"Then he must have opened it himself?"
"He wouldn't, sir. I'm sure he wouldn't."
"But how did Sir Jasper get in?"
"He was expected, sir, and when he went to the laboratory, the master always ordered extra food. He was very absent-minded, sir; but he always remembered that. He was very considerate, sir, too. He never forgot my birthday," and he broke down completely, his frail body shaken by sobs.
Rising, Malcolm Sage placed his hand upon the old man's shoulder. As if conscious of the unspoken message of sympathy inspired by the touch, the butler clasped the hand in both his own.
Inspector Carfon looked surprised.
"He was so kind, sir, so kind and thoughtful," he quavered. "I don't know what I shall do without him." There was in his voice something of the querulous appeal of a little child.
"Were letters ever taken to the laboratory?" enquired Malcolm Sage, walking over to the window and gazing out.
"Never, sir," was the reply. "Everything was kept until the professor returned to the house, even telegrams."
"Then he was absolutely cut off?" said Malcolm Sage, returning to his seat.