithout number. A thoroughly exciting story

(04:37:55):
full of bright descriptions and stirring episodes. The Daily Telegraph A Velt Official,
A novel of circumstance by Bertram Mitford, author of The gun Runner, The
Curse of Clement Waynfleet, and c. With two full page illustrations by Stanley
L. Wood Crown, eight vo cloth gilt, threes sixty. Bertram

(04:38:18):
Mitford, stanleyel Would we have seldomcome across a more thrilling narrative from start
to finish, Mister Mitford Secure's unflaggingattention Leeds Mercury. The Expiation of Wynn
Palliser by Bertram Mitford, author ofThe King's Assegai and c with two full

(04:38:38):
page illustrations by Stanley L. Wood. Crown eight v o Cloth gilt,
threes sixty, Bertram Mitford, stanleyelWood, The best of this author's many
excellent romances, The Globe. Fordham'sFeud by Bertram Mitford, author of a

(04:39:00):
Velt Official, The Curse of ClementWainfleet, The Expiation of Wynn Palliser and
c Crown eight vo Cloth gilt,threes sixty, with four full page illustrations
by Stanley L. Wood, BertramMitford stanleyel Wood. A story of much
merit and startling de numa for wealthof character, pleasant descriptive matter, romantic

(04:39:23):
incident and powerful plot. There arefew books that will eclipse Fordham's Feud.
Manchester Courier, Coulson Kernahan Captain Shannonby Coulson Kernahan, author of God and
the Ant illustrated by F. S. Wilson, Caulson, Kernahan, F.

(04:39:44):
S. Wilson. It contains plentyof daring, imaginative flights, and
not one tiresome or commonplace episode.The Globe. The perils which Wristler has
to undergo before he finally runs thevictim to earth, or rather to water,
are so terrible that they might wellbe warranted to turn the hair of
any man white. The Speaker,Edith Johnstone. A Sunless Heart by Edith

(04:40:08):
Johnstone, Third Edition, Crown eightv ol Cloth Freeze sixty Edith Johnstone.
Mister W. T. Stead,in his article on women novelists, writes
of its intrinsic merit, its originality, and its pathos. It's distinctively woman's
outlook on life, and the singularglow and genius of its author. Lotus

(04:40:32):
is a distinct creation, vivid,life like and original. The Review of
Reviews Captain Charles King Fort Frayne,A story of army life in the Northwest,
with portrait of the author, Crowneight, vel Cloth Gilt threes sixty.
A rattling good story keeps one interestedand amused from first to last.

(04:40:56):
Paul maul Gazette A story of borderwarfare so interesting that it is hard to
lay it down. A very wellwritten story, full of keen interest and
fine character. Guardian Ada Cambridge.A humble Enterprise by Ada Cambridge, author
of the Three miss Kings, Fidelus, A Marked Man and c with four

(04:41:19):
full page illustrations by S. T. Claire Simmons. Crown eight vo Cloth
Gilt threes sixty, Ada Cambridge,St. Claire Simmons. It is a
delightful story, refreshingly original, singularlywell told, and absorbingly interesting from beginning
to end. Daily Mail A prettygraceful story and one to leave, so

(04:41:42):
to speak, a clean taste inone's mouth. Such dishes are rarely served
to the public. Paul Maul Gazetteat Midnight by Ada Cambridge, author of
a humble enterprise and c fully illustratedCrown Cloth Gilt threes sixty, Ada Cambridge.

(04:42:04):
This latest production from the pen ofMiss Ada Cambridge is sure to be
a great success. Noravin. Honeyof Aloes and other Stories by Noravin,
author of The Blind Artist's Pictures,A Comedy of Honor and see Crown eight
vo Cloth threes sixty Noravin. Thesetales are in every respect worthy of conservation

(04:42:30):
and we cordially congratulate the reading publicas well as their author, upon their
reproduction in book form. Not onlydo they abound in literary merit, but
in thrilling interest. And there isnot one of them that is not instinct
with intense and voracious humanity. Theirreason A Dilemma Greek and Greek and Lost
Kisses, deserves special and unqualified laudation. Daily Telegraph, William Lekew A Secret

