“Is there such a thing as a long scaling ladder on the premises?” inquired the coroner, after he had asked Nicodemus’ full name and length of service.
“No, suh; dey isn’t, only a pa’r ob steps so high”—demonstrating with his hand. “Dat’s der onliest one on de place.”
“Is any house being built in this neighborhood?”
“No, suh, dar isn’t.”
“How did you come to put the maid in that room?”
“I didn’t put her dar,” in quick defence; “she went dar ob her own accord; ’deed dat’s so, Marse Douglas,” appealing to him directly. “De Cunnel, he done tole Sophy an’ me ter fix three rooms fo’ de ladies, an’ a room fo’ yo’, suh; he done say nuffin’ about de maid, Annette.”
“Then you were not expecting her?”
“No, suh. I was ’sprised when Miss Eleanor brunged her. After I haid shown de ladies ter dey rooms I took Annette up ter de third flo’, an’ tole her she could take de front room dar.”
“Then how did she come to be occupying the other room?” asked the coroner quickly.
“It were dis-away, suh; jes’ befo’ dinnah she cum ter me an’ Sophy an’ say she doan like de room in de third flo’——”