to see some figure or face. But in any case, I want you two
gentlemen to give me your word that you will attempt no violence.
Anything in the nature of seizing the figure may have very disastrous
results indeed to myself. You understand that what you will see, if
you see anything, will not be actual flesh or blood; it will be formed
of a certain matter of which we understand very little at present, but
which is at any rate intimately connected with myself or with someone
present. Really we know no more of it than that. We are all of us
inquirers equally. Now will you gentlemen give me your words of honor
that you will obey me in this; and that in all other matters you will
follow the directions of ..." (he glanced at the two ladies)--"of Mrs.
Stapleton, and do nothing without her consent?"

He spoke in a brisk, matter-of-fact way, and looked keenly from face
to face of the two men as he ended.

"I give you my word," said Laurie.

"Yes; just so," said Mr. Jamieson.

"Now there is one matter more," went on the medium. "Mr. Baxter, you
are aware that you are a sensitive of a very high order. Now I do not
wish you to pass into trance tonight. Kindly keep your attention fixed
upon me steadily. Watch me closely: you will be able to see me quite
well enough, as I shall explain presently. Mrs. Stapleton will sit
with her back to the fire. Lady Laura opposite, Mr. Jamieson with his
back to the cabinet, and you, Mr. Baxter, facing it. (Yes,
Mr. Jamieson, you may turn round freely, so long as you keep your
hands upon the table.) Now, if you feel anything resembling sleep or
unconsciousness coming upon you irresistibly, Mr. Baxter, I wish you
just lightly to tap Mrs. Stapleton's hand. She will then, if
necessary, break up the circle. Give the signal directly you feel the
sensation is really coming on, or if you find it very difficult to
keep your attention fixed. You will do this?"

"I will do it," said Laurie.

"Then that is really all."

He moved a step away from the fire. Then he paused.

"By the way, I may as well just tell you our methods. I shall take my
place within the cabinet, drawing the curtains partly across at the
top so as to shade my face. But you will be able to see the whole of
my body, and probably even my face as well. You four will please to
sit at the table in the order I have indicated, with your hands
resting upon it. You will not speak unless you are spoken to, or until
Mrs. Stapleton gives the sig