And
comforting himself with the thought that if need arose the apparently
fairly respectable proprietors of these places might reasonably be called
upon for assistance, he rang the bell of Number 23 and awaited the
opening of the door with considerable curiosity.
The door was opened by Mrs. Killenhall herself, and Viner's quick eye
failed to notice anything in her air or manner that denoted uneasiness.
She smiled and motioned him to enter, shutting the door after him as he
stepped into the narrow entrance hall.
"So very good of you to come, Mr. Viner, and so quickly," she said. "You
found your way all right?"
"Yes, but I'm a good deal surprised to find you and Miss Wickham in this
neighbourhood," answered Viner. "This is a queer place, Mrs.
Killenhall. I hope--"
"Oh, we're all right!" said Mrs. Killenhall, with a reassuring smile. "It
is certainly a queer neighbourhood, but Dr. Martincole is an old friend
of mine, and we're safe enough under his roof. He'll be here in a few
minutes, and then--"
"This man who knew Mr. Ashton?" interrupted Viner. "Where is he?"
"Dr. Martincole will bring him in," said Mrs.
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