“‘I daresay you will think me mad,’ he went on, ‘but I’m going to ask you rather a curious question. I remember you used to be fond of ghosts and all sorts of queer things.’
“I nodded. We had had many discussions on such subjects, in my study at school.
“‘Well, I’m a member of the New Supernatural Investigation Society.’
“I smiled doubtfully. ‘Well, you can’t say it has discovered much. The name is high-sounding, but that is all.’
“‘Never mind. Some day, perhaps, we shall show the public what we can do.’
“Leethwaite lit a cigarette, puffed away in silence for a few seconds, and then went on:
“‘I am undertaking a little work for the Society now!’
“‘Where?’
“‘In Cumberland. Ever been there?’