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Benson, Robert Hugh, 1871-1914

"The Necromancers"

I am telling you simply the facts. I was anxious, and
I went round this morning first to Lady Laura Bethell. To my
astonishment she saw me. I will not tell you all that she said, just
now. She was in a terrible state, though she did not know one-tenth
of the harm--Well, after what she told me I went round straight to
Mitre Court. The porter was inclined not to let me in. Well, I went
in, and straight into Mr. Baxter's bedroom; and I found there--"
He stopped.
"Yes?"
"I found exactly what I had feared, and expected."
"Oh! tell me quickly," she cried, wheeling on him in anger.
He looked at her as if critically for a moment. Then he went on
abruptly.
"I found Mr. Baxter in bed. I made no apology at all. I said simply
that I had come to see how he was after the _seance_."
"It took place, then--"
"Oh! yes.... I forgot to mention that Lady Laura would pay no
attention to me yesterday.... Yes, it took place.... Well, Mr. Baxter
did not seem surprised to see me. He told me he felt tired. He said
that the _seance_ had been a success. And while he talked I watched
him. Then I came away and caught the ten-fifty."
"I don't understand in the least," said Maggie.


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