Page:Guy Boothby--A Bid for Fortune.djvu/240

230 greatest quietness. How, therefore, can I know anything of such people?"

"I do not wish to imply that you know anything at all of them. I only want you to carry your memory back as far as yesterday, and to answer me a few questions I may ask you."

"I will answer them to the best of my ability."

"Well, in the first place, do you remember seeing a brougham drive up to that house opposite, about midday yesterday?"

"No, I cannot say that I do," the old lady replied after a moment's consideration.

"Do you remember seeing a number of men leave the house during the afternoon?"

"No! If they came out, I did not notice them."

"Now, think for one moment, if you please, and tell me what vehicles, if any, you remember seeing drive up and stop there."

"Let me try to remember. There was Judge's baker's cart about three, the milk about five, and a furniture van about half-past six."

"That's what I want to know. And have you any recollection whose furniture van it was?"

"Yes. I remember reading the name as it turned round. Goddard and James, George Street. I wondered if the tenant was going to move."

The inspector rose, and I followed his example.

"I am exceedingly obliged to you, Miss Tiffins. You have helped me materially."

"I am glad of that," she answered; "but I trust I shall not be wanted to give evidence in court. I really could not do it."

"You need have no fear on that score," the inspector answered. "Good-day."