However, he said no more, having learned as much as was possible from this tricky woman.

"I must go now," he said, "I have examined the house." Mrs.Octagon led the way upstairs.

"And have you any clue ?" "None! None! I wish you could assist me." "I ?" she exclaimed indignantly, "no, my sister and I were not friends, and I will have nothing to do with the matter.

Good-day," and Mrs.
Octagon sailed away, after ushering the detective out of the door.
Jennings departed, wondering at this change of front.

As he passed through the gate a fair, stupid-looking man entered.