He stared, shivered again and returned to the pajamas, muttering an almost inaudible reply.
We caught a word or two: "Long imprisonment—much physical pain—unspeakable things—do not like to think of it—I—"
His eyes closed. He folded his long, thin arms shudderingly. Billings and I sat very still. The professor's voice came as from far away:
"I could tell you of some experiences in China and in Tibet," he murmured. "Perhaps I—some other time—such horrible details, I—"
He leaned heavily upon the table with both hands. His head dropped forward an instant.
"No matter now," he muttered. "It was long, long ago!"
CHAPTER XIX
THE SPELL OF THE PAJAMAS
"George!" breathed Billings, breaking a curious, tense silence.