“Not just now. Coroner Penfield is waiting for me,” he added by way of explanation.
“Then I will see you later,” and with a quick bow Lucille hurried toward the staircase.
As Curtis stood listening to her light footfall he heard some one approaching from the servants’ wing of the house.
“That you, Fernando?” he questioned.
“Yes, sir,” and the Filipino boy bowed respectfully. “I ver’ late. Please pardon. This way, sir,” and he touched Curtis’ arm to indicate the direction.
“Just a moment,” Curtis lowered his voice. “What color is Miss Hull’s hair?”
“Mees Hull,” Fernando paused in thought. “She got what you call red hair.”
Curtis tucked his cane under his arm and took out his wallet. Opening it he carefully drew out several hairs.
“What color are these, Fernando?” he asked. “Look carefully.”
Fernando bent over and then glanced up, a mild surprise at the question in his sharp black eyes.