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| author | nfenwick <nfenwick@pglaf.org> | 2025-01-19 19:02:05 -0800 |
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| committer | nfenwick <nfenwick@pglaf.org> | 2025-01-19 19:02:05 -0800 |
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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf diff --git a/70964-0.zip b/70964-0.zip Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index c22338d..0000000 --- a/70964-0.zip +++ /dev/null diff --git a/70964-h.zip b/70964-h.zip Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 6a81ba9..0000000 --- a/70964-h.zip +++ /dev/null diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..7c94e21 --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #70964 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/70964) diff --git a/old/70964-0.zip b/old/70964-0.zip Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 182c42c..0000000 --- a/old/70964-0.zip +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/70964-0_2023-06-18.txt b/old/70964-0_2023-06-18.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 7beb625..0000000 --- a/old/70964-0_2023-06-18.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,6284 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg eBook of The wrong letter, by Walter S. -Masterman - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms -of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you -will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before -using this eBook. - -Title: The wrong letter - -Author: Walter S. Masterman - -Release Date: June 12, 2023 [eBook #70964] -Last Updated: June 18, 2023 - -Language: English - -Credits: Brian Raiter - -*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE WRONG LETTER *** - - -The Wrong Letter - -by Walter S. Masterman - -with a preface by G. K. Chesterton - - - -CONTENTS - - Preface - I The Crime - II Speculations - III At the Vale - IV The Missing Letter - V A Mysterious Visit - VI At Leveson Square - VII Valuable Information -VIII Enter Mr. Allery - IX A Confession - X The Portrait - XI An Apparition - XII What Happened in the Night -XIII The Car in the Dark - XIV Back in London - XV The Crisis - XVI The Criminal Found -XVII The Wrong Letter - - - -PREFACE - -I can say with all sincerity, nay with all solemn responsibility, that -this detective mystery deceived me. And as I have been looking out for -a long time for a detective mystery that should be at least deceptive, -whatever its other merits or demerits in being detective, I very -willingly write a word to serve as a preface to it, though such books -ought not to need such prefaces. The detective story is in this way a -paradox (if I may use a word that has very painful memories for me) -because the true reader and critic not only desires to be gulled, but -even desires to be gullible. I wish when reading such a story to -become as simple as Dr. Watson; to be in the happy, cheerful, -childlike, radiant condition of Dr. Watson and not in the much more -dark and disillusioned and satiated and sceptical condition of -Sherlock Holmes. I generally am in that childlike condition. But in -every case it is my ardent and aspiring ambition to be stupider than -the man who wrote the story. And in the case of this story I actually -succeeded. - -This desire to be deceived is really peculiar to detective romance. It -is in another sense that we say the same thing of other types of -romance. It is sometimes said that when we go to the theatre we pay to -be deceived. But we are not really deceived; we do not think that the -dramatist intends something that he does not intend; we do not think -the actor is doing something that he is not doing. We only forget, or -half forget, for a moment, in the continuity and consistency of -certain events, the fact that they come from a dramatist and an actor. -But if we happen to remember it, we do not remember it with surprise. -We are not astonished to discover that there is an actor on the stage, -as we are (or ought to be) astonished to discover that there is a -corpse in the summer-house. We do not feel a momentary incredulity -when we are told that the play was written by a playwright, as we do -feel (or ought to feel) when we are told that the crime was committed -by a curate. We watch a great actor performing Hamlet so well that (if -we have luck) we lose for an instant the sense that he is a great -actor; we feel for the moment that he is young Hamlet trying to avenge -the death of old Hamlet upon Claudius. But we do not, either in -forgetting or remembering, feel any shock of fact or the change of -fact. We do not feel as we should feel if the play took a new and -sudden turn, and we found that Hamlet had killed his own father and -that his uncle was a perfectly blameless character. That would be the -Detective Drama of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark, and now that so many -peculiar experiments are being tried with that tragedy, I respectfully -suggest it to the managers of the London Theatres. - -If it is the first rule of the writer of mystery stories to conceal -the secret from the reader, it is the first duty of the critic to -conceal it from the public. I will therefore put my hand upon my -mouth; and tortures shall not reveal the precise point in this story -at which a person whom I had really regarded as figuring in one -legitimate capacity suddenly began to figure in another, which was far -from legitimate. I must not breathe a word about what the writer of -this dramatic mystery does. I will confine myself strictly to saying -what he does not do. And merely out of the things which he does not -do, I could construct an enthusiastic eulogy. On the firm foundation -of the things he does not do, I could erect an eternal tower of brass. -For the things he does not do are the things being done everywhere -to-day, to the destruction of true detective fiction and the loss of -this legitimate and delightful form of art. He does not introduce into -the story a vast but invisible secret society with branches in every -part of the world, with ruffians who can be brought in to do anything -or underground cellars that can be used to hide anybody. He does not -mar the pure and lovely outlines of a classical murder or burglary by -wreathing it round and round with the dirty and dingy red tape of -international diplomacy; he does not lower our lofty ideals of crime -to the level of foreign politics. He does not introduce suddenly at -the end somebody’s brother from New Zealand, who is exactly like him. -He does not trace the crime hurriedly in the last page or two to some -totally insignificant character, whom we never suspected because we -never remembered. He does not get over the difficulty of choosing -between the hero and the villain by falling back on the hero’s cabman -or the villain’s valet. He does not introduce a professional criminal -to take the blame of a private crime; a thoroughly unsportsmanlike -course of action and another proof of how professionalism is ruining -our national sense of sport. He does not introduce about six people in -succession to do little bits of the same small murder; one man to -bring the dagger and another to point it and another to stick it in -properly. He does not say it was all a mistake, and that nobody ever -meant to murder anybody at all, to the serious disappointment of all -humane and sympathetic readers. He does not make the general mistake -of thinking that the more complicated the story is the better. His -story is complicated enough, and on many points open to criticism; but -the secret of it is found in the centre; and that is the central -matter in any work of art. - - G. K. CHESTERTON. -_March_, 1926. - - - -CHAPTER I. - -The Crime - -The telephone bell rang on the table of Superintendent Sinclair at -Scotland Yard. He was a busy man, and had given orders that he was not -to be disturbed except on matters important. - -Putting down a paper he had been reading, he picked up the receiver. A -woman’s voice spoke. - -“Is that Scotland Yard?” - -“Yes, yes,” he said impatiently, “Superintendent Sinclair speaking, -what is it?” - -“Listen carefully,” said the voice. “The Home Secretary has been -murdered at his own house, it would be as well if you would come at -once. Have you got that? Just repeat.” - -Even Sinclair, the coolest head in the service, was staggered for a -moment. There was not a trace of hurry or emotion in the voice. It -might have been inviting him to tea. Before he could collect himself, -the voice began again. - -“I will repeat,” and the same impassive message came through with the -concluding words, “Have you got that?” - -Sinclair pulled himself together. - -“Who is speaking?” he said. He heard a laugh and then the voice—— - -“Oh, no one in particular, just the murderer,” and then silence. - -He rang his bell, and his assistant, or ‘familiar’ as he was termed, -Lewis, entered. - -“Someone is playing a joke of sorts on us. Just find out who called -up,” he said abruptly, and went on reading. The thing was so absurd, -but something was wrong, and someone would have to answer for this. In -a minute Lewis returned. - -“They don’t seem to know downstairs, sir, there is a new operator at -the exchange, and it seems that someone said she was a personal friend -of yours, and must speak at once to you.” - -“Oh, of course, the same old game. I suppose they think it’s funny,” -and he turned savagely to his work. - -“By the way, Lewis, just find out where the Home Secretary is,” he -added. - -About ten minutes had passed, when a knock came at the door, and a -clerk ushered in Mr. Collins. - -Sylvester Collins was not a Sherlock Holmes or anything like it, but -after a successful career at the Bar, at a time when all his many -friends had expected him to ‘take silk,’ he had suddenly thrown up his -whole career, and started as an Inquiry Agent and Amateur Detective, -though he hated the expression, and always claimed that he was merely -trying to use his experience at the Bar in a practical way. - -However, he had been phenomenally successful, perhaps through luck, -perhaps through a keen, trained brain and good common sense. - -If his friends wanted to upset him, they would call him Sherlock -Holmes, which was like a red rag to a bull to him. - -He worked excellently with the official force, and had been “briefed” -by them on many occasions, with the happiest results to all except the -criminals who had been run to earth. - -A clean-cut face with a large nose, and a firm mouth, were his chief -characteristics. Soft brown eyes, and curly hair almost black, gave -his face a curiously paradoxical expression. - -When not engaged professionally, he was a keen sportsman, and enjoyed -life to the full. - -He was entirely devoid of ‘side’ or ‘swank.’ - -Sinclair was a very different type. He was more like the Scotland Yard -officer of real life than of fiction. After successful work in India, -he had applied for and obtained his post. He had just a detective’s -training and education. He made no pretensions to be other than a -trained official with no particular brilliance, and he was glad to -have the help of his friend, who had brains and not his experience. - -Collins always came to Sinclair without ceremony. - -He entered smoking a cigarette, and placed his hat and stick on the -table. - -“Well,” he said. “What’s the trouble now?” - -Sinclair looked up in some surprise. - -“What do you mean?” - -“You sent for me?” - -“I’m sure I didn’t,” said the other. - -“But someone from here called me up on the ’phone about——” he looked at -his watch—“about ten minutes ago, and said you wanted to speak to me.” - -“Someone from here. Who was it?” - -“I am sure I don’t know. It sounded like a woman.” - -“What did she say?” said the Superintendent turning in his chair. - -“Nothing more than that. Simply asked if I were speaking, and said -‘Superintendent Sinclair wants to speak to you at once if you can -come,’ and rang off.” - -“Well, I’m damned,” said Sinclair. - -“You may be for all I know, but I was just off to tennis,” and he -glanced at his flannels. “I suppose someone has been playing the fool. -I’ll get off.” - -“Stop. If they have, they have been trying to fool me, too,” and he -told of the message he had received. - -Collins listened with interest. - -“What have you done?” he said. - -“I asked Lewis to find out where the Home Secretary was. I expect he -has found him now. The thing is absurd.” - -Lewis came in. - -“Well?” said Sinclair. - -“The Home Secretary is not in the House or at the Home Office. They do -not know where he is.” - -“Call up his house,” said Sinclair, irritated. - -“Better not,” said Collins. “If there’s nothing in it we don’t want to -look fools, and if there has really been murder done the less known -the better. I’ll tell you what—I have my car outside. Let’s run up to -his house in Leveson Square. You can make some excuse. You often want -to see him.” - -The Superintendent made a face. “I’m not big enough to go calling on -the Home Secretary.” - -“Never mind, fake up something. I’ll come with you.” - -“All right, I’ll bring two plain clothes officers in case there is -anything in it. We often have to keep a special watch there, so -that’ll be quite in order.” - -Collins laughed. “Thank goodness I am not official. What a lot of red -tape you people have.” - -“Why, what would you have done, then?” - -“Charged up and asked him if he were dead by any chance.” - -“Come along.” - -Lewis had been listening to them. - -“Come along, Lewis, and bring Smith,” said Sinclair. - -To his surprise Lewis was as white as chalk, and his hand trembled. - -“If you don’t mind, sir,” he said, “I would much rather not come. I -don’t feel very well.” Collins gazed keenly at him for a moment. - -“How long have you felt ill?” he said. - -“Only just a few minutes ago, sir, I think it’s the heat.” - -“Let’s get someone else, then, only hurry along, I want to get to my -tennis,” said Collins impatiently. - -Sinclair was about to grumble, but a look from Collins made him -silent. “Go and get two men then at once. Tell them to meet us at the -door.” - -“What the devil was the matter with Lewis?” said Sinclair in the car. -“He is my right-hand man.” - -“Dunno,” said Collins who was driving, “wait till we know what has -happened.” - -Every incident that transpired from that moment was so stamped on the -memory of the two men that there was no mistake about the facts. - -On arriving at the door of the Home Secretary’s house, Sinclair -stationed Smith at the front entrance, with orders not to show -himself, but to watch. - -The second man was disposed at the back, where was a high wall, but no -actual entrance. The basement opened into an area in front. - -The two men ascended the front steps and Sinclair rang the bell. An -aged housekeeper, Mrs. Simmons, opened the door. - -“Is the Home Secretary in?” said Sinclair. - -“Yes, sir, he’s in his study,” she looked at the men doubtfully, “he -did not wish to be disturbed.” - -“When did you see him last?” said Collins, looking at her keenly. - -“Why, about half an hour back, sir,” said she in surprise. - -“What fools we have been,” said Sinclair, “we’d better go.” - -“Not at all. Now we are here we will see him. We can ask him about -Blake who is to be hanged next Thursday. There’s a big petition you -know for a reprieve.” - -“Very good, but it’s a fool’s errand.” He turned to the housekeeper. - -“Would you kindly take my card to Sir James, and ask him if he could -spare me a minute?” - -When the woman had gone, Sinclair said, “I shall get hell for this. He -will ask me what it has got to do with me, and why I did not use the -ordinary channels.” - -“Leave it to me,” said the other with his easy confidence. He -generally got his own way in most things. - -After a brief interval Mrs. Simmons returned. - -“I have knocked twice,” she said, “but there is no answer. I expect he -is asleep. I hardly like to disturb him unless it is a very important -matter.” - -The two men exchanged glances. - -“I am afraid it is,” said Collins. “We had better see. This is -Superintendent Sinclair from Scotland Yard.” - -At the name the old woman turned pale. - -“Scotland Yard?” she stammered. “I hope nothing is wrong?” - -“Why should anything be wrong,” said Collins. “The Home Secretary -often sees officials from the Yard, doesn’t he?” - -“Yes,” said she; “but there have been some queer things to-day here.” - -“What things?” said Collins. - -“Oh, come along, don’t start asking questions now,” said Sinclair. The -two men entered the hall. - -The housekeeper disappeared down the stairs, but the others did not -notice her departure at the moment. - -They made for the library door where the housekeeper had knocked. -Sinclair tried the handle. The door was locked. He knocked loudly, but -there was no response. - -“We shall have to break the door down,” said he. - -“Oh, that’s very clumsy,” said Collins, “and makes such a noise.” -Stooping down he examined the lock. - -“That’s an easy matter, the key is in the lock.” - -He produced a fine pair of pliers, and deftly gripping the end of the -key, turned it without difficulty. - -“You would make a good burglar,” laughed the superintendent. Collins -opened the door and glanced round. - -The room was in semi-darkness, and after the glare outside it was hard -to see anything for a moment. By the empty grate was a large -arm-chair, and seated in this was the familiar figure of the Home -Secretary, Sir James Watson. He was huddled up in his chair, and his -head was at a curious angle to his body. - -Sinclair was about to advance into the room. - -“Stop,” said the other. “For Heaven’s sake don’t go inside and leave -footmarks. Whatever is the matter, this requires a doctor. I will wait -here, you telephone for a doctor.” - -He glanced round the room. - -“There doesn’t appear to be one here. Ask the housekeeper.” - -Sinclair went to the head of the stairs and called. - -There was some delay, and he called again angrily. - -A muffled voice answered him. - -“Where’s the telephone, quick?” he shouted. - -A sound was heard on the stairs, and Mrs. Simmons came up. She was -crying. - -“Stop that,” said Sinclair roughly. “Where is the telephone?” - -“There isn’t one in the house, sir,” she said. “Sir James had it taken -away. He was always being rung up.” - -Collins was getting impatient. “Send one of your men for a doctor, -then, the old woman is no good. There are plenty of them round here. -Hurry, man, it may be life or death.” - -Sinclair dashed down the steps, and called the man on duty. He -returned breathless. - -Collins had dragged two large mats to the door of the library, and was -carefully spreading one on the floor. The two men entered, and placed -the second mat beyond the first. - -“On your knees,” he said in a whisper. - -They approached the figure in the chair. - -One glance was sufficient. Even in the semi-darkness they could see an -ugly mark on the side of the head from which a very thin trickle of -blood was coming. - -“A bullet hole,” said Sinclair, who was versed in these matters. “He’s -been shot.” - -“Hum,” said Collins, “wait for the doctor. Meanwhile I will have some -light.” With the utmost precautions he moved his rugs to the window, -and pulled up the blinds. - -The room was beautifully furnished, for Sir James was a man of taste -and had the means to gratify it. - -The walls were covered with books to a height of seven feet. - -Above that one or two choice pictures were hung. - -The fireplace was a fine piece of carved oak. - -As far as they could see, the room was empty. - -The windows were hasped, and there was no other entrance. - -The library had originally been two rooms, and ran the full depth of -the house. It had been adapted by Sir James, and was his favourite -room. - -A fussy little doctor arrived, and was brought into the room with the -same precautions. - -Sinclair introduced himself and his companion. - -The doctor made a very careful examination, while the others waited. - -“Dead,” he said. “I should think about half an hour, possibly more. It -is difficult to tell exactly.” He looked up. - -“Is it a case of murder or suicide?” - -“At present we know no more than you do,” said Sinclair. “We had only -just come, and sent for you at once.” - -“Quite right, quite right,” said the little doctor pompously. - -“Meanwhile you will, of course, keep this entirely to yourself,” said -Collins. - -“But isn’t this?” he glanced at the stricken man. “Surely this is the -Home Secretary.” - -“Exactly,” said Collins dryly. “That is why it is necessary for you to -remain silent until you are asked to speak. Superintendent Sinclair -represents Scotland Yard. You understand?” - -The doctor bowed. He saw himself playing a prominent part in a great -drama, which would bring him notoriety and clients. - -“The body had better be moved for me to make a more exhaustive -examination,” said he. - -“Would you please wait outside till we have made our observations if -you don’t mind, as the fewer in here the better, but I think you had -better remain in the house, if you can manage it.” - -“Certainly,” said the doctor, “I am at your service.” - -“Then perhaps you would tell the housekeeper to stay where she is,” -said Sinclair. - -“Now for your men,” said Collins, when the doctor had gone out. - -“We must tell them to see that no one leaves the house.” They went -first to the front door and called Smith. - -Collins was careful to keep the open library door in sight all the -time. - -After giving him his orders, they had to get in touch with the man at -the back. There was a small garden, bounded by a high wall, and beyond -that a lane. Seated on the wall was the figure of the other man, -keeping a good look-out. Collins went to a back window and called him -softly. - -“Seen anything?” he asked. - -“No, sir, nothing doing here,” said the man cheerfully. - -It was refreshing in the midst of what looked like a grim tragedy to -find a cheery soul who seemed to be enjoying himself. - -He returned to Sinclair. - -“Now for the room.” - -The two had been used to work together, and Sinclair knew exactly when -to leave matters to Collins and when to take charge himself. - -As was usual in these cases, Collins thought aloud, and the other -checked his statements. - -He approached the dead man, moving still on the rugs. - -“Clean bullet wound—no burning—fired from a distance—probably while he -slept—entered right temple—bullet lodged in the brain—all straight -forward—both hands limp, and peaceful expression—_ergo_ unexpected -attack and no resistance—now, let’s see—eyes shut—confirms first -impression. Anything else about the body?” - -Sinclair looked at it critically. - -“No;” he said, “but from the way he lies the shot must have come from -the doorway, or somewhere near that.” - -“We are coming to that in a minute,” said the other. - -“Now let’s have a look round. Observation only, no speculation. Table, -with two glasses.” He took one up and then the other. - -“Just whisky and soda. There’s the decanter and there’s the syphon.” - -“Nothing very mysterious about that. But who was the visitor?... Cigar -ash, I cannot tell five hundred kinds of ash,” said he with a smile, -“still, they both smoked.” - -“Now for the floor—help me with the rugs. Right—hullo.” - -As they moved the second rug they disclosed a revolver lying on the -floor. Collins picked it up. - -“Service revolver—Webley—now obsolete——” He broke the revolver -carefully. - -“Five full and one empty—seems obvious—too obvious.” He was always -disappointed if a problem proved quite easy of solution. - -“Well, we must wait for the bullet—I hope it doesn’t fit——” - -Sinclair laughed. “I don’t believe you care in the least whether the -murderer is punished or not, as long as you have something interesting -to solve.” - -“Oh, I must say I like something abstruse; but never mind. - -“Now for footprints. On this soft pile carpet they ought to show, -thanks to our precautions.” - -He went down on his knees, and examined the carpet carefully. - -The other took a chair and watched. - -After a long and keen search all over the room, he rose to his feet. - -“There are three sets of marks,” he said. - -“Here are one lot walking up and down and crossing frequently. Number -two was sitting down here, it is quite a different type of boot, or -rather shoe, I think, and here are the marks which I rather fancy are -my own when I stepped to lay the rug.” - -He removed his shoe and placed it on the mark. - -“That’s right,” he said. “It shows how careful one has to be. If you -and I and the doctor had all walked over the carpet we should have -obliterated the others.... - -“Now which of these is the dead man’s?” - -Sinclair was hardened in criminal matters, and without compunction -removed one of the dead man’s boots. - -“Exactly,” said Collins, fitting it to a mark on the floor. “That’s -that. He was the one who walked about the room. How does that fit in -with the idea of him being shot when asleep?” - -“No theories yet,” said Sinclair. - -“Right you are. That’s the floor. Now the windows. Firmly fastened. -Anything curious there?” - -“Nothing that I see except we have to find how the murderer escaped.” - -“A hot day in summer, and all the windows close fastened. Well, -perhaps he did not want the shot to be heard.” - -“Are you suggesting suicide?” - -“Why not? Oh, I see, you are thinking of the telephone message. Still, -we must not eliminate the possibility at present.” - -“Door locked on the inside, and no trace of the second person.” - -“Of course, the walls and floor will have to be examined,” said -Sinclair. - -“Of course, and the ceiling and chimney. Well, that’s all here, and we -had better get the doctor and remove the body.” - -“Wrap those glasses and decanter and syphon carefully up for finger -prints,” said Collins. - -Sinclair turned scarlet. - -“I am most awfully sorry. I ought to have known better, but this thing -upset me rather. While you were grovelling on the floor I helped -myself to a little whisky—it was really unpardonable.” - -“I saw you,” said Collins coolly. “It would cost you your place if it -were known, but I shan’t tell any tales.” - -“Thanks,” said Sinclair simply. It was a little weakness he had. - -They took the body carefully into the dining-room, and left it with -the doctor. - -“Now for the housekeeper,” said Sinclair. - -“Mrs. Simmons, will you come here, please?” - -The woman came in very distressed, and seated herself, at a word from -Collins. - -“Now, Mrs. Simmons,” he said in kind tones, “Can you throw any light -on this affair? Please calm yourself and tell us all you know.” - -After a prolonged examination, the following facts were elicited, -which are better put together. - -The Home Secretary was a widower. He had one daughter, Mabel, who -lived with him. She had gone down to their country place in -Devonshire, from which he had come the day before, and he intended to -return the next day. The servants had gone, leaving Mrs. Simmons to -look after Sir James. - -He had been at his Office all the morning, returning for lunch. He -was a solitary man and shunned company. - -At about three o’clock a ring had come at the door, and she had gone -up to answer it. When she got to the top of the stairs, she saw that -Sir James had already opened the door. A man came in and went straight -to the library. She could not see anything of him, as Sir James was -between them. She thought nothing of it, as it was probably an -official from the Home Office. Sir James locked the door, and the two -were together for about half an hour. She heard nothing, as the -kitchen was not under the library. - -Then there was a ring from the library. She was quite certain of that. -She went up after a moment, as she had been writing a letter. When she -got to the hall, Sir James was showing the visitor out, and she did -not see him. Sir James stood on the steps and watched him go. As she -was not wanted she went down again. - -A little later Sir James came out from the library, and went across -the road with a letter, which he put into the pillar-box. She waited -for him, as she wished to ask about arrangements for the evening. - -When he came back he told her he should be out to dinner, and that he -was on no account to be disturbed. - -He had then gone in and locked the door. She was certain of that—she -had heard the key turn. After that she had been busy in the -dining-room, and was quite certain that no one else had called. She -had heard nothing until the two men had come. She had heard no sound -of a shot. - -She would certainly have heard one from where she was. - -“Why was she so agitated when the door was opened?” - -She was given to presentiments, and was feeling afraid of something -after the strange man had called. - -At the conclusion Collins asked her about the household. Were there -any relations who came? - -“No, sir,” she said, “though Sir James used to have regular -house-parties at his country place. He lived very quietly in London.” - -“Has he ever shown any signs of being afraid of an attack, or anything -of that sort?” - -“Well, sir, there have been times when he seemed uneasy. He has asked -whether there was anybody hanging round the house, and he always kept -a loaded revolver in his room.” - -“Oh, did he? And where is it now?” - -The housekeeper led them into the library, now guarded by a -plain-clothes man. She opened a drawer in the writing table. Within -lay a small silver-plated revolver, fully loaded. - -“You say that Sir James had one child, a daughter?” said Collins. - -Mrs. Simmons hesitated. “Well, sir, I have been with the family twenty -years. There was another, a son, but he was a wrong ’un, and went -abroad many years ago, and, as far as I know, the family have heard -nothing since.” - -“But hasn’t Sir James kept in touch with him?” - -“Of course, I do not know all that has happened, but I do know that -Sir James used to make an allowance to him; but the time came when the -firm of lawyers said they had lost all trace of him, and the money was -stopped.” - -“Where was he at that time—I mean in what country?” - -“I don’t properly know, but it was in one of those South American -States.” - -“And that is all you can tell us,” said Collins, fixing the -housekeeper with a sharp look. - -“Yes, sir, as far as I can remember, but of course I am all of a -fluster. Something more may occur to me; but, oh, sir, what shall I -do, I cannot stay in this dreadful house?” - -“There is no need for you to do so, is there, Sinclair?” said Collins. - -The other tugged at his moustache. “I don’t know. Where are you -going?” - -“I want to go to my sister’s house at Forest Gate, if I may, I am so -upset with all this.” - -Collins drew Sinclair aside. - -“Let her go,” he said, “and have her watched. It may be useful.” - -“Very good,” said he. To Mrs. Simmons, he said, “You can go, but you -must give us your address, you will be wanted as a witness at the -inquest. Don’t talk about the affair at all. Do you understand?” - -“Thank you, sir, I will go and pack,” said she gratefully. - -Collins watched her go. - -“What do you make of her?” he said. - -“She seemed quite straightforward; I think she’s told us the truth.” - -Collins gave a laugh. “Yes,” he said. “The truth, but not the whole -truth. She’s a clever old woman.” - -“What do you mean?” - -“When a simple soul tells the tale, and tries to conceal something, -she gives herself away. She will not look straight at you. When you -are dealing with the cunning type, she will look at you with a -particularly open face and innocent look. All the time she was telling -her narratives she was confused and upset, as was natural. But when I -asked her if she had anything else to say her manner altered, and she -became collected and looked me straight in the face.” - -“Oh, you imagine these things. I didn’t see any difference.” - -“Very good,” said Collins, “we shall see.” - -“Now for the next move,” said Sinclair, who always got irritated when -his colleague assumed this superior manner. “I must go to the Yard and -make a full report. We cannot keep this thing secret. It will make a -great stir. Will you come with me?” - -“I will run you down in my car, and then must get off at once.” - -“Where to?” said the other in surprise. - -“Someone must break the news to the girl. It’s a rotten job, but it’s -of the greatest importance. I am off to Devonshire, and hope I shall -arrive in time.” - -“In time?” - -“Before the news reaches there.” - -“You’ve got something at the back of your mind, I can see that. It’s -not just to spare the girl’s feelings.” - -Collins smiled. “I would like to make the acquaintance of the family,” -he said. - -“But there is only one in the family,” said Sinclair surprised. - -“Perhaps,” said Collins. - -They made their way into the Square, where dusk was falling. - -Several persons were looking up at the house and pointing. - -“What the devil is the meaning of that?” said Sinclair, as Collins was -starting the car. - -“Ask me another, jump in,” and they went off. - -As they turned into Bond Street, where the lights were on, they saw a -newspaper boy shouting, and running down the street. In front of him -was a news-bill, on which was printed: - - “Home Secretary Murdered at his House. - Full Details.” - -“Well, I’m damned,” said the Superintendent. - -Collins stopped the car, and bought a paper. - -On the News page, across two columns, was a flaring account of the -murder. - -“What in Hell’s name is the meaning of this?” said Sinclair. - -“Let’s go to the Yard,” said Collins, putting in the clutch. - -Mr. Boyce was a flabby man of fifty. He had had an unsuccessful career -at the Bar which would have ruined a man without means; but his father -was a distinguished Judge of the High Court, and had considerable -influence. After trying to get his son a job as Stipendiary and a -County Court Judge, he at last jobbed him into the position of -Commissioner in Scotland Yard, where he subsisted on the brains of his -subordinates. He listened with an assumption of wisdom to the account -of the affair given by Sinclair. Collins had come with him after the -incident of the newspaper. He had a profound contempt for Boyce, which -the other resented though he dared not show his resentment. - -While Sinclair was reporting, Collins had got busy with a timetable, -and then turned to the telephone. - -The others waited while he called up. - -After several conversations, he laid the receiver down, and turned to -the other two. - -“The Editor of the ‘Evening Rag,’” said he. “I asked him where he got -the news of the murder from, and he says via the Central News. He says -he was careful to ascertain whether it was authentic before he sent it -to press. What do you think he says?” - -“Can’t guess,” said Sinclair shortly. - -“He says it came in in the form of a report from Scotland Yard, on -official paper, signed by Superintendent Sinclair.” - -Sinclair turned purple. - -Boyce looked at him with large, fishy eyes. - -“Really, really,” he said, “this is most unorthodox.” - -“You don’t suppose I sent it in, do you, sir,” spluttered Sinclair. - -Collins intervened. - -“I can answer for that,” said he; “Sinclair has been with me the whole -time. No; there is another explanation for this.” - -“What is that?” - -“Why the same person who called us on the ’phone, and probably the -murderer. It is curious how vain these people are. He may have stepped -too far. It’s just possible he’s given us a valuable clue. One cannot -send letters with impunity. There’s the post mark, and the time.” - -“The document must be obtained,” said Boyce. - -“I have already asked the Central News to send it here for inspection. -It is coming now by hand.” - -While they waited, Collins turned to Sinclair. - -“About that telephone call, you say it was a woman’s voice?” - -“Well, of course, I thought so at the time; but it may have been a -man’s disguised.” - -“Or something else?” said Collins. - -“What do you mean?” said Boyce, almost startled. - -“Well, it might have been a boy’s voice.” - -“Oh, surely not.” - -“We cannot eliminate the possibility, and then again it might have -been a man’s voice not disguised.” - -“How could that be?” - -“There are some men with treble voices who sing falsetto like a boy. -We cannot take anything for granted.” - -Boyce gave a sniff. He did not like this sort of speculation. - -“I must get back and change, and then get some food, and catch the -night train,” said Collins. “I have plenty of time, so we can go into -the position if you care to. You had better have some grub with me, -and if you care to join us,” he said to Boyce, “I shall be delighted.” - -“Thank you very much, I will with pleasure,” said the other. It was -just what he wanted. He could listen to the others and then retail the -information as his own. It was the way in which he worked his -department. - -A messenger boy was ushered in by a clerk, and handed a document to -Sinclair, who signed the receipt and the lad departed. - -In haste he opened the envelope, and pulled out another which had been -opened. It was addressed to the Central News Agency, and was a -Government envelope. Inside was a sheet of paper with the official -stamp of Scotland Yard. - -The note was short and in type. - -“Sir,” it said, “I am authorized to inform you that the Home -Secretary, Sir James Watson, was murdered this afternoon at his house -in Leveson Square between three and four o’clock, by an unknown -assailant. He was shot through the head, and death was instantaneous. - -“‘The cause of the crime is at present unknown, and no trace of the -assailant can be found. Scotland Yard have the matter in hand, and a -reward will shortly be offered for information leading to the -apprehension of the murderer.’” - -It was signed ‘Arthur Sinclair, Superintendent, C.I.D.’ and had the -official stamp on it. - -Sinclair laid the paper down with a look of bewilderment. - -“We must keep this carefully,” said Boyce sententiously. “It is a -document of the utmost importance.” - -“This is of greater importance,” said Collins quietly. - -The other two looked at him in surprise. He was holding the envelope. - -Slowly he laid it on the table and pointed. - -“This has escaped the notice of the Central News people. Probably -because they have an assistant to open envelopes who simply throws -them into the waste-paper basket. I particularly asked them to get the -envelope, which they have done.” - -“But what is the point?” - -Collins placed his finger on the postmark. - -“Two forty-five,” said he. “This was sent off before the murder took -place.” - -The three men looked at each other in silence. - - - -CHAPTER II. - -Speculations - -Collins, Sinclair and Boyce had just discussed an excellent glass of -port after a frugal but well-cooked meal at Collins’ flat. - -The room was tastefully but not luxuriously furnished, and was stamped -with the individuality of the occupier. - -Over the mantelpiece was an oar, a relic of the time when Collins had -stroked his college boat to victory in the “Mays.” - -Four selected pictures were on the walls, but the eye was caught by -‘Napoleon, the Last Phase,’ which seemed to dominate the room, with -its tortured sadness. - -Collins rose, rang the bell for coffee, and handed round cigars. - -During the meal all reference to the tragedy of the day had been -dropped by tacit consent. Now each of the men drew up his chair to the -fire, and prepared to discuss the affair—in spite of the heat of the -day the nights were cold. - -Collins suggested, with an irony which was lost on the others, that -Boyce should give them the light of his wisdom on the problem. - -This he hastily declined, and Sinclair asked Collins to open the ball. -Here he was in his element. - -“I will go through the facts, and Sinclair can check me.” The others -nodded assent. The cigars were good and the chairs comfortable. They -were in the right mood for listening. - -“First then,” said Collins, “there are four possibilities. It may have -been suicide, but the doctor does not think that is possible. There -was no blackening round the wound, and it would not be likely that a -man could shoot himself through the head and throw the revolver away -from him.” - -“But what about the telephone messages and the newspaper article?” -said Boyce. - -“We are coming to that, but they may have nothing to do with the -crime.” - -The other two exchanged glances. - -“Then we come to accident. That is a possibility. A man may have tried -blackmail or to extract some secret, and fired by accident. Here again -the position of the body and the whole arrangement of the room are -against such an idea.” - -“Then there is only murder?” said Boyce. - -“Not quite,” said the other. “There is first the work of a madman.” - -“But that is nevertheless murder,” said Sinclair. - -“Yes; but we then have to proceed on an entirely different basis. If -this is the work of a lunatic, it explains the telephone messages and -the newspaper article. It is just the sort of thing that a madman with -an inordinate vanity would do. And we need not look for motive. If -that is so, our task will be simplified.” - -The others agreed. - -“Now we come to the fourth. A cold-blooded and deliberate murder, of -which each detail was planned beforehand so accurately that the -criminal had the effrontery to inform the Press before it was done.” - -“That is the most probable,” said Sinclair. - -“I agree, but we must not lose sight of the others.” - -“Now for our facts. At sometime before 2.30 when the box was cleared, -a letter was posted at Westminster Bridge Post Office, the contents of -which you know. At 3.00 o’clock a man calls on the Home Secretary who -is either expected or well known to Sir James.” - -“How do you know that?” said Boyce. - -“Surely,” said Collins; “he opened the door himself, and takes him -straight to his library.” - -“This man may have been the actual murderer or not. We are here going -on the statements of the housekeeper, which may turn out to be a -tissue of lies; but I do not think so, she is not a good enough -actress for that. This man stays for half an hour, and is let out by -the Home Secretary. After that Sir James writes a letter and posts it -himself. He returns and goes to his room complaining of feeling -sleepy.” - -“Did he?” said Sinclair, “I did not hear that.” - -“Certainly,” said Collins, “Mrs. Simmons said so, if she is reliable. -Very good, he locks himself in, and asks not to be disturbed. Here he -remains, as far as we know, till the murder takes place. We find the -door locked and the windows fastened, with no apparent means of -escape. There is no one in the room.” - -“By Jove, he was a cool hand,” said Sinclair. “All the time he was -talking with Sir James the letter was on its way to the Central News, -and might have arrived. He must have calculated things pretty well.” - -“Undoubtedly, and he probably knew that there was no telephone in the -house.” - -Collins got up and handed round the cigar box. When he resumed his -seat he continued, and his face was grave. - -“A Home Secretary is very open to attack. He may have refused to -pardon a criminal, and the man when he comes out from penal servitude -or imprisonment will seek revenge. He is always getting threatening -letters. Then there are murderers whom he reprieves, and the relatives -of the murdered man may seek revenge. Again, there are political -fanatics. You remember the Phœnix Park murders.” - -“Of course,” said Boyce, “the whole staff will be put on to-morrow to -investigate this side of the question.” Collins nodded. - -“Then there is a personal revenge. His life appears to be a blameless -and honourable one, but one never knows; there are skeletons in the -best of cupboards.” - -“There was a ne’er-do-well son,” said Sinclair. - -“Chut, don’t let’s come to any personalities until we have more data; -we shall be following wandering fires.” - -Sinclair was not to be silenced. - -“What do you make of the behaviour of Lewis when I asked him to come -with me?” he said. - -“I don’t pretend to make anything of it. It may have the most natural -of explanations.” - -“I have never known him to behave like that before,” he persisted. -Collins ignored him. - -“We have five things to bear in mind, or shall I put it we have five -questions to answer: - -“Who sent the letter to the Central News, and for what object? - -“Who called us up on the telephone, and why? - -“Who was the man who called at three? - -“How did the murderer get in, and how did he escape? - -“What was the motive of the murderer?” - -“You’ve left out the most important of all,” said Boyce, “who was the -murderer?” - -“Yes, of course, there’s always that,” said Collins with an indulgent -smile. - -“You’ve put it very well,” said Sinclair, who was in a genial mood -after Collins’ excellent fare. - -“We must find out all we can about the letter and envelope.” - -“It was a most extraordinarily good forgery, that signature,” said -Boyce, “I would have sworn in any court it was yours.” - -Sinclair’s face flushed. “Are you suggesting anything, sir,” he said. - -“Of course not, my dear fellow, only it was, wasn’t it?” - -“Then you must try and find out about the telephone calls,” intervened -Collins. - -“I shall have Mrs. Simmons up to the Yard and take down a full -statement,” said Boyce, anxious to show he had a grasp of the -situation. - -“All right, I must put a few things together and get off. We will each -carry on with our own line of research.” - -And he went into the next room. - -“Has he got something up his sleeve?” said Boyce. “It’s not like him -to go off when there’s an interesting problem to solve. It can’t be -just to break the news, he knows nothing of these people.” - -“He’s pretty deep, and it may be he saw something that I didn’t,” said -Sinclair, modestly. “He seemed to think Mrs. Simmons was holding -something back.” - -Collins came back with a small suit-case. - -“I will let you know when I am coming back,” he said, “and we will -meet and compare notes. This will make a most almighty stir, and if -the Prime Minister thinks it is the work of an ex-convict or anything -of that sort, you will get it hot.” - -Boyce made a wry face. - -“I am afraid so,” he said. - - - -CHAPTER III. - -At the Vale - -The Vale was situated in one of the lovely valleys of North Devon on -the borders of Somerset. In the distance could be seen the Mendip -Hills. Here the summer stayed on when autumn had taken hold of less -favoured spots. - -It was a fine old house, half-timbered, nestling in the valley, almost -hidden in trees and covered with ivy. The gardens had been the special -joy of Sir James Watson. It was here he led his simple home life away -from the factions of Westminster and the labours of his thankless -office. - -He was a cold, haughty, reserved man, with few friends. His one joy in -a rather lonely life was his daughter Mabel. Like so many widowers -with an only daughter, he was somewhat selfish, and could never -believe that she had grown up. He had watched with anxiety the -attentions which had been paid to her by the many who had appeared as -possible suitors. - -She, unconscious of it all, had led a secluded life among her flowers; -she hated the times she had to spend in the gloomy house in Town, and -had no liking for London or its gaieties. - -Her mother had died when she was a baby, and no cloud of sorrow except -one had crossed her path. - -That one had been when her brother, quite a boy, had been sent down -from Oxford, and her father had sternly pointed to the door, and told -him never to come back till he had redeemed his character. - -He had provided ample funds for the young man to make a fresh start, -and had recommended him to the care of an old friend in Monte Video. -He had refused to tell his daughter where the brother had gone, lest -they should write to each other. - -Mabel had been only a child at the time, but she never forgot her -brother. As she sat in the garden after breakfast no shadow crossed -her mind. The letters and papers had not arrived, as they were out of -the beaten track. - -John, the butler, approached her from the house with a salver, on -which he bore a visiting card. - -“A gentleman wishes to see you, Miss Mabel,” he said, and handed the -card. She took it and read, - - Mr. Sylvester Collins, - 14, Severn Street, - London, W. - -“What does he want?” said she. - -“I do not know, Miss, but he asked if you could see him on an -important matter. He has come down by the night train from London.” - -“Oh, I’ll come and see him,” and she got up and went in. - -Collins had slept on the way down, and had breakfasted on the train. -He felt quite fresh after a motor ride from Wilton-on-Sea, but he had -a strong distaste for his task. - -He walked up and down the fine old drawing-room, through the open -windows of which came the scent of roses. - -The girl entered, and he was struck with her simple beauty, without -any of the adornments of the modern girl, and in her dainty morning -frock of cretonne. - -He knew that in a few moments her present happiness would be turned to -bitter sorrow. She advanced towards him at once, and took his hand in -a friendly way. - -“You are a friend of my father’s, I suppose,” she said. - -“Miss Watson,” he said gravely. “It is no good beating about the bush. -I have some bad news for you. You must try and be brave.” - -“My father,” she said, with quick instinct. - -He nodded. - -“Don’t tell me anything has happened to him. He only left me the day -before yesterday. Is he ill?” - -In her excitement she had not let go of his hand, and her fingers -retained their hold. - -“You must try and bear up, a terrible thing has happened. The worst -that can happen.” - -“You mean,” she said, her face turning pale, “that he is dead.” - -“Yes,” he said. - -The shock of such an announcement does not, as a rule, have the -instant effect that is supposed to take place. The mind cannot at once -grasp the facts. It is like a shell wound. For a moment the wounded -man gazes in surprise at a stump where his arm was a moment before. It -takes some seconds before realization or pain is felt. - -So it was with Mabel. It was as though someone were telling her a tale -of some remote happening which did not concern her. - -“How was it?” she whispered. - -He had expected tears, possibly a fainting fit. This calm surprised -him for the moment. - -“Shall I tell you?” he said. - -“Please.” - -“He was found shot in his library yesterday.” - -“Do you mean murdered?” she said, dismissing the thought of suicide -unconsciously. - -“I am afraid so,” he replied. The sweat stood on his forehead. What a -fool he had been to undertake this task! - -“And you have come to tell me about it? How kind of you,” she said, as -in a dream. He saw this could not last, and with quick instinct rang -the bell. - -The door opened, and an old servant with a sweet face came in. She had -been Mabel’s nurse, and had remained with her as a sort of companion -and friend. At the sight of her something seemed to snap in the girl’s -head, and she ran to her. - -“Oh, Nanna,” she cried. “My father has been murdered.” - -The woman looked indignantly at Collins, as though he had struck her -darling, and took her in her arms, where the tears came at last. - -Collins withdrew to the farther side of the room, and looked at the -garden. When he turned, the room was empty. - -Irresolute, he strolled into the old garden. What a catastrophe had he -brought by his news! Better, perhaps, if he had wired. - -Still, he must go through with it. He could not study the feelings of -the poor girl when larger issues were at stake. - -Presently he saw the butler coming towards him. - -The old man was bent, and he had been crying. - -“My mistress is too upset to see you, sir,” he said; “but I was to ask -you to make yourself at home. And would you like some refreshment?” - -“Thank you,” he replied. “I have had breakfast. I do not need -anything. You have heard the sad news.” - -“Yes, sir, the papers have come, and the post. They all know now,” and -he broke down. - -“Come, come, man,” said Collins almost roughly. “It’s all right for -women to cry.” - -“I had known him for twenty-five years, sir,” said the old man simply, -“and I wish it had been me instead of him. Do you think they will -catch the murderer?” - -“Surely,” said Collins. “But perhaps I had better go.” - -“Oh, no, sir, Miss Mabel wants to see you when she is a bit better. -She particularly asked me to say so.” - -“Well, then, if so, perhaps you could give me a minute? I would like -to ask a question or two.” - -The old butler bowed and waited. - -“You were here when Sir James’ son went away?” - -“Master Ronald? Oh, sir, I am sure he is nothing to do with this -terrible murder.” - -“Whoever said he was? But he is now heir to his father’s baronetcy -even if he has been cut out of his father’s will, and we must try and -find him.” - -“You’ll excuse me, sir,” said the old man. “But are you a friend of -the family?” - -“I hope so,” said Collins cheerily, and not to commit himself. - -“What exactly did young Ronald do? Anything very dreadful?” he asked. - -The butler drew himself up with dignity. - -“I think, sir, you had better ask someone else,” he said. - -“That’s very stupid of you,” said Collins, with a smile which took the -sting from his words. “You only make me believe it was something very -dreadful, and I don’t expect it was at all.” - -The butler was not sharp, he fell at once. - -“Oh, no, sir, not at all, it was only when he was at Oxford. He went -off to the ‘Derby’ without leave, and lost a lot of money there. It -was what he had for the term, and when he was sent down he had to tell -Sir James. He had been rather wild before, and that’s what happened,” -he concluded lamely. - -“Hum,” muttered Collins. “I see, and nothing has been heard from him -for some time?” - -“No, sir, he seems to have quite disappeared. I don’t think he is -dead, or we should have heard. Still, if you were to advertise for him -he might come back. He ought to be here to look after Miss Mabel till -she is married.” - -Collins looked up sharply. - -“Is she engaged, then?” he said. - -“Well, not exactly, but how my tongue does go. I must get back to the -house.” He moved to go. - -“One moment,” said Collins quietly. “You can trust me; who is the -fortunate gentleman who is—well—nearly, eh?” - -The butler looked at him doubtfully. Had he offered a bribe he would -have refused information, but Collins was too old a hand for that. - -“Well, seeing as poor Sir James is gone, I don’t think it matters. It -is Mr. Eric.” - -“Mr. Eric what?” - -“I thought you would know, being a friend of the family. Mr. Eric -Sanders, Sir James’ private secretary,” and he looked at Collins with -suspicion. - -He saw the look. “Oh, that’s it,” said he. “Of course, I ought to have -guessed, and how does his suit prosper?” - -“I beg your pardon, sir?” said the other. - -“I mean are they engaged, or just likely to become so?” - -“Sir James wouldn’t hear of it, and last time Mr. Eric was here they -had words over it, for I heard them, but I must really be going.” - -“All right, John, I will wait here till Miss Mabel wants to see me. -You might bring me any papers you have.” The butler bowed and made his -way to the house. - -“So that’s it, is it?” he said to himself. “There are at least two -candidates for honours. We are getting on.” The papers told him -nothing. Sinclair had been to work, and apart from a bald statement of -the facts, and obituary notices, there was nothing striking. Of -course, there were leading articles on the perils of foreign -anarchists and on the saintly character of the deceased, but this was -old stock-in-trade, kept ready for any assassination of a notable -person which might occur, and adapted to circumstances. - -“As long as this country continues to harbour, etc.,” said one Daily. -He tossed them aside, one by one. Sir James, of course, had a good -selection of papers sent to his house, and they arrived whether he was -there or not. - -He sat long in deep thought, smoking continuously. Presently he put -his hand into his pocket, and drew out his pocket book. He looked -round with his habitual caution, and then took out a visiting card. On -one side was the name of Mr. Eric Sanders, and the address of a -well-known London Club, and on the other was written in pencil— - -“For God’s sake, see me. I will not detain you.” - -“Sinclair, my friend, you would have liked to get this—pushed under -the door. Mrs. Simmons, you were not telling the whole truth. I think -this requires further investigation.” - -He rose from his seat and strolled through the old garden with its -gorgeous, herbaceous beds of late summer, where delphiniums and -hollyhocks and the bright blue of borage made a dream of colour. - -It was all very fair, and quiet after the dust and sweat of London. He -returned to the house filled with a vague disquiet. Entering the hall, -he was met by a maid. - -“Miss Mabel would like to see you in her own room,” she said, and on -his nodding assent she conducted him to a sweet sitting room, fragrant -with flowers and furnished with the taste of a girl who had the means -to gratify her every wish. - -She was seated on a sofa, white faced, and dressed all in black. - -She had conquered her emotion. Her old nurse stood by her like a -sentry on duty. - -“Mr. Collins,” she said: “I am puzzled to know why you undertook this -long journey to break this sad news to me. Were you a friend of my -father’s? I am very grateful,” she continued hastily, as though -fearing she was too frigid in her manner. - -“Really, to tell the truth, I don’t know myself why I came,” he -answered. “When this terrible event happened, your old housekeeper was -quite unnerved, and there seemed no one to undertake the job. It did -not seem right that you should see it first in the papers, or get a -telegram.” - -“I am much obliged to you. You must not think me ungrateful, but of -course I am rather upset at present. I have read what the newspapers -have to say. Perhaps you can tell me more?” and she motioned him to -sit. - -“I won’t go into details, Miss Watson,” he said. “The accounts in the -papers are accurate as far as they go. I can, however, tell you this. -Your father did not suffer at all. His look was most peaceful, and it -appears that he was shot while asleep.” - -A look of pain crossed her face, but she mastered her emotion. - -“I am thankful for even that,” she said. “Have the police any idea at -all who can have done this cruel thing. I do not believe my father had -any enemies, he was such a good and upright man that no one could have -a grudge against him.” - -“At present all is dark,” he replied, “but of course you must remember -that as Home Secretary your father was brought in contact with the -worst criminals in the country, and one of them may have been trying -to avenge a fancied wrong. Then, again, it may have been the work of a -lunatic. That is more than probable.” - -“In a way I hope it was,” she said. “One could feel that it was the -sort of accident that might happen to anyone. It is so dreadful to -think that someone has deliberately murdered him.” - -She stumbled over the ill-omened word, and nearly broke down. The -watchful nurse came near and laid a hand on her head. A look of -gratitude shone for a moment in her eyes, and she reached up and took -the hand in hers. - -It was a pathetic picture. - -“You will forgive me asking,” she continued, “but I do not quite see -what you were doing there, Mr. Collins, you are not in the Police -Force?” - -“I am a barrister by profession,” he replied, “and had gone there with -Superintendent Sinclair, who is an old friend of mine. Now, can I do -anything for you before I go? You will forgive a stranger saying so, -but you seem so entirely alone. Oh, I know you have the most loyal and -faithful servants,” he added hastily, “but you don’t seem to have a -friend to help you. Haven’t you some relation I can wire for?” - -“I have no near relative. We have led a very secluded life. You see we -are so much in town. My father had many acquaintances, but no real -friends. Those who did not know him thought him very reserved. He was -not really so, you know.” - -“You were an only child?” he said carelessly. - -“Mr. Collins, I am going to tell you. It will all come out now. I had -a brother, ten years older than I. He quarrelled with my father. It -was nothing very dreadful, but father thought he was doing no good and -getting into bad company, so he sent him off to South America. For -some years now we have lost sight of him. It was a great grief to -father. He had hoped that Ronald would have come back and settled down -here.” - -“Well, we must find him now, as he will be the new Baronet, and there -will be advertisements everywhere for him. I suppose there is no -reason why he should not come back?” - -“None whatever,” she said proudly. “What he did was only a boy’s -escapade when at Oxford, there was nothing criminal.” - -“Well, I expect there will be little difficulty in finding him now,” -he said hopefully; “but it will take some time. Meanwhile, isn’t there -anyone who could help?” - -The colour rose to her pale face. - -“I think you ought to wire for Mr. Sanders,” she said, “he was my -father’s private secretary, and knows more about his affairs than -anyone else.” - -Collins gave her one keen look. “Certainly,” he said. “He is obviously -the man to come. Where shall I find him?” - -“At the Home Office,” she said. “He is certain to be there, but I -expect he has been round to Leveson Square this morning.” - -“I will send off a wire at once, and then I will take my leave.” - -“Certainly not,” she said. “You must stay to lunch, if you don’t mind -a house of mourning,” she added sadly. - -At that moment a knock came at the door, and the butler entered. - -“The post, Miss,” he said, presenting a salver, “and the postman -brought this telegram at the same time. Is there any answer?” - -She broke the envelope and read, a look of pleasure passing over her -face. - -“This is from Eric—Mr. Sanders, he is coming down here to-day. I am so -glad. It will save you the trouble of wiring.” - -Collins said nothing. The butler had handed him a letter in Sinclair’s -writing. He put it into his pocket, and rose to his feet. “I am very -glad for your sake,” he said. “You will be glad to have a man’s -advice. I suppose you will be coming to Town?” - -“Of course. I ought to go at once, but it is such a shock. I think I -must wait till tomorrow.” - -“If you will excuse me, I will just go and read this letter, then,” he -said, and took his departure. - -He went into the garden and to his old seat, and broke the seal of the -letter. - -It was short, and he read it twice, a puzzled look on his face. It -ran: - - “Dear Collins, - - If you are expecting to find out anything in Devonshire, you are on - a wild goose chase. Lewis has fled, and we have damning evidence - against him. Come at once if you want to be in at the death. What’s - your game, anyway? - - Yours in haste, - A. Sinclair.” - -“I must get back,” he muttered to himself. “Whatever is Sinclair -after?” - -A gong sounded within the house, and he slowly rose to his feet and -went in. Miss Watson was waiting for him, and they sat down. She was -lost in her own mournful thoughts, and would scarcely eat anything. -She tried hard to rouse herself. Collins was a brilliant -conversationalist, and had a charm of manner which few could resist. -He set himself to interest her, not without success. - -At the end of the meal he told her he must get back at once, and -noticed that she gave a look almost of relief, though she tried to -hide it. - -“I am deeply grateful to you for coming down here, and for your offer -of help,” she said. - -“Not at all,” he answered. “I will go to your house and do anything I -can in London. Of course, there will have to be an inquest, but we -will spare you all we can.” - -“We?” she said, in surprise. “Then you are mixed up in this?” - -“Oh, there is no secret,” he said. “I am a barrister, as I told you, -but I do a little in helping in an amateur way with these sort of -cases. It is my hobby.” - -“A rather horrible hobby,” she said, “but of course it is necessary. I -hope you find out the criminal—and yet, I don’t know, in some ways I -hope you don’t.” - -“The murderer of your father,” he blurted out, scandalised at such -sentiments. - -“Oh, I know I ought to want him punished, and yet, the awful trial, -the cold cell, and then the last horrible scene. I am afraid I am -always on the side of the criminal. Of course, you think that’s -dreadful.” - -“I think it does more justice to your heart than to your head,” said -he with a smile. - -“English justice is such a cold, merciless thing. When I hear of -people who come forward to what they call ‘further the ends of -justice,’ I always think it is either for notoriety or for reward.” - -He laughed. - -“It’s a good thing everyone does not think as you do,” said he. - -“I was taught as a child that vengeance belongs to God, not to man, -and I believe it is a worse punishment to leave the criminal to his -conscience than to punish him.” - -“You say that because you have never come in contact with the real -criminal,” said he. “He has no conscience.” - -“I don’t believe that. I am sure I would always rather hide a fugitive -from justice than give him up.” - -“This is rank treason,” he said; “but I admire your sentiments.” - -“But don’t agree with them?” - -“We must each of us act according to our lights,” he answered more -gravely than he intended. - -She held out her hand. - -“If you will excuse me, I will say goodbye. The car will be ready for -you, and, I hope, we shall meet again in happier circumstances,” and -she gave a pathetic little smile. - -When she had gone, he stood where he was. - -“What a fool I was to start bandying words with her in her present -state. Now for London. You’ve no time for sentiment.” - - - -CHAPTER IV. - -The Missing Letter - -Sinclair was sitting at his desk, and his brows were knitted. Before -him was a letter. - -He read it over again for the third time, and then told the clock that -he was damned. Then he picked up the envelope, and examined it -closely. - -It was the morning after the murder. - -This was what he read. - - 89, Leveson Square, - London, W. - - “Dear Mr. Sinclair, - - I am writing to you, but I have grave doubts whether this letter - will ever reach you, and therefore, I am not telling you more than - necessary. I am in the hands of one of the cleverest ruffians that - this generation has produced. My life is in imminent danger if it is - not already forfeited. There is not time for explanations. - - Follow these instructions carefully. - - Find my son who has disappeared for some years, but was last heard - of in Monte Video. Tell him to look in the place where I hid my will - in his presence, and he will find all the necessary documents to - bring a great criminal to justice. I cannot be more specific. I am - writing to you because I know you have done good service and are - painstaking. Boyce is a fool. Sylvester Collins is a theorist who - will be no help to you in this matter. Do not consult him. If I am - dead when this reaches you, act as I have said. If nothing has - happened, I rely on your honour to destroy this letter and I will - send for you. I am very tired. - - Yours faithfully, - James Watson.” - -Sinclair sat long over this letter. What a vista of happenings did it -conjure up. He was a plain man. Why did not Sir James write plainly, -give the name of the criminal straight out and save further bother? -Why all this mystery? What had happened in that grim library in the -afternoon? Oh, bother it all, what a maze of evidence. If only it had -been a straightforward murder, with plenty of blood and clues as in a -detective story. - -No; he would not tell Collins. He had something up his sleeve—well, -let them both follow their own line. - -He took a pen and paper, and put down his facts. Here was one thing -cleared up. This was the letter which Sir James had posted himself, -after his interview with the unknown man. - -That, at any rate, corroborated the housekeeper’s evidence. Then the -visitor had threatened his life; if not, why was the danger hanging -over him so greatly that he dare not venture further than the post? - -A message was brought in. It was a wire from Collins to say he was on -the way to London. “Do nothing till I come,” it ended. - -“That’s like his cheek,” said Sinclair to himself. - -He put the letter carefully away in his pocket book, and took his hat -and stick. “I am going to Leveson Square,” said he to the messenger. -“There is no answer.” - -Once inside the house, through the usual, morbid crowd who gathered -outside, he met the plain-clothes officer on duty. - -“Anything to report?” he said, in answer to the other’s salute. - -“No, sir,” said he. “They are still at work on the floor and ceiling -and the walls.” - -A gang of expert men had been engaged to search for a means of exit -from the room by which the murderer had escaped. There had been found -no trace of a secret door, or so much as a crevice through which a -mouse could get. They had even ripped up all the boards, and taken off -the oak panelling from the walls. The ceiling had been examined all -over and the chimney sounded. There was nothing. - -“Have you found anything in the nature of a letter or anything, -anywhere?” he asked of the man in charge. - -“Nothing, sir, but we can search all the furniture and books.” - -“Please do so. It is of great importance, and say nothing about it to -anyone.” - -“Very good, sir,” said the man who was keen on this job, and wanted to -stand well with the superintendent. - -Sinclair addressed the plain-clothes officer. - -“Has the body been searched?” - -“Yes, sir. All that was found on him has been put on the dining-room -table.” - -“Good,” he said, and went into the room. - -Here were all the little things a man carries about with him, which -look so pitiable when he is dead. A fountain pen, pocket book, cigar -case, and a leather case containing a miniature of his dead wife and -his daughter. - - - -CHAPTER V. - -A Mysterious Visit - -By dining on the train, Collins had just time to do a Gilbert and -Sullivan opera. He had a seat permanently booked, which was to be -disposed of if he did not turn up in time. - -After the excitement of his daily life, he found these plays, which he -knew almost by heart, very refreshing. It was the dear old ‘Yeoman of -the Guard’ this night, and he lay back and listened with his eyes half -shut, absorbing the delicious tunes like a rare old vintage. - -“It is easier to die well than to live well, for in sooth I have tried -both,” says Colonel Fairfax. - -How many cases he had come across in his work where this was true. -Some of the worst of men had earned the admiration of men by their -brave end. - -He made his way home in the purple night through back streets and -half-lighted squares which he always preferred to the rush and -dazzling brightness of West London, when he had thinking to do. - -He arrived at his flat to find Sinclair waiting for him, as he had -almost expected. - -“You’re a nice fellow,” said the latter. “I’ve been waiting for you -for over an hour. Your man did not know where you had gone.” - -“Anything wrong,” said the other, carelessly. - -“Wrong,” said Sinclair. “I should think there was. You can’t have a -Home Secretary murdered for nothing. The Premier sent for Boyce this -morning, and half the Cabinet have been round or calling up. They all -have ‘theories’ which they want us to work out.... Luckily, Boyce is -in his element, and professes great hopes of capture and all that sort -of thing.” - -Collins helped Sinclair to a generous whiskey and soda, took a more -modest one for himself, and sat down. - -“Now let’s hear all about it,” he said. - -“Well,” said the other. “We have done a good deal of spade work, and -the negative results are of use anyhow, though our many critics would -not say so. First, as to the room. It has been so thoroughly examined -that there is no possibility of the murderer having got out by any -secret means.” - -“I could have told you that,” said Collins almost contemptuously. - -“How?” said the other. - -“Well, nowadays, people in modern London houses do not have trap doors -and secret panels, and all that sort of thing. That’s kept for -detective stories.” - -“Then how in the world did he come and go?” - -“I can’t tell you. That’s what we’ve got to find out.” - -“Perhaps Mrs. Simmons was an accomplice?” - -“Not necessarily, but how did you get on with her?” - -“She came, and you remember Boyce said he was going to examine her -himself. The great man was engaged with higher game, and I did the -examining. We got her whole statement down, and turned her inside out. -I am sure she was telling the truth. She had nothing to add to what -she said yesterday.” - -Collins grunted. - -Sinclair looked at him for a moment, then continued. - -“We could get nothing further about the letter sent to the Central -News. It was, as you said, posted at Bridge Street, but of course no -one can say any more than that. I have sent it to an expert on -typewriting to see whether we can ascertain what machine was used.” - -“Good.” - -“The telephone has given us nothing. They cannot say where the call -came from, and it was probably a Public Telephone Office. What a nerve -the man had.” - -“Yes, but it was clever. Haven’t you noticed that where there is -nothing but the bare deed, it is easier to concentrate on that, but -all these extraneous matters lead one away from the essentials? - -“Now I see you are dying to tell me. What about Lewis?” - -Sinclair gave a start. This man’s instinct was uncanny. - -“As I told you, Lewis has bolted. He did not turn up again yesterday, -and I sent a man to see if he was ill. He had gone home, coolly packed -his things and paid his bill, telling his landlady he would not be -back, and gone.” - -“And so you think he is the murderer?” - -“It is suspicious, but you have not heard all. Of course, this, -coupled with his curious manner the day before, caused me to make -enquiries. Two important facts have come to light. On the afternoon of -the murder he told his typist that he was going out. He was very -restless, and said he could not work, and then he seemed to come to a -decision, and said, ‘I must go and see Sir James Watson,’ and took his -hat and stick.” - -“When was this?” said Collins, leaning forward. - -“About 2.30, and he did not return till just before I sent for him -after the telephone message came.” - -Collins laughed. - -“Then, you suppose that, having planned the murder and written the -letter saying that it had taken place, and posted it, he tells his -typist he is going to do it and comes back in time to call you up, and -me too, and then answers your bell.” - -“I suppose nothing,” said Sinclair, nettled. “I am giving you facts, -and I haven’t done.” - -“Fire away, then.” - -“When we searched his rooms after he had gone, his landlady said he -always kept a revolver in the top drawer in his bedroom. The day -before yesterday she saw him take it out, and put it in his pocket.” - -“My dear fellow, this is too crude for words. Couldn’t he have shut -his door, or taken some precaution?” - -“Of course, I know that, but it is this sort of mistake which hangs -men.” - -“Well, go on.” - -“That’s all, but it is enough to go on for me. Why has he fled, tell -me that?” - -“My dear fellow, let me demolish your house of cards. First, would a -man who is so cool a hand that he can do what he has done, show -nervousness and fright when asked to go to the house? Would he not -rather welcome the chance, as these vain-glorious murderers invariably -do?” - -“Perhaps.” - -“Then, from what you tell me, he seems to have made up his mind to go -and see Sir James suddenly. That doesn’t fit in.” - -“How did he get into the house and out again the second time?” - -“It’s no good asking questions. He may have had accomplices for all we -know.” - -“Ah, now you are opening up a new question altogether. We have rather -assumed that there was only one man in it, but let’s keep to Lewis.” - -“All right, then. He had access to official paper, and knew my -signature well. He had letters of mine, and could have copied it. Then -he knew my habits, and where I should be found, and he knew where to -find you. He might even have called up from the Yard itself.” - -“That’s one to you, certainly,” said Collins. “I can see Lewis having -a thin time if you catch him. What do you know about him, anyway?” - -“Nothing much. He has been here for three years. He came from a -merchant’s office, and applied for a clerkship. He was well -recommended, and was always keen on his work, and very reliable. So I -took him on as my right-hand man and confidential clerk. He was known -there as my ‘familiar.’” - -“That’s all straightforward. Have you taken any action?” - -“I have sent a full description of him to the papers, and posted him -as ‘wanted.’ ” - -“Oh, my God,” said Collins, jumping up, “when will you people learn -the folly of this? You know what will happen? First, you put him at -once on his guard. Then we shall have letters from Tokio and -Leningrad, besides Brighton and Battersea, from people who have seen -him and talked to him. You know that always happens, and if, by any -chance, he is guilty, we shall have his body washed ashore by the -Thames in about a month’s time. Or,” he added grimly, “possibly if he -is innocent.” - -“Well, that’s the official procedure. I cannot go behind that, -especially in a case like this.” - -Collins laughed, and sat down. - -“It may not be a bad thing,” he said. “It may put the murderer into a -false position of security.” - -“You don’t think much of this, then?” - -“I reserve judgment, but if you are right he was one of the cleverest -scoundrels of this generation.” - -Sinclair started. The words were the same as in the letter he had -received, and which was burning in his pocket. - -“But you, what did you find in Devonshire?” - -“A charming house and a charming girl. It was a rotten job to have to -break the news to her.” - -“Then why on earth did you go?” - -“Oh, I learnt some interesting facts about the family.” - -“It’s a dark business altogether, and the worst is that we shall have -no peace till it is solved. I have had our staff working all day -tracing the movements of well-known criminals who are at large, and -any who may have had a grievance against the Home Secretary. Also of -any lunatics who are at large, and, as you know, there are many of -them.” - -They smoked in silence for a while. - -“Have you any clue at all? Don’t tell me if you would rather not, but -I fancied you were holding something back?” said Sinclair. - -“You have asked me, and I will tell you. I have. The only reason I -have not confided in you is, not from lack of confidence, but because -I was afraid of just such action as you have taken in the case of -Lewis. You see, you are bound to do certain things by your position. -If this develops I will tell you.” - -“Thanks,” said the other, his face clearing. - -“Did you notice anything curious in Mrs. Simmons’ statement?” said -Collins, after a few minutes’ silence. - -“In what particular?” - -“I commend it to your notice. She said that when the unknown visitor -had been with Sir James for some time, she heard a ring from the -library. When she went upstairs, Sir James was showing the visitor -out. If so, who rang, and why?” - -“Just a moment, I have the statement here,” and he pulled out his -pocket book, and took out a folded paper. “Here we are. Yes, you are -quite right, I did not notice it at the time. You think that curious?” - -“I think it—— Hush, what was that?” - -“What?” said the other. - -“I could have sworn I heard someone moving.” - -“Your man, probably. I heard nothing.” - -“My man does not live in. Don’t move.” - -He got to his feet without noise, and went to his desk. Opening a -drawer he took out an automatic pistol, and went to the door. With a -swift movement he flung it open. Outside was darkness. Collins turned -on the light and looked around. - -“Nothing,” he said. “Must have been my imagination. Hullo, what’s -this?” - -He stooped down and picked up a piece of paper from the floor. - -It was a sheet torn from a pocket book, and he brought it into the -room, closing the door carefully. - -“Read that,” he said, and for all his coolness there was a tremble in -his voice. “You are both on the wrong track. Poor fools,” and that was -all. - -“Come,” said Collins, incisively. “We must search the flat.” - -It did not take long, as the flat was not a large one. There was not a -trace of anyone, and the door was fast. - -“Well, well, things are getting lively. We have to deal with a pretty -customer. We shall have to look out for ourselves.” - -Sinclair was white. He got up and helped himself to a whiskey. - -Collins picked up the statement of Mrs. Simmons from the floor, and -read it carefully through. - -Then he folded it up and handed it back to Sinclair. - -“Was there anything else found on his person of interest?” he said. - -“Yes,” said Sinclair, and took from his pocket a leather case. “The -other things were just the ordinary things a man carries: they are at -the house. This I brought with me. It contains miniatures of Sir -James’ wife and daughter. She is a beautiful girl, you saw her -to-day?” - -Collins looked at the miniature long. It showed Miss Watson as a very -young girl, with quaint curls encircling her face, but from the eyes -there looked out the same brave innocence, and there was the wistful -curve of the lips which he had seen in the girl of to-day. - -He turned to the other picture, and gave a start. An intent look came -into his face, and he looked long and earnestly. - -Sinclair looked up. - -“They are very much alike, aren’t they?” he said. “Anyone would know -them for mother and daughter. Do you know, when I saw that photo -miniature I almost seemed to recognise it, there is something -familiar.” - -Collins composed his face before he answered. - -“The likeness is striking. It’s very strange,” he said. - -“Strange?” said the other. - -“Yes, strange, because I, too, seem to recognise it. I saw her -portrait at the Vale to-day.” - -“Perhaps that is why it looks familiar,” said Sinclair. - -“Perhaps,” said Collins, carelessly, but his eyes were still on the -picture. - -“You had better stay here for the night after what has happened—it’s -very late, and it’s no good playing the fool,” he said. - -“Do you know, I think I will. No one is sitting up for me.” - -“Good. I shan’t be sorry to have you,” and he laughed. - -“We can go to Leveson Square to-morrow, or rather to-day,” he said. -“Let’s turn in. I can rig you out.” - -He rose and turned to the door, slipping the leather case into his -pocket. - -It was not the first time that Sinclair had accepted Collins’ -hospitality, and he knew from experience what an excellent host he -made. - - - -CHAPTER VI. - -At Leveson Square - -The blinds were drawn at the house in Leveson Square, and a crowd was -still gazing up at the blank windows. There is always something -gruesome in drawn blinds, and the policeman standing at the door added -to the air of mystery and dark deeds. - -Collins and Sinclair, refreshed by an excellent breakfast, arrived in -Collins’ car. They had been to the Yard first. - -Within, the appearance of the house was as though a bomb had been -dropped. All the oak panelling from the library was piled in the hall, -with furniture and books. The library door was open, and the floor was -covered with plaster. The men had made small holes in the ceiling at -various places, as well as having examined the floor above. The search -had been very thorough. - -In a room upstairs lay the silent figure of the dead statesman. - -It had been decided that the body should remain in the house and the -doctor’s examination had taken place at the house. - -A Home Office expert had conducted this, and the fussy little doctor, -who had been summoned at the first, had wormed his way in to assist. -He was full of importance. - -They met the doctors in the dining-room. - -“Well?” said Sinclair. “Have you found anything?” - -“We have extracted the bullet,” said Broughton, the Home Office -doctor. “As might have been expected, it fits the empty cartridge, and -is exactly similar to the other five.” - -“What a pity,” said Collins. - -The doctor looked at him in surprise. - -Sinclair gave a laugh. - -“Nothing straightforward satisfies Collins,” he said. “He loves -mystery. He would have liked you to have found a rifle bullet, or no -bullet at all.” - -“There’s no accounting for tastes,” said the other. “For my part I am -glad enough when I find things fitting in.” - -“And that’s all?” said Collins. - -“There’s one thing I can’t make out, it’s probably nothing, but it’s -queer. I have had a very extensive experience with this sort of thing, -as you know. The bullet had only just penetrated the brain. Now, a -revolver bullet of that calibre, fired at the distance it was, should -have smashed the back of the skull, and made a dreadful wound. It is -the heavy Army type. I sent a policeman for a sheep’s head, which is -harder than the human skull, and fired at it in the back garden. Look -at the mess it has made,” and he showed them the gruesome sight. - -“Have you any suggestion to make?” said Sinclair. - -“The only thing I can think of is that a half charge was used to -deaden the noise. But then, why put a half charge in one cartridge -only?” - -“I give it up,” said Sinclair. - -Collins was taking little notice. He was in a furious mood. The -morning papers had come out with full details, not only of the crime, -but of the telephone messages and the letter to the Central News, -which made excellent copy, but was in the highest degree indiscreet. - -“Who the devil has done this?” he had said in the car. - -Sinclair had hastily disclaimed all knowledge of it. - -“Then it must be Boyce,” said Collins. “He is the only other that -knows about it. The fool!” - -Presently the man himself came in, puffing and blowing, for he had -walked. - -Collins tackled him at once. - -“I say, Boyce, did you tell the Press all those details which have -come out to-day?” - -Boyce looked uncomfortable. - -“No,” he said. “I have told the Press nothing. I only told the facts -to one or two of the Cabinet who were asking me about things -yesterday.” - -“Then you’ve put your foot into it properly,” said Collins, bluntly. -Boyce began to bluster after the manner of a man who knows he is in -the wrong. - -“I don’t see that any harm is done, and anyway it is a matter for my -Department to decide. I really don’t see what it has to do with you, -Collins.” - -“You’ll see,” said the other, shortly. - -Boyce was offended, and, like men of his kind, began to sulk. He -ignored Collins, and turned to Sinclair. - -“Any news of the missing man? I see you have a full description of -him, but no photo. That’s a pity.” - -“We could not find one, sir,” said Sinclair. “He seems to have been -one of those men who do not care to have their photo taken.” - -“Suspicious, very, that,” said Boyce. - -Collins laughed contemptuously. - -Boyce shot him an angry look. - -“We must lay him by the heels soon—he won’t be able to get out of the -country,” he said in a challenging way. - -“I don’t think we can do any more here,” said Collins. - -“You’ve searched all these books and the furniture for any documents?” -said Sinclair. - -“What do you expect to find?” said Boyce. - -“One never knows,” said Sinclair hastily. - -The man addressed said “Yes, sir, and we have been through all his -papers as you told us; there appears to be nothing of importance. He -was very methodical, and did not appear to keep any private documents -here. Perhaps they are in Devonshire.” - -“We are trying to find the whereabouts of the new Baronet, who was -last heard of in Monte Video,” said Sinclair. - -“I see you are,” said Boyce; “but I should have thought that would -have been for the relatives to do. It does not seem a Home Office -matter.” - -“Perhaps not,” said Sinclair; “but as he was Home Secretary?” - -“Exactly, as an act of courtesy, perhaps,” and Boyce assumed a manner -of importance. He had become a prominent man in the last few days. -Sinclair breathed a sigh of relief. He was thinking of the letter -which he had no intention of showing to anyone else. - -There was a ring at the door, and the policeman on duty brought in a -telegram. - -“For you, sir,” he said, handing it to Collins. - -He read it while the others watched. Not a muscle moved. - -“No answer, thanks,” he said to the policeman, and put it in his -pocket. - -“Anything important?” said Boyce, officiously. - -“Oh, no,” said the other. - -He turned into the library, and looked round. - -“What the devil is he doing with telegrams sent to this house?” said -Boyce, irritably. - -The remark called for no answer. - -The telegram was from Miss Watson to say she was coming to Town that -afternoon, and would he meet her. - -It did not ask for an answer, which pleased him somehow. He strolled -out of the room, and said: - -“What a pity some of our spook merchants cannot come and make an -incantation or beat tom-toms or something, and conjure up the scene -for us. It would be most interesting.” - -“What is more important than mere interest,” said Boyce, “is to bring -the criminal to justice.” - -“Oh, I suppose so, but it’s so dull when the problem is solved, -especially if it turns out banal. It’s like a game of cricket, when -you expect an exciting ending, and the other side all get out for -about 20.” - -“I am afraid I do not play cricket,” said Boyce, curtly. - -Collins eyed him, “No, you wouldn’t,” he said, and made an enemy of -him forthwith. - - - -CHAPTER VII. - -Valuable Information - -Collins was punctual to the minute at Paddington. He had dressed -himself up for the occasion, though he felt contempt for so doing. The -express from Wilton-on-Sea was up to time. - -From a first-class compartment Mabel Watson descended. Her face was -white and calm, but she wore no veil. Collins walked towards the door -and stopped. After the girl, a man descended from the carriage. He was -tall and dressed in good taste, but had a weak looking face, with a -wandering light moustache and straw-coloured hair. - -His eyes were a cold blue. He was the sort of man that women ‘rave -about.’ Collins took careful stock of the man, and then advanced with -raised hat. The girl gave a smile of recognition, and shook hands. - -“It is very good of you to come and meet me,” she said. “This is Mr. -Eric Sanders, Mr. Collins.” The men shook hands and exchanged a look -not too friendly. They were antipathetical. - -“I have brought my old nurse with me, and John. I shall go to an -Hotel, of course. I suppose our house is in the hands of the police,” -and she shuddered. “We stayed at Ackroyd’s when we had let our house -one year,” she said. - -“A very good hotel, and quite convenient,” said Collins. - -“John, tell the porter to get a taxi, please,” she said. - -“I have brought my car,” Collins interposed, “and if you care to come -with me, the servants can come on with the luggage.” - -“That is very kind of you, but I will bring Nurse, if you don’t mind.” - -Sanders had been standing by, gloomy and resentful. - -Collins led the way to the car. - -“Will you come with me, then?” said he. - -“I should like to,” she replied. “Eric, will you take care of Nurse?” -She got into her seat, and Sanders, with not too good a grace, helped -the old nurse into the back seat. - -The drive was all too short. In spite of the terrible cloud hanging -over her, her youth was strong, and she felt the relief of getting -away from Devon and her thoughts there. - -They had tea in a private sitting room, and Collins laid himself out -to keep her mind off the tragedy. - -“You must come to a theatre to-night,” he said. - -“Oh, I couldn’t possibly,” she answered. - -“If I may say so, I don’t agree with you. I know what is in your mind. -You don’t think it would be right after what has happened, but if you -stay in, you will only brood over things and make yourself miserable, -and,” he added earnestly, “I am sure your father would not have wished -you to do that. I am not asking you to forget him, but you have had a -bad ordeal to go through, and must keep yourself going.” - -“What do you think, Eric?” she said, addressing Sanders, who had been -silent during the meal. - -“Of course, you must please yourself, but I should hardly have thought -it was quite the thing,” he said. - -There was something in his tone which annoyed her. - -“Why not?” she said. - -“Well,” he said, floundering. “I suppose it’s a matter of taste, but -in the circumstances——” - -She gave a toss of her head, and turned to Collins. - -“Thank you; yes, I will accept your kind invitation.” - -“I hope you will join us, too,” said he politely to Sanders. - -For a moment he was about to refuse, then he said, “Thank you, very -much.” - -“Then I will get a box for four. Of course, Nurse will come as well.” - -“That is very kind of you. It would be a great treat for her. Only in -that case you must both dine here first. You know I feel very guilty -in doing this, but it will only be a very quiet dinner.” - -“I quite understand,” said Collins, “and I will get a box for Gilbert -and Sullivan’s. I know the management there, and it is just what you -want, something soothing and not too gay. Now, I know you will want to -go to Leveson Square. I will go and see that everything is all right -for you there. Come on, in about half an hour’s time.” - -He saw with a thrill of pleasure the look of gratitude come to her -expressive eyes. - -After he had taken his leave, she turned to Sanders. - -“I think you might be a little more gracious to Mr. Collins, he is -most kind.” - -“You seem to have made great friends with him at short notice,” he -said, churlishly. - -She bridled up. “And if I have, I suppose I can choose my friends.” - -“And forget the old one for the new.” - -“What nonsense. You are behaving like a spoilt child. I have watched -you all the time.” - -“What do you know of this fellow, anyway? He is only a sort of -policeman. I suppose he didn’t tell you that?” - -“If it is any satisfaction to you, he did, and perhaps we had better -stop discussing Mr. Collins any more.” - -He got up and wandered round the room. - -“I suppose I had better go,” he said. - -Her lip curled with contempt. “You can please yourself, but I should -hardly have thought that my oldest male friend would have deserted me -at such a time.” - -“Forgive me. I will say no more. Of course I will stay with you.” - -“All right. It is time we started for Leveson Square.” - -“What a brute I have been,” he said. “I ought to have thought of you.” - -“Would you fetch a taxi?” she said. - -Collins was at the door when they drove up. - -He bowed slightly to Mabel, in the deferential but not subservient -manner of a courtier. - -“Everything is ready for you,” he whispered. “I brought your old nurse -with me. I knew you would like to have her here. She is waiting in the -bedroom.” She felt a sense of pleasure at the thoughtfulness. - -“I will go up,” she said. - -The two men were left alone in the hall. - -“I suppose you know this place well,” said Collins, carelessly. - -“Of course. I was private secretary to Sir James,” said the other, -stiffly. - -Collins lit a cigarette, and offered his case. The other could not -well refuse. “Thanks,” said he. - -“This is a wretched business,” said Collins. - -“It is very terrible, but of course you are used to these crimes in -your profession.” - -“Yes,” he said solemnly, “and we get used to all kinds of criminals,” -and he looked into the empty library. - -“Have you any theory as to who did the murder?” said Sanders. - -“I never allow myself the luxury of theories,” said Collins. - -“Prig,” said the other under his breath. - -“It is strange how the murderer escaped, isn’t it?” said Collins. “I -wonder if you ever heard tell of any secret doors, or trap doors, or -anything of that sort?” - -“Oh, really, are we back in the Middle Ages? This is a modern, London -house. Besides, by the look of things your men have had a pretty -thorough hunt.” - -“When did you see Sir James last?” said Collins, lighting another -cigarette from his old one. - -“Oh, I was with him at the Home Office in the morning of the day.” - -“Fancy, and you little thought then that you would never see him again -alive,” said Collins musingly. - -The other was silent. - -“Do you know,” continued Collins, “you mentioned the Middle Ages. How -much easier detection was then. All you did was to parade suspects in -front of the departed, and when the right man arrived blood gushed out -from his mouth, and you spotted a winner every time.” - -“What a horribly morbid mind you must have,” said Sanders with a -shudder. - -“I am glad I am not mixed up with crime.” - -“I have not any great sense of horror of crime, murder least of all. -There are so many reasons for that,” and he looked straight at the -other man. - -“Miss Watson will be down soon. I hope it has not upset her too much. -You are an old friend. Wouldn’t you like to go up and see.” - -“No, thanks. I would rather not. But I will knock at the door.” - -He went up the stairs, and Collins followed him with his eyes. - -“I wonder if that blood would gush out,” he said to himself. - -Miss Watson stayed in London until the inquest was over. This was -hurried forward out of deference to the position of the deceased. She -had to give evidence of identification. - -There was nothing fresh in spite of the efforts of those engaged on -the case. Tremendous excitement was aroused, not only because of the -fact that the murdered man was a Cabinet Minister, but on account of -the bizarre events which had surrounded the mystery. - -All efforts to trace the ownership of the revolver had failed. Lewis’s -landlady could only state that she thought it was his, as it looked -like it. But a Webley is so common a type that this did not count for -much. The number was an old one, and the weapon had probably passed -through many hands. - -The police did not press their case against any particular individual, -and the jury returned the usual verdict against some person or persons -unknown. - -Collins had been most assiduous in his attempts to make Miss Watson’s -part as small a one as possible, and had endeavoured to keep her -spirits up, without intruding himself. Sanders, in spite of all his -efforts, was still sulky, and plunged into the work of going over Sir -James’ papers, which fell to his lot. - -The ordeal was over, and all those women of Society who had crammed -themselves into the court were trying to sort themselves out again. -Opinion was about equally divided between Lewis and a lunatic as the -villain of the piece. - -Collins sought the back room where the witnesses had gone. - -His face was stern. He walked directly to Mrs. Simmons, who was -sniffing in a corner. - -“I would like to have a word with you, if I may,” he said. - -“Certainly, sir,” she replied. - -“Would you kindly come into the next room, there are too many people -here?” She rose and followed him without a word. - -In the little side room he faced her. - -“Mrs. Simmons, you gave evidence on oath. You know the nature of an -oath?” - -“Oh, yes, sir,” she replied, without hesitation. - -“You swore to tell the truth, didn’t you?” - -“Why, yes, sir, of course.” - -“Very good. In your evidence you said that you did not know who the -man was who called on Sir James?” - -With all her control, a look of relief passed rapidly over her face. - -“Quite right, sir, I had no idea. I could not see him. It might have -been you, sir, for all I know.” - -“It won’t do, Mrs. Simmons. You were asked whether anyone else had -come to see Sir James after that, and you said ‘No.’ That was a lie.” - -If one has seen a child’s balloon touched with a lighted cigarette, -the collapse of this woman was not more complete. - -She seemed to shrivel up. She tried to speak, but all she could do was -to lick her lips and open her mouth. - -Collins waited. - -“You had better tell me,” he said. “If I had wanted to have this known -publicly, couldn’t I have had this out in court? Shall I tell you who -called?” - -“Oh, no, no, sir,” she moaned, raising her hand as though she were -threatened with a blow. - -“You know perfectly well that Mr. Eric Sanders came, and you let him -in?” - -“Oh, sir, how do you know?” she said, with a look of blank -astonishment. - -“The best thing for you is to tell me exactly what did happen. Perhaps -I know more than you think.” - -She looked at him in a frightened way. - -“Oh, sir, he had nothing to do with the murder, sir, I am sure he -didn’t.” - -“Tell me exactly what did occur, or must I call the police?” he said. - -“What happened was this, sir,” she said, gazing round her, as if for -help. “After the visitor had gone, and I am sure I wish I knew who he -was, I was in the dining-room, as I told in court. - -“Mr. Eric came in without so much as a knock, he being free of the -house. He seemed to be very excited, and he says ‘I must see Sir -James.’ I says, ‘He does not want to be disturbed.’ Then he says ‘I’ll -just knock at his door and ask him.’ ” - -“One moment, Mrs. Simmons. Was this after Sir James had sent the -letter?” - -“Oh, yes, sir, after he had come in.” - -“You are quite sure of that?” - -“Quite sure.” - -“Go on.” - -“Mr. Eric knocked at the door, but there was no answer. Then he knocks -again, but there wasn’t a sound. So he writes something on a card, and -slips it under the door, and says, ‘Sir James, do you mind reading the -card,’ and he waits. - -“There was a noise inside, as though someone was a moving very slowly, -and a voice said, ‘go away.’ ” - -Collins drew in a quick breath. “You are quite certain about that?” - -“Oh, yes, sir, I was standing by the door. I was afraid he would come -out, and there would be blows.” - -“Why?” - -“Because, sir, Mr. Eric and Sir James had had a terrible set-to the -night before.” - -“Do you mean they came to blows?” - -“Oh, no, sir, I meant a figure of speech. Only words.” - -“What about?” - -“Well, sir, it isn’t my business, but I think it was over Miss Mabel.” - -“Go on,” said Collins. - -“Then Mr. Eric says, ‘Won’t you see me for a minute?’ ” - -“Was there any answer?” - -“Only a horrible sort of groan, so I says to him, ‘you’d better get -out of this, quick. The master’s got a loaded revolver in there.’ I -don’t know what made me say that, but I wanted to get rid of him.” - -“What did he say?” - -“He says, ‘so have I, if it comes to that.’ But he turned and went out -without another word. Oh, sir, I hope I haven’t done wrong in telling -you.” - -“Don’t get excited, you have done quite right, but you must not tell -anyone else, mind that.” - -“I will, sir, and I am sure that he had nothing to do with it, sir. -That’s why I said nothing about it.” - -“Now, one more question, and I have done. Think carefully before you -answer. Was it Sir James who answered from the room?” - -All the colour fled from her face, and she seemed on the verge of a -collapse. - -“Oh, sir, I don’t know. I have thought of nothing else since this -terrible affair. I don’t believe it was. It was like him, but muffled -and sort of mumbling.” She was shivering now, and on the verge of -breaking down. Collins drew a flask from his pocket and took out the -stopper. - -“Drink this. It will do you good. I have finished now.” - -“Thank you, sir,” she said, taking a deep drink. - -“And you won’t tell anyone. You must keep absolutely silent. I shall -not tell unless I find it necessary. Now, mind, not a word. You will -do infinite harm if you do.” - -The effect of the strong drink had made her maudlin, and she sank -weeping on a chair. - -“Oh, what would Miss Mabel say?” she said between her sobs. - -Collins gave one look at her, and then left the room. He had got the -information he wanted. - - - -CHAPTER VIII. - -Enter Mr. Allery - -After the inquest there was nothing to keep Miss Watson in London. A -sad cortège started from Leveson Square after dark, for, in the -circumstances, they had no wish for public display. - -The body of the dead statesman was being taken to Devonshire for -burial. In all the arrangements Collins had played an important but -unobtrusive part, and now, on the departure platform, he had quietly -seen to her comfort in the little ways a woman appreciates. - -Papers were ready, seats booked at the dining table, and the carriage -reserved by a well-tipped guard. - -Eric Sanders had already gone on, as it was necessary to go through -all the dead man’s papers, and, as private secretary, he was assisting -the police in this matter. - -An aged and lachrymose aunt had turned up from somewhere, and was -acting chaperon. - -The old nurse had been relegated to what the aunt called her proper -place. Collins had completely won the heart of the old nurse with an -easy courtesy which is neither patronage nor familiarity, and she had -sworn by him ever since he had taken them to the theatre. On that -occasion he had, with great tact, laid himself out to amuse the old -lady, while Mabel was left to her sulky Eric, which accentuated the -contrast. - -Now he had taken as much care in seeing to the comfort of the two old -servants (for the butler was going back with them), as with Miss -Watson herself—a fact she was quick to note and appreciate. - -They were standing on the platform, waiting for the train to start, -and Mabel gave him her hand. - -“I am most awfully grateful to you for all you have done,” she said. -“I don’t know how I should have got on without you. This has been a -very trying time, but it would have been far worse but for your -management.” He was pleased at the compliment. - -“It has been a real pleasure to do what I could, and no trouble, for I -have had to be in the thick of things, from my position.” - -A cloud crossed her face. - -“Yes, of course. You are trying to find the criminal.” - -“I am trying first to find your brother.” - -“Oh, I hope you do. It would be so comforting at this time if he were -here.” - -“I will let you know directly I hear anything.” - -“Oh, but I hope you will do more than that. You must come and see us -when we are more settled,” she added wistfully. - -They were joined by Mr. Allery, the senior partner of Allery & -Watkins, the family lawyers. Collins and he had seen a good deal of -each other during these few days, and had grown to like each other. - -He took Mabel’s hand in a fatherly way. - -“Now, you must not get down there and fret and worry. It’s all -terribly sad, but you are young, and when you have got over the first -grief, you must rouse yourself up. There’s nothing worse than moping.” - -“Then the best way you can help is to come and see me,” she said with -a smile, “and bring Mr. Collins with you. You are both golfers, and -there are several excellent links near us.” - -“I shall be delighted,” said the lawyer. “I need a change. Only you -must remind me, or I shall never come,” and he laughed in a genial, -full-blooded way. - -He had a charming, old-world courtesy, and what in doctors is called a -good bedside manner. - -The train moved off, leaving the two men standing on the platform. - -“Poor girl,” said Allery. “I have known her since she was a baby. It’s -a sad blow to her, but, between ourselves, it may be a good thing. Sir -James was a fine man, but he was very selfish with her. She was -absolutely tied up with him, and could go nowhere. He warned off all -possible suitors, and made her live the life of a nun.” - -“I gather that Sanders rather bit his fingers there.” Allery looked at -him shrewdly. - -“You haven’t taken long to find that out,” he said. “Yes, I believe he -did. He is an able young fellow, of good family, and in every way -desirable, but for some reason Sir James would not hear of an -engagement. Of course, it was very awkward, as he was his private -secretary, and Sir James was too fair minded a man to get rid of him -for domestic reasons which would have ruined his prospects. But it -couldn’t have gone on. He actually talked to me about altering his -will if Mabel did not give Eric up.” - -Collins looked interested. - -“We can’t stand talking here. Let me give you a lift in my car. Where -can I take you?” - -“That’s most kind of you. I have an hour before my train goes, so I -shall just go to my club. You’d better come in for a few minutes.” - -In the club smoking room, after a general talk, Collins gently led the -conversation back to the subject about which he wanted information. - -“You knew young Watson, I suppose?” The lawyer’s face hardened. - -“Yes,” he said shortly, “I knew him. A wastrel.” - -“I rather gathered,” said Collins, “that he was just a somewhat wild -youth, who went the pace at Oxford.” - -“I am afraid it did not stop at that,” said the other, and closed his -mouth in a way that indicated he did not wish to continue. Collins saw -it, and asked no more. - -Allery, however, volunteered one bit of information. - -“Sir James made a curious will. It will be proved soon, and so there -is no particular secret. If his son was found, and was willing to -settle down in Devonshire, he was to have a half share after certain -small legacies had been paid. If not, the whole was to go to Mabel. -She gets half in any case. It was left to me to decide whether he was -fulfilling the conditions. That’ll be a nice task.” - -“Supposing we can’t find him.” - -“Then Mabel takes her half and the interest on the other, which -remains in trust, until it is decided that he is dead. The discretion -rests with me.” - -“A very reasonable arrangement,” said Collins. - - - -CHAPTER IX. - -A Confession - -Sinclair and Boyce were sitting in the former’s room, waiting for -Collins. - -“I wonder how he will like this?” said Boyce. - -“Not at all,” said the other, making a face. “He is so fond of a -problem that he dislikes a simple solution to anything.” - -He shuffled uncomfortably. He did not altogether like it, himself. -Collins entered and greeted the others. - -“Well?” he said. “I got your message.” - -Boyce took his cigar from his mouth. - -“We have got a confession of the murder of Sir James.” If he expected -Collins to show any feeling, he was disappointed. - -“Who is it?” he said, quietly seating himself. - -“A man called Jackson. He came into the Vine Street police station -late last night and said he wished to give himself up for the murder.” - -“Of course,” said Collins contemptuously, “we shall have plenty of -them.” - -“Wait a moment. This man is well known to the police. He has been in -an asylum for years, but unfortunately his people got him certified -sane, and had him out. He had homicidal tendencies. He has made a -complete statement.” - -“A statement from a lunatic. Really, Boyce.” - -“Well, listen to this, then,” said Boyce, and spread a document out on -the desk. - -He began to read: - - “I, John Henry Jackson, being of sound mind, and having been warned - by the police, declare the following statement to be a true account - of what I have done. On the afternoon of the ———, I killed that dog, - Sir James Watson, because he is not fit to live. He will not hear the - cry of the prisoner or the oppressed, but his heart has been hardened - like Pharoah. I went to his house in Leveson Square, which I had been - watching for an opportunity, and he opened the door to me. He was - delivered into my hands, but I would not slay him then. I knew that - the time had come, so I wrote to the Central News Agency, with whom I - have often had correspondence, and told them of his death. I had - called at Scotland Yard some days before and seen Superintendent - Sinclair.” Boyce paused, and Sinclair looked up with a start. - - “While he was not looking, I took some of his paper, and a letter he - had signed, and so I wrote on the paper to show that it was not - murder. Sir James came out and posted a letter, and I nearly killed - him then, but the time had not come, so I followed him into the - house, and shot him. It is a good deed and I do not mind having done - it. - (Signed) J. H. JACKSON. - -“Well, what do you make of that?” - -Sinclair and Collins looked up, and their eyes met. - -“Absolute rubbish,” said Collins, “the man is obviously a lunatic.” - -“What about the reference to you?” said Boyce to Sinclair. - -“I do remember a wild man coming here with some grievance. I don’t -know how he got in at all. Lewis let him in, but I have no -recollection of him taking any letter of mine.” - -“Still, he may have done,” said Boyce. - -“Of course,” said the other. “There is always a tray full of -type-written letters of no great importance, waiting to go out. They -would not be registered till they had been collected and one might -have gone. It’s possible.” - -“The whole thing is preposterous. What about the telephone messages -that Sinclair and I had?” said Collins. - -“Oh, he says he sent them from a Call Office.” - -Collins laughed. “This is all your doing, Boyce. I knew how it would -be. You let the whole story out to the papers, and this lunatic has -been turning it over in his mind till he really believes he has done -it. It’s quite a common phase. I wonder you take the trouble to go -into the matter.” - -“Wait a moment. You always think no one can be right but yourself. You -have not heard all. A policeman has identified him. He saw him several -times hanging about Leveson Square. And he has been further examined -and his story hangs together. I don’t think there is any doubt that we -have got the right man.” - -“I am perfectly sure you haven’t,” said Collins. - -Boyce turned to him. “Of course it will be a disappointment to you. I -know you always like something out of the way, with mystery and -special features. What do you think, Sinclair?” - -“I don’t know, sir, I don’t know what to say. I don’t somehow think he -is our man.” - -“I am quite sure he is; he’s got to be. You understand. And I expect -loyal support from my Department,” said Boyce, with decision. - -“It won’t do, Boyce, old fellow,” said Collins. - -“What do you mean?” - -“I’ll tell you. Have you ever seen the Mikado? If so you may remember -a song beginning, ‘As some day it may happen that a victim must be -found.’ ” - -“I am afraid I don’t follow you,” said the other coldly. - -“Between us three there is no need for bluff. You are being worried by -all kinds of people to solve the problem. You see that your -professional reputation is at stake and that much hangs on it. And you -see here a good chance of finding a victim, who will not suffer any -hardship in any case, as he obviously ought to be under lock and key. - -“It is the Stenie Morrison case over again, only here you will not -have to have an innocent man tried, because this man will not be able -to plead. It will all work out finely. This man will go to Broadmoor, -where he will be quite happy, and there will be much praise for the -smart Commissioner.” - -Boyce flushed scarlet. “You mean I should fake up a charge against a -man I knew was not guilty,” he said. - -Collins shrugged his shoulders. “I have known it done,” he said, and -turned to Sinclair. “Well, here ends the wonderful mystery of Leveson -Square. There will be no difficulty in getting a case. I have not been -at the Bar for nothing. There will be no defence, because there will -be no trial. Personally, I could drive a horse and cart through the -whole thing. So could you. But it will be beautifully stage-managed.” - -Boyce rose in anger. “I suppose because you are a free-lance you think -you can say what you like, unless you are trying to make a joke in -rather doubtful taste. I do not see that any useful purpose would be -served by continuing this discussion,” and he went out. - -The other two looked at each other. Collins burst out laughing. - -“Cheer up,” he said, “you look as if you had just missed backing the -winner.” - -“That’s just what I have done,” said Sinclair gloomily. “It’s all -right for you, but I have to do what I am told. I know this is all -wrong.” - -“Do you? So do I,” said Collins quietly. - -The other looked up quickly. “You are very certain.” - -“Exactly. And so are you.” They both stared hard at each other for a -moment. “I wonder what you have got hold of?” said Sinclair. - -“That’s just what I was wondering,” said Collins. - -“There’s one thing. This will put the real man right off. He will -think he’s safe and may return,” said Sinclair. - -“Return? What do you mean?” - -“Oh, nothing.” - -A clerk entered, and laid an early edition of the “Evening Rag” on the -table. Sinclair picked it up. - -“Read that,” he said, indignantly. - -Across the page was printed: - - ‘MURDER OF THE HOME SECRETARY,’ - ‘SUSPECT ARRESTED,’ - ‘MAKES FULL CONFESSION.’ - -There followed an account of how that brilliant Civil Servant, F. D. -Boyce, Commissioner of Police, after devoting his nights and days to -the problem, had at last effected the arrest of a violent lunatic who -had made a full confession of the dastardly crime. - -There followed a paragraph in praise of their worthy official, and in -self-laudation of the Press generally, whose co-operation had been so -effectual. - -Collins put it down with a smile. - -“So that’s that,” he said. “I wash my hands of the case.” - -On his way back to his flat he stopped at a Post Office, and sent off -a wire. “Delighted to accept your kind invitation. Will come -tomorrow,” and addressed it to “Miss Watson, The Vale, Holbrook.” - - - -CHAPTER X. - -The Portrait - -A surprise awaited Collins on his arrival at Wilton-on-Sea. Eric -Sanders was on the platform, and came forward with a pleasant smile. -He was a changed being. The sulky petulance was gone, and he seemed -like a man from whom a load of care has been removed. His manner was -friendly without being effusive. - -Collins surveyed him keenly. - -He was too used to studying human nature not to notice the change, and -too clever to show that he saw it. - -They drove to the Vale among the autumn trees and over the hills from -whence magnificent views stretched out beneath them. Eric opened the -conversation. - -“You people have done a smart bit of work capturing the murderer of -Sir James so quickly,” he said. “The papers were full of it this -morning.” - -“Yes,” said Collins, dryly. “I read them on the way down.” - -“He seems to be a desperate ruffian. I didn’t quite make out how it -was he was actually caught.” - -“He wasn’t,” said Collins, “he gave himself up.” - -“Oh, I see. It was not clear in the account,” he looked at Collins -doubtfully wondering how far it was right to ask him questions without -breach of etiquette. - -“This is a wonderful piece of country,” said Collins. “It’s one of the -finest views I know just before we go down again into the valley. It’s -like the view from the Delectable Mountains.” - -“You’ve read the ‘Pilgrim’s Progress’?” said the other in surprise. - -Collins gave a laugh. “Oh, I don’t spend all my time in bones and -blood, though problems do interest me.” - -At the risk of courting a snub Eric said, “I expect you are sorry this -one is over so quickly?” - -“Oh, there will be plenty more,” said he lightly. - -On their arrival Mabel met them at the door and greeted Collins -warmly—a trifle too warmly—there was just a touch of over -effusiveness, which his quick eye noticed. - -“We’re quite a party,” she said. “It is really too big so shortly -after——” she hesitated: “while we are in mourning. Mr. Allery is here, -with his wife and daughter.” - -When they sat down to dinner that night there was indeed an atmosphere -of quiet enjoyment far removed from the horror of the past days. Mr. -Allery had had a word with Collins. - -“I came as a duty. I was so much afraid that the poor little girl -would mope. It’s no earthly good crying over spilt milk. She has all -her life before her. Besides,” he added with a smile, “I think her old -aunt is far from an ideal chaperon. My wife is used to all occasions.” - -“You mean?” - -“You’ll see, my boy,” said the old lawyer with a chuckle, “The course -of true love is running smoother.” - -Then the ladies had come in. - -The dinner was a merry one; Allery had a fund of humour culled from -his long experience, and he found an able supporter in Collins. -Sanders was no fool, and now that he was absolutely happy he took his -part. He had taken Miss Allery in, but Collins noted that he was -sitting next to Mabel. Collins had taken in the Aunt, who was only a -cousin of Sir James. He was sitting with his back to the windows from -which the setting sun still shone into the room, for they had dined -early. In front of him was a great fire-place, and over the mantel was -a large portrait of Sir James in court dress. - -“Fancy,” Sanders was saying, “I find Mr. Collins spends his spare time -reading the ‘Pilgrim’s Progress.’ ” - -“And very good taste, too,” said Allery. “It contains some of the most -glorious pieces of English ever written. - -“Not one of our modern writers can touch it.” - -It was getting dark in the room. - -“I think,” said the aunt, “we might have a light, my dear?” - -“Certainly,” said Mabel. “John, turn on the electric light.” - -At that moment a last ray, almost blood-red, came from the dying sun -through the window, and shone full on the portrait over the -fire-place. Collins was idly looking at it, when his face suddenly -became rigid and fixed. An intent look came into his eyes, and he -stared hard at the portrait. Then the brilliant light came on. At that -moment he felt rather than saw that Mabel was watching him. He turned -to her and she looked down in confusion, and a red pervaded her face. -They both recovered and their eyes met. He read in them a certain -uneasiness or dread. - -Instantly he composed his features and said, “That’s better, but the -sunset was very beautiful.” - -“We’ve missed the first News bulletin,” said Allery, “but we must get -the second. I always feel lost in the country when there’s no -wireless. Miss Watson has a splendid receiving set.” - -While conversation was general Collins leant over to Allery. - -“Better not say too much about the news,” he said. “There will be -something about the murder, certain to be, and it may distress her.” - -“Perhaps you are right, but as a matter of fact, she has been much -more cheerful since she heard that they had got the man.” - -The receiving set was in the old oak-pannelled hall in a neat cabinet. -The company foregathered here at ten o’clock for the news. Eric was -the operator. After the hundred and fortieth chess move between two -Scotsmen, and the usual dismal forecast of the weather, an account was -given of the preliminary examination of Jackson, who was being kept -under observation by Home Office doctors. Two facts emerged, that the -Home Office was satisfied in a guarded way that he was the man, with -plenty of the cautious word ‘alleged,’ and that he was hopelessly mad. -Collins smiled as he listened. He had seated himself on a cushion in -the shadow where he could watch Mabel’s expressive face. He saw a look -of relief, and something more, a puzzled look on her face. - -After the news an announcement was broadcasted, as had been done for -the past few days, asking for information as to the whereabouts of -Ronald, now Sir Ronald Watson, last heard of at Monte Video, etc. - -As the loud speaker announced this, Collins saw a swift glance pass -between Mabel and Allery. - -When the Savoy bands were in full blast, Sanders and Allery departed -to finish an interrupted game of billiards. The four ladies continued -a game of bridge. Collins had joined with neither party, but watched -each in turn. When Mabel was “dummy” she came across to him. “I wish -you were not out of things like this,” she said, “I feel I am not -doing my duty as hostess.” - -“Not a bit of it,” he replied. “I am enjoying myself.” - -“I suppose you are feeling more at rest now that this horrible affair -has been cleared up?” - -“Of course it ends the matter as far as I am concerned—for the -present,” he said. “And you?” - -“Oh, I told you,” she said. “I would much rather it turned out to be a -man who was not responsible. There will be nothing done to him, I -suppose?” - -“He will be confined to Broadmoor for life, now. He has been there -before, you know. They won’t let him out again.” - -“How sad,” she said; “but it’s better than a man being hanged, isn’t -it?” - -“If he’s guilty,” said Collins. - -“Of course they will have to prove their case, won’t they?” she said. - -He gave a scornful laugh. “Oh, they will do that all right,” he said. - -“Do you mean whether he is guilty or not? But that is too dreadful.” - -“If a man once gets into the clutches of the Law it doesn’t matter -much whether he’s guilty or not. He’s about as much chance as a fly in -a spider’s net.” - -“What an awful thing. But you were a barrister once yourself?” - -“That’s why I say that,” he answered with meaning. - -“But we must not keep on talking about this, it will make you morbid.” - -“Come on, Mabel, we are waiting for you,” came from the table. - -Collins strolled out into the garden where a bright moon was shining. -What should he do? Let things slide altogether, and the Law take its -course? That was best, but a curious streak of vanity and desire for -mystery goaded him on to fresh research. There were other problems -beside the main plot which called for solution. - -There was the curious disappearance of Lewis. And what about Eric -Sanders? Besides he grudged an easy triumph for the oily Boyce. He -would like to upset his apple-cart. - -The scent of the flowers and a cool breeze were delightful after -London. He wandered round the house like a nocturnal cat, and came to -the dining-room window. He stopped dead. Yes; he would have another -look, while the others were busy. - -Returning to the house he went to the dining-room and turned on the -electric light. Sir James was staring down at him from over the -mantelpiece. He lit a cigarette and sat on the edge of the table, -gazing keenly at the portrait. He sat there motionless, in thought. He -had an unusually keen sense and he felt, rather than saw, that someone -had come into the room. He made no sign. A quiet voice at his elbow -said, “It’s a very good likeness, and cleverly painted, isn’t it?” He -turned without haste. Allery was standing beside him with an -inscrutable smile on his face. - -“I came to look for you as we have finished, and I thought you might -like a nightcap before turning in.” - -“Thanks, I will come along,” said Collins. “I never saw Sir James to -speak to. He had a remarkable face. A strange mixture of hardness and -sympathy. The mouth is hard as a rock, but the eyes are sympathetic.” - -“You are a student of these things, of course,” said the lawyer. “But -you are quite right. He was a contradiction, but his intellect always -ruled his emotions.” - -“Was his son anything like him?” - -“In character, yes; in face he was too young to say. He was -undeveloped.” - -Collins turned out the light and they went to join the others. - - - -CHAPTER XI. - -An Apparition - -The next three days passed outwardly in the usual enjoyments of a -country house-party. They golfed and motored and played tennis. Behind -the scenes many things were happening. - -It was obvious to anyone that Eric Sanders and Mabel had come to an -understanding, though a definite engagement so soon after the death of -Sir James was repugnant to her. - -On the other hand, so long as she had had to fight a battle with her -father on behalf of Eric, she had been passionately devoted to him; -but now that all opposition had ceased at the gates of the vault, and -things had become easy, she almost resented the air of ownership with -which Eric treated her. Woman-like she did not like being regarded as -being cheaply won. She turned to Collins and was much in his company -to show her lover that he had not a monopoly of her society. - -Here was ground ready for sowing. He had gone through life with a -cynical view of women, partly because he had come in contact with the -sordid side of human nature, and partly because he had led a lonely -life. - -From the first moment that he had seen Mabel his interest had been -aroused, and that interest was growing to something more intimate. She -either did not or would not see, and the situation was soon acute. She -was attracted to him by the very distaste for his profession, for she -had inherited much of her father’s contradiction in character. - -His invitation had been indefinite, and with all the party he was very -popular. He carefully refrained from referring to the subject of the -murder, and tried to lead the conversation away from it. And so the -age-long battle began. - -An excursion had been arranged to the Cheddar Gorge and Caves, and as -they passed down that wonderful panorama of riven rocks, unsurpassed -in England, the grandeur of the scene drew them together. Each had a -vein of savagery in their natures to which the wild aspect of the -scenery appealed. Collins was driving the car, and Mabel had taken her -place with him. - -“Stop a moment here,” she whispered. “This is wonderful.” - -Eric was sitting morosely in the back. - -Far up, the trees growing on the edge of the precipice looked like the -toy trees of a Japanese garden, and the fantastic rocks formed castles -of fairy legend. The twisted road curved steeply down into the depths. - -“I would like to come here by moonlight,” she said. “It would be -wonderful.” - -“Why not have a picnic here, then?” he answered. “It is quite warm -still.” - -“We will,” she said gaily. “Come on, or the others will get restive. -My aunt sees nothing in these rocks—in fact, she is rather -frightened.” They descended to the caves no less wonderful. - -There were no tourists at that time so they made a party by themselves -and went in with a guide. - -Far in the depths of “Solomon’s Temple” with its amazing stalactites -lit by electric light, they saw the entrance of a dark cave. - -The guide was speaking: “That cave has been explored for over two -miles, but is not open to the public. We do not know where it ends. -There must be exits somewhere, or the air would not keep so fresh.” - -“What a place for a criminal to hide from justice,” said Collins. “If -one of our friends could make his way from Dartmoor here, he might -stay for months with an accomplice to bring him food.” - -“Only in the summer,” said the guide; “the caves are flooded in the -winter.” - -Mabel shivered. - -“How cold and damp it would be,” she said, “and fancy a storm coming -on and the water dashing down on one from above.” - -“Really, Mabel,” said Sanders, “you are getting very morbid, let’s get -out and have some lunch.” - -She turned on him. - -“How unromantic you are. I would like to buy this place, and turn it -into a sort of Monte Christo’s cave.” - -“And get chronic rheumatism,” said Allery, laughing. - -“Well, I must give way to the craving for lunch,” she said, and led -the way out. - -When they had got back in the afternoon, Mabel’s old nurse met them -with a startling announcement. Old John, the butler, had seen a ghost, -and was prostrated with terror. - -“Nonsense,” said Collins, “ghosts don’t come in the day time, it’s -against all the rules of the game. Let’s have him up and question -him.” - -Mabel did not take it quite so lightly. “Poor old man,” she said, “he -has been brooding on my father’s death, and I expect he has imagined -things.” - -“Better ask for the cellar key,” said Sanders. - -Mabel turned on him, angrily. “That’s a mean thing to say. John has -been with us now for twenty-five years and I have never known him the -worse for drink.” - -Sanders hastily apologised. - -Allery intervened. “Perhaps I had better see him, and talk to him.” - -“If I may suggest it,” said Collins, “why not just send for him in the -ordinary way, and let him tell his story? These old family servants -are entitled to being treated to respect.” - -Mabel gave him a grateful look. Without waiting for an answer, Collins -rang the bell. It was answered by John himself. - -He was looking white and scared, but made no remark. - -After giving some trivial order, Mabel said in a casual way: - -“I hear you have had an unpleasant experience, John. Would you care to -tell us about it?” - -The old man was dying to do so, and plunged into his story at once. - -“Thank you, Miss Mabel, it has upset me somewhat, but I am sorry I -mentioned it. While you were away I had occasion to go into the -dining-room to fetch some silver. When I opened the door there was Sir -James standing on the hearth-rug as plain as life.” - -“How was he dressed?” said Collins, quickly. - -“He was in court dress, with a sword on, and he was holding his hat in -his hand.” - -Sanders burst out laughing. - -“Exactly, and I suppose the picture frame was empty,” he looked round -in surprise. No one else had laughed. - -“I was too frightened to look, sir,” he said. - -“What happened then?” said Collins in a soothing tone. - -“I don’t quite know, sir, I think I must have turned faint. I believe -he turned and looked at me, and when I looked again he was gone.” - -“But why were you so frightened?” said Collins. - -“It was a warning, sir, I am sure of that. He came to tell me my time -is up. Well, I suppose we all have to go sometime, and I have tried to -do my duty.” - -Collins cast a quick glance round the room. Sanders was frankly -sceptical. Mrs. Allery and her daughter were looking scared. The Aunt -was not there. Mabel was dead white, and her eyes nearly closed; but -Collins saw one quick look pass between her and Allery, though the -face of the old lawyer was inscrutable. - -There was a silence in the room. - -Collins went to the old servant with a quick movement and took his -hand. - -“Now listen to me, John. I will tell you exactly what happened. You -have been allowing yourself to brood over your old master’s death, and -it has got on your nerves. You were probably thinking of him because -the house was quiet, and when you came into the dining-room, the sun -was shining right on to the portrait of Sir James, and you imagined he -was standing on the rug. It is really quite a common thing. It’s what -we call hallucination. You must not let it worry you. It’s not a -warning or anything like that, and you must not think any more of it.” - -He spoke with such conviction that the old man was greatly relieved. - -But Collins had gone to the old man for another reason. John was -standing with his back to a looking-glass, and Collins could see the -room. He saw two things, a look of intense annoyance on the face of -Sanders, and an expression on Mabel’s face in which gratitude was -mixed with relief. - -“Mr. Collins is right,” she said. “That is the explanation. I am sure -there is nothing else in it. Now don’t worry any more about it.” - -“Thank you, sir, thank you, Miss Mabel, it has relieved me a lot,” and -the old man went out. - -“Well done, Collins,” said Allery, “you have disposed of the ghost in -quick time. I hope the old fellow will forget all about it.” - -Collins laughed and helped himself to a cigarette from a silver box, -but he watched the other. Allery drew a handkerchief from his pocket, -and furtively wiped his forehead. - -The company drifted off to various interests. Sanders and Mabel found -themselves alone for a moment. - -“I think I will go to Town to-morrow, if you don’t mind,” he said. - -“Why should you go?” she said. - -“Well, I seem to be always putting my foot into it somehow, and I -don’t think I am wanted here,” he added petulantly. - -She stiffened. “You must please yourself. I hope you don’t find it -very boring here?” - -“You know I don’t, Mabel, but you seem to have changed towards me. You -are always trying to snub me in front of Collins, and you treat me -almost as a stranger. Why can’t we announce our engagement, and then -we should know where we stand?” - -She flushed. “Really, Eric, you sometimes behave like a spoilt child. -You know my reasons. It is too soon after my father’s death, -especially as he disapproved, and I would like to wait till my brother -comes back.” - -“But he may be dead, and we may have to wait for years. He has been -advertised enough for, and if a man will not come to take up a title -and position, there must be something wrong.” - -“What do you mean?” she said, angrily. - -“Oh, I don’t mean anything dishonourable, but something to prevent him -coming. He may be out of touch of civilisation,” he said, lamely. - -“Very well,” she said, “then I will go further. I will not become -engaged until my brother comes back. I am certain he is not dead.” - -“That means, I suppose, you have ceased to care for me?” - -“It means nothing of the sort and you know it. If I did not care for -you, should I have stuck to you against my father’s wishes?” - -“Why don’t you say that you will marry the man who finds your -brother?” he said, bitterly. - -“Eric, you go too far,” and she threw up her head. - -“I go too far! Well, Mabel, since you have said that, I will tell you -I think it is you to whom that would apply. You are ‘carrying -on’—there is no other phrase for it, vulgar as it is—with that fellow -Collins. You are always with him, and I can see by the way he looks at -you that he is getting too fond of you. You have only known him for a -short time.” - -“That’s enough,” she interrupted. “You had better say no more or we -shall come to a real quarrel. I think you better go as you have -suggested, and you can think things over. I am going to see how my -aunt is,” and she went out without another word. - -“Curse the fellow,” said Sanders. “What does he mean by foisting -himself here, and staying on. He’s trying to cut me out with his -damnable polite manners. And she’s everything in the world to me.” - - - -CHAPTER XII. - -What Happened in the Night - -The incident of the day had cast a gloom over the party. - -Mabel’s aunt had been in bed all the day, with one of her sick -headaches. Collins was down before the others, and had a word with old -John. The old servant was devoted to him. - -“I hope you got over your scare,” said he. - -“Oh, yes, thank you, sir, but it frightened me at the time. But you -were probably right. I have been thinking about the master a lot -lately.” - -“I have often come across cases like that,” said Collins. “Now I -suppose you came in quite quietly, without making any noise?” - -“Yes, sir, as the family were out I was wearing carpet slippers, as I -suffer with my feet a good deal, and the door was only ajar.” - -They were standing in the dining-room. - -Collins walked to the fire-place. - -“And you thought you saw Sir James standing here,” he said, but he -took in a breath. With an effort he controlled his voice. - -“Don’t let me stop your work,” he said. - -“Thank you, sir,” said the other, hurrying to complete his -preparations. - -Collins stooped quickly. - -The impression of two feet was plainly visible on the thick rug. No -one had been in the room since the morning, as they had all been out -for lunch. Hastily Collins walked up and down the rug two or three -times, sliding his feet over the soft pile. - -Then he glanced up at the portrait. - -“I wonder,” he said. - -Dinner was a dreary performance. Even Collins was preoccupied. The -first news bulletin had told them that Jackson had been declared by -the doctors unfit to plead. It remained to be seen whether there was -sufficient evidence to convict him as the murderer. - -“How is your aunt?” said Allery, to make conversation. - -“Oh, she is not very bad. She takes to her bed at intervals.” - -“Nothing serious, I hope?” said Mrs. Allery. - -“Only nerves.” - -“What a blessing she did not hear about the ghost,” said Sanders. - -“I think the less said about that the better,” said Allery. - -“I quite agree,” said Collins with meaning. “Once these things get -about they get exaggerated, and you will have the psychical research -people offering to investigate, which would never do,” and as he said -this he glanced at Allery. - -“No,” said he without a flicker of the eyelid, “we don’t want this to -get about at this time.” - -“Cunning old ruffian,” said Collins to himself. - -There was an awkward silence. John had come into the room. - -After dinner Collins seized an opportunity when his hostess was alone -for a moment. “May I have a word with you?” he said. - -Mabel felt almost inclined to make an excuse, but braced herself. - -“Certainly,” she said. “Is it anything private?” - -“Not at all,” he said, with a smile. “Only that I shall be leaving you -to-morrow. I must return to Town, and I wanted to thank you for a very -delightful visit.” - -“How provoking,” she said. “Mr. Sanders is also going. It is a -break-up of the party, and I was enjoying it so much.” - -In spite of the words Collins noted an insincerity which was foreign -to her nature. - -“I must get back to my work,” he said. - -“Not about—my father? You have finished with that, haven’t you?” - -“The matter has been taken out of my hands,” he answered. - -“When all this has passed over, you must come and see us again. You -have been very good and helpful.” - -“Miss Watson, you will forgive me saying a thing I have perhaps no -right to say, but I rather fancy Mr. Sanders does not care for my -presence here.” - -“Surely you are mistaken. Why should he not like you? I thought you -got on very well together.” - -“It won’t do, Miss Watson, you know differently. And I expect you can -guess the reason. So I had better go.” - -This was said with such a charm of manner that it disarmed her from -the haughty tone she would have assumed. - -“Well, I am very sorry. But perhaps you two will get to know each -other better.” - -“Perhaps we shall,” he muttered under his breath. - -Allery entered. “Oh, Mr. Allery,” said Mabel, “here’s Mr. Collins -going off to-morrow. This will mean the break-up of our party.” - -“Well, I am afraid we shall have to go too, very soon. My business -will not wait, you know.” - -“Oh, you must not go,” she said, with a look of terror coming into her -eyes. - -Allery laughed. “I dare say we can manage another day or two,” he -said. - -When Sanders heard that Collins was going the next day, he was both -relieved and angry. - -“Just my luck,” he thought, “if I had kept quiet, I need not have gone -myself.” - -Collins paced his room restlessly. Things were taking shape in his -mind. Something was going on which his keen intellect could not -explain, but which gave rise to wild conjecture. - -He was fully dressed, but had a pair of slippers on. He would know the -truth that night somehow. - -The wind had got up, and was howling round the old house, making the -timbers creak and the windows shake, till it died down to a moaning -sound. - -Several times he went carefully on to the landing and listened. - -It was an ideal night for ghosts to walk. - -He would piece the puzzle together. There was Jackson, the lunatic. He -knew he was not the murderer, though the police would certainly make -out a case against him. Very well. Then there was the strange -disappearance of Lewis, on which Sinclair was basing a case until his -official position compelled silence. - -Then there was his own piece of evidence which was closing in. There -was something else. - -When he and Sinclair had discussed the matter in his flat, the latter -had taken out the statement of Mrs. Simmons from his pocket book. He -had done more. There had slipped on the floor a letter. Collins’ keen -eyes had seen the signature ‘James Watson’ and the date. Under -pretence of reading the statement he had picked up the letter and -rapidly read it. So Sinclair had kept this from him, for some reason. -What was he afraid of? Did he know more about the murder than he cared -to own? There was nothing but his word that he had been in the office -on the fateful afternoon. What a lark if the sober Sinclair—but he -broke off suddenly. His quick ear had caught something that sounded in -the house in spite of the wind, a stealthy step. He moved noiselessly -to the landing. - -There was a stirring in the house, as the wind increased in volume, -but the other sound was quite distinct. - -Very quietly Collins closed the door, and went to the window. Outside, -the old ivy came round, but Collins preferred the safety of a rope. -Even this would have been no easy work for a man who was not in -condition. He hung for one moment turning round in the air as the wind -caught him. - -Once on the ground he made his way cautiously round the house till he -arrived at the dining-room window. Here he paused. A wild gust of -wind, with a wisp of rain in it, caught him, as he stood listening. -Not a sound was heard from within, and no light was showing. - -Was it a fool’s errand after all? The whole house was dead still. -Collins felt his way round the corner. By the old, oak door he paused. -All was dark, but a sort of ghostly radiance was shining on an ancient -elm. - -He stepped back from the house, and presently saw, high up in the -gabled roof, a beam of light was shining from a slit in a shutter or a -badly-fitting blind. Probably some servant who could not sleep, or was -frightened at the weather. - -Cold and wet he returned to beneath his window, and with the practised -skill of an athlete hauled himself up. - -He stood in thought. Unless he had made a mistake things were -happening in this house which were, to say the least, interesting. He -opened the door, and slid down the bannisters without noise. Once in -the hall he waited, holding his breath. The dining-room door was open, -and, faint as it was, he caught the sound of a living thing breathing. - -Like a cat he stole across the intervening space, and carefully put -his hand round the edge of the doorway. Inch by inch the fingers crept -till they touched the switch. A flood of light illuminated the room, -and showed a man standing on the hearth-rug, rigid. It was Eric -Sanders. In his hand was a revolver. For a moment the two men gazed at -each other without a word. A look of hate was on the face of Sanders. - -“So,” he said, “it was you. I thought I could not be mistaken. You -foul brute, you’re not fit to live,” and he raised his pistol. - -“You’re very free with your shooter,” said Collins coolly. “May I ask -for an explanation?” - -“It is no good my saying anything. Of course you will deny everything, -and so will she, but I heard.” - -“You will excuse me, but I haven’t the faintest idea what on earth you -are talking about.” His face was stern. “We don’t want to rouse the -whole house at this hour. Hadn’t you better tell me what the trouble -is? In the first place, what are you doing here at all?” - -“You know perfectly well. It’s no good lying. I heard everything and -came down here to see you. You are not going out of this room alive.” - -Collins slowly drew out his case, and lit a cigarette. He knew a hasty -action might force the issue. - -“What did you hear?” he asked, casually. - -“Oh, it’s no good. I could not sleep, you know why. Then I thought I -would try a whiskey, which I never touch as a rule, so I came down. As -I passed Mabel’s bedroom, I heard talking and—I know I ought not to -have done, but I listened.” - -“If it interests you to know,” said Collins, “I do not even know where -Miss Watson’s bedroom is, so if I were you, I should hesitate to make -any insinuations.” - -The other was shaken by his firm tones. - -“But I tell you I heard a man’s voice in there, and Mabel called him -dear. And then she said ‘Go to the dining-room, I will join you -there.’ ” - -“And you pretend to love this girl, and dare to make such foul -accusations. If Miss Watson was talking to anyone, it is her own -business, and I am sure she has her own reasons. You ought to be -ashamed of yourself. As for my being here, if you want to know, I -could not sleep, and I heard someone moving about the house. I am an -investigator as you know, and apart from the question of burglars, I -am convinced there is something happening in this house which requires -investigating. So I came down and found you here.” - -Sanders looked at him doubtfully. - -“But I tell you, Mabel was talking with a man in her bedroom.” - -“You make me sick with your insinuations. How do you know it was a -man? A woman can imitate a man’s voice as a man can a woman’s.” - -Sanders was in perplexity, and slowly put the revolver on the table. -Without any sudden movement Collins picked it up. “Is this yours?” he -asked casually. - -“No,” said Sanders. “It belonged to Sir James. I found it here among -his papers.” - -“Sir James was very fond of pistols,” said the other, “he had one in -London, too.” - -“Yes,” said Sanders, “he was always afraid of being attacked.” - -“I wonder you did not have one, too,” said Collins. - -“I did,” said Sanders and stopped. - -Collins was quite at his ease. Sander’s fit of wild jealousy was -passing away. “Lost it?” he said. - -“Yes, I got rid of it,” said Sanders in some confusion. - -“But we must not stay here; if you tell me on your word of honour it -was not you I heard, I will apologize for my words.” - -“Certainly I will, but it is to Miss Watson that an apology is due, -not to me.” - -“Of course I cannot mention it to her, she would never forgive me. And -I hope you will not do so.” - -Collins looked straight at him. - -“I should advise you to keep these fits of excitement within -bounds—and,” he added slowly, “when they do come on, to leave your -revolver behind you.” - -“What do you mean?” said Sanders, turning white. - -“When you called on Sir James Watson and asked to see him, you were in -one of those fits. It is dangerous.” - -“What do you mean?” - -“When you left your card under the door, with a note to say you must -see him at once, I don’t suppose you forget the day,” and he looked at -him with meaning. - -“Are you suggesting that I——?” - -“I am suggesting nothing,” said Collins, sternly. “I am citing facts.” - -“If you think I had any hand in the murder, you had better arrest me,” -said the other wildly. - -“I am not a policeman, and do not go about arresting people. The -police know their business. I am merely giving you a friendly warning -against temper. And now I think I will go to bed. I am sure someone -has been listening to our conversation. And if you don’t mind, I think -I will take this.” And he picked up the revolver. Sanders watched him -go without a word. - - - -CHAPTER XIII. - -The Car in the Dark - -In spite of the adventures of the night, Collins was the first down in -the morning. Old John was in the dining-room. - -“Oh, sir,” he said, “Mr. Eric has gone off early this morning. He has -left a note for Miss Mabel, and he left something for me as he always -does, with a note to say he had to go back to London, and would have -breakfast on the train.” - -“Oh, yes,” said Collins. “Miss Watson told me he was going to-day, but -I did not think he was going so early.” - -“May I say a word to you, sir? You have been very good to me, and did -not laugh at me the other day. You know, sir, about—what I saw.” - -“What you thought you saw,” said Collins, with a smile. - -“Yes, sir, well I was awake last night and I can swear I heard people -talking. I should have come down, but after what happened, I was -afraid to.” - -“That’s quite all right, I was about myself, and so was Mr. Sanders. I -expect it was the storm which kept us all awake.” - -“But what were you doing in the empty room in the attics, sir, if I -may be so bold as to ask?” - -“In the attics?” said Collins; then, quickly, “Oh, yes, of course, we -heard a window banging, and went to see.” - -John looked sceptical. “But forgive me, sir, it sounded as though -there was a woman with you, or a man disguising his voice.” - -Collins dared not ask further. - -“You must have been mistaken, surely,” he said. - -“Perhaps so, sir,” he said, doubtfully. - -The room with the light in it, thought Collins. This is getting -interesting. - -Allery came in. “Hullo, Collins,” he said. “Down already. What a night -of storm, but it has cleared up now.” - -“Yes, it has cleared up now,” said Collins, with such meaning in his -voice that the other man looked at him with surprise. - -“Sanders has gone,” said Collins. - -“Really, I knew he was going to-day, but he is very early. You are -off, too?” - -“Yes, I must get back. It is very jolly down here, but not business. -There are a lot of things I must see to in London.” - -The others drifted in slowly, but a message came from Mabel that she -was not feeling well, and would not be down till later. - -There was a general feeling of uneasiness in the air. - -Collins had ordered the car for ten o’clock, and thought he would not -see his hostess, but she came in as he was getting ready to go. - -“I am most awfully sorry I could not be down this morning. Pray -forgive me.” - -“I hope you are feeling better,” he said. She was obviously ill, and -lines of black showed round her eyes. - -“I am afraid this visit has been very dull for you,” she said. - -“On the contrary, I have enjoyed it immensely,” he hesitated. “Miss -Watson,” he said, “I would not like to worry you, but if it should -happen that certain suspicions gather round someone who is perhaps -dear to you——” - -He got no further. Her face turned ashen, and she reeled as though -about to faint. Collins caught her, and held her, but she repulsed -him. - -“What do you mean?” she said in a hoarse whisper. - -“I want to warn you. If you hear anything—any rumour about Sanders——” - -“Eric?” she said, in unmistakable astonishment. “Whatever should there -be against him?” - -There was more relief than indignation in her tone, which Collins was -quick to notice. He took a quick resolve. - -“I will tell you. On the day that your father was murdered, after he -had posted a letter, Mr. Sanders called to see him.” - -Now her eyes were wide open with horror. - -“He handed a note under the door, begging your father to see him.” - -“But how do you know this?” she said breathlessly. - -He pulled out his pocket book without a word, and handed her the card. -She looked at it, turning it over in her hand, and gave it back to -him. - -“I found this in the room at the first examination, and Mrs. Simmons -afterwards told me the truth.” - -“Did he see my father?” she asked. - -“No; he would not see him.” - -“And—have you told this to the police?” - -“No,” replied he; “I work independently. I have not told a soul.” - -Tears came into her eyes. - -“How good of you, and he has treated you so badly all the time, and -you never said a word. Of course you don’t really suspect him, but you -might have given him an awful time.” - -“I am afraid you give me credit for too much generosity. I never move -till I am certain. In any case I would not have let his behaviour -affect my attitude.” - -“Well, I think you have acted like a sportsman, and I am very -grateful,” and she gave him her hand. - -“You haven’t got to go at once, have you? Do stay a little longer.” - -“This is very good of you,” he said, “but I must get off by this -train.” - -“I am sorry,” she said, and went out. - -Collins stood in thought. - -“Why was she so scared, and then so relieved when I mentioned Eric’s -name?” This was getting interesting. - -He went outside and ordered the car, telling the man he would want it -immediately. - -When he returned Allery met him in the hall. He came forward at once. - -“Collins, Mabel has told me what you have done about Sanders. Let me -tell you it is a generous action. Although I know the boy is as -straight as a die, you could have made havoc of his life, and -something would have clung to him, even when he had cleared himself.” - -“Don’t mention it. I knew he was not the murderer.” - -Allery looked at him. - -“You have done a very clever thing,” he said, “by accident. Oh, I have -been keeping my eyes open. If you had used this against Sanders you -would have made all Mabel’s sympathy turn to him, and against you. It -was like that with her father. She would have turned on you with -loathing. As it is she is struck with your generous conduct towards -Sanders, and angry with him for his treatment of you.” - -“Nonsense, my dear fellow,” said Collins, “You are entirely wrong -about—what shall we say—the situation.” - -Allery gave a keen glance at him. “Humph,” he said, “I wonder.” - -“The car is waiting, sir,” said John. - -Collins took his leave, and was driven to Wilton-on-Sea. At the -station he dismissed the chauffeur with a liberal tip, and watched him -drive off. He then went to the parcels office and despatched his bag -to his flat in London. Having done this he set out for a long walk, -with nothing but a stout stick, and a rucksack with a few necessaries -for the night. He had a long tour in front of him. - - * * * - -A steady rain was falling through the thick night, but the wind had -dropped. The Vale was wrapped in shadow, not a light was showing. In -the shrubbery Collins watched, getting what shelter he could. Unless -all his calculations were at fault, here was the crisis of the -situation. He was in front of the main door, and here it was that -something would take place. - -The time passed slowly, and he was thankful for the flask he had -brought. Away in the distance a clock was striking. It was only nine -o’clock. - -Presently a familiar sound broke on his ear, the purring of a car. -Along the drive came a gaunt, formless mass showing no light. He -parted the bushes and looked keenly into the body of the car. It was -empty. There was no one but the driver, who was heavily wrapped up. -The car drew up at the door, and the driver got down. It was too dark -to see further, and Collins came stealthily from the bushes, and -turned down the drive. He was stiff from his waiting, but broke into a -run, and only paused when he came to the entrance into the main road. -The gate was open, but he carefully shut it. - -It would be necessary to open it and to light up. He concealed -himself. - -It was not long before he heard the car coming down the drive. - -Silently he drew from his pocket an automatic pistol and stood ready. - -At the gate the car came to a stop. He heard a woman’s voice say, -“Bother, the gate must have shut. Just open it, will you?” - -“A man’s voice replied, “Hush, not so loud,” and a figure got out of -the car, and went forward. - -The gate swung back, and at the same moment the driver turned on the -headlights. They were dimmed and did not give much light, but a -flicker struck the man, though he tried to dodge out of the way. - -In that brief moment Collins recognised him. The next moment the car -had swung out into the road. - -“Allery, by all that’s holy,” said Collins, “and the other is Mabel, -of course.” Then he laughed. - -“So that’s it, is it?” - -He set out on his long tramp to the nearest town. - - - -CHAPTER XIV. - -Back in London - -Boyce was smoking an excellent cigar, and was generally pleased with -himself. He had just received a short note from the Prime Minister, -thanking him for his good work in running the murderer of the Home -Secretary to earth, and hinting that when the time came for the -retirement of that fine old soldier, Sir Thomas Hawley, as Chief -Commissioner for London, the new Home Secretary could not do better -than appoint so efficient an officer as he had proved himself to be. - -This was good reading. He had feared some strong words about his -allowing lunatics to be at large, but the truth was that Sir James had -never been popular with his colleagues, as he was considered reserved, -and had not lent himself to giving soft berths to the nephews and -friends of his fellow Cabinet Ministers. - -His death had enabled the Premier to reshuffle the Ministry, and bring -in an impecunious nephew of his own to a minor post. - -So everyone was happy. - -Boyce rang the bell and sent for Sinclair. - -The latter was not in the same genial mood. None of the reflected -glory of Boyce’s triumph had come his way, and he was perfectly -convinced that whoever was guilty of the murder, Jackson was not. - -“Take a seat, Sinclair,” said Boyce. “You might care to see this -letter from the Premier,” and he handed it over with an air of -indifference which did not deceive the other. - -“Very good, sir, I congratulate you,” he said, simply. - -“And now, Sinclair, I want to read you the indictment which Giles, of -the Public Prosecutor’s office, has drawn up. I think it is very well -done. Of course it is only in the form of notes. - - Case against John Jackson, for the murder of Sir James Watson, Bt. - - (1) Jackson confesses in three separate statements that he has done - the murder. But this without corroboration is of little value, since - he has been declared insane by Medical Experts. - - (2) We have, therefore, to seek corroboration. Jackson states that - he was several times hanging about the house in Leveson Square - waiting for his chance. - - This is confirmed by P.C. Jenkins and P.C. Whiting, both of whom - have identified the man as having been seen in the vicinity of the - Square. - - (3) Jackson states that he called on Superintendent Sinclair three - days previous to the murder, and while in his office, stole writing - paper, and a letter signed by the latter, and on this paper wrote to - the Central News Agency. - - Superintendent Sinclair confirms that such a call was made, but - cannot trace any missing letter, though there might have been one. - -“Is that so?” said Boyce, glancing at the other. - -Sinclair made a face. - -“Well, I certainly said I remembered the man calling, but I told them -there was no missing letter. When the lawyer asked whether it would -have been possible for such a letter to have been taken, I said of -course it was possible, but highly improbable. That’s the way the -lawyers twist evidence, but go on, sir.” - -Boyce looked as though he was about to rebuke him for this heretical -sentiment, but continued. - - (4) Jackson states that he called Sinclair and Collins on the - ’phone, and corroboration can be obtained—he had the opportunity to - do so—and there is a doubtful identification by a paper seller, who - says he saw him leave the Public Telephone Call Office at Piccadilly - Circus, at the time named. This man is not a reliable character, but - the evidence can be used if necessary. - - (5) _Revolver._ Jackson makes a rambling statement as to how he got - the revolver which cannot be relied upon, but as he is mad this does - not count for much. - -Sinclair lifted his eyebrows. “That’s rather amusing,” he said. “Where -they find corroboration, they accept his statements; where they don’t, -they say he is mad.” - -Boyce looked at him severely. “This is only a confidential memo,” he -said, “for the information of the office only.” - -“I see,” said Sinclair, with contempt. - -Boyce went on reading. - - (6) _Motive._ Although motive is not essential in the case of a - lunatic, it is helpful with a certain type of criminal’s mental - derangement. There is abundant evidence that Jackson had a fancied - grievance against the late Home Secretary, who had turned down all - his petitions for release from the asylum at Broadmoor. He had also - sent threatening letters to Sir James. - - (7) _The Actual Crime._ Jackson states that he followed Sir James - in, after he had been to the Pillar Box in the Square to post a - letter. Mrs. Simmons declared on oath that he did not, but on - further examination, when asked to swear that no one came in after - that, said she could not do so, and showed great signs of confusion. - -Sinclair pricked up his ears. “I wonder,” he said. - -“What’s that?” said Boyce. - -“Well, sir, Collins always said that she was not telling the whole -truth to us, and that she was hiding something.” - -“There you are,” said Boyce. “Of course if it was a matter of a trial, -and of life and death, we should turn the old woman inside out, and -she would probably confess; though why she should try and screen him, -is more than I can tell; we may have it out of her in any case. Well, -that’s the case. What do you think of it?” - -“I don’t think any jury would convict,” said Sinclair doggedly. - -“Really, Sinclair, you are very obstinate; I suppose because you had -no hand in catching the man.” - -“I see in all the accounts,” said Sinclair, “it is made out that the -police caught the man, and nothing is said of him giving himself up.” -Boyce looked uncomfortable. - -“It doesn’t do any harm, and does the police good,” he said; “and in -any case I am sure they would have got him,” he ended, lamely. - -Sinclair remained silent. - -Boyce was annoyed. - -“Here’s my idea of