"Ricori-you were right. Not McCann but I am to blame for this-the vanity of an old man-had I spoken
freely, fully-he would be alive…but I did not…I did not…I am his murderer."
He comforted me-gently as a woman…
"It was not your fault. You could not have done otherwise…being what you are…thinking as you have so
long thought. If in your unbelief, your entirely natural unbelief, the witch found her opportunity…still, it was
not your fault. But now she shall find no more opportunities. Her cup is full and overflowing…"
He put his hands on my shoulders.
"Do not notify the police for a time-not until we hear from McCann. It is now close to twelve and he will
telephone even if he does not come. I will go to my room and dress. For when I have heard from
McCann I must leave you."