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Benson, Robert Hugh, 1871-1914

"The Necromancers"

Baxter. It's never very healthy--"
"I am sorry," said Laurie deliberately. "But I must ask you to tell me
what you think. I must know what I'm doing."
The medium filled his pipe again. Twice he began to speak, and checked
himself; and in the long silence Laurie felt his fears gather upon him
tenfold.
"Please tell me at once, Mr. Vincent," he said. "Unless I know
everything that is to be known, I will not go another step along this
road. I really mean that."
The medium paused in his pipe-filling.
"And what if I do tell you?" he said in his slow virile voice. "Are
you sure you will not be turned back?"
"If it is a well-known danger, and can be avoided with prudence, I
certainly shall not turn back."
"Very well, Mr. Baxter, I will take you at your word.... Have you ever
heard the phrase, 'The Watcher on the Threshold'?"
Laurie shook his head.
"No," he said. "At least I don't think so."
"Well," said the medium quietly, "that is what we call the Fear you
spoke of.... No; don't interrupt. I'll tell you all we know. It's not
very much."
He paused again, stretched his hand for the matches, and took one
out. Laurie watched him as if fascinated by the action.


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