The magician bowed his head gravely.
Then he opened a large volume covered with mystic characters.
For a minute or two he appeared to be lost in deep study, and then he gave his reply.
"Your desires tend to the downfall of some lawless men, I find," he said, watching them keenly, as if he expected to see them jump up in surprise at his words.
"They do."
"And you will not succeed."
"Does your art tell you where I shall fail?" asked Jack.
"No; I only see disappointment and trouble for you and yours."
"Dear, dear, how very shocking," exclaimed Harkaway, winking at Harvey.
"Dreadful!" added Dick, with a terrified look, and putting his tongue out at the magician.