Contents
Three
Overview
Arthur finds Van and Donna McBride staging a mind-reading display that captivates classmates. Their claims of reincarnation and a private twin language raise skepticism for Arthur. Colin Wren proposes formal ESP testing with Zener cards at The Briars, setting up a confrontation between spectacle and scrutiny.
Summary
Arthur searches Arundel Hall for Van McBride and discovers Van with his twin sister, Donna, and Allie Shiner at a crowded cafeteria table. Donna and Van perform a mind-reading routine, correctly naming cards to the delight of onlookers, while joking and playing up their mystique.
The twins escalate their performance with claims of past-life siblinghood in Salem and allegiance to the devil, prompting fascination and discomfort. A religious student warns about damnation and storms off, underscoring the show’s provocative edge.
Colin Wren engages them with curiosity, referencing parapsychology and his grandfather’s resources. He proposes testing the twins’ abilities using Zener cards under controlled conditions at The Briars. The crowd’s interest shifts from spectacle to the promise of verification.
Arthur observes a “secret twin language” exchange that he recognizes as Louisiana Creole, casting doubt on their authenticity. When Colin invites the twins to The Briars, Arthur asks to come, aligning himself with scrutiny over showmanship and setting the stage for an empirical challenge to the twins’ claims.
Who Appears
- ArthurObserver who finds the McBrides’ card-guessing act, doubts their claims, and asks to attend Colin’s ESP testing.
- Van McBridePerforms mind-reading with Donna; jokes through the spectacle; draws interest for potential ESP testing.
- Donna McBridePartners with Van in card-guessing; claims reincarnation and devil ties; speaks a ‘twin language’ Arthur recognizes as Creole.
- Colin WrenAnalytical student; proposes controlled Zener card tests at The Briars; invites the twins and agrees to Arthur attending.
- Allie ShinerDazzling onlooker at the table; skeptical commentary adds contrast to the McBrides’ performance.