Unconsciously I found myself asking a question which I would not allow myself to answer.

At last the persistence of a mind working truly prevailed; I found myself face to face with my doubt.

The habit of my life began to assert itself, and I analysed the evidence before me.
It was so startling that I had to force myself into obedience to logical effort.

My starting-place was this: Margaret was changed--in what way, and by what means?
Was it her character, or her mind, or her nature?
for her physical appearance remained the same.

I began to group all that I had ever heard of her, beginning at her birth.
It was strange at the very first.