Agatha Christie: The Mysterious Affair at Styles

CHAPTER 6. THE INQUEST (continued)

"That is all."

The examination was over, though I doubted if the Coroner was entirely satisfied with it. I think he suspected that Mary Cavendish could tell more if she chose.

Amy Hill, shop assistant, was next called, and deposed to having sold a will form on the afternoon of the 17th to William Earl, under-gardener at Styles.

William Earl and Manning succeeded her, and testified to witnessing a document. Manning fixed the time at about 4.30, William was of the opinion that it was rather earlier.

Cynthia Murdoch came next. She had, however, little to tell. She had known nothing of the tragedy, until awakened by Mrs. Cavendish.

"You did not hear the table fall?"

"No. I was fast asleep."

The Coroner smiled.

"A good conscience makes a sound sleeper," he observed. "Thank you, Miss Murdoch, that is all."

"Miss Howard."

Miss Howard produced the letter written to her by Mrs. Inglethorp on the evening of the 17th. Poirot and I had, of course already seen it. It added nothing to our knowledge of the tragedy. The following is a facsimile:

                            STYLES COURT
               ESSEX hand written note:  July 17th
 My dear Evelyn

Can we not bury the hachet? I have found it hard to forgive the
 things you said

against my dear husband but I am an old woman & very fond of you

Yours affectionately,

     Emily Inglethorpe

It was handed to the jury who scrutinized it attentively.