"Probably within the last two or three weeks. I have occasionally met him on the street."
"Did Mr. Mainwaring see you at any of these times?"
"If he did, he did not recognize me."
"Did you see him when you called at Fair Oaks, Wednesday,—either morning or evening?"
"I did not."
"Mr. Hobson, will you describe the man who accompanied you when you called in the evening, Wednesday?"
"I could give you a general description. He was a large man, about my own height, but heavier, and rather good looking, on the whole. But I am not good on details, such as complexion, color of hair, and so on; and then, you know, those little things are very easily changed."
"What was his name?"
Mr. Hobson smiled blandly. "The name by which I know him is John Carroll, but I have no idea as to his real name. He is a very eccentric character, many-sided as it were, and I never know which side will come uppermost."
"He is your clerk and in your employ, is he not?"