"You are sure of that?"
He smiled deprecatingly.
"I am sure of nothing," he said. "But if you feel you would sooner not—"
Mrs. Stapleton rustled excitedly, and Lady Laura grabbed at her retreating opportunity.
"No, no," she cried. "I didn't mean that for one moment. Please, please come here. I only wondered whether there was any particular precaution—"
"I will think about it," said the medium. "But I am sure we must be careful not to shock him. Of course, we don't all take the same view about religion; but we can leave that for the present. The point is that Mr. Baxter should, if possible, see something unmistakable. The rest can take care of itself.... Then, if you consent, Lady Laura, we might have a little sitting here next Sunday night. Would nine o'clock suit you?"
He glanced at the two ladies.
"That will do very well," said the mistress of the house. "And, about preparations—"
"I will look in on Saturday afternoon. Is there anyone particular you think of asking?"
"Mr. Jamieson came to see me again a few days ago," suggested Lady Laura tentatively.