Page:Under three flags; a story of mystery (IA underthreeflagss00tayliala).pdf/39

 "And you do not know where they now are?"

Miss Hathaway shakes her head, as her fingers clasp and unclasp nervously in her lap. The ordeal is a trying one.

"When did you last see your sister?"

"About 2 o'clock in the afternoon."

"And when did you last see Mr. Ames?"

A slight flush replaces the pallor for a moment; then as suddenly recedes, leaving her paler than before.

"I have not seen Mr. Ames for a fortnight," she replies in a tone barely audible.

"Did your sister indicate to you her intention of eloping?" is the next question.

"I had no reason to think that she contemplated a clandestine marriage. But I should prefer not to discuss the matter further, Mr. Lord," says the witness, in evident agitation. "I am sure Helen's departure can have no possible connection with—with that awful deed. It was only an unfortunate coincidence that they went away on that afternoon. I—I am sure they will return in due time."

Coroner Lord glances irresolutely at the state's attorney, and after a moment's deliberation permits Miss Hathaway to retire.

Sheriff Wilson, the next witness, describes minutely the appearance of the bank and vault and of the body of the dead cashier.

Sarah Johnson, the maid at Mr. Felton's residence, testifies that the note referred to by Mr. Felton was left at the house shortly before 8 o'clock by a lad named Jimmie Howe. A few minutes later a stranger inquired for Mr. Felton at the house. There is a slight buzz of excitement among the audience at this first mention of the presence of a stranger in the village on the evening of the tragedy.

"How do you know he was a stranger?" sharply inquires the coroner.

"For the reason that when I asked him which Mr. Felton he wished to see he replied that he did not know