“Ran to him, and tried to put him in a more comfortable position, sir; but—”
“Yes; I understand.”
“Then I rushed up and called Mr Tom, sir; and we went to the squire together, and rang the bells and alarmed the house. Then, as soon as the boy had put the horse in the chaise, sir, I drove over to fetch you.”
“But did you do nothing to try and revive him?”
“Oh! yes, sir; but—”
“I understand,” said the doctor. “And Mr Tom?”
“He couldn’t believe it, sir. He said he played billiards with the squire for some time, and then grew tired and went to bed, leaving him knocking the balls about, and it’s all very plain, sir. I tell you of course, though I wouldn’t say so to another soul, poor Sir Luke used to take a great deal too much. I filled the spirit stand only this morning, and the brandy decanter was quite empty. He had a deal too, at dinner, before.”
“And you think he pitched downstairs, Smith?”
“Yes, sir; that is my belief,” said the butler; “and Mr Tom seemed to think so too.”
They reached the Hall to find every one in a state of the most intense excitement, but an ominous silence reigning through the place.