They
were ready to explain almost anything--but this.
In the natural weakness of futility they had come to associate the
aspect of death or terror with the Blind Spot. Yet, here was
Watson! Watson, alive and strong; he was the reverse of what they
had subconsciously expected.
"What is this Blind Spot?" inquired Sir Henry evenly. "And what do
you mean by giving thanks that Fenton has gone into it?"
"Not now. Not one word of explanation until--What time is it?"
Watson broke off to demand.
They told him. He began to talk rapidly, with amazing force and
decision, and in a manner whose sincerity left no chance for
doubt.
"Then we have five hours! Not one second to lose. Do what I say,
and answer my questions!" Then: "We must not fail; one slip, and
the whole world will be engulfed--in the unknown! Turn on the
lights."
There was that in the personality and the vehemence of the man
that precluded opposition. Out of the Blind Spot had come a
dynamic quality, along with the man; a quickening influence that
made Watson swift, sure, and positive. Somehow they knew it was a
moment of Destiny.
Watson went on:
"First, did Hobart Fenton open the Spot? Or was it a period? By
'period' I mean, did it open by chance, as it did when it caught
Harry and me? Just what did Hobart do? Tell me!"
It was a singular question. How could they answer it? However, Dr.
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