"But this is something very different," continued the Professor.
Quite another interest had taken hold of the Professor. It was easy
enough to summon Dame Commonsense to one's aid when Malvina was not
present. Before those strange eyes the good lady had a habit of
sneaking away. Suppose--of course the idea was ridiculous, but
suppose--something did happen! As a psychological experiment was
not one justified? What was the beginning of all science but
applied curiosity? Malvina might be able--and willing--to explain
how it was done. That is, if anything did happen, which, of course,
it wouldn't, and so much the better. This thing had got to be
ended.
"It would be using a gift not for one's own purposes, but to help
others," urged the Professor.
"You see," urged Victor, "mamma really wants to be changed."
"And papa wants it too," urged Victoria.
"It seems to me, if I may so express it," added the Professor, "that
really it would be in the nature of making amends for--well, for-
-for our youthful follies," concluded the Professor a little
nervously.
Malvina's eyes were fixed on the Professor. In the dim light of the
low-ceilinged room, those eyes seemed all of her that was visible.
"You wish it?" said Malvina.
It was not at all fair, as the Professor told himself afterwards,
her laying the responsibility on him.
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