Part II, Chapter 8 Summary

Robert continues his investigation by wondering how many vampires actually sleep in soil, signifying a return from the dead. He cannot answer that question, nor can he answer whether the fear of the cross is common to all vampires and whether Mohammedan vampires are similarly affected. His inability to gain insight into the nature of vampires causes him to laugh like a "sick hound." He wonders why he goes on living and doesn't just end it all; he is unable to think of "any real reason" and concludes he is "probably too dumb to end it all."

Robert continues his investigation by seeing whether vampires are affected by water. He sets a hose in a water trough and begins soaking the lawn. He goes back inside to shower and remove the bandage from his hand. It has healed nicely...