“I wouldn’t go agin’ the Spirits if I was you,” advised Mr. Hodges. “You better change your plans, Maud.”
“But how can I be certain that the message came from Cousin David?” the housekeeper quavered. “Oh, dear, I am so upset! If only I could be certain.”
“Madam, I hope you do not distrust me,” said Al Gepper reprovingly.
“Oh, no, it’s not that. I’m just upset.”
“Perhaps, if you actually saw your cousin it would set your mind at rest.”
“Is it possible to see him?”
“I cannot promise, but we will try. Hold hands again please, and everyone concentrate.”
There followed an interval during which the medium pleaded with the Spirit of Cousin David to return and show himself. Suddenly the group was startled to see a luminous banjo move high through the air, unsupported by any hand. It began to play “Down upon the Swanee River.”
Midway through the selection, the music broke off and the banjo disappeared. An instant later Mrs. Hodges uttered a choked cry.
“The easel! Look at it, Maud!”