‘What was the wafer for?’
‘To put on Emily’s letter, which she told us to send.’
‘And where was Ada?’
‘In the schoolroom, reading the direction of the letter.’
‘Tell me exactly what happened when you came back.’
‘I opened the door, and there was a flash, and a bang, and a smoke, and Ada tumbled down.’
‘I have one more question to ask. When did you touch the powder?’
‘Then,’ said Phyllis.
‘When it had exploded? Take care what you say.’
‘Was it naughty? I am very sorry,’ said Phyllis, beginning to cry.