But Sadie was loyal to the cousin and chum she adored and proved surprisingly game under fire. Indeed, she succeeded in breaking down her aunt’s 20 cross-examination and bringing the inquest to ruins by suddenly clapping her hands and blurting:
“Maybe Mr. Hogg sent them by telegraph.”
The outrageous absurdity of the statement gave it cataclysmic force. Helen embraced Sadie with her eyes and then added her own broadside:
“That really was splendid of him, Auntie El? Now you can tell me all about his letter.”
“I will reserve that until later,” said Mrs. Burton, icily. “If you have finished your luncheon, Helen, please pay the check and we shall go.”
CHAPTER III.
WHITNEY BARNES UNDER FIRE.
Joshua Barnes, sometimes referred to in the daily press as Old Grim Barnes, the mustard millionaire, turned suddenly upon his son and pinioned him: