Dan Holiday receives a letter in his Box 13 that reads "I don't know quite how to begin this letter except to say that it may sound fantastic to you, perhaps even a joke. But please believe me, I am serious and the situation is serious. A man is dying, yet he has nothing wrong with him. He believes he's going to die five days from now. And so Bart LaFave is dying. A strong, healthy man is dying because of witchcraft. I know this sounds in congruous, anachronistic in this 20th century. But, if you will come to Ballou, Louisiana, you will see for yourself and perhaps be able to help. Sincerely, Doris Gordon." After doing a little research at his place of employment, The Star Times, Dan caught the train heading to Louisiana. His research made him change his mind a little about that letter. Doris Gordon met him at the Ballou Train Station. Five minutes later, Doris was driving him along a dusty back road in her little car. She says "I didn't think you'd come, Mr. Holiday". Dan says "Well, I never refuse a chance to get mixed up in something that sounds different". Doris says "Or insane?" Dan says "Well, what's the difference? Automobiles and radios were different when they came along. Before that, they were insane". Doris says "But, this is different. We're in the 20th century. Salem and the witch hunts are history". Dan says "History? Well, to bat a cliche into center field, history often repeats itself". Doris says "I know. Oh. By the way, no one must know why you're here, Mr. Holiday". Dan says "Yes. Why not?" Doris says "These are good people, but they're liable to resent a stranger. So, I want you to pretend to be my cousin. You see, I've been here for only six months, teaching school. No one knows much about my personal life. They've come to trust me and like me. I think they'll accept you because of it". Dan says "Fair enough". Doris says "Now, I board with the LaFave's". Dan says "Your letter mentioned a Bart LaFave". Doris says "He's their youngest son and he's dying". Dan asks "What did the doctor say?" Doris says "He said there's nothing wrong with him".