Still it must convince every unprejudiced mind that there is something deeper and more wonderful than those things which are constantly passing before your view." Miss Staggles, who had been almost as silent as a sphinx, spoke now.

"We are convinced that you are a wonderful man," she said; "and what I have seen to-night will be ever a matter of marvel, as well as thankfulness that I have been privileged to see it." This was evidently the opinion of every one in the room.

Even Gertrude Forrest was carried away by it, while Miss Edith Gray was enraptured at what she termed "a glorious mystery." "I should like," said Miss Staggles, "to hear what Mr.Blake, the Thomas of the party, has to say to it." There was an ugly leer in the old woman's eye as she spoke, and the thought struck me that Voltaire had been making friends with her.
"Yes," said Voltaire; "I am sure we should all like to know whether Mr.
Blake is convinced." "I am convinced that Mr.Kaffar has a good memory," I said.
"Good memory! What do you mean ?" "Why, Mr.Voltaire and his friends have come a few years too late to make a good impression.

I have not only seen a better performance at a dozen entertainments, but I have found out the secret of what is called 'thought-reading.'" "Do you mean to say you have seen similar feats before ?" asked Voltaire, savagely.
"At least a dozen times," I replied.

"In a few years' time, we shall see the like performed on the sands at our fashionable watering-places." "I am glad," said Kaffar, "that the education of your country has so far advanced." I went on talking, not realizing that I was all the time forging a chain that should hold me in cruel bondage.