what occurred,” said he, rather peevishly. - -“Jackson comes out from the asylum, we will assume, partially cured. -He has nothing to do, and gradually the old madness comes over him. He -nurses his grievance against Sir James until it becomes an obsession. -He comes to you about it. Then he sees the official paper on your -desk, and with a madman’s cunning he takes some pieces. - -“Perhaps he thinks he will write to Sir James on it, who can say? He -hangs about waiting for a chance, possibly only to speak to him. He -had obtained a revolver, goodness knows where, and then the plan -matures. With the cunning and vanity of insanity, he writes to the -Central News—which by the way no one but a madman would do, and calls -you and Collins up for the same reason. Perhaps he was watching you -all the time when you were at the house. - -“He sees Sir James come out with a letter, and as he states, he nearly -killed him then, but thinks he will do so inside. - -“He follows him in, and shoots him and escapes. - -“He is watching you, and when you go to Collins’ flat, he follows and -leaves that stupid message which also is the work of a madman which -you told me about. How’s that for a case?” - -Sinclair remained silent for a minute. - -“A good counsel could smash it to pieces. I am certain that he never -took anything from my room, but of course it is one of those things -one cannot swear to. If he followed Sir James in, why did not Mrs. -Simmons see him; and if she did, why should she screen him? Why did -she hear no shot? And if she did, why did she not raise the alarm? How -did he get out again, and close and lock the door behind him? Then who -was the man who called on Sir James in the afternoon? Jackson makes no -claim to be that man, probably because no mention was made of it in -the papers? - -“What I think happened is as Collins suggested. This man read all the -accounts and so got them into his head that he is quite certain he did -the murder. It is not an uncommon phase.” - -Boyce interrupted. “I have no patience with all this. Of course there -are difficulties. Whoever heard of a case where there were not, but -the evidence in my opinion is overwhelming. Anyway, I am satisfied.” - -“Very good, sir, if you are convinced, that is sufficient. What does -the Public Prosecutor think of it?” - -“My dear Sinclair, have you been so long in the service as not to know -that the Public Prosecutor is not concerned with opinions, but to make -out a case on the evidence.” - -“And so you think that the case is ended?” - -“I think,” said Boyce unctuously, “that this poor fellow will go back -to Broadmoor, from which he ought never to have been released, and -that our Department will have scored a triumph.” - -“By the way,” he said, as if anxious to change the conversation. “What -has happened to our friend Collins, he seems to have disappeared?” - -“Oh, he’s gone down to Devonshire to Sir James’ place.” - -“What, is he still on some wild goose chase?” - -Sinclair smiled. “I rather fancy it’s a different sort of chase from -what I saw in London. Eric Sanders will have to look to his laurels.” - -“Ho-ho, is that it? Fancy our friend Collins. He doesn’t fit in with -marriage bells, somehow. I expect if there’s anything in it, he will -give up amateur detective work.” - -“Mr. Sylvester Collins to see you, sir,” said the messenger. - -“Show him in,” said Boyce. Then in a whisper—“Not a word about this, -he will only start arguing.” - -Collins entered. He was neatly dressed as always, but he had a gaunt -look and the lines on his face suggested sleepless nights. - -“Where have you sprung from?” said Boyce, with affected geniality of -manner. He was not anxious to go over the whole case with this man -whose keen intellect he feared. - -“Oh, I have been first in Devonshire and for the last three days on a -walking tour.” - -“You look it,” said Boyce. - -“I really came to see Sinclair, but heard he was with you, so came -on.” - -Boyce looked uncomfortable. “Would you two rather be together? I have -finished with him.” - -“I suppose you have just settled the case of Sir James to your -satisfaction, eh?” he said with a laugh. - -“Oh, I know you do not agree with our conclusions, but I would much -rather not go into the whole matter.” - -“I don’t wish to discuss it. I think you have come to the wisest -decision you could under the circumstances.” - -“Now you are trying to be sarcastic.” - -“Not at all. I had an idea of my own, but I don’t think it is worth -following up. I have finished with the case, and am quite satisfied -with the way things have turned out.” - -The other two looked at him in astonishment. - -“Well, you have changed your opinion. I am very glad,” said Boyce, -with genuine satisfaction. - -Sinclair looked bewildered. - -“So your clue proved a fraud, did it?” he said. - -“It did not lead where I expected,” he answered. - -“This is all Greek to me,” said Boyce; “won’t you tell us?” - -“No; it would only introduce the name of a man who has nothing to do -with the matter.” - -“You wanted to see me?” said Sinclair, still puzzled. - -“Any time will do. By the way, Boyce, how long do you think it will be -before your case is finished? I mean, all settled?” - -“I can’t say, you know the course of the law is not swift.” - -“Shall we say a month?” - -“I should think that will easily cover it.” - -“Why are you so anxious to know?” - -Collins flicked the ash off his cigarette into an ash tray. - -“Nothing much, only I know who the murderer was, and I wanted to know -how long it would be before your man was convicted.” - -The other two gazed at him in utter astonishment. - -“Do you mean to say that you think you know who murdered Sir James and -you are not going to tell who it was?” said Boyce. - -“I never had any doubt in my own mind at all. But to give him up—no, I -am afraid that would be impossible. You see, he doesn’t exist.” - -“Doesn’t exist? What nonsense. Are you trying one of your jokes on -us?” said Boyce, crossly; he hated mysteries. - -“He’s gone, disappeared, vamoosed.” - -“Do you mean he’s dead?” said Boyce. - -“The question is, did he ever exist?” - -“Oh, I’ve no patience with this sort of talk,” said Boyce. “If you -know anything, for goodness sake say what it is; if not, don’t talk in -riddles.” - -Sinclair had been watching keenly. His face was grave. - -“Yes, I think I know what you mean,” he said. - -“Oh, you, too. What on earth are you getting at?” - -“I shall be in a position to say in a few days’ time, to tell you -more,” said Sinclair. - -“I wish you two would not be so confoundedly mysterious,” said Boyce. - -“If you’ve got anything to tell me, do so. As for you, Sinclair, I -expect loyalty from you at any rate.” - -Sinclair replied with some stiffness. - -“I shall not take any action without consulting you, sir, and I may be -quite wrong.” - -“Very well,” said Boyce, with a gesture of dismissal. - -Alone together Collins and Sinclair went to the latter’s room. - -“What an ass that man is,” said Collins. “He hasn’t the brains of a -rabbit.” - -“I wonder,” said the other, “whether he is quite the fool you think -him.” - -“What are your plans?” - -“Do you know a place called Wilton-on-Sea?” said Sinclair. Collins -looked keenly at him. - -“Yes, I know it,” he said. - -“I am thinking of running down there,” said Sinclair. - -“What on earth are you going there for?” - -“I have been told that it is very good air, and as I have a few days’ -leave, I thought I would try it.” - -Collins thought for a moment. - -“Well, you probably don’t know, but it is quite close to Sir James -Watson’s place—in fact, it is the station for it.” - -“Really?” said Sinclair. “Then of course you know it well?” - -“If you are really going there I will run you down in my car. You -might like to see Sir James’ place.” - -The men looked at each other. - -“I would like to see inside your head, and find out what there is -there,” said Sinclair. “You’ve something concealed.” - -Collins laughed. “That’s just what I was thinking. What are you after? -Well, we will each keep his own counsel.” - - - -CHAPTER XV. - -The Crisis - -Beyond Wilton-on-Sea, there is a bare hill standing gaunt above the -surrounding country. - -On the seaward side the cliff is sheer, and to the West a sudden drop -into a quarry pit makes for danger. On the East a very steep path -leads to a semi-ruined church, surrounded by a church yard, and some -little distance away is a tower where once stood an ancient castle. - -The church forms a landmark for miles. - -From a distance it appears to be an imposing edifice. On near approach -there is a tiny chancel which still retains a roof, and a nave with no -roof. It is all very small, like the chapel of a stronghold in days -gone by. At the base of the hill is a public-house of mean appearance, -and also some straggling houses. - -It was here that Sinclair and Collins had taken up their residence. -For three days they had been glued to the spot. A fretful distrust of -each other was growing up, which they tried their best to hide. - -There had been no talk of going to Sir James’ house. Collins would sit -in the little sitting room upstairs, reading, with one eye on the -window. Sinclair was more restless; he wandered outside, prowling -round the base of the hill but never going up. - -He appeared to be drinking more than was good for him, and evidently -suffering from the strain of waiting. Each was sure that the other was -keeping something to himself, but whatever it was it had drawn them to -this spot. Evening was coming on after a grey autumn afternoon, and a -thin drizzle was falling. It was a time when a wise man hugs his fire, -and is glad to draw the curtains and light a cheery lamp. - -There was no light in the small upper room where Collins sat like a -sphinx. Sinclair was glowering in the arm-chair, his face slightly -grey, and a worried look in his eyes. - -The hillside was getting dark, and the church on the top stood out -black against the western sky. A straggling group of people were -coming down the steep path. There had been a service in the tiny -chancel, and curiosity had drawn visitors to attend. - -Perhaps a dozen or so were descending the steep pathway. - -Collins gave a slight movement, and drew in his breath quickly. - -“At last!” he said, almost involuntarily. - -He sprang to his feet, and took his mackintosh from a chair. - -Sinclair got up, too. “Well?” he said. - -Collins laughed. “Come on then. I see you want to be in at the death.” - -Without a word Sinclair put on his coat, and followed. - -At the point where the steep path wound upwards there was a lych-gate. -Here in the shadow they waited while the rain dripped off the tiled -roof. The people had passed, and a solitary figure was approaching in -the gathering gloom. - -He was scarcely a yard off, when Sinclair made an exclamation, and -sprang forward. He laid his hand on the other’s shoulder and looked -straight in his face. “Ah,” he said, “Lewis at last! I arrest you for -the murder of Sir James Watson, and I warn you—but of course you know -all about that.” The other made no movement of protest or resentment. -Collins came forward smiling blandly. - -“Steady, Sinclair, don’t let your professional zeal run away with you. -You haven’t a warrant to start with, and you are mistaking your man.” - -“What do you mean?” said Sinclair, turning to him. - -“You are mistaking your man, that is all. Let me introduce you. This -is Sir Ronald Watson, Baronet, Superintendent Sinclair.” - -A look of blank astonishment was on Sinclair’s face, and he looked -from one to the other in bewilderment. - -“What on earth do you mean?” he said. - -The other man turned to Collins, “Hast thou found me, oh mine enemy?” -he said, with a smile, which belied his words. - -“Come on,” said Collins; “let’s get indoors, it’s beastly out here.” - -“So be it,” said the other. - -They crossed the road where the mud was splashing, and entered the -house. Once in the room, the stranger turned to Sinclair. - -“Yes; I am Ronald Watson, though how Mr. Collins has run me to earth -is a mystery. And what you are doing in the matter, unless you knew my -identity, is more than I can say.” - -“I don’t understand it at all,” said Sinclair, who was inclined to be -sulky at the turn of affairs. “It seems to me there will have to be a -lot of explanation.” - -“You shall have it. The time has gone by for this concealment. It was -a mistake. Only let me tell you I had nothing to do with the murder of -my poor father.” - -“I can answer for that,” said Collins. - -“Look here,” continued Collins, “I have my car here, and I suggest -that we run over to The Vale, and have a full explanation there.” - -“Yes; that will be the best thing,” said Watson, or Lewis. A sudden -thought crossed Sinclair’s mind. “Oh, of course. That will do,” he -said. Collins was watching him keenly. - -“Will you settle up here then, while Watson and I get the car ready?” - -Sinclair was about to demur, but after all this was Collins’ capture, -and he could not very well insist on keeping the man with him, and as -Collins had said he had no warrant. - -Without waiting for an answer, the other two went out. - -In a few minutes the humming of the car was heard, and Sinclair, -having paid their bill, went to the front door. - -The small luggage they had brought was always ready packed, for each -had felt they might have to move in a hurry. - -At the door Collins and Watson were already in the car, and Sinclair -got in behind with none too good a grace. - -They set off into the night at a rapid pace. - - * * * - -Old John came to the door in answer to their ring, and Collins got -down, leaving the others in the car. - -In a matter-of-fact voice he asked whether he could see Miss Watson—he -would not come in, he had some friends in the car. - -John said he would ask her to come. Whatever astonishment he felt he -did not show. Warned by some premonition she could not master, Mabel -came at once. She had just been going up to dress. - -“How do you do, Mr. Collins?” she said. “John tells me you won’t come -in.” - -“I wanted to speak to you first,” he said. “Don’t be alarmed, I have -your brother here with me. I brought him over from Wilton.” - -She turned white and caught hold of the post of the door. - -“My brother?” she stammered. - -“Yes; he feels, and I agree with him, that the time has come for a -full explanation.” - -She lifted her head proudly. “There is nothing shameful or underhand.” - -“I know that,” said Collins quietly, “but I have Superintendent -Sinclair here, an old friend of mine from Scotland Yard, and he would -like to hear the whole thing.” - -“Scotland Yard?” she said. “He has not——?” - -“Arrested him. Oh, no, there’s nothing of that sort.” - -A figure came from the car. - -“It’s all right, Mabel, don’t be frightened. We’ve made fools of -ourselves with all this secrecy, and we’ll have all the cards on the -table now. Let’s get out of this wet.” - -Sinclair advanced and shook hands with Mabel. He had met her, of -course, in London, at the time of the Inquest, but could hardly claim -acquaintance. - -In the hall they were met by Allery and Eric Sanders. - -Collins opened his eyes in surprise. - -“Eric,” said Mabel. “This is my brother.” The two men shook hands with -a mutual look of interest. - -Allery laughed outright. - -“You young dog,” he said. “How did you come to be caught after all our -trouble. I was afraid Collins would be one too much for us.... I -congratulate you on your cleverness,” said he, turning to Collins. - -“I am afraid this is all Greek to me,” said Sinclair stiffly. He had -expected Tragedy, and found Comic Opera. - -“You shall know everything,” said Allery; “but come to dinner first. -Can you manage it?” he said to Mabel. - -“I’ll go and see about it at once,” said she. - -“As these three poor men have no dress clothes with them, we will have -a scratch meal, and then a round talk.” Her spirits seemed to have -risen now that the affair was over. - -Dinner was a merry meal, even if the gaiety was somewhat forced. - -Old John moved round with a look of blank astonishment on his face. -His eyes were round and wide, and he could not keep them off Watson. -The aunt had sent a message that she would not come to dinner. The -news had proved too much for her nerves. - -When the port was on the table, and John had retired, Mabel said, -“This room is very comfy, and I think we might go into matters here. -You can smoke.” - -“Not till after this excellent port,” said Collins. “Our ancestors -would turn in their graves if we smoked with the port. Isn’t that so, -Watson?” - -“That was the custom,” said the other with a smile. There was no trace -of the Scotland Yard ‘hack’ now in this man who presided at the table -as one born to it. - -“Well, before we have your story,” said Collins, “I would like to know -how many were in the plot. Miss Watson and you, Allery, I know. Anyone -else?” and he glanced sharply at Sanders. - -“You are a wizard,” said Allery. “No, there were only us two. Sanders -knew nothing about it.” - -Sinclair moved uneasily. Was he in a madhouse? ‘Plot’ and ‘secret’! -These people were talking as though they were playing a game, and he -had come on the track of a murderer. - -“Can we have the explanation of all this?” he said, testily. - -“Certainly, Sinclair,” said Watson, “and you are entitled to one from -me, at any rate. Here goes.” - -The main lights were turned off, and only the electric bulbs in shades -threw a soft light on the table. There was no sound in the room while -Watson spoke. - -“I will not be more tedious than possible, but I want to make the -narrative clear, so I must go back.” - -“I need not go into the reasons for my leaving England. Allery here, I -know, thought I had done something criminal—in fact, forged my -father’s name. But I think I have convinced him that it was only a -youthful outbreak, which I sincerely regret.” Allery nodded, gravely. - -“I wandered about in the South American States. I found I could not -settle down to any definite occupation, and after a time I got mixed -up with a pretty little revolution. Partly through pride, and partly -because I was not carrying out the conditions my father imposed, I -stopped communicating with the lawyer at Monte Video, and then I was -in prison, and nearly executed for my part in the revolution which -failed. When I got out, I had had enough of plots, and was only -released on my agreeing to leave the country. I knew a man who was a -merchant, and he gave me a job to come to England in charge of some -freight for his firm which required some one to travel with it, -largely bullion. It was a responsible job, though an easy one, and -with a strong letter of recommendation from the firm I got a position -in the London office, where my knowledge of the other end was useful. -I had intended to go to the old man, and tell him the whole thing, but -it savoured too much of the prodigal son, and I delayed doing so. I -soon got sick of the office work, and as I had always had a taste for -detective stories, I got the idea that I would try and get into -Scotland Yard. My father was not then Home Secretary, or I would not -have risked a chance meeting. As Sinclair here knows I got in as a -clerk on the recommendation of my good merchants. Only the head of the -firm knew where I had come from, and he died soon after, so my past -was hidden. - -“I believe I discharged my duties satisfactorily, and was promoted to -be right-hand man to Superintendent Sinclair. I might even have become -an Inspector in time. - -“All this time I had held no communication with my father or sister, -though I couldn’t resist the temptation of coming down here and -looking at the old place, and saw them both without being seen. This -was only three weeks before the death of my father.” He paused and -steadied his voice. “It got on my nerves and I had almost made up my -mind to come and tell him the whole story. On the very day of the -terrible occurrence, I had made up my mind to go to him, and as you -know now, I had spoken aloud on the subject. I went out with the -intention of doing so, but wandered round in a state of uncertainty, -and then returned. Would to God I had gone!” - -“Wait a moment,” said Sinclair. “Then you were not the man who called -on Sir James on that afternoon?” - -“No; I never saw him again,” he answered sadly. - -“You can imagine the awful shock I had when you sent for me and told -me of the telephone message, although I hoped it was, as you thought, -a hoax. When you asked me to go into the house, I was so upset I felt -I could not do so, and made an excuse. I wandered out in a terrible -state of anxiety till the evening papers came out with an account of -the affair. I didn’t know what to do, but I felt I must get in touch -with Mabel and declare myself. I was really half off my head, and so I -settled up at my old lodgings and left London. I did not go back to -the office, as already I had the idea of disappearing as Lewis and -coming back as myself. I suppose it was pride. I thought somehow it -would not look very well that I had been a clerk in Scotland Yard. -Then next morning the papers came out, and I saw to my horror that I -was ‘wanted’ in connection with the crime. You can imagine my -feelings. I could see the frightful construction that would be placed -on my actions—the most awful accusation that can be brought against -any man. - -“It was dreadful. Of course I knew I could clear myself, but there -would be that nasty suspicion which always hangs round a man who has -been accused and that damnable saying ‘there is no smoke without a -fire.’ I had arrived the night before, and not wishing to go to the -house at once, I had spent the night in the old tower near the chapel, -where I used to go birds-nesting when I was a youngster. I came on -here in the early hours of the morning, and roused Mabel up. She came -down and let me in, and we had a very long talk. We could not decide -what to do. It seemed difficult for me to get out of the country, and -equally difficult to stay. - -“Mabel had to go up to the inquest, and there was no one to advise us. -So we decided to take Allery into our confidence. He came down here -and we told him the whole story.” - -All eyes were turned on the old lawyer. - -“Yes,” he said. “They dragged me into it, and I had to give advice. I -was quite convinced that our young friend had nothing to do with the -crime. There was nothing criminal in his remaining in hiding. If he -could have got away to Monte Video, he could have come back from there -in the ordinary course and established his identity. But, in the -meantime, he had better wait till the police had got hold of the real -man, and then there would be no case against him. It was hard to -decide what to do, but the publicity was what we all wanted to avoid.” - -“We arranged,” continued Watson, “for me to stay in the old attic over -the hall door; there are no secret chambers or anything of that sort -in the house. I just lived as best I could while Mabel was in London. -Then you all came down here to stay. That made matters easier in a -way, as Mabel and Allery could both come and see me. We hit on the -rather absurd scheme of my dressing up in my father’s court dress and -with a wig and false moustache. We thought, if by any chance I were -seen, it would be thought to be the ghost of Sir James. We thought -that would be the lesser evil.” - -“So then it was you that old John saw in this room?” said Sanders. - -“Yes, and I would have taken him into our confidence, but he fled like -a madman. I don’t think he knew where he was. After that we thought it -was too risky for me to remain in the house, and I was in Mabel’s room -all ready to go, when we heard noises downstairs, and sounds of -talking, so I had to take cover again.” - -“So it was you who were talking to Mabel that night?” said Sanders -before he realised what he had said. - -“What do you mean?” said Mabel, sharply. - -He was crimson with shame and could hardly meet her eyes. - -“Only that I heard someone talking in your room with you, and came -down here and—met Collins.” - -Mabel’s eyes glittered ominously. “I think you had better explain -yourself,” she said. - -“Oh, please, don’t ask me. Well, if you must know, I accused Mr. -Collins of having been—with you, and we had heated words over it. -There, that’s the truth, and you must think what you will of me,” and -he moved his hands in a gesture of despair. - -They all looked at Collins. - -“I would rather not say anything about the matter, but since we are -all giving explanations, I found Sanders in here with a loaded -revolver waiting to shoot me. I was able to prove to him that it was -not I that he had heard, and that his suspicions were groundless and -unworthy. That is all.” - -“How horrible,” said Mabel, clenching her teeth. - -“Oh, I know,” said Sanders, “I was a brute and Collins here acted like -a gentleman. I had better go.” - -“Please stay where you are—for the present,” said Mabel. “Since you -have acted like this I will also say something. Mr. Collins knew that -you had called on Sir James on the very afternoon of the crime, and he -said nothing about it, because he was certain that you were not the -criminal, or connected with the crime. He could have ruined you if he -had liked to tell what he knew. And you repay him with vile -suspicions. Now you will wait to hear the end.” - -There was an awkward silence for a few minutes. Sinclair looked -unasked questions at Collins. - -“I am sorry Miss Watson has mentioned this, but since it is out I rely -on you, gentlemen, to keep it to yourselves. I picked up a card on the -floor of the library which Sanders had dropped. Mrs. Simmons knew all -about this visit.” - -“Oh, so that’s it, is it?” said Sinclair. “I begin to see. That’s what -she was keeping back in her evidence. That’s what you had up your -sleeve.” - -“I thought it would not be fair to tell you this at the time, as you -would be bound to use it officially. If it had led to anything, of -course I would have told you; when I was satisfied in my own mind that -Sanders had nothing to do with the crime.” Sanders squirmed with -shame. “I decided to tell no one.” - -“That’s why you told Miss Watson, I suppose,” Sanders blurted out. - -“You wrong Mr. Collins, he only told me when we had got at -cross-purposes. When he told me there might be suspicion on someone -dear to me I thought he meant Ronald. He treated you most generously -all through,” she said, coldly. - -“We are rather wandering from the main story,” said Allery, to pour -oil on the water. “Let’s hear the rest, Watson.” - -“There is little more to tell. We decided that I must get out of the -house, and I thought of the old tower. Allery here had arranged for a -motor boat to take me to Bristol, and I was going on board a tramp -bound for Rio. I was going to answer the advertisement from there and -return. To-morrow I should have been off, but our friend here,” he -pointed to Collins, “seems to have been one too much for us, and came -in the nick of time.” - -Collins gave a laugh. “I see you all want to know my part in the -matter. I am afraid there is no mystery about it, and no great skill. -I will confess that when I found the visiting card on the floor I -thought it was a possible clue, and worth following up. But when I -became acquainted with Sanders I realised that it was a mere -coincidence.” He bowed slightly to Sanders with a politeness which was -almost a mockery, and Sanders looked hatred at him. Every word was -putting him in a position of humiliation and Collins as the hero of -the piece, and it was gall to him. - -Collins continued. - -“The first thing which put me on the track was the fact that no news -had been heard of Lewis. I was certain that he had nothing to do with -the crime, and yet he had disappeared. His confusion when asked to go -to Leveson Square was taken to be a sign of guilt, but if there was no -guilt there must be another explanation. He had not fled instantly. He -had gone back to his lodgings, and paid his bill, and then gone. There -was, therefore, I argued, another reason for going. It must be -connected in some way with Sir James, especially when he had said that -he was going there on that afternoon. There was a hue and cry out for -him, and he had not come forward to clear himself. Then he must have a -reason beyond the mere shrinking from publicity. - -“Then it is difficult for a man without friends, as he appeared to be, -to disappear entirely, as he seemed to have done. - -“If it was anything to do with Sir James, there might conceivably be a -clue at this house. On the first night I was here as the sun was -setting a ray shone on that portrait of Sir James, and I saw Lewis -looking at me.” - -“What do you mean?” said Mabel, startled. - -“I mean the likeness was unmistakable. The light was peculiar, and the -eyes, nose and forehead were all that showed up, and there was the -striking family likeness.” - -“I saw the expression on your face,” said Allery, “and it made me -uneasy.” - -“And I saw the look that passed between you and Miss Mabel,” said -Collins with a laugh, “and it confirmed my suspicions.” - -“Then the ghost, of course, was as clear as daylight to me. The dress -was a good idea, if I may say so. I found the marks of real feet on -the hearth-rug. When I went from here I did not go back to London, but -kept watch. I thought I had got you,” he said turning to Watson, “when -the car left here secretly at night; but you were too cunning, there -was only Allery and Miss Mabel. I suppose that was your doing, -Allery?” - -Allery burst out laughing. “We did you there. We had no idea that -anyone was watching, of course, but we had to take precautions, so -Mabel fetched the car from the garage, and Watson was waiting there. -He was on the floor of the car, covered with a rug, and I came out of -the front door and joined them. It was in case any servants were -about. We didn’t want another ghost episode. But how did you pick up -the clue?” - -“I hung around. The night was too wet to follow the tracks of the car, -but twice I saw you going on the road to Wilton in the evening, and -each time I was further along the road, and on the second occasion was -able to follow up, and saw the car at the bottom of the hill. I was -certain Lewis, or Sir Ronald, as I now thought it was, was hiding in -the neighbourhood, and knew a search would simply give the game away. - -“So I came down here and watched, and finally saw you coming down the -hill. I had found out about this strange service, and calculated that -if a lonely man wanted to come down he would take the chance when a -lot of others were coming.” - -“Very clever,” said Allery. - -“I think that explains all there is to explain. But how did you get on -the track, Sinclair?” - -“I had my suspicions, but pardon me, I am not a free-lance like you -are, but an official, and you must allow me to keep my secrets.” - -“Of course,” said Collins, carelessly. - -“What I don’t understand,” said Allery, “is, why you were so keen on -finding out the whole thing?” - -“Blackmail, I should think,” said Sanders. - -Mabel gave him a look of contempt, and the rest ignored him. - -“I really couldn’t tell you. I suppose a problem always fascinated me, -and then I thought I might be of some use, perhaps,” and he glanced at -Mabel. - -“You have certainly cleared up the mystery,” said Allery. - -“Yes,” said Sinclair, “but we are no nearer to the question of the -murder.” - -“I thought they had got the man,” said Mabel in surprise. - -“They think they have,” said Sinclair. - -“I suppose it will remain one of those unsolved mysteries.” - -“By the way, Sir Ronald,” said Sinclair, starting up, “can I have a -word with you, I shan’t keep you a minute?” - -“Oh, really, Mr. Sinclair, I think he has had enough for this -evening,” said Mabel. - -“I am afraid the matter is very urgent,” insisted the other. - -Something in his manner irritated Allery. “Mr. Sinclair,” he said, -“you must remember, please, you are a guest here, and not on official -duty. Are you not satisfied with the explanation you have heard?” - -Collins interposed. “Don’t you think you ought to tell old John and -the servants that you have come home? You know how servants gossip.” - -“Of course,” said Watson, “I must do that at once. Don’t disturb -yourselves, we don’t want any solemn announcement. I will just go and -tell him, in an off-hand way. The old fellow will be very pleased.” - -He got up and went out. Sinclair bit his lip. - -There was a silence when he had gone out. - -Allery cleared his throat. - -“Mr. Sinclair,” he said, “this brings about an awkward situation. We -are rather in your hands. Your department is searching for Lewis. You -have—if I may say so—unofficially found him. The question is, if you -are satisfied that he has nothing to do with the crime, will you -consent for us to carry out our plan and let him go, as we had -arranged.” - -“That places me in a curious position. I can’t give an answer -off-hand. I must think it over.” - -“Take your time,” said Collins pleasantly. “Have a whiskey and soda?” -He rose from the table and went to the sideboard. - -“Bother, there’s none here. Miss Mabel, may I act as butler and fetch -some, we don’t want to send for old John just now?” - -“Certainly,” she said with a smile. - -He went out. - -Sanders spoke for the first time since his gross insinuation. - -“I will go. After what has happened you will not want me to remain.” - -“That is a matter for you to decide,” said Mabel stiffly. - -“Oh, that’s all nonsense,” said Allery, “you two are not going to let -this business upset you. It only needs an apology, and I am sure -Sanders will give that. He was upset, and perhaps a little jealous,” -he added. - -Sanders coloured. - -“Your remark is in doubtful taste,” he said. “I don’t think any -apology would serve in a case like this.” He rose. - -Sinclair put up his hand. “Stop,” he said firmly, “I may want you.” - -Sanders turned from red to white. “What do you mean?” he said. - -“I have no warrant, and cannot make any arrest. But it would be -advisable if you did not leave this house.” - -“This is about the last straw,” said Sanders, and sank into his chair. - - - -CHAPTER XVI. - -The Criminal Found - -“He’s a long time getting that whiskey,” said Allery. - -“I expect he’s having a talk with John and my brother,” said Mabel. -Sinclair sprang forward in his chair. - -“Good God,” he shouted, and without waiting for leave, he rang the -bell, keeping his hand on the button in his excitement. - -A maid answered the door. - -“Where is Mr. Collins?” said he at once. - -The maid looked her surprise. She was not used to being spoken to like -that. - -“Mr. Collins and Sir Ronald have gone out for a run in his car, sir,” -she replied stiffly. “Sir Ronald left a message that they might not be -back for some time.” - -“Why didn’t you come and tell us, Mary?” said Mabel quietly. She also -resented Sinclair’s interference. - -“He said it would do later on as you were busy, Miss,” and she looked -surprised. - -Allery was quick to notice it, and said:— - -“All right, Mary, thank you. That’s quite all right.” - -The maid went out. Sinclair’s face was ashy. He buried his face in his -hands. - -“What’s the matter, man?” said Allery sternly. - -“Matter, he’s gone to his death,” said Sinclair. - -For a moment there was a silence tense and vital. It seemed as though -the horror of these weeks had come into the room in a living form. -Powers of evil gathered round. - -The shadows deepened at the word. There was utter and crushing -conviction in the tones. - -Mabel was the first to grasp the meaning, and a flush mounted to her -face. “Do you suggest that my brother, after all you have heard, is a -murderer?” she said in a passionate voice. - -“No, not for a moment,” said Sinclair, “but before the morning comes -he will be murdered, as his father was murdered, and by the same -hand.” - -“You mean?” said Allery, leaning forward. - -“Exactly. Collins, the cleverest scoundrel we have had for a -generation.” - -“Mr. Collins,” said Mabel, and there was pain in the voice. “I will -never believe that. You must be mad.” - -Allery rose with a grim look on his face. “You have said too little or -too much. We must know what you mean.” - -The temporary numbness passed from Sinclair and he was the man of -action. - -“Yes, yes, of course, everything, but not now. We must act at once. -You must trust to my word. I shall want all your help. First, have you -a car, and a driver?” - -His energy infected the others. - -“There’s our car,” said Mabel. - -“Then get it ready at once,” said Sinclair abruptly. “Ask questions -afterwards.” Sanders, who had not said a word after his last rebuff, -sprang to his feet. “I’ll go and see to it.” - -“Good. Can you drive? No, the chauffeur must do that. I will go, no, -no, that won’t do, I must telephone.” - -“I’ll go,” said Sanders quietly. “If you’ll tell me where to go.” - -Sinclair looked doubtful. “It’s dangerous your dealing with a man who -will stick at nothing. Have you a revolver?” - -“Yes,” said Sanders blushing at the recollection which it conjured up, -of the night he had unworthy suspicions of Mabel. - -“Can you shoot? You are dealing with a crack shot.” - -“I’m pretty useful,” said the other. - -“Then go.” Sanders went without a word. - -“The telephone, in the hall isn’t it?” he rushed out and seized the -instrument. “Hullo, Trunks. Scotland Yard priority call. -Superintendent Sinclair,” he said, and hung up the receiver. - -Sanders came in breathless. “We can’t get the car to start,” he said. - -“Ah, I feared as much, he’s tampered with it,” said Sinclair. - -He seized the telephone, “Hullo that call coming through?——” - -“All right; give me the police station at Wilton in the -meantime—urgent.” - -He waited a moment with the receiver in his hand. “Hullo, -Superintendent Sinclair here. That you, Miles?—good. Get the best car -at once, and come here with two men. Armed, you understand. I take -full responsibility. Must ring off, I’m waiting for the Yard.” - -The bell tinkled, and he got through. - -He issued rapid orders. - -When he put up the receiver, he turned to the others. - -“There’s one point in our favour. He doesn’t know he’s suspected. He -has always regarded everyone as a fool. But he’s a clever rogue if -ever there was one, and he’ll take some catching.” - -“But my brother,” said Mabel, “you said he was in danger.” - -“I am so sorry, Miss Watson. I was so upset for the moment. There is -no immediate danger. In fact, his one chance lies with keeping your -brother safe, for the moment, but his life is in danger. I am bound to -tell you that I have given orders for the house in Leveson Square to -be watched, but it may not be there.” - -“What may not be there?” said Allery; “we are all in the dark.” - -“I know. I will explain, but there’s no time now. - -“As far as I know he’s gone to London and he will not spare the car. -He may not go direct in case of some such action as I have taken.” - -Sanders came in. - -“The car will go now,” he said. “Luckily the chauffeur had spare -parts, otherwise it would have been hopeless, and there was evidently -not much time to tamper with it. I’ll get off, if you tell me where to -go.” - -“Oh, don’t go,” said Mabel with a revulsion of feeling. “Surely the -police can do all that’s necessary?” - -“I’m going,” said Sanders, and his jaw set square. There was a long -account to settle with this man. - -“Go direct to London, as hard as you can. Don’t stop to ask questions -on the way. Go to Leveson Square; here, take my card with you, and -explain to the men on duty there. If you don’t catch them on the road, -and I’m afraid you have a poor chance, he will have got there first. -They have full instructions to act, but you must get hold of Watson, -and see to his safety if you can. Good luck to you. Telephone if you -can. Use my name, and they will give you priority.” - -Without even looking at Mabel or saying good-bye, he went out. - -“Oh, my brother and Mr. Collins! This is awful; surely there must be -some ghastly mistake!” - -“You must be brave,” said Allery, “and wait for Mr. Sinclair’s -explanation.” - -A sound was heard outside as the car shot out into the night. - -“Too long a start,” said Sinclair, looking at his watch. - -John had been hovering at the door, and now came forward. - -“Can I be of any service, Miss?” he said. - -“No, thank you, John,” said she, “except you can tell the servants to -keep absolutely silent about anything that is happening. They will all -know in time. Meanwhile I depend on their loyalty.” - -The old man bowed. “I am sure you may depend on them, Miss; but can I -get you anything?” - -“Yes,” said Allery, “some strong black coffee would do us all good. I -can see we are going to have a night of it.” - -“Very good, sir,” said John. - -The sound of a car at the door was heard. Sinclair opened it, and a -policeman in plain clothes entered and saluted. - -“That’s right, Miles. Our man has gone to London, at least I think so. -A car has just gone in pursuit, and I have informed the Yard. The -whole route will be watched and patrolled. They are also watching the -house in Leveson Square. He has taken Sir Ronald Watson with him.” - -The Inspector opened his eyes wide. - -“Yes,” said Sinclair, “we have found Sir Ronald Watson only to-day.” - -He issued further instructions, with a description of the car, and its -occupants. He gave them the number, “but,” he said, “he’s altered -that, if I know him.” - -“Very good, sir,” said the Inspector, “we’ll catch him,” he added -cheerfully. It was not often such a chance came in his way, and -visions of promotion floated before him. - -When he had sent them off, Sinclair came back to the others. - -“Shall we come into the dining-room?” he said. “I must remain here -where I can be found, though I would have dearly loved the chase,” he -added sadly. “I don’t expect in the least they will catch him. But I -must try everything.” - -He sank wearily into a seat. “What a day,” he said. - -The others waited. - -Presently he sat up. - -“Of course you will want an explanation, and you are entitled to one. -It will help pass the time.” - -“If you are too tired we can wait,” said Mabel, but she was on the -rack. Her brother, the man who had been her lover, and he who had -lately filled so much of her life and whom she had grown to respect -even if there was no deeper feeling, were all involved. - -Sinclair started like a tired man, but as he went on he warmed to his -tale. - -“Collins was a deep scoundrel, but like all such he had two -weaknesses. He was so vain that he could not leave things alone, he -must try daring experiments, and he regarded all mankind as fools. -That was where he made his great mistake. I don’t expect we shall ever -know the truth, for I am certain he will never be taken alive. - -“A great amount is still obscure, in fact, it was only this evening -that I was sure I was right. Otherwise, of course, I should have acted -before. The first indication I had was a very slight slip, so slight -that it was almost instinct that made me notice it. He was recounting -Mrs. Simmons’ evidence to Boyce and myself, and he said that she had -stated that Sir James had complained of feeling sleepy. Now I was sure -that she had said nothing of the sort, and I took the trouble to ask -her after, and she was certain he had never said so. In a curious way -this kept on recurring to my mind, but I dismissed it. Mind you, I -hadn’t the remotest suspicion at the time. I merely thought it -curious. - -“Then, of course, I had a letter from Sir James the day after the -murder.” - -The other two looked at him in surprise. - -“Oh, of course, you don’t know about that.” He felt in his pocket and -produced the letter, which he read to them. - -“Again I was struck with the fact that he had been anxious not to have -Collins told. It stuck in my mind, until recalled, in a vivid manner. -I was in his flat, and we were discussing the evidence of Mrs. -Simmons, when he suddenly said he heard a noise, and went to the door, -dramatically taking his pistol with him. - -“Now, my hearing is very good, and I was almost certain that there was -no one there. Outside the door he found a piece of paper with a -scribbled message on it. You know what that was because it has been in -the papers. We searched the flat, but there was no one there. When we -came back he picked up the evidence from the floor, and was reading -it. He handed it back to me, and I saw that the letter from Sir James -was with the other document. I could see then that he had got hold of -this by a clever ruse, but I did not think it was anything more than a -trick, though I did not like it. - -“That night I stayed at his flat, and had very little sleep. - -“I went over the scene at Leveson Square as I had done many times, and -then I recalled that Collins had asked me to telephone for a doctor, -and remained at the door while I called the old woman. When I came -back he had spread mats on the floor in order not to obscure -footmarks. He examined the floor himself, and said there were three -sets of footmarks, Sir James’ and the unknown man’s, and then he said -with a laugh, ‘and these, I think, are mine when I stepped to lay the -rug,’ and he took off his shoes, and they fitted. - -“I was so astounded that I had to help myself to a whiskey and soda, -in order not to show my feelings, for the marks he found were under -where the rug had been. Since he had spread it from the doorway, it -must have been over the marks. It may seem surprising, but in the -events which followed, this had entirely gone out of my mind, but now -came back with added force. It is always said in my profession that we -must never eliminate any possibility, however seemingly improbable. - -“More or less for idle speculation, I began to think, as I could not -sleep. Facts came crowding in. Mrs. Simmons had suppressed the fact -that Sanders had come in the afternoon, that I did not know at the -time, but I was sure that she would not hide a murderer. If that were -so, then, as we found there was no possible means of leaving the room, -and she had seen him go to his study and lock the door, the murder -could not have taken place then. What remained? It must have taken -place after the door was opened by us. But the only person who was for -a moment alone with Sir James was Collins. But the thing was absurd. -We should have heard the shot. I dismissed the whole thing from my -mind. But it would keep coming back. Collins had turned up at my -office at the very moment, with a plausible story of having been -called up on the ’phone. He would, of course, have been able to get -official paper, and knew my signature perfectly well. Motive—well, I -have been too long in the service to look for motive till I have a -case. - -“The next day we went to Leveson Square, and the Home Office doctor -mentioned that the bullet had only penetrated a little way into the -skull. - -“Forgive me for going into all this,” he said to Mabel. - -“Go on,” she said, bravely. “I must know the truth.” - -“I was on the alert, then, and I noticed that Collins started talking -about his grievance against Boyce for letting the Press have details. -As a rule, he would have picked up a point like that at once. The -doctor had suggested a half charge as the explanation, but another -came to my mind. An air pistol would make comparatively little noise, -especially if one shouted out something at the same time. The whole -appearance of Sir James was as though he was in a deep sleep. Here, -again, my experience came in. I had known a similar case in India. - -“The man who did the murder would have to be certain that he was -asleep, or the plot would fail. There was only one way. Drugging! You -might say why not poison, but here was no need, and always the risk of -poison being found. A sleeping draught was all that was necessary, and -then I remembered that Collins had slipped out the remark about Sir -James feeling sleepy. There were two glasses which had contained -whiskey, into which a sleeping draught could easily have been put. - -“Things were beginning to take shape. I must confess I had suspicions -of Lewis at first, but I soon dismissed that, and kept it up on -purpose.” - -He paused and helped himself to coffee. - -“You must understand,” he continued, “that I had not a shred of -evidence. If I had told my suspicions I should have been laughed at, -and probably lost my job. Then there came the complication of Boyce -and Jackson. I saw he was dead set on getting this man proved guilty, -as he was sure we should never get the real man.” - -“Do you mean to say he was going to get an innocent man convicted?” -said Mabel, in horror. - -“Not convicted. He would merely be put back in an asylum, and I can -assure you it happens far oftener than the public know, that an -innocent man has to suffer. The police argue that they have got hold -of a man with a terrible past, and that even if he is not the actual -culprit he deserves to be put away. You will find, in these cases -where murder is the crime, he is always sent to penal servitude for -life.” - -“How dreadful,” said Mabel, “I thought our justice was so good in -England.” - -“I am afraid what Mr. Sinclair says is true,” said Allery. “I have -never been mixed up with criminal cases, but I have heard a good deal. -Please go on.” - -“I saw,” said Sinclair, “that the real clue lay in the letter I had -received, and it was disquieting that Collins had read it according to -my supposition. The key to the situation lay in finding Sir Ronald -Watson. - -“I kept in touch with Collins’ movements, and soon learnt of his -visits here. I thought he was here for another reason,” and he glanced -awkwardly at Mabel, “but the mystery he made of it, led me to think he -might have a double motive. I did not in the least suspect the truth, -but thought he was trying to find the missing man from this end, if -you understand me?” - -Allery nodded. “That’s all quite clear,” he said. - -“He turned up at my office the other day. I could see he had something -in the wind. Even with his iron nerve the delay must have been -fretting him, for there was always the possibility that we should get -the man, and then the secret, whatever it was, would be out. - -“I tried a bluff. I asked him where Wilton-on-Sea was, and said I -wanted to go there. All I knew was that it was close to this place. He -would not let me go alone, for he did not know how much I knew, and so -we came down, and watched for those wretched days which have put years -on to my life. - -“I had to pretend to take to drink to throw dust in his eyes. - -“When he found Sir Ronald in such a dramatic fashion, I realised that -things had come to a crisis. There was danger, real and personal, in -the air. With supreme bluff he introduced me, and I must confess he -took me completely by surprise. When I saw Lewis coming, for a moment -all my ideas crumpled like a pack of cards, and I thought I had made a -colossal fool of myself; but when I realised who it was, I saw the -whole game. He would not let him out of his sight, nor allow me a word -with him. - -“He saw his one chance was to get the document out of him before I had -a chance. - -“But he was one too good for me at the end. When he slipped out I -never thought he would make a bolt for it like that.” - -He finished his story, and looked at the others. - -Allery was scrutinising the end of his cigar. Mabel was deeply -distressed. - -“You’ve been working pretty hard lately, I suppose,” said the former. - -Sinclair started: “I am always pretty hard at work,” he said. - -“You’ve been letting this thing prey on your mind, I expect, a good -deal?” - -Sinclair stiffened. “Do you mean that I have been imagining things?” -he said. - -“It is a most entertaining exhibition of deduction,” said Allery. - -“Of course, I have not had time to tell you all,” said Sinclair, “and -it may never come out.” - -“It is a wicked lie,” said Mabel. “I will never believe it.” Her eyes -were blazing. - -“I am sorry, Miss Watson,” stammered Sinclair. - -“I am going to lie down, Mr. Allery,” said she, and walked from the -room ignoring Sinclair. - - - -CHAPTER XVII. - -The Wrong Letter - -In the stillness of the night the sound of a car was heard. Sinclair -went to the door and waited. - -Out of the blackness the car emerged, and came to rest at the door. -From the inside issued Sanders. His face was set and grim. Without a -word he walked into the house, and into the dining-room. Allery was -sitting where he had sat immovable all the evening. Sanders took off -his great coat, and took out his revolver and tossed it on the table. - -“Let me have a drink,” he said. “I’m done up.” - -“Tell us all about it,” said Sinclair, pouring out a drink and handing -it to him. - -“Where’s Mabel?” said Sanders to Allery. - -“She went to lie down, but said she wanted to be called directly there -was any news. I sent for her when I heard the car.” - -Mabel came in looking woefully drawn and pale. She was in _négligé_ -costume. - -“Well?” she said in a dull voice. - -“It’s all over. I chased the car, but we had no chance of catching it. -By a sheer fluke at the little village of Paxton, we saw men standing -about which seemed strange at this hour, and happened to ask whether -anything had happened. It appeared that a car had smashed up at the -bend. A bad smash.” - -“And Mr. Collins?” said the girl. - -“I should have thought your first thought would have been for your -brother,” said Sanders. - -“Let’s have the news,” said Allery, crossly. - -“I am thankful to say that Watson is safe and hardly injured at all. I -saw him, and he is coming on as soon as he has made his statement to -the Police. Your Inspector came along, and he is bringing Watson -back.” - -“And the other,” said Allery, almost in a whisper. - -“Dead!” said Sanders solemnly. - -The silence was broken by a woman’s sobs. Mabel had thrown herself -down on the sofa, and was weeping bitterly. Sanders was going to her, -but Allery motioned him back. “Let her alone,” he said. “She has had -an awful time of it.” - -“You will be better in bed,” he said gently to her. “Let me fetch your -old nurse.” - -The faithful old servant had been hovering about all the evening. She -came in and put her arm about the weeping girl, and led her from the -room. - -“Here he is,” said Allery, jumping to his feet, as the sound of a car -was heard. Watson and the Inspector came in, the former looking very -white and shaken. - -“A bad smash, sir,” said the Inspector to Sinclair, “they must have -been going at a cracking pace. I have a full statement from -witnesses.” - -“Thank you, Miles,” said Sinclair, handing him a drink. “I will send -for you to-morrow, and there will be a report to draw up. The matter -is more serious than you know. At present a discreet silence is best, -you understand.” - -“Very good, sir,” said the other, almost giving a wink, and withdrew. -There was an awkward silence in the room. - -“Whatever is the meaning of the whole business,” said Watson. “I am -all in the dark.” - -“Did Collins tell you nothing on the way?” said Sinclair. - -“No, he came and said that it was absolutely necessary for us to get -to London at once. He said the honour of my father’s name was -involved, and that the matter must be kept secret, especially from the -police. He hinted that there was some secret connected with my -father’s past life. He was so insistent that I went blindly with him.” - -“You have had a lucky escape,” said Sinclair. “Collins, in my view, -was the murderer of your father.” - -“What!” said Watson, starting forward in his seat. - -“The others here are sceptical, they cannot believe it. It all hangs -on a document which your father said he had hidden. He wrote and told -me.” He took the letter from his pocket, and handed it to Watson, who -read it with a puzzled air. - -“But I don’t understand. He says he hid it where he once put his will -in my presence.” - -“Exactly.” - -“Then why did Collins want to go to London?” - -“To get it, I suppose,” said Sinclair. - -“But it’s not there at all; it’s here,” said Watson. - -In breathless silence he rose and walked to the fireplace. Reaching -up, he turned the portrait of Sir James from the wall. Behind was the -oak panelling. Sliding a panel back he put his hand and drew out some -papers, and brought them to the light. - -One was a dusty envelope, tied and sealed. The other was new. - -Picking up the first, Watson said with some emotion: - -“When we had our last interview in this room, before I went to South -America, my father told me he had made a will cutting me completely -out, and had left this with Mr. Allery. Isn’t that so?” - -“That is quite correct,” said Allery. “I tried to persuade him not to -do so, in spite of the opinion I then had of you, but he would not -make any change.” - -“Well, he told me here, he had made another dated after that. He said, -‘I am going to hide it here. No one knows of the existence of this -place, and I am placing you on your honour. If you come back having -redeemed your character, and with a clear conscience, I will bring out -this will, if I am alive. If I am dead you can produce it, if you -think you have made good.’ He was a strange man and had curious ideas, -but he was absolutely just.” - -“That accounts for the Will he made some little time ago, bringing you -back,” said Allery. “I see it all now.” - -“But the other document?” said Sinclair impatiently. “Of course we -supposed it was in the London house. I thought he would have it with -him, and so did Collins, evidently.” - -Watson picked up the envelope, and broke the seal. - -Within was a roll of paper, which he unfolded, and laid on the table. - -The feeling in the room was intense. - -The light shone full on the writing, and the men leant forward to scan -the words. It seemed almost as though the dead man was with them -speaking from the tomb his awful accusation. - -Watson read in a firm voice. - -“To my son.” - - “My dearest boy, - - “If you ever read this I will have passed for ever from your sight. - I have longed for you for years, and have bitterly repented the - hasty action which drove you from my side, though at the time I - thought I was acting for your ultimate good. I pray to God that you - may be still alive, and may return to take your place here. - - “I can write no more as to this as the time is short. A great menace - hangs over me, and I feel that my life may be taken at any time. I - will be brief. - - “In my capacity of Home Secretary it was necessary for me to be - acquainted with the most dreadful secrets of crime, and criminals. - - “Among the most baffling problems of modern times has been the - personality of a master criminal, a blackmailer, forger and rogue, - whose diabolical cunning had eluded the police completely. Even his - name and residence were entirely unknown, though he had gone under - several aliases for blackmailing purposes. He seemed to know every - shady secret in Society.” - -“Webb or Atkins,” said Sinclair excitedly. “The man we have been -trying to find for years.” - -“Go on,” said Allery. - - “Some few days ago I received a letter from Sylvester Collins, the - Investigator, who was actually trying to find this criminal. Several - of the highest in the land had been asking me to locate this man, as - their lives were being made a misery by him. Collins promised to - send a report on the matter. When I opened the letter he sent me, - the whole world seemed to go round, and for minutes I could not - collect my thoughts. Instead of the letter I had expected, there was - a typewritten document to the Duke of ——— demanding instant payment - of a very large sum, and in the case of refusal a threat that - incriminating documents of the worst character would be sent to the - Duchess. - - “It was on perfectly plain paper, with no address, but giving - careful instructions as to how the money was to be paid in Paris. - - “Even then I did not grasp the full meaning of what I read. The note - had come by hand, straight from Collins but within a few moments I - received a letter by hand from the Duke, containing the note I was - expecting from Collins, which, he said, had evidently been sent to - him in error. There could be only one explanation, however - improbable it appeared. The two letters had come from the same - person. - - “I went at once to the Duke, and in strict confidence told him of - what had happened. He told me the whole dreadful story. - - “This man Webb—Julian Webb—had been draining him like a cask. - - “Of course, I could have called in the police, but such terrible - issues were at stake, and the scandal would have been so profound, - that I chose the other course. - - “I knew the risk and counted the cost. I sent for Collins, and faced - him with the letter, and the situation. He tried to bluff, and of - course denied the whole thing. I told him quite plainly that if I - put the matter into the hands of the police, as it was my duty to - do, it would mean disgrace and a long term of penal servitude for - him; but that I was willing to save a scandal, to let him leave the - country after he had handed over the incriminating documents. I - informed him that when he had gone I should place the whole thing in - the hands of Scotland Yard. He asked me for a week to consider the - matter, and make his arrangements. - - “He is coming to see me to-morrow in Town, and has agreed to bring - the documents with him. - - “I feel that, to such a man, the disgrace and flight will not - appeal, and my life is now in grave danger. I have promised, perhaps - somewhat rashly, not to reveal anything till I have seen him, so I - can take no steps, but I am writing this and hiding it where you - only will know, and if you come back, you will know what has - happened to your father. - - “If all is well, I shall myself destroy this when this danger is - past. - - “I can write no more. If you should ever read this you will know how - to act. - - “Good-bye my boy, and think kindly of your father, who treated you - harshly, but has always loved you. - - “Look after Mabel. If I am dead it is my wish that she marry Eric, - who is a good boy. I have been very selfish in this matter. - - JAMES WATSON.” - -Well, here it was at last. - -Every one of the listeners remained lost in his own thoughts. - -Ronald buried his face in his hands. - -Allery broke the silence. Leaning across to Sinclair, he took his -hand, and said, “I apologise. You were right and we were wrong, but -who would have suspected it?” - -“Please don’t apologise, Mr. Allery,” said Sinclair. “It was a -terrible shock to me, and as I told you, it was only last evening that -I could make up my mind. - -“I think everything is clear now. Collins had no intention of going -abroad. He got round Sir James to give him that week to mature his -plans for as cunning and clever a murder as was ever planned. - -“The visit in the afternoon, with all its precautions, was absolutely -necessary, so that he could drug him, though how he managed to get him -to take a whiskey and soda I cannot think. Probably he promised to -agree with everything, otherwise Sir James would have immediately sent -to Scotland Yard. Sir James’ promise then held good, and Collins would -say he would bring all the necessary documents. After he had gone, -some misgiving must have come to Sir James. Perhaps he was feeling -drowsy, and suspicion of evil was growing in his mind. - -“Anyway he wrote that letter, which did not break his promise, as you -see.” - -“There is a possibility, which is like the man’s daring,” said Allery. - -“Collins may have gambled on Sir James taking a whiskey after he had -gone. There are tasteless sleeping drugs which could have been put in -the glass. You remember the room was in partial darkness.” - -“I will go and break it to Mabel. She must know the truth. It is -better that I should tell her,” and he glanced at Sanders. - -Without another word he went out. - -“What are you going to do about the whole thing?” said Ronald, turning -to Sinclair. - -“I shall have to lay the matter before Boyce, and of course Jackson -must be exonerated, but I hope that nothing will be done. It would -rake up the whole scandal which Sir James gave his life to hide, and -the man is beyond the reach of the Law. I see no point in a -sensational disclosure.” - -“I am glad,” said Watson. “I would rather have it so.” - -Mabel came into the room with Allery. She held her head proudly, and -was dry-eyed, though very white. She walked straight to Sanders. - -“Eric,” she said. “I have had a terrible lesson, and I do not suppose -I shall ever forget it. I have misjudged you, and you were right in -your opinion. If you wish our engagement to be announced, I am -willing. And please forgive me for my temporary madness. I give you my -word it was nothing more. I can never forgive myself.” - -Allery exchanged glances with the others, who quietly rose, and -slipped from the room. - - THE END - - - -TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES - -This transcription follows the text of the edition published by -Grosset & Dunlap in August, 1926 (by arrangement with E. P. Dutton & -Company). However, the following alterations have been made to correct -what are believed to be unambiguous errors in the text: - * Five misplaced quotation marks have been restored. - * The name “Simmonds” has been corrected to “Simmons” (Chapter I). - * The word “alseep” has been corrected to “asleep” (Chapter XVI). - -*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE WRONG LETTER *** - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will -be renamed. - -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the -United States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. Special rules, set forth in the General Terms of Use part -of this license, apply to copying and distributing Project -Gutenberg™ electronic works to protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG™ -concept and trademark. 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Masterman</p> -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms -of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online -at <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you -are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the -country where you are located before using this eBook. -</div> - -<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Title: The wrong letter</p> -<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Author: Walter S. Masterman</p> -<p style='display:block; text-indent:0; margin:1em 0'>Release Date: June 12, 2023 [eBook #70964]<br>Last Updated: June 18, 2023</p> -<p style='display:block; text-indent:0; margin:1em 0'>Language: English</p> - <p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em; text-align:left'>Credits: Brian Raiter</p> -<div style='margin-top:2em; margin-bottom:4em'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE WRONG LETTER ***</div> - -<figure> - <img id="coverpage" src="images/cover.jpg" alt="Book cover"> -</figure> - -<div class="section" id="titlepage"> - -<h1>The Wrong Letter</h1> -<p class="authorprefix">by</p> -<p class="author">Walter S. Masterman</p> -<p class="authorprefix">with a preface by</p> -<p class="author">G. K. Chesterton</p> - -</div> - -<hr class="x-ebookmaker-drop"> - -<div class="section" id="contents"> - -<h2>Contents</h2> - -<table> - <tr> - <td class="n"></td> - <td><a href="#ch00">Preface</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="n">I</td> - <td><a href="#ch01">The Crime</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="n">II</td> - <td><a href="#ch02">Speculations</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="n">III</td> - <td><a href="#ch03">At the Vale</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="n">IV</td> - <td><a href="#ch04">The Missing Letter</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="n">V</td> - <td><a href="#ch05">A Mysterious Visit</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="n">VI</td> - <td><a href="#ch06">At Leveson Square</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="n">VII</td> - <td><a href="#ch07">Valuable Information</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="n">VIII</td> - <td><a href="#ch08">Enter Mr. Allery</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="n">IX</td> - <td><a href="#ch09">A Confession</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="n">X</td> - <td><a href="#ch10">The Portrait</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="n">XI</td> - <td><a href="#ch11">An Apparition</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="n">XII</td> - <td><a href="#ch12">What Happened in the Night</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="n">XIII</td> - <td><a href="#ch13">The Car in the Dark</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="n">XIV</td> - <td><a href="#ch14">Back in London</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="n">XV</td> - <td><a href="#ch15">The Crisis</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="n">XVI</td> - <td><a href="#ch16">The Criminal Found</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="n">XVII</td> - <td><a href="#ch17">The Wrong Letter</a></td> - </tr> -</table> - -</div> - -<hr class="x-ebookmaker-drop"> - -<div class="chapter" id="ch00"> - -<h2>Preface</h2> - -<p>I can say with all sincerity, nay with all -solemn responsibility, that this detective -mystery deceived me. And as I have been -looking out for a long time for a detective mystery -that should be at least deceptive, whatever its -other merits or demerits in being detective, I -very willingly write a word to serve as a preface -to it, though such books ought not to need such -prefaces. The detective story is in this way a -paradox (if I may use a word that has very -painful memories for me) because the true reader and -critic not only desires to be gulled, but even -desires to be gullible. I wish when reading such a -story to become as simple as Dr. Watson; to be -in the happy, cheerful, childlike, radiant -condition of Dr. Watson and not in the much more -dark and disillusioned and satiated and sceptical -condition of Sherlock Holmes. I generally am in -that childlike condition. But in every case it is -my ardent and aspiring ambition to be stupider -than the man who wrote the story. And in the -case of this story I actually succeeded.</p> - -<p>This desire to be deceived is really peculiar to -detective romance. It is in another sense that we -say the same thing of other types of romance. It -is sometimes said that when we go to the theatre -we pay to be deceived. But we are not really -deceived; we do not think that the dramatist -intends something that he does not intend; we do -not think the actor is doing something that he is -not doing. We only forget, or half forget, for a -moment, in the continuity and consistency of -certain events, the fact that they come from a -dramatist and an actor. But if we happen to -remember it, we do not remember it with surprise. -We are not astonished to discover that there is an -actor on the stage, as we are (or ought to be) -astonished to discover that there is a corpse in -the summer-house. We do not feel a momentary -incredulity when we are told that the play was -written by a playwright, as we do feel (or ought -to feel) when we are told that the crime was -committed by a curate. We watch a great actor -performing Hamlet so well that (if we have luck) -we lose for an instant the sense that he is a -great actor; we feel for the moment that he is -young Hamlet trying to avenge the death of old -Hamlet upon Claudius. But we do not, either -in forgetting or remembering, feel any shock of -fact or the change of fact. We do not feel as -we should feel if the play took a new and sudden -turn, and we found that Hamlet had killed his -own father and that his uncle was a perfectly -blameless character. That would be the -Detective Drama of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark, and -now that so many peculiar experiments are being -tried with that tragedy, I respectfully suggest it -to the managers of the London Theatres.</p> - -<p>If it is the first rule of the writer of mystery -stories to conceal the secret from the reader, it -is the first duty of the critic to conceal it from -the public. I will therefore put my hand upon -my mouth; and tortures shall not reveal the -precise point in this story at which a person whom -I had really regarded as figuring in one -legitimate capacity suddenly began to figure in -another, which was far from legitimate. I must not -breathe a word about what the writer of this -dramatic mystery does. I will confine myself -strictly to saying what he does not do. And -merely out of the things which he does not do, I -could construct an enthusiastic eulogy. On the -firm foundation of the things he does not do, I -could erect an eternal tower of brass. For the -things he does not do are the things being done -everywhere to-day, to the destruction of true -detective fiction and the loss of this legitimate and -delightful form of art. He does not introduce -into the story a vast but invisible secret society -with branches in every part of the world, with -ruffians who can be brought in to do anything or -underground cellars that can be used to hide -anybody. He does not mar the pure and lovely -outlines of a classical murder or burglary by -wreathing it round and round with the dirty and -dingy red tape of international diplomacy; he -does not lower our lofty ideals of crime to the -level of foreign politics. He does not introduce -suddenly at the end somebody’s brother from -New Zealand, who is exactly like him. He does -not trace the crime hurriedly in the last page or -two to some totally insignificant character, whom -we never suspected because we never -remembered. He does not get over the difficulty of -choosing between the hero and the villain by -falling back on the hero’s cabman or the villain’s -valet. He does not introduce a professional -criminal to take the blame of a private crime; a -thoroughly unsportsmanlike course of action and -another proof of how professionalism is ruining -our national sense of sport. He does not -introduce about six people in succession to do little -bits of the same small murder; one man to bring -the dagger and another to point it and another -to stick it in properly. He does not say it was -all a mistake, and that nobody ever meant to -murder anybody at all, to the serious -disappointment of all humane and sympathetic readers. -He does not make the general mistake of -thinking that the more complicated the story is the -better. His story is complicated enough, and on -many points open to criticism; but the secret of -it is found in the centre; and that is the central -matter in any work of art.</p> - -<p class="endsignature">G. K. Chesterton.</p> -<p class="dateline"><i>March</i>, 1926.</p> - -</div> - -<div class="chapter" id="ch01"> - -<h2>Chapter I. <br> The Crime</h2> - -<p>The telephone bell rang on the table of -Superintendent Sinclair at Scotland Yard. -He was a busy man, and had given orders that -he was not to be disturbed except on matters -important.</p> - -<p>Putting down a paper he had been reading, he -picked up the receiver. A woman’s voice spoke.</p> - -<p>“Is that Scotland Yard?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, yes,” he said impatiently, -“Superintendent Sinclair speaking, what is it?”</p> - -<p>“Listen carefully,” said the voice. “The Home -Secretary has been murdered at his own house, it -would be as well if you would come at once. -Have you got that? Just repeat.”</p> - -<p>Even Sinclair, the coolest head in the service, -was staggered for a moment. There was not a -trace of hurry or emotion in the voice. It might -have been inviting him to tea. Before he could -collect himself, the voice began again.</p> - -<p>“I will repeat,” and the same impassive -message came through with the concluding words, -“Have you got that?”</p> - -<p>Sinclair pulled himself together.</p> - -<p>“Who is speaking?” he said. He heard a laugh -and then the voice⸺</p> - -<p>“Oh, no one in particular, just the murderer,” -and then silence.</p> - -<p>He rang his bell, and his assistant, or -‘familiar’ as he was termed, Lewis, entered.</p> - -<p>“Someone is playing a joke of sorts on us. -Just find out who called up,” he said abruptly, -and went on reading. The thing was so absurd, -but something was wrong, and someone would -have to answer for this. In a minute Lewis -returned.</p> - -<p>“They don’t seem to know downstairs, sir, -there is a new operator at the exchange, and it -seems that someone said she was a personal -friend of yours, and must speak at once to you.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, of course, the same old game. I suppose -they think it’s funny,” and he turned savagely to -his work.</p> - -<p>“By the way, Lewis, just find out where the -Home Secretary is,” he added.</p> - -<p>About ten minutes had passed, when a knock -came at the door, and a clerk ushered in Mr. -Collins.</p> - -<p>Sylvester Collins was not a Sherlock Holmes -or anything like it, but after a successful career -at the Bar, at a time when all his many friends -had expected him to ‘take silk,’ he had suddenly -thrown up his whole career, and started as an -Inquiry Agent and Amateur Detective, though -he hated the expression, and always claimed that -he was merely trying to use his experience at the -Bar in a practical way.</p> - -<p>However, he had been phenomenally -successful, perhaps through luck, perhaps through a -keen, trained brain and good common sense.</p> - -<p>If his friends wanted to upset him, they would -call him Sherlock Holmes, which was like a red -rag to a bull to him.</p> - -<p>He worked excellently with the official force, -and had been “briefed” by them on many -occasions, with the happiest results to all except the -criminals who had been run to earth.</p> - -<p>A clean-cut face with a large nose, and a firm -mouth, were his chief characteristics. Soft brown -eyes, and curly hair almost black, gave his face a -curiously paradoxical expression.</p> - -<p>When not engaged professionally, he was a -keen sportsman, and enjoyed life to the full.</p> - -<p>He was entirely devoid of ‘side’ or ‘swank.’</p> - -<p>Sinclair was a very different type. He was -more like the Scotland Yard officer of real life -than of fiction. After successful work in India, -he had applied for and obtained his post. He -had just a detective’s training and education. He -made no pretensions to be other than a trained -official with no particular brilliance, and he was -glad to have the help of his friend, who had brains -and not his experience.</p> - -<p>Collins always came to Sinclair without -ceremony.</p> - -<p>He entered smoking a cigarette, and placed his -hat and stick on the table.</p> - -<p>“Well,” he said. “What’s the trouble now?”</p> - -<p>Sinclair looked up in some surprise.</p> - -<p>“What do you mean?”</p> - -<p>“You sent for me?”</p> - -<p>“I’m sure I didn’t,” said the other.</p> - -<p>“But someone from here called me up on the -’phone about⸺” he looked at his watch—“about -ten minutes ago, and said you wanted to -speak to me.”</p> - -<p>“Someone from here. Who was it?”</p> - -<p>“I am sure I don’t know. It sounded like a -woman.”</p> - -<p>“What did she say?” said the Superintendent -turning in his chair.</p> - -<p>“Nothing more than that. Simply asked if I -were speaking, and said ‘Superintendent Sinclair -wants to speak to you at once if you can come,’ -and rang off.”</p> - -<p>“Well, I’m damned,” said Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“You may be for all I know, but I was just off -to tennis,” and he glanced at his flannels. “I -suppose someone has been playing the fool. I’ll -get off.”</p> - -<p>“Stop. If they have, they have been trying to -fool me, too,” and he told of the message he had -received.</p> - -<p>Collins listened with interest.</p> - -<p>“What have you done?” he said.</p> - -<p>“I asked Lewis to find out where the Home -Secretary was. I expect he has found him now. -The thing is absurd.”</p> - -<p>Lewis came in.</p> - -<p>“Well?” said Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“The Home Secretary is not in the House or at -the Home Office. They do not know where he is.”</p> - -<p>“Call up his house,” said Sinclair, irritated.</p> - -<p>“Better not,” said Collins. “If there’s nothing -in it we don’t want to look fools, and if there has -really been murder done the less known the -better. I’ll tell you what—I have my car outside. -Let’s run up to his house in Leveson Square. -You can make some excuse. You often want to -see him.”</p> - -<p>The Superintendent made a face. “I’m not big -enough to go calling on the Home Secretary.”</p> - -<p>“Never mind, fake up something. I’ll come -with you.”</p> - -<p>“All right, I’ll bring two plain clothes officers -in case there is anything in it. We often have to -keep a special watch there, so that’ll be quite in -order.”</p> - -<p>Collins laughed. “Thank goodness I am not -official. What a lot of red tape you people have.”</p> - -<p>“Why, what would you have done, then?”</p> - -<p>“Charged up and asked him if he were dead by -any chance.”</p> - -<p>“Come along.”</p> - -<p>Lewis had been listening to them.</p> - -<p>“Come along, Lewis, and bring Smith,” said -Sinclair.</p> - -<p>To his surprise Lewis was as white as chalk, -and his hand trembled.</p> - -<p>“If you don’t mind, sir,” he said, “I would -much rather not come. I don’t feel very well.” -Collins gazed keenly at him for a moment.</p> - -<p>“How long have you felt ill?” he said.</p> - -<p>“Only just a few minutes ago, sir, I think it’s -the heat.”</p> - -<p>“Let’s get someone else, then, only hurry -along, I want to get to my tennis,” said Collins -impatiently.</p> - -<p>Sinclair was about to grumble, but a look -from Collins made him silent. “Go and get two -men then at once. Tell them to meet us at the -door.”</p> - -<p>“What the devil was the matter with Lewis?” -said Sinclair in the car. “He is my right-hand -man.”</p> - -<p>“Dunno,” said Collins who was driving, “wait -till we know what has happened.”</p> - -<p>Every incident that transpired from that -moment was so stamped on the memory of the two -men that there was no mistake about the facts.</p> - -<p>On arriving at the door of the Home -Secretary’s house, Sinclair stationed Smith at the -front entrance, with orders not to show himself, -but to watch.</p> - -<p>The second man was disposed at the back, -where was a high wall, but no actual entrance. -The basement opened into an area in front.</p> - -<p>The two men ascended the front steps and -Sinclair rang the bell. An aged housekeeper, Mrs. -Simmons, opened the door.</p> - -<p>“Is the Home Secretary in?” said Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“Yes, sir, he’s in his study,” she looked at the -men doubtfully, “he did not wish to be -disturbed.”</p> - -<p>“When did you see him last?” said Collins, -looking at her keenly.</p> - -<p>“Why, about half an hour back, sir,” said she -in surprise.</p> - -<p>“What fools we have been,” said Sinclair, -“we’d better go.”</p> - -<p>“Not at all. Now we are here we will see him. -We can ask him about Blake who is to be hanged -next Thursday. There’s a big petition you know -for a reprieve.”</p> - -<p>“Very good, but it’s a fool’s errand.” He -turned to the housekeeper.</p> - -<p>“Would you kindly take my card to Sir James, -and ask him if he could spare me a minute?”</p> - -<p>When the woman had gone, Sinclair said, “I -shall get hell for this. He will ask me what it -has got to do with me, and why I did not use the -ordinary channels.”</p> - -<p>“Leave it to me,” said the other with his easy -confidence. He generally got his own way in -most things.</p> - -<p>After a brief interval Mrs. Simmons returned.</p> - -<p>“I have knocked twice,” she said, “but there is -no answer. I expect he is asleep. I hardly like -to disturb him unless it is a very important -matter.”</p> - -<p>The two men exchanged glances.</p> - -<p>“I am afraid it is,” said Collins. “We had -better see. This is Superintendent Sinclair from -Scotland Yard.”</p> - -<p>At the name the old woman turned pale.</p> - -<p>“Scotland Yard?” she stammered. “I hope -nothing is wrong?”</p> - -<p>“Why should anything be wrong,” said Collins. -“The Home Secretary often sees officials from -the Yard, doesn’t he?”</p> - -<p>“Yes,” said she; “but there have been some -queer things to-day here.”</p> - -<p>“What things?” said Collins.</p> - -<p>“Oh, come along, don’t start asking questions -now,” said Sinclair. The two men entered the -hall.</p> - -<p>The housekeeper disappeared down the stairs, -but the others did not notice her departure at -the moment.</p> - -<p>They made for the library door where the -housekeeper had knocked. Sinclair tried the -handle. The door was locked. He knocked -loudly, but there was no response.</p> - -<p>“We shall have to break the door down,” said -he.</p> - -<p>“Oh, that’s very clumsy,” said Collins, “and -makes such a noise.” Stooping down he -examined the lock.</p> - -<p>“That’s an easy matter, the key is in the lock.”</p> - -<p>He produced a fine pair of pliers, and deftly -gripping the end of the key, turned it without -difficulty.</p> - -<p>“You would make a good burglar,” laughed the -superintendent. Collins opened the door and -glanced round.</p> - -<p>The room was in semi-darkness, and after the -glare outside it was hard to see anything for a -moment. By the empty grate was a large arm-chair, -and seated in this was the familiar figure -of the Home Secretary, Sir James Watson. He -was huddled up in his chair, and his head was at -a curious angle to his body.</p> - -<p>Sinclair was about to advance into the room.</p> - -<p>“Stop,” said the other. “For Heaven’s sake -don’t go inside and leave footmarks. Whatever -is the matter, this requires a doctor. I will wait -here, you telephone for a doctor.”</p> - -<p>He glanced round the room.</p> - -<p>“There doesn’t appear to be one here. Ask the -housekeeper.”</p> - -<p>Sinclair went to the head of the stairs and -called.</p> - -<p>There was some delay, and he called again -angrily.</p> - -<p>A muffled voice answered him.</p> - -<p>“Where’s the telephone, quick?” he shouted.</p> - -<p>A sound was heard on the stairs, and Mrs. -Simmons came up. She was crying.</p> - -<p>“Stop that,” said Sinclair roughly. “Where is -the telephone?”</p> - -<p>“There isn’t one in the house, sir,” she said. -“Sir James had it taken away. He was always -being rung up.”</p> - -<p>Collins was getting impatient. “Send one of -your men for a doctor, then, the old woman is no -good. There are plenty of them round here. -Hurry, man, it may be life or death.”</p> - -<p>Sinclair dashed down the steps, and called the -man on duty. He returned breathless.</p> - -<p>Collins had dragged two large mats to the door -of the library, and was carefully spreading one -on the floor. The two men entered, and placed -the second mat beyond the first.</p> - -<p>“On your knees,” he said in a whisper.</p> - -<p>They approached the figure in the chair.</p> - -<p>One glance was sufficient. Even in the semi-darkness -they could see an ugly mark on the side -of the head from which a very thin trickle of -blood was coming.</p> - -<p>“A bullet hole,” said Sinclair, who was versed -in these matters. “He’s been shot.”</p> - -<p>“Hum,” said Collins, “wait for the doctor. -Meanwhile I will have some light.” With the -utmost precautions he moved his rugs to the -window, and pulled up the blinds.</p> - -<p>The room was beautifully furnished, for Sir -James was a man of taste and had the means to -gratify it.</p> - -<p>The walls were covered with books to a height -of seven feet.</p> - -<p>Above that one or two choice pictures were -hung.</p> - -<p>The fireplace was a fine piece of carved oak.</p> - -<p>As far as they could see, the room was empty.</p> - -<p>The windows were hasped, and there was no -other entrance.</p> - -<p>The library had originally been two rooms, -and ran the full depth of the house. It had been -adapted by Sir James, and was his favourite -room.</p> - -<p>A fussy little doctor arrived, and was brought -into the room with the same precautions.</p> - -<p>Sinclair introduced himself and his -companion.</p> - -<p>The doctor made a very careful examination, -while the others waited.</p> - -<p>“Dead,” he said. “I should think about half -an hour, possibly more. It is difficult to tell -exactly.” He looked up.</p> - -<p>“Is it a case of murder or suicide?”</p> - -<p>“At present we know no more than you do,” -said Sinclair. “We had only just come, and sent -for you at once.”</p> - -<p>“Quite right, quite right,” said the little -doctor pompously.</p> - -<p>“Meanwhile you will, of course, keep this -entirely to yourself,” said Collins.</p> - -<p>“But isn’t this?” he glanced at the stricken -man. “Surely this is the Home Secretary.”</p> - -<p>“Exactly,” said Collins dryly. “That is why -it is necessary for you to remain silent until you -are asked to speak. Superintendent Sinclair -represents Scotland Yard. You understand?”</p> - -<p>The doctor bowed. He saw himself playing a -prominent part in a great drama, which would -bring him notoriety and clients.</p> - -<p>“The body had better be moved for me to make -a more exhaustive examination,” said he.</p> - -<p>“Would you please wait outside till we have -made our observations if you don’t mind, as the -fewer in here the better, but I think you had -better remain in the house, if you can manage it.”</p> - -<p>“Certainly,” said the doctor, “I am at your -service.”</p> - -<p>“Then perhaps you would tell the housekeeper -to stay where she is,” said Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“Now for your men,” said Collins, when the -doctor had gone out.</p> - -<p>“We must tell them to see that no one leaves -the house.” They went first to the front door -and called Smith.</p> - -<p>Collins was careful to keep the open library -door in sight all the time.</p> - -<p>After giving him his orders, they had to get -in touch with the man at the back. There was -a small garden, bounded by a high wall, and -beyond that a lane. Seated on the wall was the -figure of the other man, keeping a good look-out. -Collins went to a back window and called him -softly.</p> - -<p>“Seen anything?” he asked.</p> - -<p>“No, sir, nothing doing here,” said the man -cheerfully.</p> - -<p>It was refreshing in the midst of what looked -like a grim tragedy to find a cheery soul who -seemed to be enjoying himself.</p> - -<p>He returned to Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“Now for the room.”</p> - -<p>The two had been used to work together, and -Sinclair knew exactly when to leave matters to -Collins and when to take charge himself.</p> - -<p>As was usual in these cases, Collins thought -aloud, and the other checked his statements.</p> - -<p>He approached the dead man, moving still on -the rugs.</p> - -<p>“Clean bullet wound—no burning—fired from -a distance—probably while he slept—entered -right temple—bullet lodged in the brain—all -straight forward—both hands limp, and peaceful -expression—<i lang="la">ergo</i> unexpected attack and no -resistance—now, let’s see—eyes shut—confirms first -impression. Anything else about the body?”</p> - -<p>Sinclair looked at it critically.</p> - -<p>“No;” he said, “but from the way he lies the -shot must have come from the doorway, or -somewhere near that.”</p> - -<p>“We are coming to that in a minute,” said the -other.</p> - -<p>“Now let’s have a look round. Observation -only, no speculation. Table, with two glasses.” -He took one up and then the other.</p> - -<p>“Just whisky and soda. There’s the decanter -and there’s the syphon.”</p> - -<p>“Nothing very mysterious about that. But -who was the visitor?... Cigar ash, I cannot tell -five hundred kinds of ash,” said he with a smile, -“still, they both smoked.”</p> - -<p>“Now for the floor—help me with the rugs. -Right—hullo.”</p> - -<p>As they moved the second rug they disclosed -a revolver lying on the floor. Collins picked it -up.</p> - -<p>“Service revolver—Webley—now obsolete⸺” -He broke the revolver carefully.</p> - -<p>“Five full and one empty—seems obvious—too -obvious.” He was always disappointed if a -problem proved quite easy of solution.</p> - -<p>“Well, we must wait for the bullet—I hope it -doesn’t fit⸺”</p> - -<p>Sinclair laughed. “I don’t believe you care in -the least whether the murderer is punished or -not, as long as you have something interesting to -solve.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, I must say I like something abstruse; but -never mind.</p> - -<p>“Now for footprints. On this soft pile carpet -they ought to show, thanks to our precautions.”</p> - -<p>He went down on his knees, and examined the -carpet carefully.</p> - -<p>The other took a chair and watched.</p> - -<p>After a long and keen search all over the room, -he rose to his feet.</p> - -<p>“There are three sets of marks,” he said.</p> - -<p>“Here are one lot walking up and down and -crossing frequently. Number two was sitting -down here, it is quite a different type of boot, or -rather shoe, I think, and here are the marks -which I rather fancy are my own when I stepped -to lay the rug.”</p> - -<p>He removed his shoe and placed it on the mark.</p> - -<p>“That’s right,” he said. “It shows how -careful one has to be. If you and I and the doctor -had all walked over the carpet we should have -obliterated the others....</p> - -<p>“Now which of these is the dead man’s?”</p> - -<p>Sinclair was hardened in criminal matters, -and without compunction removed one of the -dead man’s boots.</p> - -<p>“Exactly,” said Collins, fitting it to a mark on -the floor. “That’s that. He was the one who -walked about the room. How does that fit in -with the idea of him being shot when asleep?”</p> - -<p>“No theories yet,” said Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“Right you are. That’s the floor. Now the -windows. Firmly fastened. Anything curious -there?”</p> - -<p>“Nothing that I see except we have to find how -the murderer escaped.”</p> - -<p>“A hot day in summer, and all the windows -close fastened. Well, perhaps he did not want -the shot to be heard.”</p> - -<p>“Are you suggesting suicide?”</p> - -<p>“Why not? Oh, I see, you are thinking of the -telephone message. Still, we must not eliminate -the possibility at present.”</p> - -<p>“Door locked on the inside, and no trace of the -second person.”</p> - -<p>“Of course, the walls and floor will have to be -examined,” said Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“Of course, and the ceiling and chimney. Well, -that’s all here, and we had better get the doctor -and remove the body.”</p> - -<p>“Wrap those glasses and decanter and syphon -carefully up for finger prints,” said Collins.</p> - -<p>Sinclair turned scarlet.</p> - -<p>“I am most awfully sorry. I ought to have -known better, but this thing upset me rather. -While you were grovelling on the floor I helped -myself to a little whisky—it was really -unpardonable.”</p> - -<p>“I saw you,” said Collins coolly. “It would -cost you your place if it were known, but I shan’t -tell any tales.”</p> - -<p>“Thanks,” said Sinclair simply. It was a -little weakness he had.</p> - -<p>They took the body carefully into the -dining-room, and left it with the doctor.</p> - -<p>“Now for the housekeeper,” said Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“Mrs. Simmons, will you come here, please?”</p> - -<p>The woman came in very distressed, and seated -herself, at a word from Collins.</p> - -<p>“Now, Mrs. Simmons,” he said in kind tones, -“Can you throw any light on this affair? Please -calm yourself and tell us all you know.”</p> - -<p>After a prolonged examination, the following -facts were elicited, which are better put -together.</p> - -<p>The Home Secretary was a widower. He had -one daughter, Mabel, who lived with him. She -had gone down to their country place in -Devonshire, from which he had come the day before, -and he intended to return the next day. The -servants had gone, leaving Mrs. Simmons to look -after Sir James.</p> - -<p>He had been at his Office all the morning, returning -for lunch. He was a solitary man and -shunned company.</p> - -<p>At about three o’clock a ring had come at the -door, and she had gone up to answer it. When -she got to the top of the stairs, she saw that Sir -James had already opened the door. A man came -in and went straight to the library. She could -not see anything of him, as Sir James was -between them. She thought nothing of it, as it was -probably an official from the Home Office. Sir -James locked the door, and the two were -together for about half an hour. She heard -nothing, as the kitchen was not under the library.</p> - -<p>Then there was a ring from the library. She -was quite certain of that. She went up after a -moment, as she had been writing a letter. When -she got to the hall, Sir James was showing the -visitor out, and she did not see him. Sir James -stood on the steps and watched him go. As she -was not wanted she went down again.</p> - -<p>A little later Sir James came out from the -library, and went across the road with a letter, -which he put into the pillar-box. She waited for -him, as she wished to ask about arrangements -for the evening.</p> - -<p>When he came back he told her he should be -out to dinner, and that he was on no account to -be disturbed.</p> - -<p>He had then gone in and locked the door. She -was certain of that—she had heard the key turn. -After that she had been busy in the dining-room, -and was quite certain that no one else had called. -She had heard nothing until the two men had -come. She had heard no sound of a shot.</p> - -<p>She would certainly have heard one from where -she was.</p> - -<p>“Why was she so agitated when the door was -opened?”</p> - -<p>She was given to presentiments, and was -feeling afraid of something after the strange man -had called.</p> - -<p>At the conclusion Collins asked her about the -household. Were there any relations who came?</p> - -<p>“No, sir,” she said, “though Sir James used to -have regular house-parties at his country place. -He lived very quietly in London.”</p> - -<p>“Has he ever shown any signs of being afraid -of an attack, or anything of that sort?”</p> - -<p>“Well, sir, there have been times when he -seemed uneasy. He has asked whether there was -anybody hanging round the house, and he always -kept a loaded revolver in his room.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, did he? And where is it now?”</p> - -<p>The housekeeper led them into the library, now -guarded by a plain-clothes man. She opened a -drawer in the writing table. Within lay a small -silver-plated revolver, fully loaded.</p> - -<p>“You say that Sir James had one child, a -daughter?” said Collins.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Simmons hesitated. “Well, sir, I have -been with the family twenty years. There was -another, a son, but he was a wrong ’un, and went -abroad many years ago, and, as far as I know, -the family have heard nothing since.”</p> - -<p>“But hasn’t Sir James kept in touch with -him?”</p> - -<p>“Of course, I do not know all that has -happened, but I do know that Sir James used to -make an allowance to him; but the time came -when the firm of lawyers said they had lost all -trace of him, and the money was stopped.”</p> - -<p>“Where was he at that time—I mean in what -country?”</p> - -<p>“I don’t properly know, but it was in one of -those South American States.”</p> - -<p>“And that is all you can tell us,” said Collins, -fixing the housekeeper with a sharp look.</p> - -<p>“Yes, sir, as far as I can remember, but of -course I am all of a fluster. Something more may -occur to me; but, oh, sir, what shall I do, I -cannot stay in this dreadful house?”</p> - -<p>“There is no need for you to do so, is there, -Sinclair?” said Collins.</p> - -<p>The other tugged at his moustache. “I don’t -know. Where are you going?”</p> - -<p>“I want to go to my sister’s house at Forest -Gate, if I may, I am so upset with all this.”</p> - -<p>Collins drew Sinclair aside.</p> - -<p>“Let her go,” he said, “and have her watched. -It may be useful.”</p> - -<p>“Very good,” said he. To Mrs. Simmons, he -said, “You can go, but you must give us your -address, you will be wanted as a witness at the -inquest. Don’t talk about the affair at all. Do -you understand?”</p> - -<p>“Thank you, sir, I will go and pack,” said she -gratefully.</p> - -<p>Collins watched her go.</p> - -<p>“What do you make of her?” he said.</p> - -<p>“She seemed quite straightforward; I think -she’s told us the truth.”</p> - -<p>Collins gave a laugh. “Yes,” he said. “The -truth, but not the whole truth. She’s a clever old -woman.”</p> - -<p>“What do you mean?”</p> - -<p>“When a simple soul tells the tale, and tries to -conceal something, she gives herself away. She -will not look straight at you. When you are -dealing with the cunning type, she will look at -you with a particularly open face and innocent -look. All the time she was telling her narratives -she was confused and upset, as was natural. But -when I asked her if she had anything else to say -her manner altered, and she became collected and -looked me straight in the face.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, you imagine these things. I didn’t see -any difference.”</p> - -<p>“Very good,” said Collins, “we shall see.”</p> - -<p>“Now for the next move,” said Sinclair, who -always got irritated when his colleague assumed -this superior manner. “I must go to the Yard -and make a full report. We cannot keep this -thing secret. It will make a great stir. Will -you come with me?”</p> - -<p>“I will run you down in my car, and then must -get off at once.”</p> - -<p>“Where to?” said the other in surprise.</p> - -<p>“Someone must break the news to the girl. It’s -a rotten job, but it’s of the greatest importance. -I am off to Devonshire, and hope I shall arrive in -time.”</p> - -<p>“In time?”</p> - -<p>“Before the news reaches there.”</p> - -<p>“You’ve got something at the back of your -mind, I can see that. It’s not just to spare the -girl’s feelings.”</p> - -<p>Collins smiled. “I would like to make the -acquaintance of the family,” he said.</p> - -<p>“But there is only one in the family,” said -Sinclair surprised.</p> - -<p>“Perhaps,” said Collins.</p> - -<p>They made their way into the Square, where -dusk was falling.</p> - -<p>Several persons were looking up at the house -and pointing.</p> - -<p>“What the devil is the meaning of that?” said -Sinclair, as Collins was starting the car.</p> - -<p>“Ask me another, jump in,” and they went off.</p> - -<p>As they turned into Bond Street, where the -lights were on, they saw a newspaper boy -shouting, and running down the street. In front of -him was a news-bill, on which was printed:</p> - -<blockquote class="centered"> - “Home Secretary Murdered at his House.<br> - Full Details.” -</blockquote> - -<p>“Well, I’m damned,” said the Superintendent.</p> - -<p>Collins stopped the car, and bought a paper.</p> - -<p>On the News page, across two columns, was a -flaring account of the murder.</p> - -<p>“What in Hell’s name is the meaning of this?” -said Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“Let’s go to the Yard,” said Collins, putting in -the clutch.</p> - -<p>Mr. Boyce was a flabby man of fifty. He had -had an unsuccessful career at the Bar which -would have ruined a man without means; but his -father was a distinguished Judge of the High -Court, and had considerable influence. After -trying to get his son a job as Stipendiary and a -County Court Judge, he at last jobbed him into -the position of Commissioner in Scotland Yard, -where he subsisted on the brains of his -subordinates. He listened with an assumption of wisdom -to the account of the affair given by Sinclair. -Collins had come with him after the incident of -the newspaper. He had a profound contempt for -Boyce, which the other resented though he dared -not show his resentment.</p> - -<p>While Sinclair was reporting, Collins had got -busy with a timetable, and then turned to the -telephone.</p> - -<p>The others waited while he called up.</p> - -<p>After several conversations, he laid the -receiver down, and turned to the other two.</p> - -<p>“The Editor of the ‘Evening Rag,’ ” said he. -“I asked him where he got the news of the -murder from, and he says via the Central News. He -says he was careful to ascertain whether it was -authentic before he sent it to press. What do you -think he says?”</p> - -<p>“Can’t guess,” said Sinclair shortly.</p> - -<p>“He says it came in in the form of a report -from Scotland Yard, on official paper, signed by -Superintendent Sinclair.”</p> - -<p>Sinclair turned purple.</p> - -<p>Boyce looked at him with large, fishy eyes.</p> - -<p>“Really, really,” he said, “this is most -unorthodox.”</p> - -<p>“You don’t suppose I sent it in, do you, sir,” -spluttered Sinclair.</p> - -<p>Collins intervened.</p> - -<p>“I can answer for that,” said he; “Sinclair has -been with me the whole time. No; there is -another explanation for this.”</p> - -<p>“What is that?”</p> - -<p>“Why the same person who called us on the -’phone, and probably the murderer. It is curious -how vain these people are. He may have stepped -too far. It’s just possible he’s given us a -valuable clue. One cannot send letters with -impunity. There’s the post mark, and the time.”</p> - -<p>“The document must be obtained,” said -Boyce.</p> - -<p>“I have already asked the Central News to -send it here for inspection. It is coming now by -hand.”</p> - -<p>While they waited, Collins turned to Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“About that telephone call, you say it was a -woman’s voice?”</p> - -<p>“Well, of course, I thought so at the time; but -it may have been a man’s disguised.”</p> - -<p>“Or something else?” said Collins.</p> - -<p>“What do you mean?” said Boyce, almost -startled.</p> - -<p>“Well, it might have been a boy’s voice.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, surely not.”</p> - -<p>“We cannot eliminate the possibility, and then -again it might have been a man’s voice not -disguised.”</p> - -<p>“How could that be?”</p> - -<p>“There are some men with treble voices who -sing falsetto like a boy. We cannot take -anything for granted.”</p> - -<p>Boyce gave a sniff. He did not like this sort of -speculation.</p> - -<p>“I must get back and change, and then get -some food, and catch the night train,” said -Collins. “I have plenty of time, so we can go into -the position if you care to. You had better have -some grub with me, and if you care to join us,” -he said to Boyce, “I shall be delighted.”</p> - -<p>“Thank you very much, I will with pleasure,” -said the other. It was just what he wanted. He -could listen to the others and then retail the -information as his own. It was the way in which -he worked his department.</p> - -<p>A messenger boy was ushered in by a clerk, and -handed a document to Sinclair, who signed the -receipt and the lad departed.</p> - -<p>In haste he opened the envelope, and pulled -out another which had been opened. It was -addressed to the Central News Agency, and was a -Government envelope. Inside was a sheet of -paper with the official stamp of Scotland Yard.</p> - -<p>The note was short and in type.</p> - -<p>“Sir,” it said, “I am authorized to inform you -that the Home Secretary, Sir James Watson, -was murdered this afternoon at his house in -Leveson Square between three and four o’clock, -by an unknown assailant. He was shot through -the head, and death was instantaneous.</p> - -<p>“ ‘The cause of the crime is at present -unknown, and no trace of the assailant can be -found. Scotland Yard have the matter in hand, -and a reward will shortly be offered for -information leading to the apprehension of the -murderer.’ ”</p> - -<p>It was signed ‘Arthur Sinclair, Superintendent, -C.I.D.’ and had the official stamp on it.</p> - -<p>Sinclair laid the paper down with a look of -bewilderment.</p> - -<p>“We must keep this carefully,” said Boyce -sententiously. “It is a document of the utmost -importance.”</p> - -<p>“This is of greater importance,” said Collins -quietly.</p> - -<p>The other two looked at him in surprise. He -was holding the envelope.</p> - -<p>Slowly he laid it on the table and pointed.</p> - -<p>“This has escaped the notice of the Central -News people. Probably because they have an -assistant to open envelopes who simply throws -them into the waste-paper basket. I particularly -asked them to get the envelope, which they have -done.”</p> - -<p>“But what is the point?”</p> - -<p>Collins placed his finger on the postmark.</p> - -<p>“Two forty-five,” said he. “This was sent off -before the murder took place.”</p> - -<p>The three men looked at each other in silence.</p> - -</div> - -<div class="chapter" id="ch02"> - -<h2>Chapter II. <br> Speculations</h2> - -<p>Collins, Sinclair and Boyce had just -discussed an excellent glass of port after a -frugal but well-cooked meal at Collins’ flat.</p> - -<p>The room was tastefully but not luxuriously -furnished, and was stamped with the -individuality of the occupier.</p> - -<p>Over the mantelpiece was an oar, a relic of the -time when Collins had stroked his college boat to -victory in the “Mays.”</p> - -<p>Four selected pictures were on the walls, but -the eye was caught by ‘Napoleon, the Last Phase,’ -which seemed to dominate the room, with its -tortured sadness.</p> - -<p>Collins rose, rang the bell for coffee, and -handed round cigars.