He could not see the library windows without crossing the smoking-room.

That he would not do.
He was a stickler for correctness in all matters, and he knew that the scene of a crime must be left untrampled.
He turned and said: "We will leave everything just as it is till the police come.

And telephone at once to Doctor Thornhill, and ask him to come.

If he is out, tell them to get word to him, Wilkins." Wilkins and Holloway filed out of the room before him; he followed them out, locked the door and put the key in his pocket.

Then he opened the door from the hall into the library.