"And he hasn't been notified about the morphine?"
"What's the use? Drumm's a good doctor, and Von Blon might blab about it to Sibella or somebody."
"Quite right." Vance nodded his approval.
We re-entered the hall and divested ourselves of our wraps.
"While we're waiting for Doctor Drumm," said Markham, "we might as well find out what Sproot knows."
We went into the drawing-room, and Heath yanked the bell-cord. The old butler came directly and stood before us without the slightest trace of emotion. His imperturbability struck me as inhuman.
Markham beckoned him to come nearer.
"Now, Sproot, tell us exactly what took place."
"I was in the kitchen resting, sir"—the man's voice was as wooden as usual—"and I was just looking at the clock and thinking I would resume my duties, when the bell of Miss Ada's room rang. Each bell, you understand, sir"
"Never mind that! What time was it?"
"It was exactly eleven o'clock. And, as I said, Miss Ada's bell rang. I went right up-stairs and knocked on her door; but, as there was no answer, I took the liberty of opening it and looking into the room. Miss Ada was lying on the bed; but it was not a natural attitude—if you understand what I mean. And then I noticed a very peculiar thing, sir. Miss Sibella's little dog was on the bed"
"Was there a chair or stool by the bed?" interrupted Vance.
