"What were the circumstances of her placing the rings on the pin-cushion? First, when did it occur? After all the guests had arrived?"
"Yes," said Beecher, who immediately corrected himself. "No, I'm wrong; Slade arrived later. But, as I say, he was a surprise. Majendie was the last of the invited party to come. Immediately afterward Mrs. Kildair went into her bedroom to put on an apron and take off her rings."
"Who was in the room?"
"Mrs. Cheever, Miss Lille, and Garraboy," said Beecher slowly.
"They saw her take off the ring?"
"Yes; they even announced it later."
"Was there much passing to and fro?"
"All the time. I am quite sure every one was in the room several times."
"Did any one use the hall?" said the detective, indicating it on the plan. "I see it opens into the dining-room also."
"Quite a number," said Beecher. "I remember using it myself. We were all going and coming, carrying dishes, glasses, bottles, provisions."