"I have frequently heard my brother speak of you, Mr. Hunter," she said, "and have regretted not meeting you before," and, as Douglas voiced his thanks, she added, "Eleanor, Mr. Hunter"--and Douglas gazed deep into the beautiful eyes which had haunted his memory since their last meeting in Paris. For one second his glance held hers, while a soft blush mantled her cheeks; then Colonel Thornton stepped forward briskly and extended his hand. "No need of an introduction here, Douglas," he said heartily. "I should have known you anywhere from your likeness to your father, though I haven't seen you since you wore knickerbockers." "I haven't forgotten 'Thornton's Nest,' nor you either, Colonel," exclaimed Douglas, clasping his hand warmly. "I about lived on your grounds before I went to boarding school." "Pray be seated, gentlemen," and, in obedience to Mrs. Winthrop's gesture, Douglas pulled up a chair near hers, while Brett and Colonel Thornton did likewise. "Now, Mr. Brett, what do you wish to ask me?" "Have you any idea where Senator Carew dined the night of his death?" "Not the slightest," was the positive reply. "Was it your brother's custom not to inform you where he was dining?" asked Brett. "Stop a moment," Thornton held up a protesting hand. "Mrs. Winthrop, you cannot be compelled to answer questions put to you by Mr. Brett; he has no legal right to examine you now." "I am quite aware of that, Colonel Thornton," put in Brett composedly; "I am asking these questions that I may gain a little more light on this mystery. I only saw Mrs. Winthrop for a short time yesterday, and, while I do not wish to intrude, I feel that I can accomplish better results by a longer talk. This tragedy must be investigated thoroughly." "Very true; but you forget, Mr. Brett, that the inquest is the proper place for bringing out testimony. Mrs. Winthrop will have to appear before it, and, until that is held, she must not be pestered with questions or harrowed by intrusions." "I am willing to answer all questions within reason," said Mrs. Winthrop, before the detective could reply. "If you mean, Mr. Brett, that Senator Carew was secretive about his movements, you are mistaken. On the contrary, he was most open and above board in his dealings with me. Occasionally, when hurried, he did not tell me his plans for the day, but, as a general thing, I knew all his social engagements." "Ah, his social engagements," echoed Brett, "how about his official engagements, Mrs. Winthrop?" "With those I had nothing to do. I never meddled in my brother's political or official career; that was out of my province," was the calm reply. "Then you think it likely that he dined with some of his official colleagues?" "I am unable to express an opinion on the subject." "You had better ask his private secretary what engagements he made for Monday, and with whom he was last seen," broke in Thornton.