'
'There is no smoke without fire,' replied Rolleston, sagely. 'I
expect we'll all be rather astonished when the inquest is held,' and
so the discussion closed.
The inquest was appointed to take place next day, and Calton had
been asked by Madame Midas to be present on her behalf. Kilsip, a
detective officer, was also present, and, curled up like a cat in
the corner, was listening to every word of the evidence.
The first witness called was Madame Midas, who deposed that the
deceased, Selina Jane Sprotts, was her servant. She had gone to bed
in excellent health, and next morning she had found her dead.
The Coroner asked a few questions relative to the case.
Q. Miss Marchurst awoke you, I believe?
A. Yes.
Q. And her room is off yours?
A. Yes.
Q. Had she to go through your room to reach her own?
A. She had. There was no other way of getting there.
Q. One of the windows of your room was open?
A. It was--all night.
Miss Kitty Marchurst was then called, and being sworn, gave her
story of the hand coming through the window. This caused a great
sensation in Court, and Calton looked puzzled, while Kilsip,
scenting a mystery, rubbed his lean hands together softly.
Q. You live with Mrs Villiers, I believe, Miss Marchurst?
A. I do.
Q. And you knew the deceased intimately?
A. I had known her all my life.
Q. Had she anyone who would wish to injure her?
A.
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