Death And The Maiden

15

‘I would like to know more of Fraulein Rosenkrantz’s medical history,’ said Rheinhardt, ‘and I am particularly interested in those illnesses that she might have suffered from during the spring and summer months.’

‘We have already discussed all that could possibly be relevant,’ said Doctor Engelberg testily.

‘Even so,’ said Rheinhardt.

Engelberg pulled open the drawer of his cabinet and selected a green folder. Returning to his seat, he said, ‘What was it you wanted, illnesses in the spring and summer months?’

‘That is correct.’

The doctor scrutinised his notes.

‘She had a stomach complaint. But nothing else in March and April, other than the problems you already know about. She complained of difficulty swallowing for the first time on the third of February, and I referred her to Professor Saminsky four weeks later.’

‘Stomach complaint?’

‘A little indigestion, that’s all.’

Engelberg’s index finger dropped down the margin. He hummed contemplatively.

‘What is it?’ asked Rheinhardt.

‘My entry dated April the twenty-seventh: fever, lower abdominaltenderness, and vaginal discharge. A gynaecological problem — an infection of some kind — I advised Fraulein Rosenkrantz to rest.’

‘Frau Marcus mentioned that Fraulein Rosenkrantz was confined to her bed because of what she called a ladies’ problem.’

‘Indeed.’

‘Did you identify the illness?’

‘Not specifically. There was no need. I knew it would clear up soon enough.’

‘But you must have examined your patient?’

The doctor appeared outraged by Rheinhardt’s suggestion. ‘Not invasively, no.’

‘But surely it would have been appropriate for you to do so.’

Engelberg shook his head. ‘A doctor must have good cause to compromise a woman’s dignity.’

Rheinhardt hesitated before continuing: ‘Is it possible that Fraulein Rosenkrantz had contracted a venereal disease?

‘No.’

‘You’re quite sure?’

‘Yes.’

‘Then could the infection have developed subsequent to a termination?’

Engelberg started. ‘What are you implying, Inspector?’ Rheinhardt did not respond. Engelberg tutted and said, ‘Yes, I suppose the infection might have been caused by a termination, but Fraulein Rosenkrantz gave me no reason to believe that this was a cause I should be considering. What have you found out, Inspector? Perhaps you would be so kind as to speak frankly.’

‘Fraulein Rosenkrantz fell pregnant in the spring.’

‘Who told you that?’ said Engelberg, evidently unconvinced.

‘An associate of hers.’

Engelberg tapped his notes. ‘She didn’t complain of these symptoms until late April.’

‘Perhaps she felt ashamed, embarrassed? Perhaps she tolerated her discomfort and only came to see you after procrastinating.’

Engelberg shrugged. ‘That is possible.’ He closed the folder. ‘Inspector, I think you should talk to Professor Saminsky.’

‘I intend to. He is away at present, but I understand he will be returning shortly.’

‘A psychiatrist necessarily touches upon personal matters during treatment. But why must you delve into Fraulein Rosenkrantz’s private affairs? I really don’t see how it serves the public interest. What if she did terminate a pregnancy? I dare say she has already been judged by her maker. There is no need for a further judgement to be made in the newspapers.’

Rheinhardt stood up and put on his hat. Catching sight of his reflection in a mirror, he straightened the brim and squeezed the upturned ends of his moustache.

‘Thank you for your assistance, Herr Doctor. Please don’t trouble your servants. I can see myself out.’