“I was.�
“What was the business that was taking you there?�
“Nothing of importance. You probably do not know it, but there is a burglar-proof vault beneath the north wing of the house at Pleasantglades. It was built there, when that wing was built, five years ago. The existence of it has been kept a secret. In that vault are some heirlooms and jewels, and other things of value—in fact, there is a fortune there, Mr. Carter, in jewels, securities, and bonds.â€�
“You were going there this morning, then, to visit that vault?�
“Yes.�
“For no other reason?�
“No; to tell you the truth there are some jewels there which I wished to present to my fiancée to-day. It happens to be her birthday. That was the reason for my proposed visit.�
“Your daughter knew of the existence of the vault?�
“Of course.�
“And what it contains?