“Mr. Thoyne went out of the room banging the door behind him.”
“Quite true, Mr. Coroner,” Thoyne cried. “I went home—to get the prussic acid. I had forgotten to take it with me.”
The coroner took no notice but turned to Mrs. Halfleet.
“Had you heard anything previously of Sir Philip’s engagement?”
“No.”
“Had not heard his name coupled with that of any lady?”
“Never a whisper.”
Mrs. Halfleet was asked a number of further questions, chiefly regarding household arrangements and with special regard to glasses and bottles. But she added nothing to the information already set forth. And it all appeared very tame after the Thoyne sensation. As she left the witness’s chair, Ronald Thoyne sprang to his feet.
“Do you intend to call me, Mr. Coroner?” he demanded.
“No,” replied the coroner, “I have nothing to ask you. Do you desire to tender any evidence?”