Motor Matt knew something about hypnotism, having acquired the knowledge in the casual way most boys learn about such occult and, at times, fascinating subjects.
The young motorist knew, for instance, that if it was suggested to Margaret Manners often enough in a hypnotic state that she was only Haidee, the girl would come to forget her own personality. Even when out of the trance she would be confused and bewildered in trying to recall her real name and her past life.
It was to undo some of this evil that Matt was eager for a talk with the Hindoo.
"Ben Ali," said Matt sternly, "we have the box of letters and Captain Manners' Victoria Cross. In order to make you suffer terribly for what you have done, we have only to turn you over to the authorities and let them cable to London. There is a thousand pounds sterling offered as a reward for the recovery of Margaret Manners; and for you there would be a long term in prison. You understand that, don't you?"
There was a crafty look on the Hindoo's face as he answered.
"Yes, sahib. But you not do anything with me. De girl is in de trance. I have her in my power."
"And we have you in our power," said Matt, appreciating to the full the strong hold Ben Ali had on them, as well as on the girl.
"But, by and by, when we have finished de talk, de young sahib will let me go."
Matt was deeply thoughtful for a few moments.
"Yes," he answered deliberately, "if you will answer my questions, and do what I tell you to do, we will let you go."