“Means that the powers ... forces of de ... construction are defeated. We have been beaten.”
“I don’t believe that for a minute,” I said. “Or do you mean the military forces? Is Germany winning a battle to-day?”
“No, that is the least of it.”
“Are you trying to tell me that Germany will win?”
“Yes, we are defeated. Her forces have reassembled, and have helped her slaughter ours.” Again I said I did not believe it. “M. A.... Matthew is doing his best.”
“You said he was defeated.”
“He lost a fight.”
“If you are Mary K.’s substitute, why doesn’t she come to the rescue?” I asked.
“She didn’t. She believes Matthew held out.... Message from Mary K. Margaret, I do.... I do fight for you.” I asked if Mary K. were writing. “No. Go to high forces for help. Only be forceful for us first. Mary K. will do her best for forces of light and progress. Matthew is better and danger is passing. M. A.” I demanded Mary K. “Not this time. All the forces have gathered.... She should ... said be forceful.”
Saying that the whole thing seemed absurd, I asked whether it had to do with Germany and the war, or with the book and me—provided it had to do with anything, which I began to question.