Chapter 15

She stood for a moment in mute astonishment, and then, looking from one to the other, demanded: “Who are you? and what are you doing here?” The inspector rose. “I am a police officer, madam,” said he. “I can’t give you any further information just now, but, if you will excuse me asking, who are you?” “I am Mr. Hickler’s housekeeper,” she replied. “And Mr. Hickler; are you expecting him home shortly?” “No, I am not,” was the curt reply. “Mr. Hickler is away from home just now. He left this evening by the boat train.…