XI – “I DECLINE TO SAY”––––––––
SCHUYLER CARLETON was questioned next. When Mr. Benson asked him to tell his story, he hesitated and finally said that he would prefer to have the coroner ask direct questions, which he would answer.
"Did you go away from this house with the other guests at about ten o'clock last evening?"
"No, I was not here at dinner. I left at about half-past five in the afternoon."
"Where did you go?"
"I went directly home and remained there until late in the evening."
"Mr. Fessenden was with you?"
"He was with us at dinner. He is staying at my house, as he was invited to be best man at the wedding."
Though this statement came calmly from Carleton's lips, it was evident to all that he fully appreciated the tragic picture it suggested.
"He was with you through th
