"What are they?"
"Have you not been told?"
"No. Pray tell me."
"Well, the sad event took place so suddenly that a certain form has to be observed. In this case it will be the merest form."
"Some sort of certificate has to be got, I dare say?"
"Well, yes; if you put it in that way."
"And what must I do?"
"You say you know nothing of such matters as we are now talking about. The first advice I have to give you is, that you must repose full confidence in me. Remember, I am bound by a rule of my profession to respect any confidence you may place in me. I shall have to ask you questions which would be impertinent from any one but your legal adviser. Mind, all this is merely to save you annoyance hereafter. Will you trust me with the history of last night?"
"I will--as far as I may," faintly.
"I have heard something of last night. I will not trouble you with any inquiries that I do not consider absolutely necessary. You and Mr. Davenport arrived together yesterday evening, and came on to your new house close by, your furniture having preceded you by only a few hours, so that the house was all in disorder?"