Still at white heat, the older man began abruptly: "This
gentleman is from the Republic. He is going to publish a story
that Mr. Hallowell has fallen under the influence of mediums,
clairvoyants; that everything he does is on advice from the
spirit world -- " he turned sharply upon Lee. "Is that right?"
The reporter nodded.
"You can see the effect of such a story. It would invalidate
every act of Mr. Hallowell's!"
Dr. Rainey laughed offensively.
"It might," he said, "but who'd believe it?"
"He believes it!" cried Gaylor, "or he pretends to believe it.
Tell him!" he commanded. "He won't believe me. Does Mr.
Hallowell associate with mediums, and spirits -- and spooks?"
Again the young doctor laughed.
"Of course not!" he exclaimed. "It's not worth answering, Judge.
You ought to treat it with silent contempt." From behind his
glasses he winked at the reporter with a jocular, intimate
smile. He was adapting himself to what he imagined was his
company. "Where did you pick up that pipe dream?" he asked.
Without answering, the Southerner regarded him steadily with
inquiring, interested eyes. The doctor coughed nervously and
turned to Judge Gaylor. In the manner of a cross-examination
Gaylor called up his next witness.
"Garrett, does any one visit Mr. Hallowell without your
knowledge?" he asked. You may not open the door for him, but you
know every one who gets in to see Mr. Hallowell, do you not?"
"Every one, sir.
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