The present
contention is that Mrs. Inglethorp died of strychnine poisoning,
presumably administered in her coffee."
"Yes?"
"Well, what time was the coffee served?"
"About eight o'clock."
"Therefore she drank it between then and half-past eight--
certainly not much later. Well, strychnine is a fairly rapid
poison. Its effects would be felt very soon, probably in about
an hour. Yet, in Mrs. Inglethorp's case, the symptoms do not
manifest themselves until five o'clock the next morning: nine
hours! But a heavy meal, taken at about the same time as the
poison, might retard its effects, though hardly to that extent.
Still, it is a possibility to be taken into account. But,
according to you, she ate very little for supper, and yet the
symptoms do not develop until early the next morning! Now that is
a curious circumstance, my friend. Something may arise at the
autopsy to explain it. In the meantime, remember it."
As we neared the house, John came out and met us. His face
looked weary and haggard.
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