The stories start in 1887, interior flush toilets were something of a luxury at the time, having only been popularized two years prior (by a guy called Twyford).

Houses that already existed did not have room for a 'privy' unless they were extensively remodeled (a toilet needs a lot of plumbing).

If there was a toilet it was most likely on the ground floor, near the front of the house (to economize on the runs of big diameter pipes).