Page:The Death-Doctor.djvu/255

Rh dahlias and flowering creepers, therefore the dwelling in question looked very shabby and neglected in contrast.

My two companions, who had stopped before the gate, glanced apprehensively up and down the road, for they did not wish to attract attention in entering.

"It certainly does look a house of mystery," I said, when, after pretending to chat together at the kerb for a few moments, the inspector suddenly unlatched the gate and stepped inside the neglected garden.

Wills leisurely ascended the dirty moss-grown front steps; I following, while his subordinate went round to the servants' entrance. Then Wills pulled the big knob.

The bell could be heard clanging loudly within. But there was no response.

Another bell rang. It was Saunders at the back door.

Again and again the two officers rang and knocked, but nothing stirred, though both men stood listening intently, their ears strained at the doors.

I glanced around and there saw traces of recent footsteps where we stood. There was the mark of a muddy boot upon the step of the door. It must have been made by some