</p> - -<p>During the meal all reference to the tragedy of -the day had been dropped by tacit consent. Now -each of the men drew up his chair to the fire, -and prepared to discuss the affair—in spite of -the heat of the day the nights were cold.</p> - -<p>Collins suggested, with an irony which was -lost on the others, that Boyce should give them -the light of his wisdom on the problem.</p> - -<p>This he hastily declined, and Sinclair asked -Collins to open the ball. Here he was in his -element.</p> - -<p>“I will go through the facts, and Sinclair can -check me.” The others nodded assent. The -cigars were good and the chairs comfortable. -They were in the right mood for listening.</p> - -<p>“First then,” said Collins, “there are four -possibilities. It may have been suicide, but the -doctor does not think that is possible. There was -no blackening round the wound, and it would -not be likely that a man could shoot himself -through the head and throw the revolver away -from him.”</p> - -<p>“But what about the telephone messages and -the newspaper article?” said Boyce.</p> - -<p>“We are coming to that, but they may have -nothing to do with the crime.”</p> - -<p>The other two exchanged glances.</p> - -<p>“Then we come to accident. That is a -possibility. A man may have tried blackmail or to -extract some secret, and fired by accident. Here -again the position of the body and the whole -arrangement of the room are against such an -idea.”</p> - -<p>“Then there is only murder?” said Boyce.</p> - -<p>“Not quite,” said the other. “There is first the -work of a madman.”</p> - -<p>“But that is nevertheless murder,” said -Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“Yes; but we then have to proceed on an -entirely different basis. If this is the work of a -lunatic, it explains the telephone messages and -the newspaper article. It is just the sort of -thing that a madman with an inordinate vanity -would do. And we need not look for motive. If -that is so, our task will be simplified.”</p> - -<p>The others agreed.</p> - -<p>“Now we come to the fourth. A cold-blooded -and deliberate murder, of which each detail was -planned beforehand so accurately that the -criminal had the effrontery to inform the Press -before it was done.”</p> - -<p>“That is the most probable,” said Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“I agree, but we must not lose sight of the -others.”</p> - -<p>“Now for our facts. At sometime before 2.30 -when the box was cleared, a letter was posted at -Westminster Bridge Post Office, the contents of -which you know. At 3.00 o’clock a man calls on -the Home Secretary who is either expected or -well known to Sir James.”</p> - -<p>“How do you know that?” said Boyce.</p> - -<p>“Surely,” said Collins; “he opened the door -himself, and takes him straight to his library.”</p> - -<p>“This man may have been the actual murderer -or not. We are here going on the statements of -the housekeeper, which may turn out to be a -tissue of lies; but I do not think so, she is not a -good enough actress for that. This man stays for -half an hour, and is let out by the Home -Secretary. After that Sir James writes a letter and -posts it himself. He returns and goes to his room -complaining of feeling sleepy.”</p> - -<p>“Did he?” said Sinclair, “I did not hear that.”</p> - -<p>“Certainly,” said Collins, “Mrs. Simmons said -so, if she is reliable. Very good, he locks himself -in, and asks not to be disturbed. Here he -remains, as far as we know, till the murder takes -place. We find the door locked and the -windows fastened, with no apparent means of escape. -There is no one in the room.”</p> - -<p>“By Jove, he was a cool hand,” said Sinclair. -“All the time he was talking with Sir James the -letter was on its way to the Central News, and -might have arrived. He must have calculated -things pretty well.”</p> - -<p>“Undoubtedly, and he probably knew that -there was no telephone in the house.”</p> - -<p>Collins got up and handed round the cigar box. -When he resumed his seat he continued, and his -face was grave.</p> - -<p>“A Home Secretary is very open to attack. He -may have refused to pardon a criminal, and the -man when he comes out from penal servitude or -imprisonment will seek revenge. He is always -getting threatening letters. Then there are -murderers whom he reprieves, and the relatives of -the murdered man may seek revenge. Again, -there are political fanatics. You remember the -Phœnix Park murders.”</p> - -<p>“Of course,” said Boyce, “the whole staff will -be put on to-morrow to investigate this side of -the question.” Collins nodded.</p> - -<p>“Then there is a personal revenge. His life -appears to be a blameless and honourable one, -but one never knows; there are skeletons in the -best of cupboards.”</p> - -<p>“There was a ne’er-do-well son,” said Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“Chut, don’t let’s come to any personalities -until we have more data; we shall be following -wandering fires.”</p> - -<p>Sinclair was not to be silenced.</p> - -<p>“What do you make of the behaviour of Lewis -when I asked him to come with me?” he said.</p> - -<p>“I don’t pretend to make anything of it. It -may have the most natural of explanations.”</p> - -<p>“I have never known him to behave like that -before,” he persisted. Collins ignored him.</p> - -<p>“We have five things to bear in mind, or shall -I put it we have five questions to answer:</p> - -<p>“Who sent the letter to the Central News, and -for what object?</p> - -<p>“Who called us up on the telephone, and why?</p> - -<p>“Who was the man who called at three?</p> - -<p>“How did the murderer get in, and how did he -escape?</p> - -<p>“What was the motive of the murderer?”</p> - -<p>“You’ve left out the most important of all,” -said Boyce, “who was the murderer?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, of course, there’s always that,” said -Collins with an indulgent smile.</p> - -<p>“You’ve put it very well,” said Sinclair, who -was in a genial mood after Collins’ excellent -fare.</p> - -<p>“We must find out all we can about the letter -and envelope.”</p> - -<p>“It was a most extraordinarily good forgery, -that signature,” said Boyce, “I would have sworn -in any court it was yours.”</p> - -<p>Sinclair’s face flushed. “Are you suggesting -anything, sir,” he said.</p> - -<p>“Of course not, my dear fellow, only it was, -wasn’t it?”</p> - -<p>“Then you must try and find out about the -telephone calls,” intervened Collins.</p> - -<p>“I shall have Mrs. Simmons up to the Yard and -take down a full statement,” said Boyce, anxious -to show he had a grasp of the situation.</p> - -<p>“All right, I must put a few things together -and get off. We will each carry on with our own -line of research.”</p> - -<p>And he went into the next room.</p> - -<p>“Has he got something up his sleeve?” said -Boyce. “It’s not like him to go off when there’s -an interesting problem to solve. It can’t be just -to break the news, he knows nothing of these -people.”</p> - -<p>“He’s pretty deep, and it may be he saw -something that I didn’t,” said Sinclair, modestly. -“He seemed to think Mrs. Simmons was holding -something back.”</p> - -<p>Collins came back with a small suit-case.</p> - -<p>“I will let you know when I am coming back,” -he said, “and we will meet and compare notes. -This will make a most almighty stir, and if the -Prime Minister thinks it is the work of an -ex-convict or anything of that sort, you will get it -hot.”</p> - -<p>Boyce made a wry face.</p> - -<p>“I am afraid so,” he said.</p> - -</div> - -<div class="chapter" id="ch03"> - -<h2>Chapter III. <br> At the Vale</h2> - -<p>The Vale was situated in one of the lovely -valleys of North Devon on the borders of -Somerset. In the distance could be seen the -Mendip Hills. Here the summer stayed on when -autumn had taken hold of less favoured spots.</p> - -<p>It was a fine old house, half-timbered, nestling -in the valley, almost hidden in trees and covered -with ivy. The gardens had been the special joy -of Sir James Watson. It was here he led his -simple home life away from the factions of -Westminster and the labours of his thankless office.</p> - -<p>He was a cold, haughty, reserved man, with -few friends. His one joy in a rather lonely life -was his daughter Mabel. Like so many widowers -with an only daughter, he was somewhat selfish, -and could never believe that she had grown up. -He had watched with anxiety the attentions -which had been paid to her by the many who had -appeared as possible suitors.</p> - -<p>She, unconscious of it all, had led a secluded -life among her flowers; she hated the times she -had to spend in the gloomy house in Town, and -had no liking for London or its gaieties.</p> - -<p>Her mother had died when she was a baby, and -no cloud of sorrow except one had crossed her -path.</p> - -<p>That one had been when her brother, quite a -boy, had been sent down from Oxford, and her -father had sternly pointed to the door, and told -him never to come back till he had redeemed his -character.</p> - -<p>He had provided ample funds for the young -man to make a fresh start, and had recommended -him to the care of an old friend in Monte Video. -He had refused to tell his daughter where the -brother had gone, lest they should write to each -other.</p> - -<p>Mabel had been only a child at the time, but -she never forgot her brother. As she sat in the -garden after breakfast no shadow crossed her -mind. The letters and papers had not arrived, -as they were out of the beaten track.</p> - -<p>John, the butler, approached her from the -house with a salver, on which he bore a visiting -card.</p> - -<p>“A gentleman wishes to see you, Miss Mabel,” -he said, and handed the card. She took it and -read,</p> - -<blockquote class="centered"> - Mr. Sylvester Collins,<br> - 14, Severn Street,<br> - London, W. -</blockquote> - -<p>“What does he want?” said she.</p> - -<p>“I do not know, Miss, but he asked if you could -see him on an important matter. He has come -down by the night train from London.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, I’ll come and see him,” and she got up and -went in.</p> - -<p>Collins had slept on the way down, and had -breakfasted on the train. He felt quite fresh -after a motor ride from Wilton-on-Sea, but he -had a strong distaste for his task.</p> - -<p>He walked up and down the fine old drawing-room, -through the open windows of which came -the scent of roses.</p> - -<p>The girl entered, and he was struck with her -simple beauty, without any of the adornments of -the modern girl, and in her dainty morning frock -of cretonne.</p> - -<p>He knew that in a few moments her present -happiness would be turned to bitter sorrow. She -advanced towards him at once, and took his hand -in a friendly way.</p> - -<p>“You are a friend of my father’s, I suppose,” -she said.</p> - -<p>“Miss Watson,” he said gravely. “It is no -good beating about the bush. I have some bad -news for you. You must try and be brave.”</p> - -<p>“My father,” she said, with quick instinct.</p> - -<p>He nodded.</p> - -<p>“Don’t tell me anything has happened to him. -He only left me the day before yesterday. Is he -ill?”</p> - -<p>In her excitement she had not let go of his -hand, and her fingers retained their hold.</p> - -<p>“You must try and bear up, a terrible thing -has happened. The worst that can happen.”</p> - -<p>“You mean,” she said, her face turning pale, -“that he is dead.”</p> - -<p>“Yes,” he said.</p> - -<p>The shock of such an announcement does not, -as a rule, have the instant effect that is supposed -to take place. The mind cannot at once grasp -the facts. It is like a shell wound. For a -moment the wounded man gazes in surprise at a -stump where his arm was a moment before. It -takes some seconds before realization or pain is -felt.</p> - -<p>So it was with Mabel. It was as though -someone were telling her a tale of some remote -happening which did not concern her.</p> - -<p>“How was it?” she whispered.</p> - -<p>He had expected tears, possibly a fainting fit. -This calm surprised him for the moment.</p> - -<p>“Shall I tell you?” he said.</p> - -<p>“Please.”</p> - -<p>“He was found shot in his library yesterday.”</p> - -<p>“Do you mean murdered?” she said, dismissing -the thought of suicide unconsciously.</p> - -<p>“I am afraid so,” he replied. The sweat stood -on his forehead. What a fool he had been to -undertake this task!</p> - -<p>“And you have come to tell me about it? How -kind of you,” she said, as in a dream. He saw -this could not last, and with quick instinct rang -the bell.</p> - -<p>The door opened, and an old servant with a -sweet face came in. She had been Mabel’s nurse, -and had remained with her as a sort of -companion and friend. At the sight of her -something seemed to snap in the girl’s head, and she -ran to her.</p> - -<p>“Oh, Nanna,” she cried. “My father has been -murdered.”</p> - -<p>The woman looked indignantly at Collins, as -though he had struck her darling, and took her -in her arms, where the tears came at last.</p> - -<p>Collins withdrew to the farther side of the -room, and looked at the garden. When he -turned, the room was empty.</p> - -<p>Irresolute, he strolled into the old garden. -What a catastrophe had he brought by his news! -Better, perhaps, if he had wired.</p> - -<p>Still, he must go through with it. He could -not study the feelings of the poor girl when -larger issues were at stake.</p> - -<p>Presently he saw the butler coming towards -him.</p> - -<p>The old man was bent, and he had been crying.</p> - -<p>“My mistress is too upset to see you, sir,” he -said; “but I was to ask you to make yourself at -home. And would you like some refreshment?”</p> - -<p>“Thank you,” he replied. “I have had -breakfast. I do not need anything. You have heard -the sad news.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, sir, the papers have come, and the post. -They all know now,” and he broke down.</p> - -<p>“Come, come, man,” said Collins almost -roughly. “It’s all right for women to cry.”</p> - -<p>“I had known him for twenty-five years, sir,” -said the old man simply, “and I wish it had been -me instead of him. Do you think they will catch -the murderer?”</p> - -<p>“Surely,” said Collins. “But perhaps I had -better go.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, no, sir, Miss Mabel wants to see you when -she is a bit better. She particularly asked me to -say so.”</p> - -<p>“Well, then, if so, perhaps you could give me -a minute? I would like to ask a question or two.”</p> - -<p>The old butler bowed and waited.</p> - -<p>“You were here when Sir James’ son went -away?”</p> - -<p>“Master Ronald? Oh, sir, I am sure he is -nothing to do with this terrible murder.”</p> - -<p>“Whoever said he was? But he is now heir to -his father’s baronetcy even if he has been cut out -of his father’s will, and we must try and find -him.”</p> - -<p>“You’ll excuse me, sir,” said the old man. “But -are you a friend of the family?”</p> - -<p>“I hope so,” said Collins cheerily, and not to -commit himself.</p> - -<p>“What exactly did young Ronald do? -Anything very dreadful?” he asked.</p> - -<p>The butler drew himself up with dignity.</p> - -<p>“I think, sir, you had better ask someone else,” -he said.</p> - -<p>“That’s very stupid of you,” said Collins, with -a smile which took the sting from his words. -“You only make me believe it was something very -dreadful, and I don’t expect it was at all.”</p> - -<p>The butler was not sharp, he fell at once.</p> - -<p>“Oh, no, sir, not at all, it was only when he was -at Oxford. He went off to the ‘Derby’ without -leave, and lost a lot of money there. It was what -he had for the term, and when he was sent down -he had to tell Sir James. He had been rather -wild before, and that’s what happened,” he -concluded lamely.</p> - -<p>“Hum,” muttered Collins. “I see, and nothing -has been heard from him for some time?”</p> - -<p>“No, sir, he seems to have quite disappeared. -I don’t think he is dead, or we should have heard. -Still, if you were to advertise for him he might -come back. He ought to be here to look after -Miss Mabel till she is married.”</p> - -<p>Collins looked up sharply.</p> - -<p>“Is she engaged, then?” he said.</p> - -<p>“Well, not exactly, but how my tongue does go. -I must get back to the house.” He moved to go.</p> - -<p>“One moment,” said Collins quietly. “You can -trust me; who is the fortunate gentleman who -is—well—nearly, eh?”</p> - -<p>The butler looked at him doubtfully. Had he -offered a bribe he would have refused -information, but Collins was too old a hand for that.</p> - -<p>“Well, seeing as poor Sir James is gone, I -don’t think it matters. It is Mr. Eric.”</p> - -<p>“Mr. Eric what?”</p> - -<p>“I thought you would know, being a friend of -the family. Mr. Eric Sanders, Sir James’ private -secretary,” and he looked at Collins with -suspicion.</p> - -<p>He saw the look. “Oh, that’s it,” said he. “Of -course, I ought to have guessed, and how does -his suit prosper?”</p> - -<p>“I beg your pardon, sir?” said the other.</p> - -<p>“I mean are they engaged, or just likely to -become so?”</p> - -<p>“Sir James wouldn’t hear of it, and last time -Mr. Eric was here they had words over it, for I -heard them, but I must really be going.”</p> - -<p>“All right, John, I will wait here till Miss -Mabel wants to see me. You might bring me any -papers you have.” The butler bowed and made -his way to the house.</p> - -<p>“So that’s it, is it?” he said to himself. “There -are at least two candidates for honours. We are -getting on.” The papers told him nothing. -Sinclair had been to work, and apart from a bald -statement of the facts, and obituary notices, there -was nothing striking. Of course, there were -leading articles on the perils of foreign -anarchists and on the saintly character of the -deceased, but this was old stock-in-trade, kept ready -for any assassination of a notable person which -might occur, and adapted to circumstances.</p> - -<p>“As long as this country continues to harbour, -etc.,” said one Daily. He tossed them aside, one -by one. Sir James, of course, had a good -selection of papers sent to his house, and they arrived -whether he was there or not.</p> - -<p>He sat long in deep thought, smoking -continuously. Presently he put his hand into his -pocket, and drew out his pocket book. He looked -round with his habitual caution, and then took -out a visiting card. On one side was the name -of Mr. Eric Sanders, and the address of a -well-known London Club, and on the other was -written in pencil—</p> - -<p>“For God’s sake, see me. I will not detain -you.”</p> - -<p>“Sinclair, my friend, you would have liked to -get this—pushed under the door. Mrs. Simmons, -you were not telling the whole truth. I -think this requires further investigation.”</p> - -<p>He rose from his seat and strolled through the -old garden with its gorgeous, herbaceous beds of -late summer, where delphiniums and hollyhocks -and the bright blue of borage made a dream of -colour.</p> - -<p>It was all very fair, and quiet after the dust -and sweat of London. He returned to the house -filled with a vague disquiet. Entering the hall, -he was met by a maid.</p> - -<p>“Miss Mabel would like to see you in her own -room,” she said, and on his nodding assent she -conducted him to a sweet sitting room, fragrant -with flowers and furnished with the taste of a -girl who had the means to gratify her every wish.</p> - -<p>She was seated on a sofa, white faced, and -dressed all in black.</p> - -<p>She had conquered her emotion. Her old -nurse stood by her like a sentry on duty.</p> - -<p>“Mr. Collins,” she said: “I am puzzled to -know why you undertook this long journey to -break this sad news to me. Were you a friend -of my father’s? I am very grateful,” she -continued hastily, as though fearing she was too -frigid in her manner.</p> - -<p>“Really, to tell the truth, I don’t know myself -why I came,” he answered. “When this terrible -event happened, your old housekeeper was quite -unnerved, and there seemed no one to undertake -the job. It did not seem right that you should -see it first in the papers, or get a telegram.”</p> - -<p>“I am much obliged to you. You must not -think me ungrateful, but of course I am rather -upset at present. I have read what the -newspapers have to say. Perhaps you can tell me -more?” and she motioned him to sit.</p> - -<p>“I won’t go into details, Miss Watson,” he -said. “The accounts in the papers are accurate -as far as they go. I can, however, tell you this. -Your father did not suffer at all. His look was -most peaceful, and it appears that he was shot -while asleep.”</p> - -<p>A look of pain crossed her face, but she -mastered her emotion.</p> - -<p>“I am thankful for even that,” she said. “Have -the police any idea at all who can have done this -cruel thing. I do not believe my father had any -enemies, he was such a good and upright man -that no one could have a grudge against him.”</p> - -<p>“At present all is dark,” he replied, “but of -course you must remember that as Home -Secretary your father was brought in contact with -the worst criminals in the country, and one of -them may have been trying to avenge a fancied -wrong. Then, again, it may have been the work -of a lunatic. That is more than probable.”</p> - -<p>“In a way I hope it was,” she said. “One -could feel that it was the sort of accident that -might happen to anyone. It is so dreadful to -think that someone has deliberately murdered -him.”</p> - -<p>She stumbled over the ill-omened word, and -nearly broke down. The watchful nurse came -near and laid a hand on her head. A look of -gratitude shone for a moment in her eyes, and -she reached up and took the hand in hers.</p> - -<p>It was a pathetic picture.</p> - -<p>“You will forgive me asking,” she continued, -“but I do not quite see what you were doing -there, Mr. Collins, you are not in the Police -Force?”</p> - -<p>“I am a barrister by profession,” he replied, -“and had gone there with Superintendent -Sinclair, who is an old friend of mine. Now, can I -do anything for you before I go? You will -forgive a stranger saying so, but you seem so -entirely alone. Oh, I know you have the most loyal -and faithful servants,” he added hastily, “but -you don’t seem to have a friend to help you. -Haven’t you some relation I can wire for?”</p> - -<p>“I have no near relative. We have led a very -secluded life. You see we are so much in town. -My father had many acquaintances, but no real -friends. Those who did not know him thought -him very reserved. He was not really so, you -know.”</p> - -<p>“You were an only child?” he said carelessly.</p> - -<p>“Mr. Collins, I am going to tell you. It will -all come out now. I had a brother, ten years -older than I. He quarrelled with my father. It -was nothing very dreadful, but father thought -he was doing no good and getting into bad -company, so he sent him off to South America. For -some years now we have lost sight of him. It -was a great grief to father. He had hoped that -Ronald would have come back and settled down -here.”</p> - -<p>“Well, we must find him now, as he will be the -new Baronet, and there will be advertisements -everywhere for him. I suppose there is no -reason why he should not come back?”</p> - -<p>“None whatever,” she said proudly. “What -he did was only a boy’s escapade when at -Oxford, there was nothing criminal.”</p> - -<p>“Well, I expect there will be little difficulty -in finding him now,” he said hopefully; “but it -will take some time. Meanwhile, isn’t there -anyone who could help?”</p> - -<p>The colour rose to her pale face.</p> - -<p>“I think you ought to wire for Mr. Sanders,” -she said, “he was my father’s private secretary, -and knows more about his affairs than anyone -else.”</p> - -<p>Collins gave her one keen look. “Certainly,” -he said. “He is obviously the man to come. -Where shall I find him?”</p> - -<p>“At the Home Office,” she said. “He is -certain to be there, but I expect he has been round -to Leveson Square this morning.”</p> - -<p>“I will send off a wire at once, and then I will -take my leave.”</p> - -<p>“Certainly not,” she said. “You must stay to -lunch, if you don’t mind a house of mourning,” -she added sadly.</p> - -<p>At that moment a knock came at the door, and -the butler entered.</p> - -<p>“The post, Miss,” he said, presenting a salver, -“and the postman brought this telegram at the -same time. Is there any answer?”</p> - -<p>She broke the envelope and read, a look of -pleasure passing over her face.</p> - -<p>“This is from Eric—Mr. Sanders, he is -coming down here to-day. I am so glad. It will save -you the trouble of wiring.”</p> - -<p>Collins said nothing. The butler had handed -him a letter in Sinclair’s writing. He put it into -his pocket, and rose to his feet. “I am very glad -for your sake,” he said. “You will be glad to -have a man’s advice. I suppose you will be -coming to Town?”</p> - -<p>“Of course. I ought to go at once, but it is -such a shock. I think I must wait till -tomorrow.”</p> - -<p>“If you will excuse me, I will just go and read -this letter, then,” he said, and took his departure.</p> - -<p>He went into the garden and to his old seat, -and broke the seal of the letter.</p> - -<p>It was short, and he read it twice, a puzzled -look on his face. It ran:</p> - -<blockquote class="letter"> - - <p class="salutation">“Dear Collins,</p> - - <p>If you are expecting to find out anything in - Devonshire, you are on a wild goose chase. Lewis - has fled, and we have damning evidence against him. - Come at once if you want to be in at the death. - What’s your game, anyway?</p> - - <p class="valediction">Yours in haste,</p> - <p class="signature">A. Sinclair.”</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p>“I must get back,” he muttered to himself. -“Whatever is Sinclair after?”</p> - -<p>A gong sounded within the house, and he -slowly rose to his feet and went in. Miss Watson was -waiting for him, and they sat down. She was -lost in her own mournful thoughts, and would -scarcely eat anything. She tried hard to rouse -herself. Collins was a brilliant conversationalist, -and had a charm of manner which few could -resist. He set himself to interest her, not without -success.</p> - -<p>At the end of the meal he told her he must get -back at once, and noticed that she gave a look -almost of relief, though she tried to hide it.</p> - -<p>“I am deeply grateful to you for coming down -here, and for your offer of help,” she said.</p> - -<p>“Not at all,” he answered. “I will go to your -house and do anything I can in London. Of -course, there will have to be an inquest, but we -will spare you all we can.”</p> - -<p>“We?” she said, in surprise. “Then you are -mixed up in this?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, there is no secret,” he said. “I am a -barrister, as I told you, but I do a little in -helping in an amateur way with these sort of cases. -It is my hobby.”</p> - -<p>“A rather horrible hobby,” she said, “but of -course it is necessary. I hope you find out the -criminal—and yet, I don’t know, in some ways -I hope you don’t.”</p> - -<p>“The murderer of your father,” he blurted out, -scandalised at such sentiments.</p> - -<p>“Oh, I know I ought to want him punished, -and yet, the awful trial, the cold cell, and then -the last horrible scene. I am afraid I am always -on the side of the criminal. Of course, you think -that’s dreadful.”</p> - -<p>“I think it does more justice to your heart -than to your head,” said he with a smile.</p> - -<p>“English justice is such a cold, merciless -thing. When I hear of people who come -forward to what they call ‘further the ends of -justice,’ I always think it is either for notoriety or -for reward.”</p> - -<p>He laughed.</p> - -<p>“It’s a good thing everyone does not think as -you do,” said he.</p> - -<p>“I was taught as a child that vengeance -belongs to God, not to man, and I believe it is a -worse punishment to leave the criminal to his -conscience than to punish him.”</p> - -<p>“You say that because you have never come in -contact with the real criminal,” said he. “He -has no conscience.”</p> - -<p>“I don’t believe that. I am sure I would -always rather hide a fugitive from justice than -give him up.”</p> - -<p>“This is rank treason,” he said; “but I admire -your sentiments.”</p> - -<p>“But don’t agree with them?”</p> - -<p>“We must each of us act according to our -lights,” he answered more gravely than he -intended.</p> - -<p>She held out her hand.</p> - -<p>“If you will excuse me, I will say goodbye. -The car will be ready for you, and, I hope, we -shall meet again in happier circumstances,” and -she gave a pathetic little smile.</p> - -<p>When she had gone, he stood where he was.</p> - -<p>“What a fool I was to start bandying words -with her in her present state. Now for London. -You’ve no time for sentiment.”</p> - -</div> - -<div class="chapter" id="ch04"> - -<h2>Chapter IV. <br> The Missing Letter</h2> - -<p>Sinclair was sitting at his desk, and his -brows were knitted. Before him was a -letter.</p> - -<p>He read it over again for the third time, and -then told the clock that he was damned. -Then he picked up the envelope, and examined -it closely.</p> - -<p>It was the morning after the murder.</p> - -<p>This was what he read.</p> - -<blockquote class="letter"> - - <p class="address">89, Leveson Square,<br> - London, W.</p> - - <p class="salutation">“Dear Mr. Sinclair,</p> - - <p>I am writing to you, but I have grave doubts - whether this letter will ever reach you, and - therefore, I am not telling you more than necessary. I - am in the hands of one of the cleverest ruffians that - this generation has produced. My life is in - imminent danger if it is not already forfeited. There is - not time for explanations.</p> - - <p>Follow these instructions carefully.</p> - - <p>Find my son who has disappeared for some - years, but was last heard of in Monte Video. Tell - him to look in the place where I hid my will in his - presence, and he will find all the necessary - documents to bring a great criminal to justice. I - cannot be more specific. I am writing to you because - I know you have done good service and are - painstaking. Boyce is a fool. Sylvester Collins is a - theorist who will be no help to you in this matter. - Do not consult him. If I am dead when this - reaches you, act as I have said. If nothing has - happened, I rely on your honour to destroy this - letter and I will send for you. I am very tired.</p> - - <p class="valediction">Yours faithfully,</p> - <p class="signature">James Watson.”</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p>Sinclair sat long over this letter. What a vista -of happenings did it conjure up. He was a plain -man. Why did not Sir James write plainly, give -the name of the criminal straight out and save -further bother? Why all this mystery? What -had happened in that grim library in the -afternoon? Oh, bother it all, what a maze of -evidence. If only it had been a straightforward -murder, with plenty of blood and clues as in a -detective story.</p> - -<p>No; he would not tell Collins. He had -something up his sleeve—well, let them both follow -their own line.</p> - -<p>He took a pen and paper, and put down his -facts. Here was one thing cleared up. This was -the letter which Sir James had posted himself, -after his interview with the unknown man.</p> - -<p>That, at any rate, corroborated the -housekeeper’s evidence. Then the visitor had -threatened his life; if not, why was the danger -hanging over him so greatly that he dare not venture -further than the post?</p> - -<p>A message was brought in. It was a wire from -Collins to say he was on the way to London. -“Do nothing till I come,” it ended.</p> - -<p>“That’s like his cheek,” said Sinclair to -himself.</p> - -<p>He put the letter carefully away in his pocket -book, and took his hat and stick. “I am going to -Leveson Square,” said he to the messenger. -“There is no answer.”</p> - -<p>Once inside the house, through the usual, -morbid crowd who gathered outside, he met the -plain-clothes officer on duty.</p> - -<p>“Anything to report?” he said, in answer to -the other’s salute.</p> - -<p>“No, sir,” said he. “They are still at work on -the floor and ceiling and the walls.”</p> - -<p>A gang of expert men had been engaged to -search for a means of exit from the room by -which the murderer had escaped. There had -been found no trace of a secret door, or so much -as a crevice through which a mouse could get. -They had even ripped up all the boards, and -taken off the oak panelling from the walls. The -ceiling had been examined all over and the -chimney sounded. There was nothing.</p> - -<p>“Have you found anything in the nature of a -letter or anything, anywhere?” he asked of the -man in charge.</p> - -<p>“Nothing, sir, but we can search all the -furniture and books.”</p> - -<p>“Please do so. It is of great importance, and -say nothing about it to anyone.”</p> - -<p>“Very good, sir,” said the man who was keen -on this job, and wanted to stand well with the -superintendent.</p> - -<p>Sinclair addressed the plain-clothes officer.</p> - -<p>“Has the body been searched?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, sir. All that was found on him has been -put on the dining-room table.”</p> - -<p>“Good,” he said, and went into the room.</p> - -<p>Here were all the little things a man carries -about with him, which look so pitiable when he -is dead. A fountain pen, pocket book, cigar case, -and a leather case containing a miniature of his -dead wife and his daughter.</p> - -</div> - -<div class="chapter" id="ch05"> - -<h2>Chapter V. <br> A Mysterious Visit</h2> - -<p>By dining on the train, Collins had just time -to do a Gilbert and Sullivan opera. He had -a seat permanently booked, which was to be -disposed of if he did not turn up in time.</p> - -<p>After the excitement of his daily life, he found -these plays, which he knew almost by heart, very -refreshing. It was the dear old ‘Yeoman of the -Guard’ this night, and he lay back and listened -with his eyes half shut, absorbing the delicious -tunes like a rare old vintage.</p> - -<p>“It is easier to die well than to live well, for -in sooth I have tried both,” says Colonel Fairfax.</p> - -<p>How many cases he had come across in his -work where this was true. Some of the worst of -men had earned the admiration of men by their -brave end.</p> - -<p>He made his way home in the purple night -through back streets and half-lighted squares -which he always preferred to the rush and -dazzling brightness of West London, when he had -thinking to do.</p> - -<p>He arrived at his flat to find Sinclair waiting -for him, as he had almost expected.</p> - -<p>“You’re a nice fellow,” said the latter. “I’ve -been waiting for you for over an hour. Your -man did not know where you had gone.”</p> - -<p>“Anything wrong,” said the other, carelessly.</p> - -<p>“Wrong,” said Sinclair. “I should think there -was. You can’t have a Home Secretary -murdered for nothing. The Premier sent for Boyce -this morning, and half the Cabinet have been -round or calling up. They all have ‘theories’ -which they want us to work out.... Luckily, -Boyce is in his element, and professes great hopes -of capture and all that sort of thing.”</p> - -<p>Collins helped Sinclair to a generous whiskey -and soda, took a more modest one for himself, -and sat down.</p> - -<p>“Now let’s hear all about it,” he said.</p> - -<p>“Well,” said the other. “We have done a good -deal of spade work, and the negative results are -of use anyhow, though our many critics would -not say so. First, as to the room. It has been -so thoroughly examined that there is no -possibility of the murderer having got out by any -secret means.”</p> - -<p>“I could have told you that,” said Collins -almost contemptuously.</p> - -<p>“How?” said the other.</p> - -<p>“Well, nowadays, people in modern London -houses do not have trap doors and secret panels, -and all that sort of thing. That’s kept for -detective stories.”</p> - -<p>“Then how in the world did he come and go?”</p> - -<p>“I can’t tell you. That’s what we’ve got to -find out.”</p> - -<p>“Perhaps Mrs. Simmons was an accomplice?”</p> - -<p>“Not necessarily, but how did you get on with -her?”</p> - -<p>“She came, and you remember Boyce said he -was going to examine her himself. The great -man was engaged with higher game, and I did -the examining. We got her whole statement -down, and turned her inside out. I am sure she -was telling the truth. She had nothing to add -to what she said yesterday.”</p> - -<p>Collins grunted.</p> - -<p>Sinclair looked at him for a moment, then -continued.</p> - -<p>“We could get nothing further about the letter -sent to the Central News. It was, as you said, -posted at Bridge Street, but of course no one can -say any more than that. I have sent it to an -expert on typewriting to see whether we can -ascertain what machine was used.”</p> - -<p>“Good.”</p> - -<p>“The telephone has given us nothing. They -cannot say where the call came from, and it was -probably a Public Telephone Office. What a -nerve the man had.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, but it was clever. Haven’t you noticed -that where there is nothing but the bare deed, it -is easier to concentrate on that, but all these -extraneous matters lead one away from the -essentials?</p> - -<p>“Now I see you are dying to tell me. What -about Lewis?”</p> - -<p>Sinclair gave a start. This man’s instinct was -uncanny.</p> - -<p>“As I told you, Lewis has bolted. He did not -turn up again yesterday, and I sent a man to -see if he was ill. He had gone home, coolly -packed his things and paid his bill, telling his -landlady he would not be back, and gone.”</p> - -<p>“And so you think he is the murderer?”</p> - -<p>“It is suspicious, but you have not heard all. -Of course, this, coupled with his curious manner -the day before, caused me to make enquiries. -Two important facts have come to light. On the -afternoon of the murder he told his typist that -he was going out. He was very restless, and said -he could not work, and then he seemed to come -to a decision, and said, ‘I must go and see Sir -James Watson,’ and took his hat and stick.”</p> - -<p>“When was this?” said Collins, leaning -forward.</p> - -<p>“About 2.30, and he did not return till just -before I sent for him after the telephone message -came.”</p> - -<p>Collins laughed.</p> - -<p>“Then, you suppose that, having planned the -murder and written the letter saying that it had -taken place, and posted it, he tells his typist he -is going to do it and comes back in time to call -you up, and me too, and then answers your bell.”</p> - -<p>“I suppose nothing,” said Sinclair, nettled. “I -am giving you facts, and I haven’t done.”</p> - -<p>“Fire away, then.”</p> - -<p>“When we searched his rooms after he had -gone, his landlady said he always kept a revolver -in the top drawer in his bedroom. The day -before yesterday she saw him take it out, and put -it in his pocket.”</p> - -<p>“My dear fellow, this is too crude for words. -Couldn’t he have shut his door, or taken some -precaution?”</p> - -<p>“Of course, I know that, but it is this sort of -mistake which hangs men.”</p> - -<p>“Well, go on.”</p> - -<p>“That’s all, but it is enough to go on for me. -Why has he fled, tell me that?”</p> - -<p>“My dear fellow, let me demolish your house -of cards. First, would a man who is so cool a -hand that he can do what he has done, show -nervousness and fright when asked to go to the -house? Would he not rather welcome the chance, -as these vain-glorious murderers invariably do?”</p> - -<p>“Perhaps.”</p> - -<p>“Then, from what you tell me, he seems to have -made up his mind to go and see Sir James -suddenly. That doesn’t fit in.”</p> - -<p>“How did he get into the house and out again -the second time?”</p> - -<p>“It’s no good asking questions. He may have -had accomplices for all we know.”</p> - -<p>“Ah, now you are opening up a new question -altogether. We have rather assumed that there -was only one man in it, but let’s keep to Lewis.”</p> - -<p>“All right, then. He had access to official -paper, and knew my signature well. He had -letters of mine, and could have copied it. Then he -knew my habits, and where I should be found, -and he knew where to find you. He might even -have called up from the Yard itself.”</p> - -<p>“That’s one to you, certainly,” said Collins. “I -can see Lewis having a thin time if you catch -him. What do you know about him, anyway?”</p> - -<p>“Nothing much. He has been here for three -years. He came from a merchant’s office, and -applied for a clerkship. He was well -recommended, and was always keen on his work, and -very reliable. So I took him on as my -right-hand man and confidential clerk. He was known -there as my ‘familiar.’ ”</p> - -<p>“That’s all straightforward. Have you taken -any action?”</p> - -<p>“I have sent a full description of him to the -papers, and posted him as ‘wanted.’ ”</p> - -<p>“Oh, my God,” said Collins, jumping up, -“when will you people learn the folly of this? -You know what will happen? First, you put him -at once on his guard. Then we shall have letters -from Tokio and Leningrad, besides Brighton and -Battersea, from people who have seen him and -talked to him. You know that always happens, -and if, by any chance, he is guilty, we shall have -his body washed ashore by the Thames in about -a month’s time. Or,” he added grimly, “possibly -if he is innocent.”</p> - -<p>“Well, that’s the official procedure. I cannot -go behind that, especially in a case like this.”</p> - -<p>Collins laughed, and sat down.</p> - -<p>“It may not be a bad thing,” he said. “It may -put the murderer into a false position of -security.”</p> - -<p>“You don’t think much of this, then?”</p> - -<p>“I reserve judgment, but if you are right he -was one of the cleverest scoundrels of this -generation.”</p> - -<p>Sinclair started. The words were the same as -in the letter he had received, and which was -burning in his pocket.</p> - -<p>“But you, what did you find in Devonshire?”</p> - -<p>“A charming house and a charming girl. It -was a rotten job to have to break the news to -her.”</p> - -<p>“Then why on earth did you go?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, I learnt some interesting facts about the -family.”</p> - -<p>“It’s a dark business altogether, and the worst -is that we shall have no peace till it is solved. I -have had our staff working all day tracing the -movements of well-known criminals who are at -large, and any who may have had a grievance -against the Home Secretary. Also of any -lunatics who are at large, and, as you know, there -are many of them.”</p> - -<p>They smoked in silence for a while.</p> - -<p>“Have you any clue at all? Don’t tell me if -you would rather not, but I fancied you were -holding something back?” said Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“You have asked me, and I will tell you. I -have. The only reason I have not confided in -you is, not from lack of confidence, but because -I was afraid of just such action as you have -taken in the case of Lewis. You see, you are -bound to do certain things by your position. If -this develops I will tell you.”</p> - -<p>“Thanks,” said the other, his face clearing.</p> - -<p>“Did you notice anything curious in Mrs. -Simmons’ statement?” said Collins, after a few -minutes’ silence.</p> - -<p>“In what particular?”</p> - -<p>“I commend it to your notice. She said that -when the unknown visitor had been with Sir -James for some time, she heard a ring from the -library. When she went upstairs, Sir James was -showing the visitor out. If so, who rang, and -why?”</p> - -<p>“Just a moment, I have the statement here,” -and he pulled out his pocket book, and took out -a folded paper. “Here we are. Yes, you are -quite right, I did not notice it at the time. You -think that curious?”</p> - -<p>“I think it⸺ Hush, what was that?”</p> - -<p>“What?” said the other.</p> - -<p>“I could have sworn I heard someone moving.”</p> - -<p>“Your man, probably. I heard nothing.”</p> - -<p>“My man does not live in. Don’t move.”</p> - -<p>He got to his feet without noise, and went to -his desk. Opening a drawer he took out an -automatic pistol, and went to the door. With a swift -movement he flung it open. Outside was -darkness. Collins turned on the light and looked -around.</p> - -<p>“Nothing,” he said. “Must have been my -imagination. Hullo, what’s this?”</p> - -<p>He stooped down and picked up a piece of -paper from the floor.</p> - -<p>It was a sheet torn from a pocket book, and he -brought it into the room, closing the door -carefully.</p> - -<p>“Read that,” he said, and for all his coolness -there was a tremble in his voice. “You are both -on the wrong track. Poor fools,” and that was -all.</p> - -<p>“Come,” said Collins, incisively. “We must -search the flat.”</p> - -<p>It did not take long, as the flat was not a large -one. There was not a trace of anyone, and the -door was fast.</p> - -<p>“Well, well, things are getting lively. We have -to deal with a pretty customer. We shall have -to look out for ourselves.”</p> - -<p>Sinclair was white. He got up and helped -himself to a whiskey.</p> - -<p>Collins picked up the statement of Mrs. -Simmons from the floor, and read it carefully -through.</p> - -<p>Then he folded it up and handed it back to -Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“Was there anything else found on his person -of interest?” he said.</p> - -<p>“Yes,” said Sinclair, and took from his pocket -a leather case. “The other things were just the -ordinary things a man carries: they are at the -house. This I brought with me. It contains -miniatures of Sir James’ wife and daughter. She -is a beautiful girl, you saw her to-day?”</p> - -<p>Collins looked at the miniature long. It -showed Miss Watson as a very young girl, with -quaint curls encircling her face, but from the -eyes there looked out the same brave innocence, -and there was the wistful curve of the lips which -he had seen in the girl of to-day.</p> - -<p>He turned to the other picture, and gave a -start. An intent look came into his face, and -he looked long and earnestly.</p> - -<p>Sinclair looked up.</p> - -<p>“They are very much alike, aren’t they?” he -said. “Anyone would know them for mother and -daughter. Do you know, when I saw that photo -miniature I almost seemed to recognise it, there -is something familiar.”</p> - -<p>Collins composed his face before he answered.</p> - -<p>“The likeness is striking. It’s very strange,” -he said.</p> - -<p>“Strange?” said the other.</p> - -<p>“Yes, strange, because I, too, seem to recognise -it. I saw her portrait at the Vale to-day.”</p> - -<p>“Perhaps that is why it looks familiar,” said -Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“Perhaps,” said Collins, carelessly, but his -eyes were still on the picture.</p> - -<p>“You had better stay here for the night after -what has happened—it’s very late, and it’s no -good playing the fool,” he said.</p> - -<p>“Do you know, I think I will. No one is -sitting up for me.”</p> - -<p>“Good. I shan’t be sorry to have you,” and he -laughed.</p> - -<p>“We can go to Leveson Square to-morrow, or -rather to-day,” he said. “Let’s turn in. I can -rig you out.”</p> - -<p>He rose and turned to the door, slipping the -leather case into his pocket.</p> - -<p>It was not the first time that Sinclair had -accepted Collins’ hospitality, and he knew from -experience what an excellent host he made.</p> - -</div> - -<div class="chapter" id="ch06"> - -<h2>Chapter VI. <br> At Leveson Square</h2> - -<p>The blinds were drawn at the house in -Leveson Square, and a crowd was still -gazing up at the blank windows. There is -always something gruesome in drawn blinds, and -the policeman standing at the door added to the -air of mystery and dark deeds.</p> - -<p>Collins and Sinclair, refreshed by an excellent -breakfast, arrived in Collins’ car. They had been -to the Yard first.</p> - -<p>Within, the appearance of the house was as -though a bomb had been dropped. All the oak -panelling from the library was piled in the hall, -with furniture and books. The library door was -open, and the floor was covered with plaster. -The men had made small holes in the ceiling at -various places, as well as having examined the -floor above. The search had been very thorough.</p> - -<p>In a room upstairs lay the silent figure of the -dead statesman.</p> - -<p>It had been decided that the body should -remain in the house and the doctor’s examination -had taken place at the house.</p> - -<p>A Home Office expert had conducted this, and -the fussy little doctor, who had been summoned -at the first, had wormed his way in to assist. -He was full of importance.</p> - -<p>They met the doctors in the dining-room.</p> - -<p>“Well?” said Sinclair. “Have you found -anything?”</p> - -<p>“We have extracted the bullet,” said -Broughton, the Home Office doctor. “As might have -been expected, it fits the empty cartridge, and is -exactly similar to the other five.”</p> - -<p>“What a pity,” said Collins.</p> - -<p>The doctor looked at him in surprise.</p> - -<p>Sinclair gave a laugh.</p> - -<p>“Nothing straightforward satisfies Collins,” -he said. “He loves mystery. He would have -liked you to have found a rifle bullet, or no bullet -at all.”</p> - -<p>“There’s no accounting for tastes,” said the -other. “For my part I am glad enough when I -find things fitting in.”</p> - -<p>“And that’s all?” said Collins.</p> - -<p>“There’s one thing I can’t make out, it’s -probably nothing, but it’s queer. I have had a very -extensive experience with this sort of thing, as -you know. The bullet had only just penetrated -the brain. Now, a revolver bullet of that -calibre, fired at the distance it was, should have -smashed the back of the skull, and made a -dreadful wound. It is the heavy Army type. I sent a -policeman for a sheep’s head, which is harder -than the human skull, and fired at it in the back -garden. Look at the mess it has made,” and he -showed them the gruesome sight.</p> - -<p>“Have you any suggestion to make?” said -Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“The only thing I can think of is that a half -charge was used to deaden the noise. But then, -why put a half charge in one cartridge only?”</p> - -<p>“I give it up,” said Sinclair.</p> - -<p>Collins was taking little notice. He was in a -furious mood. The morning papers had come -out with full details, not only of the crime, but -of the telephone messages and the letter to the -Central News, which made excellent copy, but -was in the highest degree indiscreet.</p> - -<p>“Who the devil has done this?” he had said in -the car.</p> - -<p>Sinclair had hastily disclaimed all knowledge -of it.</p> - -<p>“Then it must be Boyce,” said Collins. “He is -the only other that knows about it. The fool!”</p> - -<p>Presently the man himself came in, puffing and -blowing, for he had walked.</p> - -<p>Collins tackled him at once.</p> - -<p>“I say, Boyce, did you tell the Press all those -details which have come out to-day?”</p> - -<p>Boyce looked uncomfortable.</p> - -<p>“No,” he said. “I have told the Press nothing. -I only told the facts to one or two of the Cabinet -who were asking me about things yesterday.”</p> - -<p>“Then you’ve put your foot into it properly,” -said Collins, bluntly. Boyce began to bluster -after the manner of a man who knows he is in -the wrong.</p> - -<p>“I don’t see that any harm is done, and -anyway it is a matter for my Department to decide. -I really don’t see what it has to do with you, -Collins.”</p> - -<p>“You’ll see,” said the other, shortly.</p> - -<p>Boyce was offended, and, like men of his kind, -began to sulk. He ignored Collins, and turned to -Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“Any news of the missing man? I see you -have a full description of him, but no photo. -That’s a pity.”</p> - -<p>“We could not find one, sir,” said Sinclair. -“He seems to have been one of those men who -do not care to have their photo taken.”</p> - -<p>“Suspicious, very, that,” said Boyce.</p> - -<p>Collins laughed contemptuously.</p> - -<p>Boyce shot him an angry look.</p> - -<p>“We must lay him by the heels soon—he won’t -be able to get out of the country,” he said in a -challenging way.</p> - -<p>“I don’t think we can do any more here,” said -Collins.</p> - -<p>“You’ve searched all these books and the -furniture for any documents?” said Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“What do you expect to find?” said Boyce.</p> - -<p>“One never knows,” said Sinclair hastily.</p> - -<p>The man addressed said “Yes, sir, and we have -been through all his papers as you told us; there -appears to be nothing of importance. He was -very methodical, and did not appear to keep any -private documents here. Perhaps they are in -Devonshire.”</p> - -<p>“We are trying to find the whereabouts of the -new Baronet, who was last heard of in Monte -Video,” said Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“I see you are,” said Boyce; “but I should have -thought that would have been for the relatives -to do. It does not seem a Home Office matter.”</p> - -<p>“Perhaps not,” said Sinclair; “but as he was -Home Secretary?”</p> - -<p>“Exactly, as an act of courtesy, perhaps,” and -Boyce assumed a manner of importance. He had -become a prominent man in the last few days. -Sinclair breathed a sigh of relief. He was -thinking of the letter which he had no intention of -showing to anyone else.</p> - -<p>There was a ring at the door, and the -policeman on duty brought in a telegram.</p> - -<p>“For you, sir,” he said, handing it to Collins.</p> - -<p>He read it while the others watched. Not a -muscle moved.</p> - -<p>“No answer, thanks,” he said to the policeman, -and put it in his pocket.</p> - -<p>“Anything important?” said Boyce, officiously.</p> - -<p>“Oh, no,” said the other.</p> - -<p>He turned into the library, and looked round.</p> - -<p>“What the devil is he doing with telegrams -sent to this house?” said Boyce, irritably.</p> - -<p>The remark called for no answer.</p> - -<p>The telegram was from Miss Watson to say -she was coming to Town that afternoon, and -would he meet her.</p> - -<p>It did not ask for an answer, which pleased -him somehow. He strolled out of the room, and -said:</p> - -<p>“What a pity some of our spook merchants -cannot come and make an incantation or beat -tom-toms or something, and conjure up the scene -for us. It would be most interesting.”</p> - -<p>“What is more important than mere interest,” -said Boyce, “is to bring the criminal to justice.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, I suppose so, but it’s so dull when the -problem is solved, especially if it turns out banal. -It’s like a game of cricket, when you expect an -exciting ending, and the other side all get out for -about 20.”</p> - -<p>“I am afraid I do not play cricket,” said Boyce, -curtly.</p> - -<p>Collins eyed him, “No, you wouldn’t,” he said, -and made an enemy of him forthwith.