"Was this known to many persons? That is, that the coffin was not again to be opened?"
"It was known of course to the two brothers, and also to the undertaker and two of his assistants who were present."
"The undertaker himself closed the casket, I presume?"
"Yes. He was closing it as I escorted the widow back to her own room."
"Did the brothers leave the room with you?"
"So that the body was left with the undertaker and his men, after they knew that it was not to be opened again?"
"No. I left almost immediately after taking the widow to her own room and seeing her comfortably lying down, apparently recovered from the hysterical spell which I had been summoned to check. You know, of course, that the Quadrant residence is but a block from here."
"There is one more point, Doctor. Of what disease did Mr. Quadrant die?"
"My diagnosis was what in common parlance I may call cancer of the stomach. This, of course, I only knew from the symptoms. That is to say, there had been no operation, as the patient was strenuously opposed to such a procedure. He repeatedly said to me, 'I would rather die than be cut up.' A strange prejudice in these days of successful surgery, when the knife in skilful hands promises so much more than medication."
"Still these symptoms were sufficient in your own mind to satisfy you that your diagnosis was accurate?"
"I can only say in reply that I have frequently in the presence of similar symptoms performed an operation, and always with the same result. The cancer was always present."
"Now the coroner's autopsy on the body at the Morgue is said to have shown that death was due to disease. Do you know what they discovered?"
"Dr. Elliot told me that it was cancer of the stomach."
"Why, then, the identification seems absolute?"
Mr. Barnes next called at the home of the Quadrants, and was informed that both of the gentlemen were out. With some hesitation he sent a brief note in to the widow, explaining his purpose and asking for an interview. To his gratification his request was granted, and he was shown up to that lady's reception-room.
"I fear, madame," said he, "that my visit may seem an intrusion, but I take the deepest sort of interest in this sad affair of your husband, and I would much appreciate having your permission and authority to investigate it, with the hope of discovering the wrong-doers."