“Ja, mein Herr.”
“So!—that is curious. I am particularly interested in that clock, gnädige Frau. Can you remember where it was bought?”
She hesitated, ventured a scared glance at him, and obviously forced herself to speech. The two officers involuntarily bent forward in their interest.
“No, mein Herr.”
She glanced round as though seeking an opportunity for escape.
The doctor repeated his question in a level tone of authority, his eyes fixed on her.
“You are sure you cannot remember where that clock was bought, gnädige Frau?”
“Quite sure.” Her breast was heaving. She half rose from her seat. “Why do you ask me all these questions? Let me go!—Let me go! You have no right to question me like this! I—I tell you it was bought—it was all bought!”
The doctor stepped forward with a quick movement, seized her wrist, and forced her back into her seat.
“I beg of you!” he said in a voice that compelled obedience.