The Huttig news. (Huttig, Ark.) 1907-1955, 1912-01-20
CHAPTER TX.
Word From Lcpan.


against the relentless fate that mark
ed her as its victim Her sensitive
nature reeoiled from contact with the
miserable creatures into whose midst
she was suddenly thrust. No longer
could she find solaee in tears, for the
long drain had exhausted the supply.
The gloom of her surroundings pene-
trated the innermost sanctuary of her
soul
Doctor Fitch was in the reception
room.
A grcan, as of physical pain, came
from Fitch as he beheld Miss Holcomb
in the wan light that filtered through
the window. Her distress reacted on
his sensibilities; he could utter no
word of encouragement.
at is awful he moaned, as he led
her into corner of the room
And they all believe me guilty."
she asked despairingly
N:ot all, ne returned, there is one
whose faith is mistaken | talked with
The lawyer to-day He says they have
Mt sgfi cient evidence to convict, and
that while the case looks ugly. there
is nothing to fear. He is in favor of
a speedy trial.
Then even If am set free my
raue will remain smirched," she de-
Glazed
Your name will be cleared of all
suspicion"
1T Is so good to have You near
could come to me-
They became vaguely conscious of
mans form outlined in the murky
ight of the room. As the figure
gradually shaped Itself 10 Fftch's
eyes, his hand slipped from her waist
and he rose to his feet.
Lieutenant Britt" he exclaimed.
The detective came out of the OBJ
security of The opposite wall. and, dof.
ing his hat, respectfully addressed
hem:
ct l. u7uruel, know. for police
officer to ask infosn alton OF a prison
or held for the Grand jury Before
Miss Holcomb replies to the questions
an about to ask, | think it might le
well for her to seek the advice of
counsel
ISIS IIolcomb will answer any
questions you may ask" Fitch replied.
She has nothing to hide"
The impenetrable face of the de-
tective gave no insight to his
thoughts. He drew chair close 10
the expectant couple, shifting his gaze
from Fitch to the face of the young
woman. Though he gave no sign of
it, he read the acute suffering she felt
Miss Hoicomb,' he began. when
were you last in Europe with Mrs.
Nafssionere''
A little less than a year and half
ago" came the the quick response.
Was that before or after the Fas t
indian servant entered the employ OF
Mrs Missioner"
"He was ems aged after we came
back"
Did yor meet Mr. Sands or VT.
Griswold abroad?"
I'VE met both of them in London
and Paris"
Did Mrs. Missioner have the CO..
larette with her? | mean the one
with the Maharanee diamond?"
"She did
The detective settled back in his
chair, his chin in his hands. as ii lest
in deep thought The strange pai!or
of his face. shaded by the waning
light, gave him the appearance o.
dark clay image. Miss Holcomb look
ed inquiringiy at him. seeking sons
explanation of his pulling questions.
The case is more battling taan
ever" he said in res ponse TO her que s.
tioring look. When | began my in
vestigation, | was firmly convinced Of
your innocence"
And now" interrupted DR. Fitch.
Il am seeking the light
DO you wish to ask Miss Helcomb
any further questions?" Fitch asked.
She is only too anxious to eniighten
yoH"
The Diet, ctiye's eyes narrowed on
he young woman.
There Is some information that I
want, Miss Holcomb: believe You
can supply IT. After brief reflection,
he asked: "Mr. Sands and Mr. Girls
void are frequent visitors at the
house of Mrs. Missioner"
Both call very frequently" Miss
Holeomb replied.
And their visits are inspired by a
feeling that is stronger than friend
ship"
Miss Holcomb looked at Fitch as If
in doubt what TO say.
BE perfectly frank" he adyis ed
4 be ieye both have proposed mar
riage to her" she informed him.
And Mrs Missioner-she prefers
which one"
Il don't know" came the prompt
response
You mean she has never indicated
her preference to you? Come now.
surely in burst of confidence she
dropped some hint as to her inclina-
lions -
1t was plain to Britt that Miss Hol-
comb reyolted against violating the
intimate condolences of her employer.