"She gave orders to the tradesmen sometimes, and I have heard the bell ringing occasionally. You see, the kitchen is a basement one, and the bell might often ring without my hearing it."
"Did your mistress smoke?" Quarles asked suddenly.
"No, sir."
"How do you know she didn't?"
"I have heard her say she didn't agree with women smoking. Besides, when doing the rooms I should have found cigarette-ends."
"That seems conclusive," said Quarles. "Yesterday was Wednesday, your night out?"
"Yes, sir."
"Is Wednesday always your night out?"
"It is."
"From six to ten?"