Perhaps his secretary could give you the desired information." "I have often seen a revolver lying in Mr.Mainwaring's desk," said the secretary; "but I doubt whether I could identify it, as I never observed it closely.

I should judge, however, that this was the same size and make." "Would it not be well to see if it is still there ?" suggested the attorney.

"I suppose you have a key to the desk." "I have, sir," he replied, at the same time producing it.

Crossing the room, he unlocked and opened the desk.

An instant later, he announced, as he closed the desk, "It is not here." There was a subdued murmur, and Mr.Thornton was heard to exclaim, "Suicide! That has been my impression all along." Ralph Mainwaring glanced inquiringly at the attorney, who shook his head emphatically, while the coroner once more inspected the wound with an air of perplexity.
"Doctor," inquired Ralph Mainwaring, "in your opinion, how long has life been extinct ?" "I should judge about eight or nine hours," replied Dr.Hobart.
"What would you say, Dr.Westlake ?" "That would be my judgment, also." "You would say that death was instantaneous ?" questioned the attorney.
"Without a doubt.