CHAPTER XVIII

THE INVISIBLE MAN SLEEPS

Exhausted and wounded as the Invisible Man was, he refused to accept

Kemp's word that his freedom should be respected. He examined the

two windows of the bedroom, drew up the blinds and opened the

sashes, to confirm Kemp's statement that a retreat by them would be

possible. Outside the night was very quiet and still, and the new

moon was setting over the down. Then he examined the keys of the

bedroom and the two dressing-room doors, to satisfy himself that

these also could be made an assurance of freedom. Finally he

expressed himself satisfied. He stood on the hearth rug and Kemp

heard the sound of a yawn.

"I'm sorry," said the Invisible Man, "if I cannot tell you all that

I have done to-night. But I am worn out. It's grotesque, no doubt.

It's horrible! But believe me, Kemp, in spite of your arguments of

this morning, it is quite a possible thing. I have made a discovery.

I meant to keep it to myself. I can't. I must have a partner. And

you.... We can do such things ... But to-morrow. Now, Kemp, I feel

as though I must sleep or perish."

Kemp stood in the middle of the room staring at the headless garment.

"I suppose I must leave you," he said. "It's--incredible. Three

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The Invisible Man