CHAPTER IV
I have not a word to say about my own sensations.
My impression is that the shock inflicted on me completely suspended mythinking and feeling power. I certainly could not have known what I wasabout when Betteredge joined me--for I have it on his authority that Ilaughed, when he asked what was the matter, and putting the nightgowninto his hands, told him to read the riddle for himself.
Of what was said between us on the beach, I have not the faintestrecollection. The first place in which I can now see myself againplainly is the plantation of firs. Betteredge and I are walking backtogether to the house; and Betteredge is telling me that I shall be ableto face it, and he will be able to face it, when we have had a glass ofgrog.