SIX
THE BIRTH OF A MONSTER?
What I’m about to relate is the story as told to me by William Forbes. These are his words, as recorded on my own voice recorder, so I make no apologies for any seeming irregularities or exaggerations in the tale.
“This machine can hold two hours of conversation. Will it take any longer?” I enquired, as he prepared himself for his narrative.
“Much longer, I’m afraid,” he responded. “We may need a couple of days, with rest periods accounted for too.”
“In that case, I’ll let you know when the tape’s running out. You must give me time to change the tape and check the batteries. If your tale is so extraordinary, I don’t want to miss a word of it.”
He nodded his agreement. I could see he was anxious to unburden himself.
“You may be surprised that I’m not refer