(04:42:56):
Service being Strange Tales of an Nihilistby William Lekeugh, author of The Great
War Zorida and c. With frontispieceby Harold Piffid, Crown ad v O
Cloth threes sixty William Lookew Harold Piffid. Apart altogether from its political interest,

(04:43:17):
A Secret Service will be read andappreciated for its brightly written stories of mystery
and sensation and romance, which arethreaded together in the narrative of Anton Praisner.
Daily Mail, Conan Doyle, thefirst book about Sherlock Holmes, A
Study in Scarlet by A. ConanDoyle, author of Micah Clarke, The

(04:43:38):
Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and c.With forty illustrations by George Hutchinson Crown ad
v O cloth gilt, guilt,top threes sixty A. Conan Doyle,
George Hutchinson. Everything that prints ofamateur detectives mister Sherlock Holmes says is worth
hearing, and the dramatics of prizescontained in his amiable and artistic fooling of

(04:44:03):
the Two brother Detectives are capitally conceived, black and white. Few things have
been so good of late as misterConan Doyle's study in Scarlet Mister Andrew Lang
in Longman's Magazine, Mister Andrew LangAnnie Holdsworth, Spindles and Oars by any
Holdsworth, Author of the Years atthe Locust, hath Eaton Crown, eight

(04:44:26):
vo cloth with special title, Pagethrees sixty, An E. Holdsworth.
We do not exaggerate when we saythat there are very few books of living
writers which we would not gladly exchangefor such a work as she has now
given us. Manchester Courier, JosephHawking, Fields of Fair Renown with frontispiece

(04:44:48):
and vignette by J. Barnard Davis, Crown, eight vo cloth, gilt,
threes sixty J. Barnard Davis,Mister Joseph Hawks King's Fields of fair
renown as a novel with a purpose, and the theme is worked out with
a good deal of force and effectivepower. It is both interesting and powerful.
Scotsman mister Hacking has produced a workwhich his readers of all classes will

(04:45:14):
appreciate. There are exhibited some ofthe most beautiful aspects of disposition Dundee Advertiser,
All Men are Liars by Joseph Hawking, with frontispiece and vignette by Gordon
Brown. Second edition, Crown eightvo cloth gilt threes sixty Joseph Hawking,

(04:45:36):
Gordon Brown. This is a notablebook. Thoughtful people will be fascinated by
its actuality, its fearlessness, andthe insight it gives into the influence of
modern thought and literature upon the mindand morals of our most promising manhood.
Christian World a striking book. Itis strong and earnest and vigorous. It

(04:45:56):
shows knowledge of the lower class andin patience and contempt of shams of all
sorts. The standard ishmael Pingly anOutcast by Joseph Hawking, with frontispiece and
vignette by W. S. Stacy, Third edition, Crown, eight vo
cloth, gilt threes sixty Joseph Hawking, W. S. Stacy. As

(04:46:23):
a story, this book is asplendid piece of writing. Every detail is
interesting, and the situations it createsare novel and striking. The record a
remarkable novel. The plot of thestory is ingenious, the manner of its
telling essentially dramatic, the character drawingexcellent and consistent Christian world. The Story

(04:46:45):
of Andrew Fairfax by Joseph Hawking,with frontispiece and vignette by George Hutchinson,
Fourth edition, Crown eight vo clothgilt, threes sixty, Joseph Hawking,
George Hutchinson. Rustic scenes and charactersare drawn with free broad touches, without
mister Buchanan's artificiality, and, ifwe may venture to say it, with

(04:47:10):
more realism than in mister Hardy's CountryPictures, Manchester Examiner, Jabez Easterbrook by
Joseph Hawking, Fourth Edition, withfrontispiece and vignette by W. S.
Stagey, Crown eight v O cloth, threes sixty, Joseph Hacking, W.

(04:47:30):
S. Stagey. Real strength isshown in the sketches, of which
that of Brother Bowman is most prominent. In its way, it is delightful rock

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