“I can readily understand that,” said the physician. “Mister Marchand was very forgetful. He used to complain of the fact to me.
“When he arrived home last night he was worried. He went upstairs in haste. It is not at all surprising that he forgot to take the proper precaution.
“The document in that secret compartment was evidently of great importance to him. He wanted to be sure that it was safe. He did not realize the mistake he was making.”
“Perhaps you’re right, doctor,” agreed Paget. “Mister Marchand used to forget some very important matter regarding his investments.”
“Willis will remember this,” declared the physician. “When Mister Marchand installed the tear-gas ejector on the closet, he nearly set it off by mistake. Mister Marchand told me about that himself.”
“Yes, sir,” said Willis. “He also had trouble with the alarm on the safe. He forgot to disconnect it three times. Both Oscar and I answered it.”
Inspector Klein approached the secretary.
“Did you have any knowledge of this secret drawer in the desk?” he asked.
“No, sir,” replied Willis.
“How about you?” asked the inspector, addressing Oscar.