He was in to supper." "And went out afterwards ?" This was put more as a simple statement of fact than a question.

Again, Austin's subtle intelligence could see no better course than truth.
"He did.

My son frequently goes out walking of an evening after supper." "What time did he return--on this evening ?" "I do not know." "Do you mean that ?" Barrant's tone was incredulous.
"I do." The impulse which had dictated his previous answer sprang from the thought that the foolish females downstairs could not contradict it, and he adhered calmly to the course now he was committed to it.
"What time did Thalassa come for you from Flint House with the news that your brother was dead ?" "I do not know the exact time.

He called at the police station first." "Had not your son returned by then ?" "I am unable to inform you.

He frequently goes straight to his room when he returns from an evening walk." "Then you do not know whether he was in or out when you left the house ?" "I assumed he was in, as it was after his usual time for returning." "You did not go to his room, to see ?" "No.