</p> - -</div> - -<div class="chapter" id="ch07"> - -<h2>Chapter VII. <br> Valuable Information</h2> - -<p>Collins was punctual to the minute at -Paddington. He had dressed himself up -for the occasion, though he felt contempt for so -doing. The express from Wilton-on-Sea was up -to time.</p> - -<p>From a first-class compartment Mabel Watson -descended. Her face was white and calm, but -she wore no veil. Collins walked towards the -door and stopped. After the girl, a man -descended from the carriage. He was tall and -dressed in good taste, but had a weak looking -face, with a wandering light moustache and -straw-coloured hair.</p> - -<p>His eyes were a cold blue. He was the sort of -man that women ‘rave about.’ Collins took -careful stock of the man, and then advanced with -raised hat. The girl gave a smile of recognition, -and shook hands.</p> - -<p>“It is very good of you to come and meet me,” -she said. “This is Mr. Eric Sanders, Mr. -Collins.” The men shook hands and exchanged a -look not too friendly. They were antipathetical.</p> - -<p>“I have brought my old nurse with me, and -John. I shall go to an Hotel, of course. I -suppose our house is in the hands of the police,” and -she shuddered. “We stayed at Ackroyd’s when -we had let our house one year,” she said.</p> - -<p>“A very good hotel, and quite convenient,” said -Collins.</p> - -<p>“John, tell the porter to get a taxi, please,” -she said.</p> - -<p>“I have brought my car,” Collins interposed, -“and if you care to come with me, the servants -can come on with the luggage.”</p> - -<p>“That is very kind of you, but I will bring -Nurse, if you don’t mind.”</p> - -<p>Sanders had been standing by, gloomy and -resentful.</p> - -<p>Collins led the way to the car.</p> - -<p>“Will you come with me, then?” said he.</p> - -<p>“I should like to,” she replied. “Eric, will you -take care of Nurse?” She got into her seat, and -Sanders, with not too good a grace, helped the -old nurse into the back seat.</p> - -<p>The drive was all too short. In spite of the -terrible cloud hanging over her, her youth was -strong, and she felt the relief of getting away -from Devon and her thoughts there.</p> - -<p>They had tea in a private sitting room, and -Collins laid himself out to keep her mind off the -tragedy.</p> - -<p>“You must come to a theatre to-night,” he -said.</p> - -<p>“Oh, I couldn’t possibly,” she answered.</p> - -<p>“If I may say so, I don’t agree with you. I -know what is in your mind. You don’t think it -would be right after what has happened, but if -you stay in, you will only brood over things and -make yourself miserable, and,” he added -earnestly, “I am sure your father would not have wished -you to do that. I am not asking you to forget him, -but you have had a bad ordeal to go through, -and must keep yourself going.”</p> - -<p>“What do you think, Eric?” she said, -addressing Sanders, who had been silent during the -meal.</p> - -<p>“Of course, you must please yourself, but I -should hardly have thought it was quite the -thing,” he said.</p> - -<p>There was something in his tone which -annoyed her.</p> - -<p>“Why not?” she said.</p> - -<p>“Well,” he said, floundering. “I suppose it’s -a matter of taste, but in the circumstances⸺”</p> - -<p>She gave a toss of her head, and turned to -Collins.</p> - -<p>“Thank you; yes, I will accept your kind -invitation.”</p> - -<p>“I hope you will join us, too,” said he politely -to Sanders.</p> - -<p>For a moment he was about to refuse, then he -said, “Thank you, very much.”</p> - -<p>“Then I will get a box for four. Of course, -Nurse will come as well.”</p> - -<p>“That is very kind of you. It would be a great -treat for her. Only in that case you must both -dine here first. You know I feel very guilty in -doing this, but it will only be a very quiet -dinner.”</p> - -<p>“I quite understand,” said Collins, “and I will -get a box for Gilbert and Sullivan’s. I know the -management there, and it is just what you want, -something soothing and not too gay. Now, I -know you will want to go to Leveson Square. I -will go and see that everything is all right for -you there. Come on, in about half an hour’s -time.”</p> - -<p>He saw with a thrill of pleasure the look of -gratitude come to her expressive eyes.</p> - -<p>After he had taken his leave, she turned to -Sanders.</p> - -<p>“I think you might be a little more gracious -to Mr. Collins, he is most kind.”</p> - -<p>“You seem to have made great friends with -him at short notice,” he said, churlishly.</p> - -<p>She bridled up. “And if I have, I suppose I -can choose my friends.”</p> - -<p>“And forget the old one for the new.”</p> - -<p>“What nonsense. You are behaving like a -spoilt child. I have watched you all the time.”</p> - -<p>“What do you know of this fellow, anyway? -He is only a sort of policeman. I suppose he -didn’t tell you that?”</p> - -<p>“If it is any satisfaction to you, he did, and -perhaps we had better stop discussing Mr. -Collins any more.”</p> - -<p>He got up and wandered round the room.</p> - -<p>“I suppose I had better go,” he said.</p> - -<p>Her lip curled with contempt. “You can please -yourself, but I should hardly have thought that -my oldest male friend would have deserted me -at such a time.”</p> - -<p>“Forgive me. I will say no more. Of course -I will stay with you.”</p> - -<p>“All right. It is time we started for Leveson -Square.”</p> - -<p>“What a brute I have been,” he said. “I -ought to have thought of you.”</p> - -<p>“Would you fetch a taxi?” she said.</p> - -<p>Collins was at the door when they drove up.</p> - -<p>He bowed slightly to Mabel, in the deferential -but not subservient manner of a courtier.</p> - -<p>“Everything is ready for you,” he whispered. -“I brought your old nurse with me. I knew you -would like to have her here. She is waiting in -the bedroom.” She felt a sense of pleasure at -the thoughtfulness.</p> - -<p>“I will go up,” she said.</p> - -<p>The two men were left alone in the hall.</p> - -<p>“I suppose you know this place well,” said -Collins, carelessly.</p> - -<p>“Of course. I was private secretary to Sir -James,” said the other, stiffly.</p> - -<p>Collins lit a cigarette, and offered his case. -The other could not well refuse. “Thanks,” -said he.</p> - -<p>“This is a wretched business,” said Collins.</p> - -<p>“It is very terrible, but of course you are used -to these crimes in your profession.”</p> - -<p>“Yes,” he said solemnly, “and we get used to -all kinds of criminals,” and he looked into the -empty library.</p> - -<p>“Have you any theory as to who did the -murder?” said Sanders.</p> - -<p>“I never allow myself the luxury of theories,” -said Collins.</p> - -<p>“Prig,” said the other under his breath.</p> - -<p>“It is strange how the murderer escaped, isn’t -it?” said Collins. “I wonder if you ever heard -tell of any secret doors, or trap doors, or -anything of that sort?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, really, are we back in the Middle Ages? -This is a modern, London house. Besides, by the -look of things your men have had a pretty -thorough hunt.”</p> - -<p>“When did you see Sir James last?” said -Collins, lighting another cigarette from his old one.</p> - -<p>“Oh, I was with him at the Home Office in the -morning of the day.”</p> - -<p>“Fancy, and you little thought then that you -would never see him again alive,” said Collins -musingly.</p> - -<p>The other was silent.</p> - -<p>“Do you know,” continued Collins, “you -mentioned the Middle Ages. How much easier -detection was then. All you did was to parade suspects -in front of the departed, and when the right man -arrived blood gushed out from his mouth, and -you spotted a winner every time.”</p> - -<p>“What a horribly morbid mind you must have,” -said Sanders with a shudder.</p> - -<p>“I am glad I am not mixed up with crime.”</p> - -<p>“I have not any great sense of horror of crime, -murder least of all. There are so many reasons -for that,” and he looked straight at the other -man.</p> - -<p>“Miss Watson will be down soon. I hope it has -not upset her too much. You are an old friend. -Wouldn’t you like to go up and see.”</p> - -<p>“No, thanks. I would rather not. But I will -knock at the door.”</p> - -<p>He went up the stairs, and Collins followed -him with his eyes.</p> - -<p>“I wonder if that blood would gush out,” he -said to himself.</p> - -<p>Miss Watson stayed in London until the -inquest was over. This was hurried forward out -of deference to the position of the deceased. She -had to give evidence of identification.</p> - -<p>There was nothing fresh in spite of the efforts -of those engaged on the case. Tremendous -excitement was aroused, not only because of the -fact that the murdered man was a Cabinet -Minister, but on account of the bizarre events which -had surrounded the mystery.</p> - -<p>All efforts to trace the ownership of the -revolver had failed. Lewis’s landlady could only -state that she thought it was his, as it looked -like it. But a Webley is so common a type that -this did not count for much. The number was -an old one, and the weapon had probably passed -through many hands.</p> - -<p>The police did not press their case against -any particular individual, and the jury returned -the usual verdict against some person or persons -unknown.</p> - -<p>Collins had been most assiduous in his -attempts to make Miss Watson’s part as small a -one as possible, and had endeavoured to keep her -spirits up, without intruding himself. Sanders, -in spite of all his efforts, was still sulky, and -plunged into the work of going over Sir James’ -papers, which fell to his lot.</p> - -<p>The ordeal was over, and all those women of -Society who had crammed themselves into the -court were trying to sort themselves out again. -Opinion was about equally divided between Lewis -and a lunatic as the villain of the piece.</p> - -<p>Collins sought the back room where the -witnesses had gone.</p> - -<p>His face was stern. He walked directly to -Mrs. Simmons, who was sniffing in a corner.</p> - -<p>“I would like to have a word with you, if I -may,” he said.</p> - -<p>“Certainly, sir,” she replied.</p> - -<p>“Would you kindly come into the next room, -there are too many people here?” She rose and -followed him without a word.</p> - -<p>In the little side room he faced her.</p> - -<p>“Mrs. Simmons, you gave evidence on oath. -You know the nature of an oath?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes, sir,” she replied, without hesitation.</p> - -<p>“You swore to tell the truth, didn’t you?”</p> - -<p>“Why, yes, sir, of course.”</p> - -<p>“Very good. In your evidence you said that -you did not know who the man was who called on -Sir James?”</p> - -<p>With all her control, a look of relief passed -rapidly over her face.</p> - -<p>“Quite right, sir, I had no idea. I could not -see him. It might have been you, sir, for all I -know.”</p> - -<p>“It won’t do, Mrs. Simmons. You were asked -whether anyone else had come to see Sir James -after that, and you said ‘No.’ That was a lie.”</p> - -<p>If one has seen a child’s balloon touched with -a lighted cigarette, the collapse of this woman -was not more complete.</p> - -<p>She seemed to shrivel up. She tried to speak, -but all she could do was to lick her lips and open -her mouth.</p> - -<p>Collins waited.</p> - -<p>“You had better tell me,” he said. “If I had -wanted to have this known publicly, couldn’t I -have had this out in court? Shall I tell you -who called?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, no, no, sir,” she moaned, raising her hand -as though she were threatened with a blow.</p> - -<p>“You know perfectly well that Mr. Eric -Sanders came, and you let him in?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, sir, how do you know?” she said, with a -look of blank astonishment.</p> - -<p>“The best thing for you is to tell me exactly -what did happen. Perhaps I know more than -you think.”</p> - -<p>She looked at him in a frightened way.</p> - -<p>“Oh, sir, he had nothing to do with the -murder, sir, I am sure he didn’t.”</p> - -<p>“Tell me exactly what did occur, or must I -call the police?” he said.</p> - -<p>“What happened was this, sir,” she said, -gazing round her, as if for help. “After the visitor -had gone, and I am sure I wish I knew who he -was, I was in the dining-room, as I told in court.</p> - -<p>“Mr. Eric came in without so much as a knock, -he being free of the house. He seemed to be very -excited, and he says ‘I must see Sir James.’ I -says, ‘He does not want to be disturbed.’ Then -he says ‘I’ll just knock at his door and ask -him.’ ”</p> - -<p>“One moment, Mrs. Simmons. Was this after -Sir James had sent the letter?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes, sir, after he had come in.”</p> - -<p>“You are quite sure of that?”</p> - -<p>“Quite sure.”</p> - -<p>“Go on.”</p> - -<p>“Mr. Eric knocked at the door, but there was -no answer. Then he knocks again, but there -wasn’t a sound. So he writes something on a -card, and slips it under the door, and says, ‘Sir -James, do you mind reading the card,’ and he -waits.</p> - -<p>“There was a noise inside, as though someone -was a moving very slowly, and a voice said, ‘go -away.’ ”</p> - -<p>Collins drew in a quick breath. “You are quite -certain about that?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes, sir, I was standing by the door. I -was afraid he would come out, and there would -be blows.”</p> - -<p>“Why?”</p> - -<p>“Because, sir, Mr. Eric and Sir James had had -a terrible set-to the night before.”</p> - -<p>“Do you mean they came to blows?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, no, sir, I meant a figure of speech. Only -words.”</p> - -<p>“What about?”</p> - -<p>“Well, sir, it isn’t my business, but I think it -was over Miss Mabel.”</p> - -<p>“Go on,” said Collins.</p> - -<p>“Then Mr. Eric says, ‘Won’t you see me for a -minute?’ ”</p> - -<p>“Was there any answer?”</p> - -<p>“Only a horrible sort of groan, so I says to -him, ‘you’d better get out of this, quick. The -master’s got a loaded revolver in there.’ I don’t -know what made me say that, but I wanted to -get rid of him.”</p> - -<p>“What did he say?”</p> - -<p>“He says, ‘so have I, if it comes to that.’ But -he turned and went out without another word. -Oh, sir, I hope I haven’t done wrong in telling -you.”</p> - -<p>“Don’t get excited, you have done quite right, -but you must not tell anyone else, mind that.”</p> - -<p>“I will, sir, and I am sure that he had nothing -to do with it, sir. That’s why I said nothing -about it.”</p> - -<p>“Now, one more question, and I have done. -Think carefully before you answer. Was it Sir -James who answered from the room?”</p> - -<p>All the colour fled from her face, and she -seemed on the verge of a collapse.</p> - -<p>“Oh, sir, I don’t know. I have thought of -nothing else since this terrible affair. I don’t -believe it was. It was like him, but muffled and -sort of mumbling.” She was shivering now, and -on the verge of breaking down. Collins drew a -flask from his pocket and took out the stopper.</p> - -<p>“Drink this. It will do you good. I have -finished now.”</p> - -<p>“Thank you, sir,” she said, taking a deep drink.</p> - -<p>“And you won’t tell anyone. You must keep -absolutely silent. I shall not tell unless I find it -necessary. Now, mind, not a word. You will do -infinite harm if you do.”</p> - -<p>The effect of the strong drink had made her -maudlin, and she sank weeping on a chair.</p> - -<p>“Oh, what would Miss Mabel say?” she said -between her sobs.</p> - -<p>Collins gave one look at her, and then left the -room. He had got the information he wanted.</p> - -</div> - -<div class="chapter" id="ch08"> - -<h2>Chapter VIII. <br> Enter Mr. Allery</h2> - -<p>After the inquest there was nothing to keep -Miss Watson in London. A sad cortège -started from Leveson Square after dark, for, in -the circumstances, they had no wish for public -display.</p> - -<p>The body of the dead statesman was being -taken to Devonshire for burial. In all the -arrangements Collins had played an important -but unobtrusive part, and now, on the departure -platform, he had quietly seen to her comfort in -the little ways a woman appreciates.</p> - -<p>Papers were ready, seats booked at the dining -table, and the carriage reserved by a well-tipped -guard.</p> - -<p>Eric Sanders had already gone on, as it was -necessary to go through all the dead man’s -papers, and, as private secretary, he was assisting -the police in this matter.</p> - -<p>An aged and lachrymose aunt had turned up -from somewhere, and was acting chaperon.</p> - -<p>The old nurse had been relegated to what the -aunt called her proper place. Collins had -completely won the heart of the old nurse with an -easy courtesy which is neither patronage nor -familiarity, and she had sworn by him ever since -he had taken them to the theatre. On that -occasion he had, with great tact, laid himself out to -amuse the old lady, while Mabel was left to her -sulky Eric, which accentuated the contrast.</p> - -<p>Now he had taken as much care in seeing to -the comfort of the two old servants (for the -butler was going back with them), as with Miss -Watson herself—a fact she was quick to note -and appreciate.</p> - -<p>They were standing on the platform, waiting -for the train to start, and Mabel gave him her -hand.</p> - -<p>“I am most awfully grateful to you for all you -have done,” she said. “I don’t know how I should -have got on without you. This has been a very -trying time, but it would have been far worse -but for your management.” He was pleased at -the compliment.</p> - -<p>“It has been a real pleasure to do what I -could, and no trouble, for I have had to be in the -thick of things, from my position.”</p> - -<p>A cloud crossed her face.</p> - -<p>“Yes, of course. You are trying to find the -criminal.”</p> - -<p>“I am trying first to find your brother.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, I hope you do. It would be so comforting -at this time if he were here.”</p> - -<p>“I will let you know directly I hear anything.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, but I hope you will do more than that. -You must come and see us when we are more -settled,” she added wistfully.</p> - -<p>They were joined by Mr. Allery, the senior -partner of Allery & Watkins, the family lawyers. -Collins and he had seen a good deal of each other -during these few days, and had grown to like -each other.</p> - -<p>He took Mabel’s hand in a fatherly way.</p> - -<p>“Now, you must not get down there and fret -and worry. It’s all terribly sad, but you are -young, and when you have got over the first -grief, you must rouse yourself up. There’s -nothing worse than moping.”</p> - -<p>“Then the best way you can help is to come -and see me,” she said with a smile, “and bring -Mr. Collins with you. You are both golfers, and -there are several excellent links near us.”</p> - -<p>“I shall be delighted,” said the lawyer. “I -need a change. Only you must remind me, or I -shall never come,” and he laughed in a genial, -full-blooded way.</p> - -<p>He had a charming, old-world courtesy, and -what in doctors is called a good bedside manner.</p> - -<p>The train moved off, leaving the two men -standing on the platform.</p> - -<p>“Poor girl,” said Allery. “I have known her -since she was a baby. It’s a sad blow to her, but, -between ourselves, it may be a good thing. Sir -James was a fine man, but he was very selfish -with her. She was absolutely tied up with him, -and could go nowhere. He warned off all possible -suitors, and made her live the life of a nun.”</p> - -<p>“I gather that Sanders rather bit his fingers -there.” Allery looked at him shrewdly.</p> - -<p>“You haven’t taken long to find that out,” he -said. “Yes, I believe he did. He is an able -young fellow, of good family, and in every way -desirable, but for some reason Sir James would -not hear of an engagement. Of course, it was -very awkward, as he was his private secretary, -and Sir James was too fair minded a man to get -rid of him for domestic reasons which would have -ruined his prospects. But it couldn’t have gone -on. He actually talked to me about altering his -will if Mabel did not give Eric up.”</p> - -<p>Collins looked interested.</p> - -<p>“We can’t stand talking here. Let me give you -a lift in my car. Where can I take you?”</p> - -<p>“That’s most kind of you. I have an hour -before my train goes, so I shall just go to my -club. You’d better come in for a few minutes.”</p> - -<p>In the club smoking room, after a general talk, -Collins gently led the conversation back to the -subject about which he wanted information.</p> - -<p>“You knew young Watson, I suppose?” The -lawyer’s face hardened.</p> - -<p>“Yes,” he said shortly, “I knew him. A -wastrel.”</p> - -<p>“I rather gathered,” said Collins, “that he was -just a somewhat wild youth, who went the pace -at Oxford.”</p> - -<p>“I am afraid it did not stop at that,” said the -other, and closed his mouth in a way that -indicated he did not wish to continue. Collins saw -it, and asked no more.</p> - -<p>Allery, however, volunteered one bit of -information.</p> - -<p>“Sir James made a curious will. It will be -proved soon, and so there is no particular secret. -If his son was found, and was willing to settle -down in Devonshire, he was to have a half share -after certain small legacies had been paid. If -not, the whole was to go to Mabel. She gets half -in any case. It was left to me to decide whether -he was fulfilling the conditions. That’ll be a nice -task.”</p> - -<p>“Supposing we can’t find him.”</p> - -<p>“Then Mabel takes her half and the interest -on the other, which remains in trust, until it is -decided that he is dead. The discretion rests -with me.”</p> - -<p>“A very reasonable arrangement,” said -Collins.</p> - -</div> - -<div class="chapter" id="ch09"> - -<h2>Chapter IX. <br> A Confession</h2> - -<p>Sinclair and Boyce were sitting in the -former’s room, waiting for Collins.</p> - -<p>“I wonder how he will like this?” said Boyce.</p> - -<p>“Not at all,” said the other, making a face. -“He is so fond of a problem that he dislikes a -simple solution to anything.”</p> - -<p>He shuffled uncomfortably. He did not -altogether like it, himself. Collins entered and -greeted the others.</p> - -<p>“Well?” he said. “I got your message.”</p> - -<p>Boyce took his cigar from his mouth.</p> - -<p>“We have got a confession of the murder of -Sir James.” If he expected Collins to show any -feeling, he was disappointed.</p> - -<p>“Who is it?” he said, quietly seating -himself.</p> - -<p>“A man called Jackson. He came into the -Vine Street police station late last night and -said he wished to give himself up for the -murder.”</p> - -<p>“Of course,” said Collins contemptuously, “we -shall have plenty of them.”</p> - -<p>“Wait a moment. This man is well known to -the police. He has been in an asylum for years, -but unfortunately his people got him certified -sane, and had him out. He had homicidal -tendencies. He has made a complete statement.”</p> - -<p>“A statement from a lunatic. Really, Boyce.”</p> - -<p>“Well, listen to this, then,” said Boyce, and -spread a document out on the desk.</p> - -<p>He began to read:</p> - -<blockquote class="document"> - -<p>“I, John Henry Jackson, being of sound mind, -and having been warned by the police, declare -the following statement to be a true account of -what I have done. On the afternoon of the ⸻, -I killed that dog, Sir James Watson, because he -is not fit to live. He will not hear the cry of -the prisoner or the oppressed, but his heart has -been hardened like Pharoah. I went to his house -in Leveson Square, which I had been watching -for an opportunity, and he opened the door to -me. He was delivered into my hands, but I -would not slay him then. I knew that the time -had come, so I wrote to the Central News Agency, -with whom I have often had correspondence, and -told them of his death. I had called at Scotland -Yard some days before and seen Superintendent -Sinclair.” Boyce paused, and Sinclair looked up -with a start.</p> - -<p>“While he was not looking, I took some of his -paper, and a letter he had signed, and so I wrote -on the paper to show that it was not murder. -Sir James came out and posted a letter, and I -nearly killed him then, but the time had not -come, so I followed him into the house, and shot -him. It is a good deed and I do not mind -having done it.</p> - -<p class="endsignature"><i>(Signed)</i> J. H. Jackson.</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p>“Well, what do you make of that?”</p> - -<p>Sinclair and Collins looked up, and their eyes -met.</p> - -<p>“Absolute rubbish,” said Collins, “the man is -obviously a lunatic.”</p> - -<p>“What about the reference to you?” said Boyce -to Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“I do remember a wild man coming here with -some grievance. I don’t know how he got in -at all. Lewis let him in, but I have no -recollection of him taking any letter of mine.”</p> - -<p>“Still, he may have done,” said Boyce.</p> - -<p>“Of course,” said the other. “There is always -a tray full of type-written letters of no great -importance, waiting to go out. They would not be -registered till they had been collected and one -might have gone. It’s possible.”</p> - -<p>“The whole thing is preposterous. What about -the telephone messages that Sinclair and I had?” -said Collins.</p> - -<p>“Oh, he says he sent them from a Call Office.”</p> - -<p>Collins laughed. “This is all your doing, -Boyce. I knew how it would be. You let the -whole story out to the papers, and this lunatic -has been turning it over in his mind till he -really believes he has done it. It’s quite a -common phase. I wonder you take the trouble to go -into the matter.”</p> - -<p>“Wait a moment. You always think no one -can be right but yourself. You have not heard -all. A policeman has identified him. He saw him -several times hanging about Leveson Square. -And he has been further examined and his story -hangs together. I don’t think there is any doubt -that we have got the right man.”</p> - -<p>“I am perfectly sure you haven’t,” said -Collins.</p> - -<p>Boyce turned to him. “Of course it will be a -disappointment to you. I know you always like -something out of the way, with mystery and -special features. What do you think, Sinclair?”</p> - -<p>“I don’t know, sir, I don’t know what to say. -I don’t somehow think he is our man.”</p> - -<p>“I am quite sure he is; he’s got to be. You -understand. And I expect loyal support from -my Department,” said Boyce, with decision.</p> - -<p>“It won’t do, Boyce, old fellow,” said Collins.</p> - -<p>“What do you mean?”</p> - -<p>“I’ll tell you. Have you ever seen the Mikado? -If so you may remember a song beginning, ‘As -some day it may happen that a victim must -be found.’ ”</p> - -<p>“I am afraid I don’t follow you,” said the other -coldly.</p> - -<p>“Between us three there is no need for bluff. -You are being worried by all kinds of people to -solve the problem. You see that your -professional reputation is at stake and that much hangs -on it. And you see here a good chance of finding -a victim, who will not suffer any hardship in any -case, as he obviously ought to be under lock and -key.</p> - -<p>“It is the Stenie Morrison case over again, -only here you will not have to have an innocent -man tried, because this man will not be able to -plead. It will all work out finely. This man -will go to Broadmoor, where he will be quite -happy, and there will be much praise for the -smart Commissioner.”</p> - -<p>Boyce flushed scarlet. “You mean I should -fake up a charge against a man I knew was not -guilty,” he said.</p> - -<p>Collins shrugged his shoulders. “I have -known it done,” he said, and turned to Sinclair. -“Well, here ends the wonderful mystery of -Leveson Square. There will be no difficulty in -getting a case. I have not been at the Bar for -nothing. There will be no defence, because there -will be no trial. Personally, I could drive a -horse and cart through the whole thing. So -could you. But it will be beautifully -stage-managed.”</p> - -<p>Boyce rose in anger. “I suppose because you -are a free-lance you think you can say what you -like, unless you are trying to make a joke in -rather doubtful taste. I do not see that any -useful purpose would be served by continuing this -discussion,” and he went out.</p> - -<p>The other two looked at each other. Collins -burst out laughing.</p> - -<p>“Cheer up,” he said, “you look as if you had -just missed backing the winner.”</p> - -<p>“That’s just what I have done,” said Sinclair -gloomily. “It’s all right for you, but I have -to do what I am told. I know this is all wrong.”</p> - -<p>“Do you? So do I,” said Collins quietly.</p> - -<p>The other looked up quickly. “You are very -certain.”</p> - -<p>“Exactly. And so are you.” They both stared -hard at each other for a moment. “I wonder -what you have got hold of?” said Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“That’s just what I was wondering,” said -Collins.</p> - -<p>“There’s one thing. This will put the real man -right off. He will think he’s safe and may -return,” said Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“Return? What do you mean?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, nothing.”</p> - -<p>A clerk entered, and laid an early edition of -the “Evening Rag” on the table. Sinclair picked -it up.</p> - -<p>“Read that,” he said, indignantly.</p> - -<p>Across the page was printed:</p> - -<blockquote class="centered"> - ‘MURDER OF THE HOME SECRETARY,’<br> - ‘SUSPECT ARRESTED,’<br> - ‘MAKES FULL CONFESSION.’ -</blockquote> - -<p>There followed an account of how that brilliant -Civil Servant, F. D. Boyce, Commissioner of -Police, after devoting his nights and days to the -problem, had at last effected the arrest of a -violent lunatic who had made a full confession of -the dastardly crime.</p> - -<p>There followed a paragraph in praise of their -worthy official, and in self-laudation of the Press -generally, whose co-operation had been so -effectual.</p> - -<p>Collins put it down with a smile.</p> - -<p>“So that’s that,” he said. “I wash my hands -of the case.”</p> - -<p>On his way back to his flat he stopped at a -Post Office, and sent off a wire. “Delighted to -accept your kind invitation. Will come -tomorrow,” and addressed it to “Miss Watson, The -Vale, Holbrook.”</p> - -</div> - -<div class="chapter" id="ch10"> - -<h2>Chapter X. <br> The Portrait</h2> - -<p>A surprise awaited Collins on his arrival at -Wilton-on-Sea. Eric Sanders was on the -platform, and came forward with a pleasant -smile. He was a changed being. The sulky -petulance was gone, and he seemed like a man -from whom a load of care has been removed. -His manner was friendly without being effusive.</p> - -<p>Collins surveyed him keenly.</p> - -<p>He was too used to studying human nature not -to notice the change, and too clever to show that -he saw it.</p> - -<p>They drove to the Vale among the autumn -trees and over the hills from whence -magnificent views stretched out beneath them. Eric -opened the conversation.</p> - -<p>“You people have done a smart bit of work -capturing the murderer of Sir James so quickly,” -he said. “The papers were full of it this -morning.”</p> - -<p>“Yes,” said Collins, dryly. “I read them on -the way down.”</p> - -<p>“He seems to be a desperate ruffian. I didn’t -quite make out how it was he was actually -caught.”</p> - -<p>“He wasn’t,” said Collins, “he gave himself -up.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, I see. It was not clear in the account,” -he looked at Collins doubtfully wondering how -far it was right to ask him questions without -breach of etiquette.</p> - -<p>“This is a wonderful piece of country,” said -Collins. “It’s one of the finest views I know -just before we go down again into the valley. -It’s like the view from the Delectable -Mountains.”</p> - -<p>“You’ve read the ‘Pilgrim’s Progress’?” said -the other in surprise.</p> - -<p>Collins gave a laugh. “Oh, I don’t spend all -my time in bones and blood, though problems do -interest me.”</p> - -<p>At the risk of courting a snub Eric said, “I -expect you are sorry this one is over so quickly?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, there will be plenty more,” said he lightly.</p> - -<p>On their arrival Mabel met them at the door -and greeted Collins warmly—a trifle too -warmly—there was just a touch of over effusiveness, -which his quick eye noticed.</p> - -<p>“We’re quite a party,” she said. “It is really -too big so shortly after⸺” she hesitated: -“while we are in mourning. Mr. Allery is here, -with his wife and daughter.”</p> - -<p>When they sat down to dinner that night there -was indeed an atmosphere of quiet enjoyment far -removed from the horror of the past days. Mr. -Allery had had a word with Collins.</p> - -<p>“I came as a duty. I was so much afraid that -the poor little girl would mope. It’s no earthly -good crying over spilt milk. She has all her life -before her. Besides,” he added with a smile, “I -think her old aunt is far from an ideal chaperon. -My wife is used to all occasions.”</p> - -<p>“You mean?”</p> - -<p>“You’ll see, my boy,” said the old lawyer with -a chuckle, “The course of true love is running -smoother.”</p> - -<p>Then the ladies had come in.</p> - -<p>The dinner was a merry one; Allery had a fund -of humour culled from his long experience, and -he found an able supporter in Collins. Sanders -was no fool, and now that he was absolutely -happy he took his part. He had taken Miss -Allery in, but Collins noted that he was sitting -next to Mabel. Collins had taken in the Aunt, -who was only a cousin of Sir James. He was -sitting with his back to the windows from which -the setting sun still shone into the room, for they -had dined early. In front of him was a great -fire-place, and over the mantel was a large -portrait of Sir James in court dress.</p> - -<p>“Fancy,” Sanders was saying, “I find Mr. -Collins spends his spare time reading the ‘Pilgrim’s -Progress.’ ”</p> - -<p>“And very good taste, too,” said Allery. “It -contains some of the most glorious pieces of -English ever written.</p> - -<p>“Not one of our modern writers can touch it.”</p> - -<p>It was getting dark in the room.</p> - -<p>“I think,” said the aunt, “we might have a -light, my dear?”</p> - -<p>“Certainly,” said Mabel. “John, turn on the -electric light.”</p> - -<p>At that moment a last ray, almost blood-red, -came from the dying sun through the window, -and shone full on the portrait over the fire-place. -Collins was idly looking at it, when his face -suddenly became rigid and fixed. An intent look -came into his eyes, and he stared hard at the -portrait. Then the brilliant light came on. At -that moment he felt rather than saw that Mabel -was watching him. He turned to her and she -looked down in confusion, and a red pervaded -her face. They both recovered and their eyes -met. He read in them a certain uneasiness or -dread.</p> - -<p>Instantly he composed his features and said, -“That’s better, but the sunset was very -beautiful.”</p> - -<p>“We’ve missed the first News bulletin,” said -Allery, “but we must get the second. I always -feel lost in the country when there’s no wireless. -Miss Watson has a splendid receiving set.”</p> - -<p>While conversation was general Collins leant -over to Allery.</p> - -<p>“Better not say too much about the news,” he -said. “There will be something about the -murder, certain to be, and it may distress her.”</p> - -<p>“Perhaps you are right, but as a matter of -fact, she has been much more cheerful since she -heard that they had got the man.”</p> - -<p>The receiving set was in the old oak-pannelled -hall in a neat cabinet. The company -foregathered here at ten o’clock for the news. Eric -was the operator. After the hundred and fortieth -chess move between two Scotsmen, and the usual -dismal forecast of the weather, an account was -given of the preliminary examination of Jackson, -who was being kept under observation by Home -Office doctors. Two facts emerged, that the -Home Office was satisfied in a guarded way that -he was the man, with plenty of the cautious word -‘alleged,’ and that he was hopelessly mad. -Collins smiled as he listened. He had seated -himself on a cushion in the shadow where he could -watch Mabel’s expressive face. He saw a look of -relief, and something more, a puzzled look on her -face.</p> - -<p>After the news an announcement was -broadcasted, as had been done for the past few days, -asking for information as to the whereabouts of -Ronald, now Sir Ronald Watson, last heard of -at Monte Video, etc.</p> - -<p>As the loud speaker announced this, Collins -saw a swift glance pass between Mabel and -Allery.</p> - -<p>When the Savoy bands were in full blast, -Sanders and Allery departed to finish an -interrupted game of billiards. The four ladies -continued a game of bridge. Collins had joined with -neither party, but watched each in turn. When -Mabel was “dummy” she came across to him. “I -wish you were not out of things like this,” she -said, “I feel I am not doing my duty as hostess.”</p> - -<p>“Not a bit of it,” he replied. “I am enjoying -myself.”</p> - -<p>“I suppose you are feeling more at rest now -that this horrible affair has been cleared up?”</p> - -<p>“Of course it ends the matter as far as I am -concerned—for the present,” he said. “And -you?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, I told you,” she said. “I would much -rather it turned out to be a man who was not -responsible. There will be nothing done to him, -I suppose?”</p> - -<p>“He will be confined to Broadmoor for life, -now. He has been there before, you know. They -won’t let him out again.”</p> - -<p>“How sad,” she said; “but it’s better than a -man being hanged, isn’t it?”</p> - -<p>“If he’s guilty,” said Collins.</p> - -<p>“Of course they will have to prove their case, -won’t they?” she said.</p> - -<p>He gave a scornful laugh. “Oh, they will do -that all right,” he said.</p> - -<p>“Do you mean whether he is guilty or not? -But that is too dreadful.”</p> - -<p>“If a man once gets into the clutches of the -Law it doesn’t matter much whether he’s guilty -or not. He’s about as much chance as a fly in a -spider’s net.”</p> - -<p>“What an awful thing. But you were a -barrister once yourself?”</p> - -<p>“That’s why I say that,” he answered with -meaning.</p> - -<p>“But we must not keep on talking about this, -it will make you morbid.”</p> - -<p>“Come on, Mabel, we are waiting for you,” -came from the table.</p> - -<p>Collins strolled out into the garden where a -bright moon was shining. What should he do? -Let things slide altogether, and the Law take -its course? That was best, but a curious streak -of vanity and desire for mystery goaded him on -to fresh research. There were other problems -beside the main plot which called for solution.</p> - -<p>There was the curious disappearance of Lewis. -And what about Eric Sanders? Besides he -grudged an easy triumph for the oily Boyce. He -would like to upset his apple-cart.</p> - -<p>The scent of the flowers and a cool breeze were -delightful after London. He wandered round -the house like a nocturnal cat, and came to the -dining-room window. He stopped dead. Yes; -he would have another look, while the others -were busy.</p> - -<p>Returning to the house he went to the -dining-room and turned on the electric light. Sir James -was staring down at him from over the -mantelpiece. He lit a cigarette and sat on the edge of the -table, gazing keenly at the portrait. He sat there -motionless, in thought. He had an unusually -keen sense and he felt, rather than saw, that -someone had come into the room. He made no -sign. A quiet voice at his elbow said, “It’s a -very good likeness, and cleverly painted, isn’t -it?” He turned without haste. Allery was -standing beside him with an inscrutable smile on -his face.</p> - -<p>“I came to look for you as we have finished, -and I thought you might like a nightcap before -turning in.”</p> - -<p>“Thanks, I will come along,” said Collins. “I -never saw Sir James to speak to. He had a -remarkable face. A strange mixture of -hardness and sympathy. The mouth is hard as a -rock, but the eyes are sympathetic.”</p> - -<p>“You are a student of these things, of course,” -said the lawyer. “But you are quite right. He -was a contradiction, but his intellect always -ruled his emotions.”</p> - -<p>“Was his son anything like him?”</p> - -<p>“In character, yes; in face he was too young to -say. He was undeveloped.”</p> - -<p>Collins turned out the light and they went -to join the others.</p> - -</div> - -<div class="chapter" id="ch11"> - -<h2>Chapter XI. <br> An Apparition</h2> - -<p>The next three days passed outwardly in the -usual enjoyments of a country house-party. -They golfed and motored and played tennis. -Behind the scenes many things were happening.</p> - -<p>It was obvious to anyone that Eric Sanders -and Mabel had come to an understanding, though -a definite engagement so soon after the death of -Sir James was repugnant to her.</p> - -<p>On the other hand, so long as she had had to -fight a battle with her father on behalf of Eric, -she had been passionately devoted to him; but -now that all opposition had ceased at the gates -of the vault, and things had become easy, she -almost resented the air of ownership with which -Eric treated her. Woman-like she did not like -being regarded as being cheaply won. She -turned to Collins and was much in his company -to show her lover that he had not a monopoly of -her society.</p> - -<p>Here was ground ready for sowing. He had -gone through life with a cynical view of women, -partly because he had come in contact with the -sordid side of human nature, and partly because -he had led a lonely life.</p> - -<p>From the first moment that he had seen -Mabel his interest had been aroused, and that -interest was growing to something more -intimate. She either did not or would not see, -and the situation was soon acute. She was -attracted to him by the very distaste for his -profession, for she had inherited much of her father’s -contradiction in character.</p> - -<p>His invitation had been indefinite, and with -all the party he was very popular. He carefully -refrained from referring to the subject of the -murder, and tried to lead the conversation away -from it. And so the age-long battle began.</p> - -<p>An excursion had been arranged to the -Cheddar Gorge and Caves, and as they passed down -that wonderful panorama of riven rocks, -unsurpassed in England, the grandeur of the scene -drew them together. Each had a vein of savagery -in their natures to which the wild aspect of the -scenery appealed. Collins was driving the car, -and Mabel had taken her place with him.</p> - -<p>“Stop a moment here,” she whispered. “This -is wonderful.”</p> - -<p>Eric was sitting morosely in the back.</p> - -<p>Far up, the trees growing on the edge of the -precipice looked like the toy trees of a Japanese -garden, and the fantastic rocks formed castles -of fairy legend. The twisted road curved steeply -down into the depths.</p> - -<p>“I would like to come here by moonlight,” -she said. “It would be wonderful.”</p> - -<p>“Why not have a picnic here, then?” he -answered. “It is quite warm still.”</p> - -<p>“We will,” she said gaily. “Come on, or the -others will get restive. My aunt sees nothing in -these rocks—in fact, she is rather frightened.” -They descended to the caves no less wonderful.</p> - -<p>There were no tourists at that time so they -made a party by themselves and went in with -a guide.</p> - -<p>Far in the depths of “Solomon’s Temple” with -its amazing stalactites lit by electric light, they -saw the entrance of a dark cave.</p> - -<p>The guide was speaking: “That cave has been -explored for over two miles, but is not open to -the public. We do not know where it ends. -There must be exits somewhere, or the air would -not keep so fresh.”</p> - -<p>“What a place for a criminal to hide from -justice,” said Collins. “If one of our friends -could make his way from Dartmoor here, he -might stay for months with an accomplice to -bring him food.”</p> - -<p>“Only in the summer,” said the guide; “the -caves are flooded in the winter.”</p> - -<p>Mabel shivered.</p> - -<p>“How cold and damp it would be,” she said, -“and fancy a storm coming on and the water -dashing down on one from above.”</p> - -<p>“Really, Mabel,” said Sanders, “you are -getting very morbid, let’s get out and have some -lunch.”</p> - -<p>She turned on him.</p> - -<p>“How unromantic you are. I would like to -buy this place, and turn it into a sort of Monte -Christo’s cave.”</p> - -<p>“And get chronic rheumatism,” said Allery, -laughing.</p> - -<p>“Well, I must give way to the craving for -lunch,” she said, and led the way out.</p> - -<p>When they had got back in the afternoon, -Mabel’s old nurse met them with a startling -announcement. Old John, the butler, had seen -a ghost, and was prostrated with terror.</p> - -<p>“Nonsense,” said Collins, “ghosts don’t come -in the day time, it’s against all the rules of the -game. Let’s have him up and question him.”</p> - -<p>Mabel did not take it quite so lightly. “Poor -old man,” she said, “he has been brooding on my -father’s death, and I expect he has imagined -things.”</p> - -<p>“Better ask for the cellar key,” said Sanders.</p> - -<p>Mabel turned on him, angrily. “That’s a mean -thing to say. John has been with us now for -twenty-five years and I have never known him -the worse for drink.”</p> - -<p>Sanders hastily apologised.</p> - -<p>Allery intervened. “Perhaps I had better see -him, and talk to him.”</p> - -<p>“If I may suggest it,” said Collins, “why not -just send for him in the ordinary way, and let -him tell his story? These old family servants -are entitled to being treated to respect.”</p> - -<p>Mabel gave him a grateful look. Without -waiting for an answer, Collins rang the bell. -It was answered by John himself.</p> - -<p>He was looking white and scared, but made no -remark.</p> - -<p>After giving some trivial order, Mabel said -in a casual way:</p> - -<p>“I hear you have had an unpleasant experience, -John. Would you care to tell us about it?”</p> - -<p>The old man was dying to do so, and plunged -into his story at once.</p> - -<p>“Thank you, Miss Mabel, it has upset me -somewhat, but I am sorry I mentioned it. While -you were away I had occasion to go into the -dining-room to fetch some silver. When I opened -the door there was Sir James standing on the -hearth-rug as plain as life.”</p> - -<p>“How was he dressed?” said Collins, quickly.</p> - -<p>“He was in court dress, with a sword on, and -he was holding his hat in his hand.”</p> - -<p>Sanders burst out laughing.</p> - -<p>“Exactly, and I suppose the picture frame was -empty,” he looked round in surprise. No one -else had laughed.</p> - -<p>“I was too frightened to look, sir,” he said.</p> - -<p>“What happened then?” said Collins in a -soothing tone.</p> - -<p>“I don’t quite know, sir, I think I must have -turned faint. I believe he turned and looked at -me, and when I looked again he was gone.”</p> - -<p>“But why were you so frightened?” said -Collins.</p> - -<p>“It was a warning, sir, I am sure of that. He -came to tell me my time is up. Well, I suppose -we all have to go sometime, and I have tried to -do my duty.”</p> - -<p>Collins cast a quick glance round the room. -Sanders was frankly sceptical. Mrs. Allery and -her daughter were looking scared. The Aunt was -not there. Mabel was dead white, and her eyes -nearly closed; but Collins saw one quick look -pass between her and Allery, though the face of -the old lawyer was inscrutable.</p> - -<p>There was a silence in the room.</p> - -<p>Collins went to the old servant with a quick -movement and took his hand.</p> - -<p>“Now listen to me, John. I will tell you -exactly what happened. You have been allowing -yourself to brood over your old master’s death, -and it has got on your nerves. You were -probably thinking of him because the house was quiet, -and when you came into the dining-room, the -sun was shining right on to the portrait of Sir -James, and you imagined he was standing on the -rug. It is really quite a common thing. It’s what -we call hallucination. You must not let it worry -you. It’s not a warning or anything like that, -and you must not think any more of it.”</p> - -<p>He spoke with such conviction that the old -man was greatly relieved.</p> - -<p>But Collins had gone to the old man for -another reason. John was standing with his -back to a looking-glass, and Collins could see -the room. He saw two things, a look of intense -annoyance on the face of Sanders, and an -expression on Mabel’s face in which gratitude was -mixed with relief.</p> - -<p>“Mr. Collins is right,” she said. “That is the -explanation. I am sure there is nothing else -in it. Now don’t worry any more about it.”</p> - -<p>“Thank you, sir, thank you, Miss Mabel, it has -relieved me a lot,” and the old man went out.</p> - -<p>“Well done, Collins,” said Allery, “you have -disposed of the ghost in quick time. I hope the -old fellow will forget all about it.”</p> - -<p>Collins laughed and helped himself to a -cigarette from a silver box, but he watched the other. -Allery drew a handkerchief from his pocket, and -furtively wiped his forehead.</p> - -<p>The company drifted off to various interests. -Sanders and Mabel found themselves alone for -a moment.</p> - -<p>“I think I will go to Town to-morrow, if you -don’t mind,” he said.</p> - -<p>“Why should you go?” she said.</p> - -<p>“Well, I seem to be always putting my foot -into it somehow, and I don’t think I am wanted -here,” he added petulantly.</p> - -<p>She stiffened. “You must please yourself. I -hope you don’t find it very boring here?”</p> - -<p>“You know I don’t, Mabel, but you seem to -have changed towards me. You are always -trying to snub me in front of Collins, and you treat -me almost as a stranger. Why can’t we announce -our engagement, and then we should know where -we stand?”</p> - -<p>She flushed. “Really, Eric, you sometimes -behave like a spoilt child. You know my -reasons. It is too soon after my father’s death, -especially as he disapproved, and I would like to -wait till my brother comes back.”</p> - -<p>“But he may be dead, and we may have to wait -for years. He has been advertised enough for, -and if a man will not come to take up a title and -position, there must be something wrong.”</p> - -<p>“What do you mean?” she said, angrily.</p> - -<p>“Oh, I don’t mean anything dishonourable, but -something to prevent him coming. He may be -out of touch of civilisation,” he said, lamely.</p> - -<p>“Very well,” she said, “then I will go further. -I will not become engaged until my brother -comes back. I am certain he is not dead.”</p> - -<p>“That means, I suppose, you have ceased to -care for me?”</p> - -<p>“It means nothing of the sort and you know -it. If I did not care for you, should I have stuck -to you against my father’s wishes?”</p> - -<p>“Why don’t you say that you will marry the -man who finds your brother?” he said, bitterly.</p> - -<p>“Eric, you go too far,” and she threw up her -head.</p> - -<p>“I go too far! Well, Mabel, since you have -said that, I will tell you I think it is you to whom -that would apply. You are ‘carrying on’—there -is no other phrase for it, vulgar as it is—with -that fellow Collins. You are always with him, -and I can see by the way he looks at you that he -is getting too fond of you. You have only known -him for a short time.”</p> - -<p>“That’s enough,” she interrupted. “You had -better say no more or we shall come to a real -quarrel. I think you better go as you have -suggested, and you can think things over. I am -going to see how my aunt is,” and she went out -without another word.</p> - -<p>“Curse the fellow,” said Sanders. “What does -he mean by foisting himself here, and staying on. -He’s trying to cut me out with his damnable -polite manners. And she’s everything in the -world to me.”</p> - -</div> - -<div class="chapter" id="ch12"> - -<h2>Chapter XII. <br> What Happened in the Night</h2> - -<p>The incident of the day had cast a gloom -over the party.</p> - -<p>Mabel’s aunt had been in bed all the day, -with one of her sick headaches. Collins was -down before the others, and had a word with old -John. The old servant was devoted to him.</p> - -<p>“I hope you got over your scare,” said he.</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes, thank you, sir, but it frightened me -at the time. But you were probably right. I -have been thinking about the master a lot lately.”</p> - -<p>“I have often come across cases like that,” said -Collins. “Now I suppose you came in quite -quietly, without making any noise?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, sir, as the family were out I was -wearing carpet slippers, as I suffer with my feet a -good deal, and the door was only ajar.”</p> - -<p>They were standing in the dining-room.</p> - -<p>Collins walked to the fire-place.</p> - -<p>“And you thought you saw Sir James standing -here,” he said, but he took in a breath. With an -effort he controlled his voice.</p> - -<p>“Don’t let me stop your work,” he said.</p> - -<p>“Thank you, sir,” said the other, hurrying to -complete his preparations.</p> - -<p>Collins stooped quickly.</p> - -<p>The impression of two feet was plainly visible -on the thick rug. No one had been in the room -since the morning, as they had all been out for -lunch. Hastily Collins walked up and down the -rug two or three times, sliding his feet over the -soft pile.</p> - -<p>Then he glanced up at the portrait.</p> - -<p>“I wonder,” he said.</p> - -<p>Dinner was a dreary performance. Even -Collins was preoccupied. The first news bulletin -had told them that Jackson had been declared -by the doctors unfit to plead. It remained to -be seen whether there was sufficient evidence to -convict him as the murderer.</p> - -<p>“How is your aunt?” said Allery, to make -conversation.</p> - -<p>“Oh, she is not very bad. She takes to her -bed at intervals.”</p> - -<p>“Nothing serious, I hope?” said Mrs. Allery.</p> - -<p>“Only nerves.”</p> - -<p>“What a blessing she did not hear about the -ghost,” said Sanders.</p> - -<p>“I think the less said about that the better,” -said Allery.</p> - -<p>“I quite agree,” said Collins with meaning. -“Once these things get about they get -exaggerated, and you will have the psychical research -people offering to investigate, which would never -do,” and as he said this he glanced at Allery.</p> - -<p>“No,” said he without a flicker of the eyelid, -“we don’t want this to get about at this time.”</p> - -<p>“Cunning old ruffian,” said Collins to himself.</p> - -<p>There was an awkward silence. John had come -into the room.</p> - -<p>After dinner Collins seized an opportunity -when his hostess was alone for a moment. “May -I have a word with you?” he said.</p> - -<p>Mabel felt almost inclined to make an excuse, -but braced herself.