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Lawrence Cavendish was then put into the box In a low voice, in answer to Mr Philips' questions, he denied having ordered anything from Parkson's in June In fact, on June 29th, he had been staying away, in Wales

Instantly, Sir Ernest's chin was shooting pugnaciously forward

"You deny having ordered a black beard from Parkson's on June 29th?"

"I do"

"Ah! In the event of anything happening to your brother, ill inherit Styles Court?"

The brutality of the question called a flush to Lawrence's pale face The judge gave vent to a faint murmur of disapprobation, and the prisoner in the dock leant forward angrily

Heavywether cared nothing for his client's anger

"Answer my question, if you please"

"I suppose," said Lawrence quietly, "that I should"

"What do you mean by you 'suppose'? Your brother has no children You would inherit it, wouldn't you?"

"Yes"

"Ah, that's better," said Heavywether, with ferocious geniality "And you'd inherit a good slice of money too, wouldn't you?"

"Really, Sir Ernest," protested the judge, "these questions are not relevant"

Sir Ernest bowed, and having shot his arrow proceeded

"On Tuesday, the 17th July, you went, I believe, with another guest, to visit the dispensary at the Red Cross Hospital in Tadminster?"

"Yes"

"Did you--while you happened to be alone for a few seconds--unlock the poison cupboard, and examine some of the bottles?"