Though this statement came calmly from Carleton’s lips, it was evident to all that he fully appreciated the tragic picture it suggested.
“He was with you through the evening?”
“Part of the time. He went early to his room, saying he had some business to attend to.”
“Why were you two not here to dinner with Miss Van Norman?”
Fessenden looked up, surprised at this question. Surely Mr. Benson had gathered odd bits of information since morning.
Schuyler Carleton looked stern.
“I did not come because I did not wish to. Mr. Fessenden remained with me, saying he did not care to attend the dinner unless I did.”
Carleton looked casually at Fessenden as he said this, and though there was no question in the glance, Rob nodded his head in corroboration of the witness.
“You spent the entire evening at home, then?”
“Yes, until a late hour.”