Chapter 18

These mummy odors derive from the presence of substances and combinations of substances which the Egyptian priests who were the scholars and scholars of their time, through the experience of centuries, found strong enough to stop the natural forces of putrefaction, there must be powerful agencies working for such a purpose; It is possible that we have here a rare material or group whose qualities and capabilities are not understood in this later and more strange age. I wonder if Mr. Trelawney had any knowledge, or even suspicion, of this kind? I only know this for certain, that a worse atmosphere of the sick-room could not be imagined; and I admire Sir James Frere's courage in refusing to have any relation to a case under the circumstances, these instructions from Mr. Trelawney to his daughter, and from what you have told me, the care with which he protects his wishes through his counsel, show that he suspected something, at any rate. In fact, it's as if he's expectin