human
Were you at Mr. Birtwell's to-night?
gpt
I was,
human
Did you see my son there?
gpt
Yes, sir.
human
At what time did you leave?
gpt
Less than an hour ago. I had not retired when your summons came.
human
Was Archie there when you left?
gpt
No, I think not.
human
Are you sure about it?
gpt
Yes, very sure. I remember now, quite distinctly, seeing him come down from the dressing-room with his hat in his hand and go through the hall toward the street door.
human
How long ago was that?
gpt
About an hour and a half; perhaps longer.
human
Isn't he at home?
gpt
No; and I am exceedingly anxious about him.
human
Doctor, he said, laying his hand on the physician's arm and speaking huskily,
gpt
I want you to answer me truly. Had he taken much wine?
human
On such occasions most people take wine freely. It flows like water, you know. I don't think your son indulged more than any one else; indeed, not half so much as some young men I saw there.
gpt
Archie is young, and not used to wine. A single glass would be more to him than half a dozen to older men who drink habitually. Did you see him take wine often?
human
He was in the supper-room for a considerable time. When I left it, I saw him in the midst of a group of young men and girls, all with glasses of champagne in their hands.
gpt
How long was this before you saw him go away?
human
Half an hour, perhaps,
gpt
Did he go out alone?
human
I believe so.