"'Had they done so, they would certainly have been exceeding their duties. Now, do not answer the questions I put to you too quickly. Were you in these rooms on the day before M. Felix's death?'
"'I were, sir.'
"'Was the desk here then?'
"'It were; I can swear to that.'
"'You saw it with your own eyes?'
"'I couldn't see it with no others,' replied Mrs. Middlemore, smirking, in approval of her small wit.
"'Of course, you could not. Is there any particular reason why you are so positive of this?'
"'Well, sir, Mr. Felix wanted something, and rung for me; and when I come into the room he was sitting at this table with the desk open before him, and all the papers scattered about.'
"'That fixes it. Did he seem to be searching for, or examining with more than usual interest, any special document?'
"'He seemed flustered and excited, sir. I can't say no more than that.'