CHAPTER XVI
The Vanishing Mermaids
Parnell Winston worked as Hartson Brant described his experience.
"There really isn't much to it," Mr. Brant said. "I started out for Whiteside in the fast boat."
Winston focused a flashlight into one eye, then the other.
"I was on the north side of North Cove when the boat smashed into something. I was thrown violently into the water."
Winston tested the scientist's reflexes, using a finger instead of the traditional rubber hammer.
"Apparently I was badly shaken up, because my memory becomes unclear at this point. I do recall being fished out of the water, and when I came to enough to recognize my surroundings, I was in a strange room. It turned out to be the cabin of the houseboat."
"Do you remember any strange sensations, or smells?" Winston asked.