“I recall that also,” said Murray.
“Well, he died last night,” explained the widow, “and I would like to know when I can get the insurance money.”
Murray looked at her in amazement. He had had to deal with many people whom necessity made importunate, but never before had he met such cold-bloodedness as this woman displayed in tone and manner. Apparently, it was no more to her than a business investment, upon which she was now about to realize.
“There are certain formalities necessary,” he said, “but there will be little delay after proper proof of death has been filed. You will, of course, have the attending physician—”
“I don’t know who he is,” interrupted the woman.
“You don’t know who he is!” repeated Murray in astonishment.
“No. But I will find out and see him at once. It is important that there shall be as little delay as possible.”
Previous experiences made Murray quick at jumping to conclusions in such cases, and he now thought he had the explanation of this unusually prompt call. The woman was stylishly dressed, but that was no proof that she had the ready cash essential at such a time.
“I think I understand,” said Murray delicately. “You can not meet the expenses incident to—”
“I have nothing to do with any expenses,” the woman again interrupted coldly. “She looked after him in life, and she can look after him now.”