"Yes, sir. I have been in twice, sir, to open the windows and air the place against Mrs. Darwin's coming home," he replied.
"And while you were there did you hear any sounds, a person walking, for instance?" continued McKelvie.
Mason looked at him in great surprise. "Oh, no, sir. There is no one in the house now, sir."
"Is there an attic to the house?"
"Yes, sir; but I'm sure there's no one there. I went in yesterday morning to put away Mr. Darwin's things, sir."
"Have you any provisions in the house?" was the next question.
"Yes, sir, for myself."
"Prepare some broth for me, please. I'll send for it when I want it."
"Yes, sir."
"What's the idea? Do you think she's starving, too?" asked Jones, as we crossed the passageway and entered the main hall.