“I think he exercised some—mesmeric power or influence over me, while in attendance at his lectures.�

“You horrify me! And would you continue to go and hear him, when you knew this?�

“Why, yes. I hoped he might develop me into a medium. Why should I not?� Mrs. Lucien’s innocent, dark eyes looked up inquiringly.

“I think it is dreadful—dreadful! I would not be under his influence for anything.�

“But it is not his influence. It is—Oh! I cannot tell you. It is a power from beyond. Why should I fear to speak to those I love?�

“I cannot bear to think of it,� Mrs. Wylie said, shivering. “We do not know to whom we are talking. We have no proof of their identity, and know not if the power be good or evil.�

“What, not when we see, as we did a short time ago, the faces of those we have known and loved here on earth?�

Mrs. Wylie shook her head.

“A delusion of the senses!� she said positively.

Mrs. Lucien gazed pityingly upon her.