The Inquest
Judge Whitcomb was called down from London and convened an inquest into the deaths of Evangeline and Hollis Blake. A fire that had spread throughout the home from an ungrated hearth was determined the cause of the couple’s death. There was no evidence of foul play. Leslie—considered a close friend of the wife—was called to testify to her state of mind, as was their housekeeper in London, Mrs. Iles.
Knowing Leslie as well as she did, Caroline suggested he stick to the facts and not let his emotions run wild. And so he told the judge of his and Evangeline’s growing friendship, their frequent visits together, the great love she expressed for her husband, Hollis, and her general mood that was mostly cheerful if a bit wistful at times. “As the elderly tend to get,” Leslie added,
