“People, Dr. Caul. Not ‘personalities.’ As Allen explained to Dr. Harding, when you call us ‘personalities,’ it gives us the impression that you don’t accept the fact that we are real. That would make therapy difficult.”

Caul studied Arthur carefully and decided he didn’t care much for the arrogant snob. “I stand corrected,” he said. “I’d like to know about the people.”

“I will give you as much information as I can.”

Caul questioned and Arthur reviewed the ages, appearances, traits, abilities and reasons for the emergence of the nine people recorded by Dr. Harding.

“Why did the baby come into existence? Christene. What was her role?”

“Companionship for a lonely child.”

“And her temperament?”

“Shy, but she can be set off by fear that Ragen will do something mean or violent. He adores her, and she can usually distract him from some intended violence by going into a tantrum and banging her feet.”

“Why did she remain three?”

Arthur smiled knowingly. “It became important to have someone who knew little or nothing about what was happening. Her not knowing was an important protective device. If William had to hide something, she would come on the spot and draw or play hopscotch or cuddle the little Raggedy Ann doll Adalana made for her. She’s a delightful chilaL I have a particular fondness for her. She’s British, you know.”

“I didn’t know that.”

“Oh, yes. She’s Christopher’s sister.”

Caul regarded him a moment. “Arthur; do you know all the others?”

“Yes.”

“Have you always known all the others?”

“No.”

“How did you learn of their existence?”

“By deduction. When I realized I was losing time, I began watching other people closely. I discovered that it was different with them, and I began to brood about it. Then, by asking some questions—both in and outside my head—I discovered the truth. Slowly, over many years, I’ve established contact with all the others.”

“Well, then, I’m glad we’ve met. If I’m to be of any help to Billy—to all of you— I’ll need your assistance.”

“You may call upon me anytime.”

“There is one important question I’d like to ask before you go.”

“Yes?”

“Gary Schweickart mentioned something that has since appeared in the press. He said that from the facts of the case, discrepancies among statements made by all of you and the comments of the victims—things like foul language, statements about criminal activities, and the name ‘Phil’—he believed there might be more personalities than the ten already revealed. Would you know anything about that?”

Instead of answering him, Arthurs eyes glazed and his lips began to move. Slowly, imperceptibly, he withdrew. After a few seconds the young man blinked and looked around him. “Oh my God! Not again!”

“Hello,” Caul said. “I’m Dr. Caul. Would you mind giving me your name— for the record?”

“Billy.”

“I see. Well, hello, Billy. I’m your doctor. You were sent here and placed under my care.”

Billy put his hand to his head, still slightly dazed. “I was coming out of the courtroom. I went into the van …” He looked quickly at his wrists and then at his clothes.