“Yes, sir. I think so.”
“Do you remember the New Year’s Eve when the young baronet was killed?”
“Yes, generally speaking, I do remember it.”
The stationmaster was evidently doubtful of the motives which actuated this cross-examination, and resolved not to commit himself to positive statements.
“You recollect, of course, that Mr. David Hume-Frazer was arrested and tried for the murder of his cousin?”
“Yes.”
“Very well. Now I want you to search your memory well and tell me if you saw anyone belonging to the family in the station on that New Year’s Eve. The terrible occurrence at Beechcroft the same night must have fixed the facts in your mind.”
The stationmaster, a cautious man of kindly disposition, seemed to be troubled by the interrogatory.
“Do you mind if I ask you, sir, why you are seeking this information?” he inquired, after a thoughtful pause.
“A very proper question. Mr. David Hume-Frazer is a friend of mine, and he has sought my help to clear away the mystery attached to his cousin’s death.”