Authentic Science Fiction Monthly, No. 67 — page 134: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

DR. BLAISE They found him most co- operative. *““Mr. Stock,”’ he said, ““was a very old friend of both myself and my wife, and we are most anxious to give any help we can.” “So far as we can trace,” said the detective-sergeant in charge, a rather stout indi- vidual not far short of retiring age, “you were the last per- son to have seen him before his disappearance.” “‘Indeed,”’ said Dr. Blaise, raising his eyebrows. “I was not aware of that.” “Perhaps you would like to make a short statement about what took place on_ that occasion ?”’ said the detective- sergeant. “By all means,” said Dr. Blaise. “‘I cannot remember the exact date—it was about eight or nine months ago. He rang me one afternoon and said that as he was in town could he come along and have a chat with me.” “Did he want to see you about anything in particular?” “No. Nothing concerning 133 ‘me personally. He did men- tion that he might not have another opportunity of see- ing me for some time as there was some possibility that he might have to go to South America.” “Did he give any reason for this?’ “No. I didn’t press him for details. The whole business was enshrouded in mystery— but that was just like him.” ‘What time did he arrive?” “About three in the after- noon, as far as I can rfe- member.” “Did anyone see him arrive ?”’ “Yes. My parlour maid. She let him in.” “Did she see him go?’ “No. I don’t think so. I saw him to the door myself.” “What time would that be?” , “Oh—some time after 4 p.m. I should say. We had a couple of drinks. He stayed for about an hour.” V1 8e6. The plump detective- sergeant stroked his chin re- comicloooks.conm