If we could, this year,
exactly reproduce, in your case, the conditions as they existed last
year, it is physiologically certain that we should arrive at exactly the
same result. But this--there is no denying it--is simply impossible. We
can only hope to approximate to the conditions; and if we don't succeed
in getting you nearly enough back to what you were, this venture of ours
will fail. If we do succeed--and I am myself hopeful of success--you
may at least so far repeat your proceedings on the birthday night, as to
satisfy any reasonable person that you are guiltless, morally speaking,
of the theft of the Diamond. I believe, Mr. Blake, I have now stated
the question, on both sides of it, as fairly as I can, within the limits
that I have imposed on myself. If there is anything that I have not made
clear to you, tell me what it is--and if I can enlighten you, I will."
"All that you have explained to me," I said, "I understand perfectly.
But I own I am puzzled on one point, which you have not made clear to me
yet."
"What is the point?"
"I don't understand the effect of the laudanum on me. I don't understand
my walking down-stairs, and along corridors, and my opening and shutting
the drawers of a cabinet, and my going back again to my own room.
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