“The Chevalier Mengaldo is what some people call a medium – implying that he can communicate with the dead,” Byron began.

“What???” I could feel my face turning red. “Don’t you dare tell me that you’re bringing in some quack who’ll pretend to communicate with my dear little Clara! I won’t have it, Byron – I just won’t!”

Byron’s face was almost as red as mine. “Don’t jump to conclusions!” he said angrily. “I know you don’t believe in spooks, even after our experience with the Chasseur ghost. I would never insult your intelligence by doing such a thing. But when I told the chevalier about our encounter with the Chasseur ghost, he told me some fascinating stories about his experiences with the supernatural. The chevalier is also a great fan of Frankenstein, and he’s avid to meet you. Frankly, I think he’s really what he claims to be, and that you’d enjoy getting to know him.”