Some injury to the spinal column, and with it a curious affection of the throat and tongue.

He can neither swallow nor speak.

Nourishment has to be administered by tube, and the tongue is horribly swollen." "I'm of the opinion, Cleek," put in Narkom, "that strangulation is merely part of the procedure of the rascal who makes these diabolical nocturnal visits.

In other words, that he is armed with some quick-acting infernal poison, which he forces into the mouths of his victims.

That paralysis of the muscles of the throat is one of the symptoms of prussic acid poisoning, you must remember." "I do remember, Mr.Narkom," replied Cleek enigmatically.