murderer?"

"Loose the cord, and I will question the boy," said Dr. Park, with an
air of authority.

Carl breathed a sigh of relief, when, freed from his bonds, he stood
upright.

"I'll tell you all I know," he said, "but it won't throw any light upon
the death."

Dr. Park listened attentively, and asked one or two questions.

"Did you hear any noise when you were sitting at the table?" he
inquired.

"No, sir."

"Was the door closed?"

"Yes, sir."

"That of itself would probably prevent your hearing anything. Mrs.
Brown, at what hour did you leave the house?"

"At ten minutes of twelve."

"It is now five minutes of one. The deed must have been committed just
after you left the house. Had you noticed anything out of the way in
your--husband's manner?"