“That was the nearest window to the desk?”
“The nearest of the south windows. The desk stood between the two west windows.”
“Did you notice whether the shades were drawn?”
“They were drawn to the west windows, but were raised to all four of the south windows.”
“Were you long in the room?”
“Only long enough to say ‘good-night’ and ask him not to read too late.”
“What did he say to this?”
“Laughed, as he always did, when I spoke of his sitting up late, and,” in a voice that was almost a sob; “said, ‘You know, mother, I can’t get over my bad habits, but really to-night I’m only going to read a chapter or two more, for I must write a letter and then go to bed. I’ve got a busy day to-morrow.’”
“Was that all he said?”
“Excepting ‘good-night.’”