But a careful investigation of the late Sir Herbert’s papers and personal effects cast no light on the mystery of his death. There were several photographs of young women, quite likely theatrical people, but none had a signature. However, Corson took these in charge as well as some few notes and letters that seemed significant of friendships with women.
“As young Bates is, I believe, the heir to Sir Herbert’s estate, I suppose he’ll take charge of these rooms, but, meanwhile, I’ll lock up as I want to go downstairs again now. You’re out of a job, my man!”
“Yes,—why, so I am! It’s the first I’ve realized that!”
“Maybe Mr Bates will keep you on.”
“Not he! Those young chaps don’t want valets. He doesn’t, anyhow. No, I’ll be looking for a new berth. Oh, it’ll be easy enough found, but I liked Sir Herbert mighty well. He was a queer dick, but a kind and easy-going man to live with.”
“And he never chatted with you about his young lady friends?”
“Never. He was a reserved sort, as far as his own affairs were concerned. You could go just so far and no farther with Sir Herbert Binney.”
“Well, he left a paper stating that his death was brought about by women.”
“He did? Why, how could that be?”
“That’s what I’ve got to find out. He tried to write a message, and died in the very act. But he wrote clearly and distinctly the words, ‘Women did this,’ and we’ve got to believe it.”