said Sheppard. Gregory handed him the written report. “This is a complete summary, sir.” Sheppard opened the folder and began reading: “9:40 A.M. J. Hansel dies at breakfast of heart attack. Dr. Adams certifies death. “2:00 P.M. Undertaker arrives. Hansel’s sister doesn’t want to give clothing. Undertaker puts naked body in coffin, takes it to mortuary. “5:00 P.M. Constable Atkins begins tour at mortuary. Body in open coffin. Door held shut by piece of lath stuck through latch. “11:00 P.M. Constable Sticks begins tour. Checks mortuary by opening door. No changes. Begins to snow. N.B. Cat may have slipped into mortuary around this time while Sticks not looking. “3:00 A.M. Williams relieves Sticks. Doesn’t open door, shines flashlight through window in presence of Sticks, who ascertains nothing is changed, then returns to town.
