In each of them two entities were now apparent--a surface consciousness, which talked and acted mechanically, and a secondary inner consciousness, watchful, and fearful of misinterpretation of the spoken word.

The faculties which make up the human mind are different and complex, and mysteriously blended.

It may be that when tragedy upsets the frail structure of human life the brute instincts of watchfulness and self-preservation come uppermost, guarding against chance suspicion, or the loud word of accusation.

Perhaps through Musard's mind was passing the thought of the strange manner in which the murder had been committed, and how he, by detaining everybody downstairs at the dinner table while he told his story had been an instrument in its accomplishment.
The situation was terminated by the arrival of Tufnell with some hot water.

Almost on his heels came the young men who had been searching the house.