"He's out," said the man, respectfully enough, but of no mind to be loquacious.
"Where?"
"I don't know. He went to his club after dinner, and has not yet returned."
"Are you his valet?"
"Yes, I wait up for him. He comes in with his key. I've no idea when he will return."
"Is his wife at home?"
"Yes, Mrs. Schuyler is at home." Clearly, this man was answering questions only because he recognized the authority that asked them. But he volunteered no information.
"Who else is in the family? Children?"
"No, Mr. Schuyler has no children. His two sisters are here, and Mrs.
Schuyler. That is all."
"They are all in bed?"