Hushed Up!

"And he died mysteriously?" "The doctors certified that he died from natural causes--heart failure." "That is what the world believes, of course. His death was a nation's loss, and the truth was hushed up. But you, Phil Poland, know it. Upon the floor was found something--a cigar--eh?" "Nothing very extraordinary in that, surely? He died while smoking." "Yes," said the bald-headed man, bending towards the other and lowering his voice into a harsh whisper. "He died while smoking a cigar--a cigar that had been poisoned! You know it well enough. What's the use of trying to affect ignorance--_with me_!" "Well?" asked Philip Poland after a brief pause, his brows knit darkly and his face drawn and pale. "Well, I merely wish to recall that somewhat unpleasant fact, and to tell you that I know the truth," said the other with slow deliberation, his eyes fixed upon the man seated opposite him. "Why recall unpleasant facts?" asked Poland, with a faint attempt to smile. "I never do."