Floyd shivers at the thought of the publicity. Death seems by far the best solution of events, but to make a wonderment and scandal—
"Is it absolutely necessary?"
"Not unless the family desire it."
"Doctors are sometimes taken into strange confidences," Floyd Grandon begins, gravely. "A difficulty came to my knowledge last night that supplies the clew. Since the man could not have retained his honor, this is the sad result. But having paid the penalty, if he might go to his last rest quietly——"
"There can be no suspicion of foul play. His wife left him here writing, at eleven. He seemed rather as if he wished her away, and she retired, falling soundly asleep. He has sometimes remained down all night, and even when she entered the room this morning she supposed him still asleep. I should judge the poison had been taken somewhat after midnight. There are various phases of accidental death——"
"Let it be managed as quietly as is lawful," decides Floyd Grandon.
Dr. Radford bows. "A post mortem will be sufficient, though that is not absolutely necessary. You prefer it to pass as an accidental death?"
"The family would, I am positive. Can I intrust the matter with you?"
"Certainly."
"Well. Prepare the body for burial. Mrs. Wilmarth may choose to order the rest."