The doctor and I soon found an opportunity to speak together privately,
and he began:

"So the voice of Avis was a little familiar to you?"

"Yes," I replied, "but I am not able to tell from what niche in memory's
hall it comes."

"Does it recall anything you heard or saw on the moon?"

"That dreadful place? No, indeed," I replied. "Are you going to bring up
Mona again?" "You asked me never to mention that name again, and now you
have spoken it."

"Well," I asked, "will you forgive me for that foolish request if I will
let you talk to me about her now?"

"I am not anxious to talk about her," the doctor answered, "especially as
I know the topic is not a pleasant one to you."

Without noticing this last remark, I asked abruptly:

"Was Mona a good singer?"

"Fair."

"As good as Avis?"

"I think so, though I am not a critic."