“Yes, a very capable nurse. I am glad to know that Madame de Stämer is in such good hands. I am calling again early in the morning, and I have told Mrs. Fisher to see that nothing is said within hearing of the room which could enable Madame de Stämer to obtain confirmation of the idea, which she evidently entertains, that Colonel Menendez is dead.” “Does she actually assert that he is dead?” asked Harley. “My dear sir,” replied Dr. Rolleston, “she asserts nothing. She sits there like Niobe changed to stone, staring straight before her. She seems to be unaware of the presence of everyone except Miss Beverley. The only words she has spoken since recovering consciousness have been, ‘Don’t leave me!’” “Hm,” muttered Harley. “You have not attended Madame de Stämer before, doctor?” “No,” was the reply, “this is the first time I have entered Cray’s Folly since it was occupied by Sir James Appleton.” He was about to take his departure when the door opened and Inspector Aylesbury walked in. “Ah,” said he, “I have two more witnesses to interview: Madame de Stämer and Miss Beverley. From these witnesses I hope to get particulars of the dead man’s life which may throw some light upon the identity of his murderer.” “It is impossible to see either of them at present,” replied Dr. Rolleston briskly. “What’s that, doctor?” asked the Inspector. “Are they hysterical, or something?” “As a result of the shock, Madame de Stämer is dangerously ill,” replied the physician, “and Miss Beverley is remaining with her.” “Oh, I see. But Miss Beverley could come out for a few minutes?” “She could,” admitted the physician, sharply, “but I don’t wish her to do so.” “Oh, but the law must be served, doctor.” “Quite so, but not at the expense of my patient’s reason.” He was a resolute man, this country practitioner, and I saw Harley smiling in grim approval. “I have expressed my opinion,” he said, finally, walking out of the room; “I shall leave the responsibility to you, Inspector Aylesbury. Good morning, gentlemen.” Inspector Aylesbury scratched his chin. “That’s awkward,” he muttered. “The evidence of this woman is highly important.” He turned toward us, doubtingly, whereupon Harley stood up, yawning. “If I can be of any further assistance to you, Inspector,” said my friend, “command me. Otherwise, I feel sure you will appreciate the fact that both Mr. Knox and myself are extremely tired, and have passed through a very trying ordeal.” “Yes,” replied Inspector Aylesbury, “that’s all very well, but I find myself at a deadlock.” “You surprise me,” declared Harley. “I can see nothing to be surprised about,” cried the Inspector. “When I was called in it was already too late.” “Most unfortunate,” murmured Harley, disagreeably. “Come along, Knox, you look tired to death.” “One moment, gentlemen,” the Inspector insisted, as I stood up. “One moment. There is a little point which you may be able to clear up.”