Dr. Marsland rested his arm upon the mantelpiece and drummed his fingers as he studied Anne’s face. “I am inclined to believe you. Therefore I suggest we allow Lady Celia’s passing to be observed without the indignity of twelve jurors marching into her room to stare and prod at her, not to mention the horrors of an autopsy. That is, of course, if you agree, Miss Fitzjohn.”
Katherine shuddered. “She would have hated that.”
Dr. Marsland nodded. “I believe you’re right. Again, I saw no obvious signs of opium poisoning. Unless there is specific evidence of wrongdoing, I will have no hesitation in signing the death certificate.”
Dr. Finch asked to pay his respects to Lady Celia, and no one objected, although Dr. Marsland and Katherine went upstairs with him. The younger physician asked Anne to accompany them as well.
When they entered the room, Dr. Finch asked, “Do you mind if I look more closely? Examine her—just for a moment?”
Dr. Marsland hesitated, and sent an inquiring look at Miss Fitzjohn.
“A second opinion is always a good idea,” she mildly replied.
Dr. Finch carefully pulled back the sheet. He looked into Lady Celia’s eyes, sniffed her mouth, and studied her extremities.
While he did so, Louie crept out from under the bed. Anne had forgotten about him during the crisis.
Katherine reached down and picked him up. “Oh, you poor thing.” She held him close, the two clearly drawing comfort from each other.
They all watched in silence for a few minutes longer as the younger physician continued his examination.
Finally, Miss Fitzjohn asked, “What do you think, Dr. Finch? Would I be wise to insist on an inquest? Dr. Marsland does not think it necessary.”
Dr. Finch glanced at the senior physician, clearly reluctant to contradict him.
Katherine then turned to Anne. “Do you really think someone may have given her a large dose of opium or some other poison?”
Anne hesitated. “I certainly thought so at the time. But I can’t prove it. It’s ... possible I was mistaken.”
Dr. Finch looked at Miss Fitzjohn and asked kindly, “Will you always wonder? Your mother was a woman of influence and wealth. It might be wise to do everything officially and correctly to assure yourself ... and others ... there is no doubt of the cause of death.”
Katherine considered. “I agree. Can you summon the coroner, or shall I send Buxton?”
“He’s in Stroud, I believe,” Dr. Marsland said. “I’ll ask the constable to alert him.”
“Thank you.”
She turned back to Anne. “Please stay on at least until after the coroner has come and gone. He may have questions.”
Anne nodded. “Of course.”
Dr. Finch added, “And please do not disturb anything or move or wash the body until the coroner has finished.”
“Oh. Very well,” Katherine replied. “I had not thought of that.”
Anne said to her, “Your mother sent me out earlier to ask Mr. Strong to call at four. Perhaps you might send Toby to let him know his presence is no longer required?”
Katherine’s brow furrowed. “Did she want him to come and pray for her, or ...?”
“To witness the signing of her will.”
“Good heavens! Then I am right to request an inquest. Yes, I will make sure he is informed.” Katherine turned to the older man. “Come, Dr. Marsland. I shall walk you out.” She exited the room, stroking Louie as she went.
Anne decided she would let Mrs. Pratt know she wasn’t needed either.
After the two had left, Dr. Finch lingered. He studied Anne in concern. “Are you all right?”
She chuckled rather bleakly. “No.”
