As yet there was no need for me to risk coming again under the subtle influence of last night.

Naturally my thoughts went revolving round the main incidents of the last day and night, and I found myself arriving at strange conclusions, doubts, conjectures; but I did not lose myself, as on last night, in trains of thought.

The sense of the present was ever with me, and I really felt as should a sentry on guard.

Thinking is not a slow process; and when it is earnest the time can pass quickly.

It seemed a very short time indeed till the door, usually left ajar, was pulled open and Dr.
Winchester emerged, taking off his respirator as he came.