James mind began to race once he heard this. “Iris, do you remember what this Elizabeth’s last name was?”

“Dane” she answered.

“I only say this because I know an Elizabeth Dane that lives just outside of Aleford, and I can’t imagine her being a murderer. Her family is a pillar in the community.” James said.

“Of course.” Iris countered, standing up. “This is why I wouldn’t tell the police. No one would believe the testimony of a runaway found at the scene of the crime.”

“I’m sorry Iris. I’m not calling you a liar. I just don’t quite know what to believe.” he said.

With that the door to the examining room opened, and Jeremiah Thorn called out “Young Lady? Young Lady?” He entered the study and said “Oh there you are. I was afraid you’d run off. I must’ve dozed; that surgery took a lot out of me.”

“Who underwent surgery?” she asked.

“You, Iris.” James said.

“What? When?” she said growing upset. It was then that she ran her fingers over her stitches.

“You may want to sit back down for this.” James said.