Then there was a click, and the electric cluster above the writing-table shone out, apparently of its own volition.

The woman uttered a low scream, and cowered down in a corner of a big sofa that stood by the bay-window.

The man, after one terrified glance round the room, began to creep towards the open sash; but the invisible hand gripped him by the collar and pulled him back.

His trembling knees gave way under him, and he rolled in a heap on the floor.
Then, to his wondering horror, he saw a stout blackthorn stick which was standing in a corner of the room, jump up into the air and leap towards him.

He put his head down on to the carpet, covered his eyes with his hands, and began to moan with terror.