"Quite sure. I should have paid you before to-day, but when I went to your place--a long while ago, I must tell you--I found you had gone. You practiced in the north of London, you know." "I do know; I have reason to know. If I had got my rights I should not be as I am. I should be practicing in Belgravia, and driving in my carriage. I'll take another whisky." I nodded at the barman, who refilled the glass, which he instantly emptied again. "What do we slave for? What do we study for? What do we waste the midnight oil for? To be taken in, to be robbed and swindled, to have promises made to us that are never fulfilled." "Unfortunately," I said, sympathizing with him, "it is the way of the world. It is the simple-minded and the honest that are defrauded." "You know how it is. Five shillings, you said." "No; it is two shillings I owe you." "Interest added, makes it three. You can't object to that." "I don't object; here is the money." He took it, and dropped it in his pocket. We had each of us only one disengaged hand, as he still kept hold of my wrist. "A feeble pulse," he said, shaking his head with tipsy gravity, "a very feeble pulse. Needs a stimulant." "Irish whisky?" "Irish whisky," he echoed; and disposed of his fourth glass, while I spilled mine as I had done before. These rapid potations had the effect I desired; they weakened his self-control, they loosened his tongue. "That was an interesting discussion you were having," I observed, "when I came in. What was it you said? That there are more ways than one of killing a man. How true that is! But it is only those who are experienced in such matters that can speak with authority. Do you suspect, doctor, that the woman is guilty?" "I will take my oath she is guilty." "But the fact of poison being administered was not absolutely established." He snapped his fingers. "That for being established! There are poisons and poisons; there are way and ways. Did you ever take a sleeping draught?" "Never." "Well, when you want one, come to me, and I will give you something that will make you sleep so sound that you will never wake up again." "Declined with thanks. But would it not be discovered?"