But she only smiled mysteriously. If it were the truth, as I now felt
convinced, that she was possessor of a power supernatural, there was
surely nothing strange in her knowledge of the actions of those beyond
her range of vision. Had she not already told me that she was "a reader
of hearts?"
Suddenly she glanced at the clock, declaring that it was time she went,
drew on her gloves and re-arranged her veil.
As she stood ready to go I asked her for her address. But she only said
that such knowledge was unnecessary, and if she wished to see me she
would call.
Thus she left, and I stood again unmanned and undecided, just as I had
been when she had left me on the last occasion, only I had now rendered
myself helpless and passive in her hands.
I tried to shake off the gruesome thoughts which crept over me, but
found myself unable. Already I seemed pervaded by a spirit of evil.
The miasma of Hell was upon me.
That night I went eagerly forth to the Aldersgate Street Station of the
Underground Railway. Time after time I passed through the
booking-office, and out upon the long balcony whence the stairs lead
down to the platform, until, almost on the stroke of nine, I caught
sight of the woman I loved, neatly dressed, but a trifle worn and pale.