Then the writing became convulsive. “I can hear them,” I guessed the tracing meant, and then it was quite unreadable for a space. Then came a little string of words that were quite distinct: “a different sort of Selenite altogether, who appears to be directing the⁠—” The writing became a mere hasty confusion again.

“They have larger brain cases⁠—much larger, and slenderer bodies, and very short legs. They make gentle noises, and move with organised deliberation.⁠ ⁠…

“And though I am wounded and helpless here, their appearance still gives me hope⁠—” That was like Cavor. “They have not shot at me or attempted⁠ ⁠… injury. I intend⁠—”

Then came the sudden streak of the pencil across the paper, and on the back and edges⁠—blood!