Her words were addressed to the doctor, but she looked at Robin.
“Mary,” said Robin, “we are very near the truth now. But there is one thing you can tell us. It is very important. When you heard the shot in the library at Harkings, did you notice any other sound—before or after?”
The girl paused to think.
“There was a sort of sharp cry and a thud ...”
“I know. But was there anything else? Do try and remember. It’s so important!”
The girl was silent for a moment. Then she said slowly:
“Yes, there was, now I come to think of it. Just as I tried the door—it was locked, you know—there was a sort of hiss, harsh and rather loud, from the room ...”
“A sort of hiss, eh? Something like a sneeze?”
“Yes. Only louder and ... and ... harsher!”
“Now, answer me carefully! Was this before or after the shot?”