“Yes. He even told me her name. I knew her well. Her name is Edith Durex.”
“Ah! Tell me, how often and for how long has he been hypnotizing you?”
“Every evening last week.”
“Did you intend carrying out his demands?”
“Yes. I would do anything for François. Only yesterday was I prevented from doing so by a stranger. But I will do it as soon as I get the chance. The feeling grows stronger within me every time I cross the bridge. And something makes me go to the bridge each day.”
As Sana gave voice to these strange remarks, Mrs. O’Brien could hardly suppress her exclamation “My God!”
Grant and White stepped aside and held earnest conversation for a moment. Grant spoke decisively, “The secret is out, and we would be parties to the crime if we did not take steps to prevent the act. The girl cannot be allowed to return to de Rochelle. Suppose you ask Mrs. O’Brien to take care of her for a few days?”
“Yes, I think that would be best,” and Dr. White stepped over to Mrs. O’Brien, with the question, “Do you think you could take your friend to your home and keep her for a few days? It would be the means of helping her out of her trouble.”
Mrs. O’Brien, who was nearly overcome with pity for Sana, instantly consented, so eager was she to do something.
“Fine,” from White, giving Grant a slight nod to indicate that his request had been favorably met.