"Then you know nothing," said Derrick, obviously disappointed with the result of his examination.
"Absolutely nothing."
The inspector nursed his chin, and thought with his eyes on the ground. There was nothing else he could ask. Mr. Fane was the owner of Ajax Villa, and as this unknown woman had been murdered therein, Mr. Fane alone would be able to say how she had come by her death. In his past life might be found the reason that the poor creature should be so slain. "What did Mr. Fane do before he joined the firm?"
"Nothing," replied Laura, rousing herself from her own thoughts; "he is possessed of independent means and travelled a great deal. I suppose he grew weary of so aimless a life. However, my sister persuaded him to become a partner, which he did, after he married her."
"Hum!" said Derrick, not finding this reply threw any light on the subject. Then he cast his eyes round the room. "This is a queer place, Miss Mason. Mrs. Fane's idea?"
"No. Mr. Fane furnished the house. My sister does not like this room. It is too cold in its looks for her. Mr. Fane is fond of it. But the whole house was furnished before Mr. Fane married."
"For the marriage, I presume."
"No. Mr. Fane lived here as a bachelor for six months before he married my sister."
"But no doubt the engagement lasted six months, and Mr. Fane furnished the house as he thought your sister would like it."
"He did not. Mr. Fane married my sister at the end of three months, and before that he furnished the house according to his own taste."