In response the butler appeared, ushering in a tall man, with cadaverous features and small, dark eyes, which peered restlessly about him.
"Richard Hobson," announced the coroner.
"At your service, sir," said the man, advancing with a cringing gait and fawning, apologetic smile.
"Mr.Hobson," said the coroner, after a few preliminaries, "I understand you were somewhat acquainted with the late Hugh Mainwaring." "Well, yes, sir, somewhat," the other replied in soft, insinuating tones, but with peculiar emphasis on the word used by Dr.Westlake.
"Indeed, I might say, without exaggeration, that I was probably better acquainted with that estimable gentleman than was any one in this country." "When did you last see Mr.Mainwaring ?" "I have not seen him to speak with him for fully twenty-three years." "You have corresponded with, him, however, in that time ?" The witness showed no surprise.
"We exchanged a few letters while I was in England.

I have neither heard from him nor written to him since coming to this country." "When did you last see him, regardless of whether you spoke to him or not ?" "Probably within the last two or three weeks.

I have occasionally met him on the street." "Did Mr.Mainwaring see you at any of these times ?" "If he did, he did not recognize me." "Did you see him when you called at Fair Oaks, Wednesday,--either morning or evening ?" "I did not." "Mr.Hobson, will you describe the man who accompanied you when you called in the evening, Wednesday ?" "I could give you a general description.

He was a large man, about my own height, but heavier, and rather good looking, on the whole.
But I am not good on details, such as complexion, color of hair, and so on; and then, you know, those little things are very easily changed." "What was his name ?" Mr.Hobson smiled blandly.

"The name by which I know him is John Carroll, but I have no idea as to his real name.