“Did you recognise the visitor?”
“Yes, it was Mr. Thoyne.”
I glanced at Thoyne, who had started from his seat as if with intention to intervene, then resumed it again as one who had thought better of it.
“Were they—was it a friendly interview?”
“Well—they disagreed—”
“I protest, Mr. Coroner,” Thoyne cried explosively, rising to his feet.
“If you desire to give evidence later—” the coroner began suavely.
“I have no desire to give evidence—I have none to give,” Thoyne cried. “This interview which was purely private, took place hours before the—the tragedy, and had nothing to do with it.”
“Please be silent, Mr. Thoyne,” the coroner said a little sharply, “and allow me to conduct the inquiry in my own way. You shall, if you desire, have an opportunity later.”
He turned again to Mrs. Halfleet.