“I hope we may. We are both much interested in the Science of Spiritualism, and want to find out all about it. Do you think we shall succeed?” “Everyone would succeed who put a great discovery for the good of mankind in the first place, and their own selfish interests in the second.” “Are our desires selfish?” “I fear they will become so, if you do not put a check upon them.” “Teach us how to pursue our inquiries,” said Steinberg. “Show me my Leonora!” cried the Professor. “There it begins, you see,” replied the Voice. “The second speaker wants to see his wife again, never mind at what cost or risk to others. Was I not right in saying your desires would become selfish? It has not taken long either!” “But, Spirit (if you are a Spirit),” exclaimed Ricardo, “you must read my thoughts and know what prompted my request. Surely nothing could be more innocent than the desire of a husband to see his wife again?” “I am not sure of that!” replied the Voice, “however, if you persevere, I have no doubt that your wish will be gratified. It is impossible to credit what would occur, if people would only have the patience to wait for it.” “I could have the patience to wait for ages if necessary,” said the poor Professor. “You will not have to wait so long as that,” said the Voice, “she is nearer to you than you think.” Whilst Ricardo remained silent under this unexpected joy, Steinberg put a few questions to the influence that was controlling the medium. “Will you answer me a few questions, James?” “Certainly! If I am able.” “Are you speaking to us in your own voice--I mean, have you a throat with gullet and larynx fully formed of your own?” “No! I am talking now through the medium, that is, I am using her vocal organs--perhaps you perceive the difference in my voice. When I spoke to you in the other room, I had materialised a gullet and larynx of my own, but I could not sustain a lengthened conversation through them!” “Will Hannah know what has happened to her, when she awakes?” “No, and I beg you will not tell her. She is very ignorant and simple, and the effect might be harmful. Let her believe that she has merely been to sleep. And now I have used her long enough for the first time and had better go. Do not try to rouse her. Let her wake of herself. She will be hysterical, but the Doctor will know how to deal with that. Good evening!” And here the Voice ceased. Though they addressed it several times, no sound or sign of any kind came through Hannah. She slept on like an infant, while the two men whispered to one another. “Wonderful! Marvellous! I could not have believed such a thing, unless I had heard it myself! What a grand prospect lies before us! How glad I am, Ricardo, that I overcame my cowardly fears, and agreed to join you in searching out these mysteries!”