“I saw how you made the spirit painting tonight at the séance,” resumed Penny. “May I ask if that same method was used in regard to Mrs. Weem’s picture of Cousin David?”
She did not dream that the medium would answer her question. With a shrug which implied that the entire matter was very boring, he replied:
“No, the picture was painted with a solution of sulphocyanid of potassium and other chemicals, invisible until brought out with a re-agent. During the séance, an assistant sprayed the back of the canvas with an atomizer, bringing out the colors one by one.”
“And how was the paint made to appear wet?”
“Poppy oil.”
“One more question, Mr. Gepper. I never could understand how you were able to raise the kitchen table at Mrs. Hodges’ cottage.”
“No?” Al Gepper smiled mockingly. “I assure you I had nothing to do with that demonstration. It was a true spirit manifestation.”
“I’ll never believe that,” declared Penny.
“Then figure it out for yourself,” replied the medium. “You are such a very brilliant child.”
Before the prisoners were led to the police car, Salt Sommers set up his camera and took a number of flashlight pictures for the Star.