And the creature writhed, and answered: 'I am the religious Spirit of the Pall Mall, abiding in the street called Northumberland, off Strand.'

And the woman said again: 'And doth God laugh at thee?'

And the creature answered: 'Ay, he laugheth sore.'

And the woman said: 'Nay, he shall not laugh. I will tell him to protect thee. Come with me.'

And the creature ceased praying mock prayers, and followed the woman.

* * * * *

And presently the woman from South Africa grew weary.

She desired to get out of the hole.

And she called aloud to God: 'I wish to leave Hell.'

And God said: 'Leave it then.'