As he went over, point by point, all that he knew of the missing man, he saw that there were two matters upon which he should obtain further information before starting his search. Roper’s statement to the undertaker was capable of verification. Had Dr. Emerson stated that Giles’ body required to be coffined without delay? If Roper had lied on this point, it would still further confirm the case against him. The second matter was a search of Giles’ cottage. It was not a hopeful line of inquiry certainly, but it could not be neglected. Some clue to the tragedy might be forthcoming. First, then, it was necessary to see Dr. Emerson, and a few minutes later French was seated once again in his consulting-room. The doctor greeted him anxiously. “I’m glad you called, Inspector,” he exclaimed. “I was going up to the hotel to look for you. This is a terrible development.” “You’ve heard then, Dr. Emerson?” “Just this moment. I met Kent and he told me. It is an amazing affair, almost incredible. What does it all mean, Mr. French? Can you understand it?” “I am afraid, sir, it means what I said on my last call; that Mr. Giles was murdered.” Dr. Emerson made an impatient gesture. “But good gracious, man, that doesn’t explain it! Suppose he was murdered: where is his body? Have you a theory?” French hesitated. He felt tempted to disclose his suspicions to this old man, whose interest and good faith were so self-evident. But his habit of caution was too strong. “I have a theory, Dr. Emerson,” he answered, “but so far it is only a theory and I don’t like to discuss it until I am reasonably sure it is true. I shall know in a short time and then I will tell you. In the meantime perhaps you will excuse me. But I want to ask you one more question. Roper saw you about the funeral arrangements?” “Yes. He said that Giles had given him some money for the purpose and that he would see that the best use was made of it.” “You thought it necessary, I understand, to have the coffining done without delay?” Dr. Emerson looked up sharply. “I thought it necessary? Certainly not. You’re mistaken there.” “Is that so?” French returned. “I thought you had told Roper that it must be hurried on. You didn’t?” “Never. I never even discussed the matter with him. I never thought of it. As a matter of fact there was no need to depart in any way from the usual procedure.” “That’s all right, doctor. Now there is one other point. Let us assume that murder was committed. I want you to tell me from the appearance of the body how that murder might have been done. If you are able to do so it might lead me to a clue.” Emerson sprang to his feet and began pacing the room. “Merciful powers! That’s a nice question to ask me, after my giving a certificate of death from myocarditis!” he exclaimed.