Witness (tossing her head).—"Well, not what I call handsome, sir; but there's no knowing what other girls think."
With this parting shot, Miss Chickles retired to her usual place in the bar, and gossiped to outsiders about the present aspect of the case, while Sergeant Spills, the head of the Jarlchester police force, came forward to give his evidence. A crisp, dry-looking man, the Sergeant, with a crisp, dry manner, and a sharp ring in the tones of his voice; economical in his words, decisive in his speech.
"Charles Spills, sir, sergeant of the police in Jarlchester. Jim Bulkins reported death of deceased. Came here, saw body lying in bed. Clothes drawn up to chin. In my opinion, deceased died in his sleep. Examined bag of deceased. Contained linen (not marked), suit of clothes (not marked), toilet utensils of the usual kind. Drawing block and some lead pencils (much used)."
Coroner (prompted by London detective).—"Were there any drawings?"
Witness.—"No, sir."
Coroner.—"No sketches or faces on the block?"
Witness.—"No, sir! Clothes worn by deceased—dark blue serge suit, double-breasted."
Coroner.—"Any name on the clothes?"
Witness.—"No, sir! Tag used to hang up coat, on which tailor's name generally placed, torn off. Searched pockets; found penknife, loose silver (twelve shillings and sixpence), and box of pills laid before the jury. Silver watch on dressing-table—silver chain attached—silver sovereign purse containing six sovereigns. Nothing else."
Coroner.—"Nothing likely to lead to the name of deceased?"