Wherefore, Bartram expeditiously acquired such information as he needed, and the first item was the name and address of the medium who was responsible for the séances detailed in Benjamin Crane's famous book.
And then to the house of Madame Parlato, Louis Bartram went, having made an appointment through the useful Douglas.
The madame's quick glance of inquiry was satisfied and her ever-ready suspicions lulled by her first glance into Peter's eyes. It was impossible to distrust that frank gaze, and though Peter was an unbeliever in her and all her works, yet his cause was honest and sincere and he met her on her own ground.
"You want a séance?" the occult lady inquired.
"No, Madame Parlato," Peter returned, quietly, "I want to bribe you to undertake a commission for me."
"Wh—what!" she cried, turning white and quite losing her poise at his astonishing remark.
"Now, let's cut out all that," Peter went on, practically, "let's assume that we've thrashed it all out, and agreed that you're one of the cleverest of your sort and can fool the gullible ones very neatly. But, let's also assume that when one who knows comes along that you will meet him halfway, and at least, listen to his proposition."
"But, this,—this is outrageous——"
"Not at all. You see, I know of the faking you have done,—and are doing,—in the Crane matter."
"Oh,—ah——" Madame cautiously awaited further speech from her attractive but unusual caller.