I have never done such a thing before in my life, but now an
irresistible force from within has taken possession of me and I feel
that it is my duty to try the experiment myself, and see if it will have
the effect of restoring his normal condition. Therefore, Doctor, whether
this strange method proves efficacious or not, I shall rely upon your
honor to keep the secret, and never mention the incident to him. If he
knew of it I should die of shame. My parents would disown me for such an
act."
As though awakening from a long and profound sleep the aforesaid
colloquy seemed to have been impressed upon my mind, and then I opened
my eyes and looked about in astonishment. The strangeness of my position
and surroundings surprised me beyond expression. I was lying upon my
back in a small narrow bed stationed within a large oblong room about
one hundred by fifty feet in dimensions. Long rows of little white beds
extended from one end of the apartment to the other, each containing the
form of a human being. Most of these forms appeared to be soundly
sleeping, some lay awake silently meditating, while others tossed about
nervously from one position to another as if in terrible agony. An
occasional howl of torture rent the air. Moving hither and thither among
the different beds were women attired in white dresses and wearing
little white caps on their heads. They carried in their hands, spoons,
tumblers, trays, and various instruments and vessels of peculiar design.
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