“‘He is not sick—only resting. He will soon be out of here.’
“I once more looked to see whence came the voice. But could gain no information as to where or from whom the voice came.
“‘I must get away from this place. I am losing my mind,’ I thought. ‘Perhaps I really have lost it, for I can not explain these strange things. I must get away for a day or so. I will leave the office. Pearson can take care of this case while I am at rest and thinking this matter over. I can think it over away from here.’
“The guard returned in a few minutes, smiling, and with the news that the prisoner was sitting up when he arrived with the doctor. He also said that the prisoner had denied that anything was the matter with him.
“‘So he has been feigning, has he? Well, he shall get no more sympathy from this place. I have decided to rest a few days, and in my place Mr. Pearson will give orders. But I want you to cease at once showing mercy on prisoner No. 78. You may go for Mr. Pearson. I shall leave directions for him to find a place for the prisoner and see that he works.’
“‘I am not sure, but I think that I saw Mr. Pearson talking with the man very recently.’
“‘Well, bring him here. I want to talk with him.’
“I was all a-tremble—just on the verge of nervous breakdown. All on account of this mysterious voice and seeing and not seeing.
“‘Good morning, Mr. Pearson,’ I said. ‘I am leaving for a few days’ rest, and I want you to take charge of this office and see that a convict here, No. 78, is put to work. He is very much averse to doing any work, and we have no pets in this place, so he can not be made one. The guard will report to you from time to time in regard to him.’
“As I was leaving, in an undertone I said: ‘Yes, and if you do not get reports from some others, as well as the guard, I shall be very much disappointed. I hope that you will. I pray that you may, and perhaps I shall have help to find out what all this means. I hope that he will be able to explain all the mysterious actions by the time I return to work.’