"I think that is all, Doctor," he announced, "you are excused."
There was a slight pause, and the deputy coroner, who had been taking the testimony, laid down his pen and gently massaged his hand. The next instant at the coroner's direction, the morgue master ushered in Detective Mitchell. The detective, after being duly sworn, told his full name and length of service in the District force, and briefly described his arrival at the Whitney residence.
"You examined the body in the elevator?" questioned the coroner.
"Yes, Doctor."
"Was Mr. Spencer dressed?"
"Yes, sir, except for coat, waistcoat, collar, and shoes."
"Are these the clothes he had on at the time of his death?" The coroner pointed to a pile of wearing apparel lying on the desk.
"Yes, Doctor."
"Did you search for the weapon with which Mr. Spencer's throat was gashed?"
"At once, sir," answered Mitchell promptly. "At the back of the elevator near the body I found this"—holding up a short bone-handled knife which he took from his coat pocket. "The blade was covered with blood."