Oh, how I did beg and try to explain to them that I had not harmed anyone! but in vain. I was laid up for some time from the severe treatment.
I knew not what became of the officials, or how badly, if at all, they were hurt. Neither did I know how it happened that they were all lying so helpless on the floor.
It was unfortunate for me, as they did not know of this mysterious power nor of the “lady ghost”—so called, nor of the unseen power which had put our friend in the hospital. He had recovered enough to take notice when the officers were brought into the hospital. He naturally inquired if there had been a prison raid, and the answer was:
“More serious than that. We would be glad to let some of our prisoners go if we could do so, as they seem to do much as they please with themselves and others too. The great mystery is causing much trouble, and we can not find out what is wrong.”
“How long have I been here and why am I here? I am not hurt. I was not attacked by my prisoner. The last I remember I was cautioning him to be careful, as I saw him lifting what no three men could. That is my last recollection. I have not an ache nor a pain, and why am I here? Bring the prisoner to me.”
“We can not. He is also in the hospital. He disobeyed so much that he received such treatment as to be sent to the hospital.”
“He has! Tell me what has he done?”
“To the best of my knowledge, he has murdered five of the officials, all brought in here just now, as you have seen.”
“Murdered! murdered! I want to get to him.”
“You too have been injured by him, and you must remain quiet until pronounced out of danger.”