subject in hand.  These very mummy smells arise from the presence of substances, and combinations of substances, which the Egyptian priests, who were the learned men and scientists of their time, found by the experience of centuries to be strong enough to arrest the natural forces of decay.  There must be powerful agencies at work to effect such a purpose; and it is possible that we may have here some rare substance or combination whose qualities and powers are not understood in this later and more prosaic age.  I wonder if Mr. Trelawny has any knowledge, or even suspicion, of such a kind?  I only know this for certain, that a worse atmosphere for a sick chamber could not possibly be imagined; and I admire the courage of Sir James Frere in refusing to have anything to do with a case under such conditions.  These instructions of Mr. Trelawny to his daughter, and from what you have told me, the care with which he has protected his wishes through his solicitor, show that he suspected something, at any rate.  Indeed, it would almost seem as if he expected something to happen. . . .  I wonder if it would be possible to learn anything about that!  Surely his papers would show or suggest something. . . .  It is a difficult matter to tackle; but it might have to be done.  His present condition cannot go on for ever; and if anything should happen there would have to be an inquest.  In such case full examination would have to be made into everything. . . .  As it stands, the police evidence would show a murderous attack more than once repeated.  As no clue is apparent, it would be necessary to seek one in a motive.”

He was silent.  The last words seemed to come in a lower and lower tone as he went on.  It had the effect of hopelessness.  It came to me as a conviction that now was my time to find out if he had any definite suspicion; and as if in obedience to some command, I asked: 

“Do you suspect anyone?” He seemed in a way startled rather than surprised as he turned his eyes on me: 

“Suspect anyone?  Any thing, you mean.  I certainly suspect that there is some influence; but at present my suspicion is held within such limit.  Later on, if there be any sufficiently definite conclusion to my reasoning, or my thinking—­for there are not proper data for reasoning—­I may suspect; at present however—­”

He stopped suddenly and looked at the door.  There was a faint sound as the handle turned.  My own heart seemed to stand still.  There was over me some grim, vague apprehension.  The interruption in the morning, when I was talking with the Detective, came back upon me with a rush.

The door opened, and Miss Trelawny entered the room.

When she saw us, she started back; and a deep flush swept her face.  For a few seconds she paused; at such a time a few succeeding seconds seem to lengthen in geometrical progression.  The strain upon me, and, as I could easily see, on the Doctor also, relaxed as she spoke: