'Now,' said Cuss, 'we shall learn something.' But when they opened the books they could read nothing. Cuss turned the pages. 'Dear me,' he said,'I can't understand.' 'No pictures, nothing to show—?' asked Mr Bunting. 'See for yourself,' said Mr Cuss, 'it's all Greek or Russian or some other language.' The door opened suddenly. Both men looked round. It was Mr Marvel. He held the door open for a moment. 'I beg your pardon,' he said. 'Please shut that door,' said Mr Cuss, and Mr Marvel went out. 'My nerves - my nerves are in pieces today,' said Mr Cuss. 'It made me jump when the door opened like that.' Mr Bunting smiled. 'Now let us look at the books again. It's true that strange things have been happening in the village. But of course I can't believe in an invisible man. I can't' 'No. Though I tell you I saw right down his sleeve.' 'But are you sure?' said Mr Bunting. 'Are you quite sure?' 'Quite. I've said so. There's no doubt at all. Now let's look at these books.'
They turned over the pages, unable to read a word of their strange language. Suddenly Mr Bunting felt something take hold of the back of his neck. He was unable to lift his head. 'Don't move, little men, or I'll knock your brains out.' Mr Bunting looked at Cuss, whose face had turned white with fear.
'I am sorry to be rough,' said the Voice. 'Since when did you learn to look through other men's possessions?' Two noses struck the table. 'To come unasked into a stranger's private room! Listen. I am a strong man. I could kill you both and escape unseen, if I wanted to. If I let you go, you must promise to do as I tell you.' 'Yes,' said Mr Bunting.
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Then