"What can I do for you, sir?" she demanded.
"I have a sister," replied Bambino, "whose mind is affected through a disappointment in love and a subsequent shipwreck at sea. She is young. I do not wish to put her in an asylum. I have great faith in electricity and I will place her in your care, paying three months' board in advance, if you will receive her."
"I shall be glad to take her as a patient," answered Mme. Levine.
"You will try to cure her?"
"Undoubtedly."
"I must warn you that she imagines she is a departed spirit."
Mme. Levine smiled.
"That is nothing," she answered. "I have had worse cases than that. When shall I expect your sister, sir?"
Bambino promised to bring her round that evening, and took his departure.
Later in the day he made his reappearance with Adéle, who evinced no attachment for him and seemed only to care for being alone.