High and low Inspector Keene ranged; looking into cupboards and dark closets, sounding the panelled walls and poking at imaginary trapdoors. With the exception of the old crone, who accompanied us, and a great tabby cat lying before the kitchen-fire, no trace of living soul was visible.
"Where's young Mr. Thorneley?" said the inspector to her when our visitation was made.
"Never heard on him."
"Who lives here?"
"Only myself."
"Where's the lady who came here yesterday evening?"
A curious gleam shot from the old woman's eyes.
"Dunno; no lady here."
"I shall take you into custody, if you won't tell."
"Then you mun do it--I'se nothing to say."