“No, it’s poison,� she said.
Immediately his face was distorted and he strove to eject it from his mouth.
“There, it is all right. You know you have been deceiving these people and now you are going to make a speech and tell them the truth. Tell them how you tricked them,� continued Tibby.
“My friends,� said Russell, “I will now undertake to explain to you all that has seemed to you mysterious and supernatural. I am a mind-reader and a hypnotist. I sometimes figure as a spirit-medium. I have the power of going into a trance, when my senses no longer control my mind, and then I can see through time and space; and what has seemed to you unaccountable except by spirit agency is simply the result of natural forces not yet well understood.�
“That is true,� said a voice at the door, and the spectators turned to see Mark Cramer entering the room. Tibby gave him a meaning look and put her fingers to her lips.
“I have deceived you and worked harm among you,� the Professor went on; “and not only here, but in many other parts of the country. I am planning more mischief still. Esther McCleary is in my power—�
“Stop! You have said enough!� cried Tibby, alarmed at his words.
“Yes, I’ve said enough,� he repeated.
“Shall I awaken him?� Tibby asked, turning to Mark.
“So you’ve really hypnotized the villain. Good girl!� cried Mark, and his hand was extended to her in friendly appreciation.