time to time a whisky and soda before going to bed. He never seemed to form a
habit of it. Often I used to find his glass in the morning with only a little
soda water in it; sometimes he would have been having whisky with it, but
never much. He never was particular about his drinks; ordinary soda was what
he preferred, though I had ventured to suggest some of the natural minerals,
having personally acquired a taste for them in my previous service. He used to
keep them in the cupboard here, because he had a great dislike of being waited
on more than was necessary. It was an understood thing that I never came near
him after dinner unless sent for. And when he sent for anything, he liked it
brought quick, and to be left alone again at once. He hated to be asked if he
required anything more. Amazingly simple in his tastes, sir, Mr. Manderson
was.'

'Very well; and he rang for you that night about a quarter past eleven. Now
can you remember exactly what he said?'

I think I can tell you with some approach to accuracy, sir. It was not much.
Zzz First he asked me if Mr. Bunner had gone to bed, and I replied that he had
been gone up some time. He then said that he wanted some one to sit up until
12.30, in case an important message should come by telephone, and that Mr.
Marlowe having gone to Southampton for him in the motor, he wished me to do
this, and that

I was to take down the message if it came, and not disturb him. He also
ordered a fresh syphon of soda water. I believe that was all, sir.'

'You noticed nothing unusual about him, I suppose?'

'No, sir, nothing unusual. When I answered the ring, he was seated at the desk
listening at the telephone, waiting for a number, as I supposed. He gave his