As briefly as she could she told of what had happened to her since she had left home, how Homer Bulson had followed her up, and what he had done at Lakewood. Then she spoke of Van Pelt and Nelson, and how they could prove that Bulson had purchased several books on poisons. At this last revelation Mark Horton grew deadly pale.
"And you think——" He faltered, and paused. "Oh, Heavens, can it be possible? My own nephew!"
"I would have the wine analyzed," said Gertrude. "And I would have him watched carefully."
At that moment came a ring at the front door bell, and the doctor appeared.
"Ah, Miss Horton!" he said with a smile. "I am glad that you are back."
"Doctor, I want that wine examined without delay," broke in the retired merchant.
"Examined? What for?"
"See if it is pure. I have an idea it is impure."
The doctor smiled, thinking this was another of the sick man's whims. But Gertrude called him aside.
"We think the wine is poisoned," she whispered. "Examine it as soon as you can, and report to me."