"The door was opened by a man-servant, and as I stepped into the hall suspicion increased. The place was furnished after a fashion but there was a sort of musty smell about everything that you only get in a house that has been empty for some time. However, I said nothing, of course, and a moment later a man came down the stairs.
"'This is Doctor Phillips,' said my companion.
"He shook hands, and led the way into one of the downstair rooms.
"'An unfortunate home-coming for your brother!' he said. 'Our matron has told you, I suppose?'
"'She tells me that Arthur has been badly damaged in a motor accident,' I answered. 'And I should like to see him at once, please.'
"He held up his hand.
"'One moment, my dear young lady,' he remarked--and if there's one thing that drives me to drink it's
