Awdrey ran wildly to the edge of the water. He paused just where the silver light fell full across the dark pond. Rumsey followed him in hot haste. He knew that his patient was in the condition when he might leap into the pond at any moment.
Catching on to an alder-tree, Awdrey now bent forward until he caught the reflection in the water—he slid down on his knees to examine it more carefully.
"Take care, Awdrey, you'll slip in if you are not careful," cried Rumsey.
Awdrey was silent for a moment—his own reflection greeted him—he looked straight down at his own face and figure. Suddenly he rose to his feet: a long shiver ran through his frame. He went up to Rumsey with a queer unsteady laugh.
"I have seen the man's face," he said.
"It was your own face, my dear fellow," said the doctor. "I saw it reflected distinctly in the water."
"I am satisfied," said Awdrey, in a changed and yet steady voice. "We can go home now."
"Well, have you really seen what you wanted to see? Who was the murderer?"
"Frank Everett, who is serving his time in Portland prison. Dr. Rumsey, I believe I have been the victim of the most horrible form of nightmare which ever visited living man. Anyhow it has vanished—the vision has completely disappeared."
"I am glad to hear you say so, Awdrey."