Between the coroner's persistence and his mother's visible signs of displeasure, Walter LaGrange was fast losing his temper.
"If you know so much about this business, I don't see the use of your questioning me," he retorted angrily. "It's no affair of mine anyway; I had nothing to do with it, nor I won't be mixed up in it; and if you want any information you'd better ask mother for it; it's her business and none of mine."
After a few more questions, which the witness answered sullenly and in monosyllables, he was dismissed.
"Mr. Higgenbotham," announced the coroner. The greatest surprise was manifested on every side as the senior member of a well-known firm of jewellers stepped forward; the same gentleman who had accompanied Mr. Whitney on his return from the city on the preceding day.
"Mr. Higgenbotham," said the coroner, "I believe you are able to furnish some testimony which will be pertinent at this time."
"Yes, Dr. Westlake," responded the other, in deep, musical tones, "I think possibly I can render you a little assistance in your investigations."
"Mr. Higgenbotham, do you recognize the young gentleman who has just given his testimony?"
"I do, sir," said the witness, adjusting a pair of eyeglasses and gazing steadily at Walter LaGrange. "I recall his features perfectly."
"You were personally acquainted with the late Hugh Mainwaring, I believe?"
"Yes, sir, intimately acquainted with him."