"I hear them." A faint whisper soon distinguished itself, and Mrs. Joyce reported that Mr. Blodgett was speaking. "He says he realizes the importance of this test, and that he has summoned all the most powerful of the spirits within reach, and that they will do all they can. He says the wire cage is a new condition, but they will meet it. Be patient; the strain on Lucy is very great, but it cannot be avoided."
In the silence which followed this conversation Leo shuddered and clutched Victor's hand as if for protection. "The other world is opening. Don't you feel it?" She whispered. "I can hear the rustle of wings."
He, growing very tense himself, answered: "I feel only my mother's anxiety. Are you comfortable, mother?" he asked.
She did not reply, and Mrs. Joyce said, "She is asleep." And all became silent again.
"Hello!" exclaimed Stinchfield. "Who touched me?"
"No one in the circle," answered Mrs. Joyce, highly elated.
"I certainly felt a hand on my shoulder—there it comes again! Shall I flash my camera?"
"Not now!" came a clear, full whisper, apparently from the cabinet. "You would fail now. Wait."
"Who spoke?" asked Bartol.
As there was no reply, Mrs. Joyce asked, "Is it you, Mr. Blodgett?"