"What did she say to you?"
"Can't you ask her all these questions?"
"I have done so. But servants are not always accurate; I should like your corroboration." Parker had himself in hand again now, and spoke pleasantly.
"She said that Nurse Armstrong had sent her for some brandy, because General Fentiman was feeling faint, and told her to call me. So I said she had better go and telephone Dr. Penberthy while I took the brandy."
All this was muttered hurriedly, and in such a low tone that the detective could hardly catch the words.
"And then did you take the brandy straight upstairs?"
"Yes, of course."
"Taking it straight out of Nellie's hands? Or did she put it down on the table or anywhere?"
"How the hell should I remember?"
Parker disliked a swearing woman, but he tried hard not to let this prejudice him.