There was a faint hesitation in his tone, which Fanks was quick to detect, and which prompted his next question: "Has Mr. Marson been in here?"
"Often!"
"And Miss Varlins?"
"Oh, yes! both the ladies have been here; but they would not touch any of my drugs. They know how particular I am."
Fanks said nothing, but remained for a time in meditative silence, which Spolger broke by asking him if he would take some refreshment.
"No, thank you," he replied, quickly. "I'm much obliged to you, sir, for your courtesy. Are you ready, Roger?"
"Oh, yes, I'm coming," said Axton, rising to his feet. "Have you heard how Miss Marson is to-day, Spolger?"
"Just the same, I believe."
"Poor girl!"
"Yes, it's dreadful!" responded Spolger, with a groan; "of course the marriage will have to be put off. I'm not sorry, because I'm so upset. Fancy being taken for a murderer!"