</p> - -<p>“Certainly,” she said. “Is it anything -private?”</p> - -<p>“Not at all,” he said, with a smile. “Only that -I shall be leaving you to-morrow. I must return -to Town, and I wanted to thank you for a very -delightful visit.”</p> - -<p>“How provoking,” she said. “Mr. Sanders is -also going. It is a break-up of the party, and I -was enjoying it so much.”</p> - -<p>In spite of the words Collins noted an -insincerity which was foreign to her nature.</p> - -<p>“I must get back to my work,” he said.</p> - -<p>“Not about—my father? You have finished -with that, haven’t you?”</p> - -<p>“The matter has been taken out of my hands,” -he answered.</p> - -<p>“When all this has passed over, you must come -and see us again. You have been very good and -helpful.”</p> - -<p>“Miss Watson, you will forgive me saying a -thing I have perhaps no right to say, but I -rather fancy Mr. Sanders does not care for my -presence here.”</p> - -<p>“Surely you are mistaken. Why should he not -like you? I thought you got on very well -together.”</p> - -<p>“It won’t do, Miss Watson, you know -differently. And I expect you can guess the reason. -So I had better go.”</p> - -<p>This was said with such a charm of manner -that it disarmed her from the haughty tone she -would have assumed.</p> - -<p>“Well, I am very sorry. But perhaps you two -will get to know each other better.”</p> - -<p>“Perhaps we shall,” he muttered under his -breath.</p> - -<p>Allery entered. “Oh, Mr. Allery,” said Mabel, -“here’s Mr. Collins going off to-morrow. This will -mean the break-up of our party.”</p> - -<p>“Well, I am afraid we shall have to go too, -very soon. My business will not wait, you -know.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, you must not go,” she said, with a look of -terror coming into her eyes.</p> - -<p>Allery laughed. “I dare say we can manage -another day or two,” he said.</p> - -<p>When Sanders heard that Collins was going -the next day, he was both relieved and angry.</p> - -<p>“Just my luck,” he thought, “if I had kept -quiet, I need not have gone myself.”</p> - -<p>Collins paced his room restlessly. Things were -taking shape in his mind. Something was going -on which his keen intellect could not explain, -but which gave rise to wild conjecture.</p> - -<p>He was fully dressed, but had a pair of -slippers on. He would know the truth that night -somehow.</p> - -<p>The wind had got up, and was howling round -the old house, making the timbers creak and -the windows shake, till it died down to a -moaning sound.</p> - -<p>Several times he went carefully on to the -landing and listened.</p> - -<p>It was an ideal night for ghosts to walk.</p> - -<p>He would piece the puzzle together. There -was Jackson, the lunatic. He knew he was not -the murderer, though the police would certainly -make out a case against him. Very well. Then -there was the strange disappearance of Lewis, -on which Sinclair was basing a case until his -official position compelled silence.</p> - -<p>Then there was his own piece of evidence which -was closing in. There was something else.</p> - -<p>When he and Sinclair had discussed the -matter in his flat, the latter had taken out the -statement of Mrs. Simmons from his pocket book. -He had done more. There had slipped on the -floor a letter. Collins’ keen eyes had seen the -signature ‘James Watson’ and the date. Under -pretence of reading the statement he had picked -up the letter and rapidly read it. So Sinclair -had kept this from him, for some reason. What -was he afraid of? Did he know more about the -murder than he cared to own? There was -nothing but his word that he had been in the -office on the fateful afternoon. What a lark if -the sober Sinclair—but he broke off suddenly. -His quick ear had caught something that sounded -in the house in spite of the wind, a stealthy step. -He moved noiselessly to the landing.</p> - -<p>There was a stirring in the house, as the wind -increased in volume, but the other sound was -quite distinct.</p> - -<p>Very quietly Collins closed the door, and went -to the window. Outside, the old ivy came round, -but Collins preferred the safety of a rope. Even -this would have been no easy work for a man -who was not in condition. He hung for one -moment turning round in the air as the wind -caught him.</p> - -<p>Once on the ground he made his way -cautiously round the house till he arrived at the -dining-room window. Here he paused. A wild -gust of wind, with a wisp of rain in it, caught -him, as he stood listening. Not a sound was -heard from within, and no light was showing.</p> - -<p>Was it a fool’s errand after all? The whole -house was dead still. Collins felt his way round -the corner. By the old, oak door he paused. All -was dark, but a sort of ghostly radiance was -shining on an ancient elm.</p> - -<p>He stepped back from the house, and presently -saw, high up in the gabled roof, a beam of light -was shining from a slit in a shutter or a -badly-fitting blind. Probably some servant who could -not sleep, or was frightened at the weather.</p> - -<p>Cold and wet he returned to beneath his -window, and with the practised skill of an athlete -hauled himself up.</p> - -<p>He stood in thought. Unless he had made a -mistake things were happening in this house -which were, to say the least, interesting. He -opened the door, and slid down the bannisters -without noise. Once in the hall he waited, -holding his breath. The dining-room door was open, -and, faint as it was, he caught the sound of a -living thing breathing.</p> - -<p>Like a cat he stole across the intervening -space, and carefully put his hand round the edge -of the doorway. Inch by inch the fingers crept -till they touched the switch. A flood of light -illuminated the room, and showed a man -standing on the hearth-rug, rigid. It was Eric -Sanders. In his hand was a revolver. For a moment -the two men gazed at each other without a word. -A look of hate was on the face of Sanders.</p> - -<p>“So,” he said, “it was you. I thought I could -not be mistaken. You foul brute, you’re not fit -to live,” and he raised his pistol.</p> - -<p>“You’re very free with your shooter,” said -Collins coolly. “May I ask for an explanation?”</p> - -<p>“It is no good my saying anything. Of course -you will deny everything, and so will she, but I -heard.”</p> - -<p>“You will excuse me, but I haven’t the faintest -idea what on earth you are talking about.” His -face was stern. “We don’t want to rouse the -whole house at this hour. Hadn’t you better tell -me what the trouble is? In the first place, what -are you doing here at all?”</p> - -<p>“You know perfectly well. It’s no good lying. -I heard everything and came down here to see -you. You are not going out of this room alive.”</p> - -<p>Collins slowly drew out his case, and lit a -cigarette. He knew a hasty action might force -the issue.</p> - -<p>“What did you hear?” he asked, casually.</p> - -<p>“Oh, it’s no good. I could not sleep, you know -why. Then I thought I would try a whiskey, -which I never touch as a rule, so I came down. -As I passed Mabel’s bedroom, I heard talking -and—I know I ought not to have done, but I -listened.”</p> - -<p>“If it interests you to know,” said Collins, “I -do not even know where Miss Watson’s bedroom -is, so if I were you, I should hesitate to make any -insinuations.”</p> - -<p>The other was shaken by his firm tones.</p> - -<p>“But I tell you I heard a man’s voice in there, -and Mabel called him dear. And then she said -‘Go to the dining-room, I will join you there.’ ”</p> - -<p>“And you pretend to love this girl, and dare -to make such foul accusations. If Miss Watson -was talking to anyone, it is her own business, and -I am sure she has her own reasons. You ought -to be ashamed of yourself. As for my being here, -if you want to know, I could not sleep, and I -heard someone moving about the house. I am -an investigator as you know, and apart from the -question of burglars, I am convinced there is -something happening in this house which -requires investigating. So I came down and found -you here.”</p> - -<p>Sanders looked at him doubtfully.</p> - -<p>“But I tell you, Mabel was talking with a man -in her bedroom.”</p> - -<p>“You make me sick with your insinuations. -How do you know it was a man? A woman can -imitate a man’s voice as a man can a woman’s.”</p> - -<p>Sanders was in perplexity, and slowly put the -revolver on the table. Without any sudden -movement Collins picked it up. “Is this yours?” he -asked casually.</p> - -<p>“No,” said Sanders. “It belonged to Sir James. -I found it here among his papers.”</p> - -<p>“Sir James was very fond of pistols,” said -the other, “he had one in London, too.”</p> - -<p>“Yes,” said Sanders, “he was always afraid of -being attacked.”</p> - -<p>“I wonder you did not have one, too,” said -Collins.</p> - -<p>“I did,” said Sanders and stopped.</p> - -<p>Collins was quite at his ease. Sander’s fit -of wild jealousy was passing away. “Lost it?” -he said.</p> - -<p>“Yes, I got rid of it,” said Sanders in some -confusion.</p> - -<p>“But we must not stay here; if you tell me on -your word of honour it was not you I heard, I -will apologize for my words.”</p> - -<p>“Certainly I will, but it is to Miss Watson -that an apology is due, not to me.”</p> - -<p>“Of course I cannot mention it to her, she -would never forgive me. And I hope you will -not do so.”</p> - -<p>Collins looked straight at him.</p> - -<p>“I should advise you to keep these fits of -excitement within bounds—and,” he added slowly, -“when they do come on, to leave your revolver -behind you.”</p> - -<p>“What do you mean?” said Sanders, turning -white.</p> - -<p>“When you called on Sir James Watson and -asked to see him, you were in one of those fits. -It is dangerous.”</p> - -<p>“What do you mean?”</p> - -<p>“When you left your card under the door, -with a note to say you must see him at once, I -don’t suppose you forget the day,” and he looked -at him with meaning.</p> - -<p>“Are you suggesting that I⸺?”</p> - -<p>“I am suggesting nothing,” said Collins, -sternly. “I am citing facts.”</p> - -<p>“If you think I had any hand in the murder, -you had better arrest me,” said the other wildly.</p> - -<p>“I am not a policeman, and do not go about -arresting people. The police know their -business. I am merely giving you a friendly -warning against temper. And now I think I will go -to bed. I am sure someone has been listening to -our conversation. And if you don’t mind, I think -I will take this.” And he picked up the revolver. -Sanders watched him go without a word.</p> - -</div> - -<div class="chapter" id="ch13"> - -<h2>Chapter XIII. <br> The Car in the Dark</h2> - -<p>In spite of the adventures of the night, -Collins was the first down in the morning. Old -John was in the dining-room.</p> - -<p>“Oh, sir,” he said, “Mr. Eric has gone off early -this morning. He has left a note for Miss Mabel, -and he left something for me as he always does, -with a note to say he had to go back to London, -and would have breakfast on the train.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes,” said Collins. “Miss Watson told me -he was going to-day, but I did not think he was -going so early.”</p> - -<p>“May I say a word to you, sir? You have been -very good to me, and did not laugh at me the -other day. You know, sir, about—what I saw.”</p> - -<p>“What you thought you saw,” said Collins, -with a smile.</p> - -<p>“Yes, sir, well I was awake last night and I -can swear I heard people talking. I should have -come down, but after what happened, I was -afraid to.”</p> - -<p>“That’s quite all right, I was about myself, -and so was Mr. Sanders. I expect it was the -storm which kept us all awake.”</p> - -<p>“But what were you doing in the empty room -in the attics, sir, if I may be so bold as to ask?”</p> - -<p>“In the attics?” said Collins; then, quickly, -“Oh, yes, of course, we heard a window banging, -and went to see.”</p> - -<p>John looked sceptical. “But forgive me, sir, -it sounded as though there was a woman with -you, or a man disguising his voice.”</p> - -<p>Collins dared not ask further.</p> - -<p>“You must have been mistaken, surely,” he -said.</p> - -<p>“Perhaps so, sir,” he said, doubtfully.</p> - -<p>The room with the light in it, thought Collins. -This is getting interesting.</p> - -<p>Allery came in. “Hullo, Collins,” he said. -“Down already. What a night of storm, but it -has cleared up now.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, it has cleared up now,” said Collins, with -such meaning in his voice that the other man -looked at him with surprise.</p> - -<p>“Sanders has gone,” said Collins.</p> - -<p>“Really, I knew he was going to-day, but he is -very early. You are off, too?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, I must get back. It is very jolly down -here, but not business. There are a lot of things -I must see to in London.”</p> - -<p>The others drifted in slowly, but a message -came from Mabel that she was not feeling well, -and would not be down till later.</p> - -<p>There was a general feeling of uneasiness in -the air.</p> - -<p>Collins had ordered the car for ten o’clock, -and thought he would not see his hostess, but -she came in as he was getting ready to go.</p> - -<p>“I am most awfully sorry I could not be down -this morning. Pray forgive me.”</p> - -<p>“I hope you are feeling better,” he said. She -was obviously ill, and lines of black showed -round her eyes.</p> - -<p>“I am afraid this visit has been very dull for -you,” she said.</p> - -<p>“On the contrary, I have enjoyed it -immensely,” he hesitated. “Miss Watson,” he said, “I -would not like to worry you, but if it should -happen that certain suspicions gather round -someone who is perhaps dear to you⸺”</p> - -<p>He got no further. Her face turned ashen, -and she reeled as though about to faint. Collins -caught her, and held her, but she repulsed him.</p> - -<p>“What do you mean?” she said in a hoarse -whisper.</p> - -<p>“I want to warn you. If you hear anything—any -rumour about Sanders⸺”</p> - -<p>“Eric?” she said, in unmistakable -astonishment. “Whatever should there be against him?”</p> - -<p>There was more relief than indignation in her -tone, which Collins was quick to notice. He took -a quick resolve.</p> - -<p>“I will tell you. On the day that your father -was murdered, after he had posted a letter, Mr. -Sanders called to see him.”</p> - -<p>Now her eyes were wide open with horror.</p> - -<p>“He handed a note under the door, begging -your father to see him.”</p> - -<p>“But how do you know this?” she said -breathlessly.</p> - -<p>He pulled out his pocket book without a word, -and handed her the card. She looked at it, -turning it over in her hand, and gave it back to him.</p> - -<p>“I found this in the room at the first -examination, and Mrs. Simmons afterwards told me the -truth.”</p> - -<p>“Did he see my father?” she asked.</p> - -<p>“No; he would not see him.”</p> - -<p>“And—have you told this to the police?”</p> - -<p>“No,” replied he; “I work independently. I -have not told a soul.”</p> - -<p>Tears came into her eyes.</p> - -<p>“How good of you, and he has treated you so -badly all the time, and you never said a word. -Of course you don’t really suspect him, but you -might have given him an awful time.”</p> - -<p>“I am afraid you give me credit for too much -generosity. I never move till I am certain. In -any case I would not have let his behaviour affect -my attitude.”</p> - -<p>“Well, I think you have acted like a -sportsman, and I am very grateful,” and she gave him -her hand.</p> - -<p>“You haven’t got to go at once, have you? -Do stay a little longer.”</p> - -<p>“This is very good of you,” he said, “but I must -get off by this train.”</p> - -<p>“I am sorry,” she said, and went out.</p> - -<p>Collins stood in thought.</p> - -<p>“Why was she so scared, and then so relieved -when I mentioned Eric’s name?” This was -getting interesting.</p> - -<p>He went outside and ordered the car, telling -the man he would want it immediately.</p> - -<p>When he returned Allery met him in the hall. -He came forward at once.</p> - -<p>“Collins, Mabel has told me what you have -done about Sanders. Let me tell you it is a -generous action. Although I know the boy is -as straight as a die, you could have made havoc -of his life, and something would have clung to -him, even when he had cleared himself.”</p> - -<p>“Don’t mention it. I knew he was not the -murderer.”</p> - -<p>Allery looked at him.</p> - -<p>“You have done a very clever thing,” he said, -“by accident. Oh, I have been keeping my eyes -open. If you had used this against Sanders you -would have made all Mabel’s sympathy turn to -him, and against you. It was like that with her -father. She would have turned on you with -loathing. As it is she is struck with your -generous conduct towards Sanders, and angry with -him for his treatment of you.”</p> - -<p>“Nonsense, my dear fellow,” said Collins, -“You are entirely wrong about—what shall we -say—the situation.”</p> - -<p>Allery gave a keen glance at him. “Humph,” -he said, “I wonder.”</p> - -<p>“The car is waiting, sir,” said John.</p> - -<p>Collins took his leave, and was driven to -Wilton-on-Sea. At the station he dismissed the -chauffeur with a liberal tip, and watched him -drive off. He then went to the parcels office -and despatched his bag to his flat in London. -Having done this he set out for a long walk, -with nothing but a stout stick, and a rucksack -with a few necessaries for the night. He had a -long tour in front of him.</p> - -<hr> - -<p>A steady rain was falling through the thick -night, but the wind had dropped. The Vale was -wrapped in shadow, not a light was showing. -In the shrubbery Collins watched, getting what -shelter he could. Unless all his calculations -were at fault, here was the crisis of the -situation. He was in front of the main door, and here -it was that something would take place.</p> - -<p>The time passed slowly, and he was thankful -for the flask he had brought. Away in the -distance a clock was striking. It was only nine -o’clock.</p> - -<p>Presently a familiar sound broke on his ear, -the purring of a car. Along the drive came a -gaunt, formless mass showing no light. He -parted the bushes and looked keenly into the -body of the car. It was empty. There was no -one but the driver, who was heavily wrapped -up. The car drew up at the door, and the driver -got down. It was too dark to see further, and -Collins came stealthily from the bushes, and -turned down the drive. He was stiff from his -waiting, but broke into a run, and only paused -when he came to the entrance into the main road. -The gate was open, but he carefully shut it.</p> - -<p>It would be necessary to open it and to light -up. He concealed himself.</p> - -<p>It was not long before he heard the car coming -down the drive.</p> - -<p>Silently he drew from his pocket an automatic -pistol and stood ready.</p> - -<p>At the gate the car came to a stop. He heard -a woman’s voice say, “Bother, the gate must have -shut. Just open it, will you?”</p> - -<p>“A man’s voice replied, “Hush, not so loud,” -and a figure got out of the car, and went forward.</p> - -<p>The gate swung back, and at the same moment -the driver turned on the headlights. They were -dimmed and did not give much light, but a -flicker struck the man, though he tried to dodge -out of the way.</p> - -<p>In that brief moment Collins recognised him. -The next moment the car had swung out into -the road.</p> - -<p>“Allery, by all that’s holy,” said Collins, “and -the other is Mabel, of course.” Then he laughed.</p> - -<p>“So that’s it, is it?”</p> - -<p>He set out on his long tramp to the nearest -town.</p> - -</div> - -<div class="chapter" id="ch14"> - -<h2>Chapter XIV. <br> Back in London</h2> - -<p>Boyce was smoking an excellent cigar, and -was generally pleased with himself. He had -just received a short note from the Prime -Minister, thanking him for his good work in running -the murderer of the Home Secretary to earth, -and hinting that when the time came for the -retirement of that fine old soldier, Sir Thomas -Hawley, as Chief Commissioner for London, the -new Home Secretary could not do better than -appoint so efficient an officer as he had proved -himself to be.</p> - -<p>This was good reading. He had feared some -strong words about his allowing lunatics to be -at large, but the truth was that Sir James had -never been popular with his colleagues, as he -was considered reserved, and had not lent -himself to giving soft berths to the nephews and -friends of his fellow Cabinet Ministers.</p> - -<p>His death had enabled the Premier to reshuffle -the Ministry, and bring in an impecunious -nephew of his own to a minor post.</p> - -<p>So everyone was happy.</p> - -<p>Boyce rang the bell and sent for Sinclair.</p> - -<p>The latter was not in the same genial mood. -None of the reflected glory of Boyce’s triumph -had come his way, and he was perfectly -convinced that whoever was guilty of the murder, -Jackson was not.</p> - -<p>“Take a seat, Sinclair,” said Boyce. “You -might care to see this letter from the Premier,” -and he handed it over with an air of indifference -which did not deceive the other.</p> - -<p>“Very good, sir, I congratulate you,” he said, -simply.</p> - -<p>“And now, Sinclair, I want to read you the -indictment which Giles, of the Public -Prosecutor’s office, has drawn up. I think it is very -well done. Of course it is only in the form of -notes.</p> - -<blockquote class="notes"> - - <p>Case against John Jackson, for the murder of - Sir James Watson, Bt.</p> - - <p>(1) Jackson confesses in three separate - statements that he has done the murder. But this - without corroboration is of little value, since he has - been declared insane by Medical Experts.</p> - - <p>(2) We have, therefore, to seek corroboration. - Jackson states that he was several times hanging - about the house in Leveson Square waiting for his - chance.</p> - - <p>This is confirmed by P.C. Jenkins and P.C. - Whiting, both of whom have identified the man as - having been seen in the vicinity of the Square.</p> - - <p>(3) Jackson states that he called on - Superintendent Sinclair three days previous to the - murder, and while in his office, stole writing paper, - and a letter signed by the latter, and on this paper - wrote to the Central News Agency.</p> - - <p>Superintendent Sinclair confirms that such a - call was made, but cannot trace any missing letter, - though there might have been one.</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p>“Is that so?” said Boyce, glancing at the other.</p> - -<p>Sinclair made a face.</p> - -<p>“Well, I certainly said I remembered the man -calling, but I told them there was no missing -letter. When the lawyer asked whether it would -have been possible for such a letter to have been -taken, I said of course it was possible, but highly -improbable. That’s the way the lawyers twist -evidence, but go on, sir.”</p> - -<p>Boyce looked as though he was about to rebuke -him for this heretical sentiment, but continued.</p> - -<blockquote class="notes"> - - <p>(4) Jackson states that he called Sinclair - and Collins on the ’phone, and corroboration can - be obtained—he had the opportunity to do so—and - there is a doubtful identification by a paper - seller, who says he saw him leave the Public - Telephone Call Office at Piccadilly Circus, at the time - named. This man is not a reliable character, but - the evidence can be used if necessary.</p> - - <p>(5) <i>Revolver.</i> Jackson makes a rambling - statement as to how he got the revolver which - cannot be relied upon, but as he is mad this does not - count for much.</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p>Sinclair lifted his eyebrows. “That’s rather -amusing,” he said. “Where they find -corroboration, they accept his statements; where they -don’t, they say he is mad.”</p> - -<p>Boyce looked at him severely. “This is only a -confidential memo,” he said, “for the information -of the office only.”</p> - -<p>“I see,” said Sinclair, with contempt.</p> - -<p>Boyce went on reading.</p> - -<blockquote class="notes"> - - <p>(6) <i>Motive.</i> Although motive is not essential - in the case of a lunatic, it is helpful with a certain - type of criminal’s mental derangement. There is - abundant evidence that Jackson had a fancied - grievance against the late Home Secretary, who - had turned down all his petitions for release from - the asylum at Broadmoor. He had also sent - threatening letters to Sir James.</p> - - <p>(7) <i>The Actual Crime.</i> Jackson states that - he followed Sir James in, after he had been to the - Pillar Box in the Square to post a letter. Mrs. - Simmons declared on oath that he did not, but on - further examination, when asked to swear that no - one came in after that, said she could not do so, - and showed great signs of confusion.</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p>Sinclair pricked up his ears. “I wonder,” he -said.</p> - -<p>“What’s that?” said Boyce.</p> - -<p>“Well, sir, Collins always said that she was -not telling the whole truth to us, and that she -was hiding something.”</p> - -<p>“There you are,” said Boyce. “Of course if -it was a matter of a trial, and of life and death, -we should turn the old woman inside out, and -she would probably confess; though why she -should try and screen him, is more than I can -tell; we may have it out of her in any case. Well, -that’s the case. What do you think of it?”</p> - -<p>“I don’t think any jury would convict,” said -Sinclair doggedly.</p> - -<p>“Really, Sinclair, you are very obstinate; I -suppose because you had no hand in catching -the man.”</p> - -<p>“I see in all the accounts,” said Sinclair, “it -is made out that the police caught the man, and -nothing is said of him giving himself up.” Boyce -looked uncomfortable.</p> - -<p>“It doesn’t do any harm, and does the police -good,” he said; “and in any case I am sure they -would have got him,” he ended, lamely.</p> - -<p>Sinclair remained silent.</p> - -<p>Boyce was annoyed.</p> - -<p>“Here’s my idea of what occurred,” said he, -rather peevishly.</p> - -<p>“Jackson comes out from the asylum, we will -assume, partially cured. He has nothing to do, -and gradually the old madness comes over him. -He nurses his grievance against Sir James until -it becomes an obsession. He comes to you about -it. Then he sees the official paper on your desk, -and with a madman’s cunning he takes some -pieces.</p> - -<p>“Perhaps he thinks he will write to Sir James -on it, who can say? He hangs about waiting for -a chance, possibly only to speak to him. He had -obtained a revolver, goodness knows where, and -then the plan matures. With the cunning and -vanity of insanity, he writes to the Central -News—which by the way no one but a madman would -do, and calls you and Collins up for the same -reason. Perhaps he was watching you all the -time when you were at the house.</p> - -<p>“He sees Sir James come out with a letter, and -as he states, he nearly killed him then, but -thinks he will do so inside.</p> - -<p>“He follows him in, and shoots him and -escapes.</p> - -<p>“He is watching you, and when you go to -Collins’ flat, he follows and leaves that stupid -message which also is the work of a madman -which you told me about. How’s that for a -case?”</p> - -<p>Sinclair remained silent for a minute.</p> - -<p>“A good counsel could smash it to pieces. I -am certain that he never took anything from my -room, but of course it is one of those things one -cannot swear to. If he followed Sir James in, -why did not Mrs. Simmons see him; and if she -did, why should she screen him? Why did she -hear no shot? And if she did, why did she not -raise the alarm? How did he get out again, and -close and lock the door behind him? Then who -was the man who called on Sir James in the -afternoon? Jackson makes no claim to be that -man, probably because no mention was made of -it in the papers?</p> - -<p>“What I think happened is as Collins -suggested. This man read all the accounts and so -got them into his head that he is quite certain -he did the murder. It is not an uncommon -phase.”</p> - -<p>Boyce interrupted. “I have no patience with -all this. Of course there are difficulties. -Whoever heard of a case where there were not, but -the evidence in my opinion is overwhelming. -Anyway, I am satisfied.”</p> - -<p>“Very good, sir, if you are convinced, that is -sufficient. What does the Public Prosecutor -think of it?”</p> - -<p>“My dear Sinclair, have you been so long in -the service as not to know that the Public -Prosecutor is not concerned with opinions, but to -make out a case on the evidence.”</p> - -<p>“And so you think that the case is ended?”</p> - -<p>“I think,” said Boyce unctuously, “that this -poor fellow will go back to Broadmoor, from -which he ought never to have been released, and -that our Department will have scored a -triumph.”</p> - -<p>“By the way,” he said, as if anxious to change -the conversation. “What has happened to our -friend Collins, he seems to have disappeared?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, he’s gone down to Devonshire to Sir -James’ place.”</p> - -<p>“What, is he still on some wild goose chase?”</p> - -<p>Sinclair smiled. “I rather fancy it’s a different -sort of chase from what I saw in London. Eric -Sanders will have to look to his laurels.”</p> - -<p>“Ho-ho, is that it? Fancy our friend Collins. -He doesn’t fit in with marriage bells, somehow. -I expect if there’s anything in it, he will give -up amateur detective work.”</p> - -<p>“Mr. Sylvester Collins to see you, sir,” said -the messenger.</p> - -<p>“Show him in,” said Boyce. Then in a -whisper—“Not a word about this, he will only start -arguing.”</p> - -<p>Collins entered. He was neatly dressed as -always, but he had a gaunt look and the lines on -his face suggested sleepless nights.</p> - -<p>“Where have you sprung from?” said Boyce, -with affected geniality of manner. He was not -anxious to go over the whole case with this man -whose keen intellect he feared.</p> - -<p>“Oh, I have been first in Devonshire and for -the last three days on a walking tour.”</p> - -<p>“You look it,” said Boyce.</p> - -<p>“I really came to see Sinclair, but heard he -was with you, so came on.”</p> - -<p>Boyce looked uncomfortable. “Would you -two rather be together? I have finished with -him.”</p> - -<p>“I suppose you have just settled the case of Sir -James to your satisfaction, eh?” he said with a -laugh.</p> - -<p>“Oh, I know you do not agree with our -conclusions, but I would much rather not go into the -whole matter.”</p> - -<p>“I don’t wish to discuss it. I think you have -come to the wisest decision you could under the -circumstances.”</p> - -<p>“Now you are trying to be sarcastic.”</p> - -<p>“Not at all. I had an idea of my own, but I -don’t think it is worth following up. I have -finished with the case, and am quite satisfied with -the way things have turned out.”</p> - -<p>The other two looked at him in astonishment.</p> - -<p>“Well, you have changed your opinion. I am -very glad,” said Boyce, with genuine -satisfaction.</p> - -<p>Sinclair looked bewildered.</p> - -<p>“So your clue proved a fraud, did it?” he said.</p> - -<p>“It did not lead where I expected,” he -answered.</p> - -<p>“This is all Greek to me,” said Boyce; “won’t -you tell us?”</p> - -<p>“No; it would only introduce the name of a -man who has nothing to do with the matter.”</p> - -<p>“You wanted to see me?” said Sinclair, still -puzzled.</p> - -<p>“Any time will do. By the way, Boyce, how -long do you think it will be before your case is -finished? I mean, all settled?”</p> - -<p>“I can’t say, you know the course of the law is -not swift.”</p> - -<p>“Shall we say a month?”</p> - -<p>“I should think that will easily cover it.”</p> - -<p>“Why are you so anxious to know?”</p> - -<p>Collins flicked the ash off his cigarette into an -ash tray.</p> - -<p>“Nothing much, only I know who the murderer -was, and I wanted to know how long it would be -before your man was convicted.”</p> - -<p>The other two gazed at him in utter -astonishment.</p> - -<p>“Do you mean to say that you think you know -who murdered Sir James and you are not going -to tell who it was?” said Boyce.</p> - -<p>“I never had any doubt in my own mind at all. -But to give him up—no, I am afraid that would -be impossible. You see, he doesn’t exist.”</p> - -<p>“Doesn’t exist? What nonsense. Are you -trying one of your jokes on us?” said Boyce, crossly; -he hated mysteries.</p> - -<p>“He’s gone, disappeared, vamoosed.”</p> - -<p>“Do you mean he’s dead?” said Boyce.</p> - -<p>“The question is, did he ever exist?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, I’ve no patience with this sort of talk,” -said Boyce. “If you know anything, for goodness -sake say what it is; if not, don’t talk in riddles.”</p> - -<p>Sinclair had been watching keenly. His face -was grave.</p> - -<p>“Yes, I think I know what you mean,” he said.</p> - -<p>“Oh, you, too. What on earth are you getting -at?”</p> - -<p>“I shall be in a position to say in a few days’ -time, to tell you more,” said Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“I wish you two would not be so confoundedly -mysterious,” said Boyce.</p> - -<p>“If you’ve got anything to tell me, do so. As -for you, Sinclair, I expect loyalty from you at -any rate.”</p> - -<p>Sinclair replied with some stiffness.</p> - -<p>“I shall not take any action without -consulting you, sir, and I may be quite wrong.”</p> - -<p>“Very well,” said Boyce, with a gesture of -dismissal.</p> - -<p>Alone together Collins and Sinclair went to -the latter’s room.</p> - -<p>“What an ass that man is,” said Collins. “He -hasn’t the brains of a rabbit.”</p> - -<p>“I wonder,” said the other, “whether he is -quite the fool you think him.”</p> - -<p>“What are your plans?”</p> - -<p>“Do you know a place called Wilton-on-Sea?” -said Sinclair. Collins looked keenly at him.</p> - -<p>“Yes, I know it,” he said.</p> - -<p>“I am thinking of running down there,” said -Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“What on earth are you going there for?”</p> - -<p>“I have been told that it is very good air, and -as I have a few days’ leave, I thought I would try -it.”</p> - -<p>Collins thought for a moment.</p> - -<p>“Well, you probably don’t know, but it is quite -close to Sir James Watson’s place—in fact, it is -the station for it.”</p> - -<p>“Really?” said Sinclair. “Then of course you -know it well?”</p> - -<p>“If you are really going there I will run you -down in my car. You might like to see Sir -James’ place.”</p> - -<p>The men looked at each other.</p> - -<p>“I would like to see inside your head, and find -out what there is there,” said Sinclair. “You’ve -something concealed.”</p> - -<p>Collins laughed. “That’s just what I was -thinking. What are you after? Well, we will -each keep his own counsel.”</p> - -</div> - -<div class="chapter" id="ch15"> - -<h2>Chapter XV. <br> The Crisis</h2> - -<p>Beyond Wilton-on-Sea, there is a bare hill -standing gaunt above the surrounding -country.</p> - -<p>On the seaward side the cliff is sheer, and to -the West a sudden drop into a quarry pit makes -for danger. On the East a very steep path leads -to a semi-ruined church, surrounded by a church -yard, and some little distance away is a tower -where once stood an ancient castle.</p> - -<p>The church forms a landmark for miles.</p> - -<p>From a distance it appears to be an imposing -edifice. On near approach there is a tiny chancel -which still retains a roof, and a nave with no -roof. It is all very small, like the chapel of a -stronghold in days gone by. At the base of the -hill is a public-house of mean appearance, and -also some straggling houses.</p> - -<p>It was here that Sinclair and Collins had -taken up their residence. For three days they -had been glued to the spot. A fretful distrust of -each other was growing up, which they tried their -best to hide.</p> - -<p>There had been no talk of going to Sir James’ -house. Collins would sit in the little sitting -room upstairs, reading, with one eye on the -window. Sinclair was more restless; he wandered -outside, prowling round the base of the hill but -never going up.</p> - -<p>He appeared to be drinking more than was -good for him, and evidently suffering from the -strain of waiting. Each was sure that the other -was keeping something to himself, but whatever -it was it had drawn them to this spot. Evening -was coming on after a grey autumn afternoon, -and a thin drizzle was falling. It was a time -when a wise man hugs his fire, and is glad to -draw the curtains and light a cheery lamp.</p> - -<p>There was no light in the small upper room -where Collins sat like a sphinx. Sinclair was -glowering in the arm-chair, his face slightly grey, -and a worried look in his eyes.</p> - -<p>The hillside was getting dark, and the church -on the top stood out black against the western -sky. A straggling group of people were coming -down the steep path. There had been a service -in the tiny chancel, and curiosity had drawn -visitors to attend.</p> - -<p>Perhaps a dozen or so were descending the -steep pathway.</p> - -<p>Collins gave a slight movement, and drew in -his breath quickly.</p> - -<p>“At last!” he said, almost involuntarily.</p> - -<p>He sprang to his feet, and took his mackintosh -from a chair.</p> - -<p>Sinclair got up, too. “Well?” he said.</p> - -<p>Collins laughed. “Come on then. I see you -want to be in at the death.”</p> - -<p>Without a word Sinclair put on his coat, and -followed.</p> - -<p>At the point where the steep path wound -upwards there was a lych-gate. Here in the -shadow they waited while the rain dripped off -the tiled roof. The people had passed, and a -solitary figure was approaching in the gathering -gloom.</p> - -<p>He was scarcely a yard off, when Sinclair made -an exclamation, and sprang forward. He laid his -hand on the other’s shoulder and looked straight -in his face. “Ah,” he said, “Lewis at last! I -arrest you for the murder of Sir James Watson, -and I warn you—but of course you know all -about that.” The other made no movement of -protest or resentment. Collins came forward -smiling blandly.</p> - -<p>“Steady, Sinclair, don’t let your professional -zeal run away with you. You haven’t a warrant -to start with, and you are mistaking your man.”</p> - -<p>“What do you mean?” said Sinclair, turning to - him.</p> - -<p>“You are mistaking your man, that is all. Let -me introduce you. This is Sir Ronald Watson, -Baronet, Superintendent Sinclair.”</p> - -<p>A look of blank astonishment was on Sinclair’s -face, and he looked from one to the other in -bewilderment.</p> - -<p>“What on earth do you mean?” he said.</p> - -<p>The other man turned to Collins, “Hast thou -found me, oh mine enemy?” he said, with a smile, -which belied his words.</p> - -<p>“Come on,” said Collins; “let’s get indoors, it’s -beastly out here.”</p> - -<p>“So be it,” said the other.</p> - -<p>They crossed the road where the mud was -splashing, and entered the house. Once in the -room, the stranger turned to Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“Yes; I am Ronald Watson, though how Mr. -Collins has run me to earth is a mystery. And -what you are doing in the matter, unless you -knew my identity, is more than I can say.”</p> - -<p>“I don’t understand it at all,” said Sinclair, -who was inclined to be sulky at the turn of -affairs. “It seems to me there will have to be a -lot of explanation.”</p> - -<p>“You shall have it. The time has gone by for -this concealment. It was a mistake. Only let me -tell you I had nothing to do with the murder of -my poor father.”</p> - -<p>“I can answer for that,” said Collins.</p> - -<p>“Look here,” continued Collins, “I have my -car here, and I suggest that we run over to The -Vale, and have a full explanation there.”</p> - -<p>“Yes; that will be the best thing,” said -Watson, or Lewis. A sudden thought crossed -Sinclair’s mind. “Oh, of course. That will do,” he -said. Collins was watching him keenly.</p> - -<p>“Will you settle up here then, while Watson -and I get the car ready?”</p> - -<p>Sinclair was about to demur, but after all this -was Collins’ capture, and he could not very well -insist on keeping the man with him, and as -Collins had said he had no warrant.</p> - -<p>Without waiting for an answer, the other two -went out.</p> - -<p>In a few minutes the humming of the car was -heard, and Sinclair, having paid their bill, went -to the front door.</p> - -<p>The small luggage they had brought was -always ready packed, for each had felt they -might have to move in a hurry.</p> - -<p>At the door Collins and Watson were already -in the car, and Sinclair got in behind with none -too good a grace.</p> - -<p>They set off into the night at a rapid pace.</p> - -<hr> - -<p>Old John came to the door in answer to their -ring, and Collins got down, leaving the others in -the car.</p> - -<p>In a matter-of-fact voice he asked whether he -could see Miss Watson—he would not come in, -he had some friends in the car.</p> - -<p>John said he would ask her to come. -Whatever astonishment he felt he did not show. -Warned by some premonition she could not -master, Mabel came at once. She had just been -going up to dress.</p> - -<p>“How do you do, Mr. Collins?” she said. “John -tells me you won’t come in.”</p> - -<p>“I wanted to speak to you first,” he said. -“Don’t be alarmed, I have your brother here -with me. I brought him over from Wilton.”</p> - -<p>She turned white and caught hold of the post -of the door.</p> - -<p>“My brother?” she stammered.</p> - -<p>“Yes; he feels, and I agree with him, that the -time has come for a full explanation.”</p> - -<p>She lifted her head proudly. “There is nothing -shameful or underhand.”</p> - -<p>“I know that,” said Collins quietly, “but I -have Superintendent Sinclair here, an old friend -of mine from Scotland Yard, and he would like -to hear the whole thing.”</p> - -<p>“Scotland Yard?” she said. “He has not⸺?”</p> - -<p>“Arrested him. Oh, no, there’s nothing of -that sort.”</p> - -<p>A figure came from the car.</p> - -<p>“It’s all right, Mabel, don’t be frightened. -We’ve made fools of ourselves with all this -secrecy, and we’ll have all the cards on the table -now. Let’s get out of this wet.”</p> - -<p>Sinclair advanced and shook hands with -Mabel. He had met her, of course, in London, -at the time of the Inquest, but could hardly claim -acquaintance.</p> - -<p>In the hall they were met by Allery and Eric -Sanders.</p> - -<p>Collins opened his eyes in surprise.</p> - -<p>“Eric,” said Mabel. “This is my brother.” -The two men shook hands with a mutual look of -interest.</p> - -<p>Allery laughed outright.</p> - -<p>“You young dog,” he said. “How did you come -to be caught after all our trouble. I was afraid -Collins would be one too much for us.... I -congratulate you on your cleverness,” said he, -turning to Collins.</p> - -<p>“I am afraid this is all Greek to me,” said -Sinclair stiffly. He had expected Tragedy, and -found Comic Opera.</p> - -<p>“You shall know everything,” said Allery; -“but come to dinner first. Can you manage it?” -he said to Mabel.</p> - -<p>“I’ll go and see about it at once,” said she.</p> - -<p>“As these three poor men have no dress clothes -with them, we will have a scratch meal, and then -a round talk.” Her spirits seemed to have risen -now that the affair was over.</p> - -<p>Dinner was a merry meal, even if the gaiety -was somewhat forced.</p> - -<p>Old John moved round with a look of blank -astonishment on his face. His eyes were round -and wide, and he could not keep them off Watson. -The aunt had sent a message that she would not -come to dinner. The news had proved too much -for her nerves.</p> - -<p>When the port was on the table, and John had -retired, Mabel said, “This room is very comfy, -and I think we might go into matters here. You -can smoke.”</p> - -<p>“Not till after this excellent port,” said -Collins. “Our ancestors would turn in their graves -if we smoked with the port. Isn’t that so, -Watson?”</p> - -<p>“That was the custom,” said the other with a -smile. There was no trace of the Scotland Yard -‘hack’ now in this man who presided at the table -as one born to it.</p> - -<p>“Well, before we have your story,” said -Collins, “I would like to know how many were in -the plot. Miss Watson and you, Allery, I know. -Anyone else?” and he glanced sharply at Sanders.</p> - -<p>“You are a wizard,” said Allery. “No, there -were only us two. Sanders knew nothing about -it.”</p> - -<p>Sinclair moved uneasily. Was he in a -madhouse? ‘Plot’ and ‘secret’! These people were -talking as though they were playing a game, and -he had come on the track of a murderer.</p> - -<p>“Can we have the explanation of all this?” he -said, testily.</p> - -<p>“Certainly, Sinclair,” said Watson, “and you -are entitled to one from me, at any rate. Here -goes.”</p> - -<p>The main lights were turned off, and only the -electric bulbs in shades threw a soft light on the -table. There was no sound in the room while -Watson spoke.</p> - -<p>“I will not be more tedious than possible, but -I want to make the narrative clear, so I must go -back.”</p> - -<p>“I need not go into the reasons for my leaving -England. Allery here, I know, thought I had -done something criminal—in fact, forged my -father’s name. But I think I have convinced him -that it was only a youthful outbreak, which I -sincerely regret.” Allery nodded, gravely.</p> - -<p>“I wandered about in the South American -States. I found I could not settle down to any -definite occupation, and after a time I got mixed -up with a pretty little revolution. Partly through -pride, and partly because I was not carrying out -the conditions my father imposed, I stopped -communicating with the lawyer at Monte Video, and -then I was in prison, and nearly executed for -my part in the revolution which failed. When I -got out, I had had enough of plots, and was only -released on my agreeing to leave the country. I -knew a man who was a merchant, and he gave -me a job to come to England in charge of some -freight for his firm which required some one to -travel with it, largely bullion. It was a -responsible job, though an easy one, and with a strong -letter of recommendation from the firm I got a -position in the London office, where my -knowledge of the other end was useful. I had intended -to go to the old man, and tell him the whole -thing, but it savoured too much of the prodigal -son, and I delayed doing so. I soon got sick of -the office work, and as I had always had a taste -for detective stories, I got the idea that I would -try and get into Scotland Yard. My father was -not then Home Secretary, or I would not have -risked a chance meeting. As Sinclair here knows -I got in as a clerk on the recommendation of my -good merchants. Only the head of the firm knew -where I had come from, and he died soon after, -so my past was hidden.</p> - -<p>“I believe I discharged my duties -satisfactorily, and was promoted to be right-hand man to -Superintendent Sinclair. I might even have -become an Inspector in time.</p> - -<p>“All this time I had held no communication -with my father or sister, though I couldn’t resist -the temptation of coming down here and looking -at the old place, and saw them both without being -seen. This was only three weeks before the death -of my father.” He paused and steadied his voice. -“It got on my nerves and I had almost made up -my mind to come and tell him the whole story. -On the very day of the terrible occurrence, I had -made up my mind to go to him, and as you know -now, I had spoken aloud on the subject. I went -out with the intention of doing so, but wandered -round in a state of uncertainty, and then -returned. Would to God I had gone!”</p> - -<p>“Wait a moment,” said Sinclair. “Then you -were not the man who called on Sir James on -that afternoon?”</p> - -<p>“No; I never saw him again,” he answered -sadly.</p> - -<p>“You can imagine the awful shock I had when -you sent for me and told me of the telephone -message, although I hoped it was, as you thought, -a hoax. When you asked me to go into the house, -I was so upset I felt I could not do so, and made -an excuse. I wandered out in a terrible state of -anxiety till the evening papers came out with an -account of the affair. I didn’t know what to do, -but I felt I must get in touch with Mabel and -declare myself. I was really half off my head, -and so I settled up at my old lodgings and left -London. I did not go back to the office, as -already I had the idea of disappearing as Lewis -and coming back as myself. I suppose it was -pride. I thought somehow it would not look very -well that I had been a clerk in Scotland Yard. -Then next morning the papers came out, and I -saw to my horror that I was ‘wanted’ in -connection with the crime. You can imagine my -feelings. I could see the frightful construction that -would be placed on my actions—the most awful -accusation that can be brought against any man.</p> - -<p>“It was dreadful. Of course I knew I could -clear myself, but there would be that nasty -suspicion which always hangs round a man who -has been accused and that damnable saying -‘there is no smoke without a fire.’ I had arrived -the night before, and not wishing to go to the -house at once, I had spent the night in the old -tower near the chapel, where I used to go -birds-nesting when I was a youngster. I came on here -in the early hours of the morning, and roused -Mabel up. She came down and let me in, and -we had a very long talk. We could not decide -what to do. It seemed difficult for me to get out -of the country, and equally difficult to stay.</p> - -<p>“Mabel had to go up to the inquest, and there -was no one to advise us. So we decided to take -Allery into our confidence. He came down here -and we told him the whole story.”</p> - -<p>All eyes were turned on the old lawyer.</p> - -<p>“Yes,” he said. “They dragged me into it, and -I had to give advice. I was quite convinced that -our young friend had nothing to do with the -crime. There was nothing criminal in his -remaining in hiding. If he could have got away to -Monte Video, he could have come back from there -in the ordinary course and established his -identity. But, in the meantime, he had better -wait till the police had got hold of the real man, -and then there would be no case against him. -It was hard to decide what to do, but the -publicity was what we all wanted to avoid.”</p> - -<p>“We arranged,” continued Watson, “for me to -stay in the old attic over the hall door; there are -no secret chambers or anything of that sort in -the house. I just lived as best I could while -Mabel was in London. Then you all came down -here to stay. That made matters easier in a way, -as Mabel and Allery could both come and see -me. We hit on the rather absurd scheme of my -dressing up in my father’s court dress and with -a wig and false moustache. We thought, if by -any chance I were seen, it would be thought to -be the ghost of Sir James. We thought that -would be the lesser evil.”</p> - -<p>“So then it was you that old John saw in this -room?” said Sanders.</p> - -<p>“Yes, and I would have taken him into our -confidence, but he fled like a madman. I don’t -think he knew where he was. After that we -thought it was too risky for me to remain in the -house, and I was in Mabel’s room all ready to -go, when we heard noises downstairs, and sounds -of talking, so I had to take cover again.”</p> - -<p>“So it was you who were talking to Mabel that -night?” said Sanders before he realised what he -had said.</p> - -<p>“What do you mean?” said Mabel, sharply.</p> - -<p>He was crimson with shame and could hardly -meet her eyes.</p> - -<p>“Only that I heard someone talking in your -room with you, and came down here and—met -Collins.”</p> - -<p>Mabel’s eyes glittered ominously. “I think -you had better explain yourself,” she said.</p> - -<p>“Oh, please, don’t ask me. Well, if you must -know, I accused Mr. Collins of having -been—with you, and we had heated words over it. -There, that’s the truth, and you must think what -you will of me,” and he moved his hands in a -gesture of despair.</p> - -<p>They all looked at Collins.</p> - -<p>“I would rather not say anything about the -matter, but since we are all giving explanations, -I found Sanders in here with a loaded revolver -waiting to shoot me. I was able to prove to him -that it was not I that he had heard, and that his -suspicions were groundless and unworthy. That -is all.”</p> - -<p>“How horrible,” said Mabel, clenching her -teeth.</p> - -<p>“Oh, I know,” said Sanders, “I was a brute -and Collins here acted like a gentleman. I had -better go.”</p> - -<p>“Please stay where you are—for the present,” -said Mabel. “Since you have acted like this I -will also say something. Mr. Collins knew that -you had called on Sir James on the very -afternoon of the crime, and he said nothing about it, -because he was certain that you were not the -criminal, or connected with the crime. He could -have ruined you if he had liked to tell what he -knew. And you repay him with vile suspicions. -Now you will wait to hear the end.”</p> - -<p>There was an awkward silence for a few -minutes. Sinclair looked unasked questions at -Collins.</p> - -<p>“I am sorry Miss Watson has mentioned this, -but since it is out I rely on you, gentlemen, to -keep it to yourselves. I picked up a card on the -floor of the library which Sanders had dropped. -Mrs. Simmons knew all about this visit.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, so that’s it, is it?” said Sinclair. “I -begin to see. That’s what she was keeping back in -her evidence. That’s what you had up your -sleeve.”</p> - -<p>“I thought it would not be fair to tell you this -at the time, as you would be bound to use it -officially. If it had led to anything, of course I -would have told you; when I was satisfied in my -own mind that Sanders had nothing to do with -the crime.” Sanders squirmed with shame. “I -decided to tell no one.”</p> - -<p>“That’s why you told Miss Watson, I -suppose,” Sanders blurted out.</p> - -<p>“You wrong Mr. Collins, he only told me when -we had got at cross-purposes. When he told me -there might be suspicion on someone dear to me -I thought he meant Ronald. He treated you most -generously all through,” she said, coldly.</p> - -<p>“We are rather wandering from the main -story,” said Allery, to pour oil on the water. -“Let’s hear the rest, Watson.”</p> - -<p>“There is little more to tell. We decided that -I must get out of the house, and I thought of the -old tower. Allery here had arranged for a motor -boat to take me to Bristol, and I was going on -board a tramp bound for Rio. I was going to -answer the advertisement from there and return. -To-morrow I should have been off, but our friend -here,” he pointed to Collins, “seems to have been -one too much for us, and came in the nick of -time.”</p> - -<p>Collins gave a laugh. “I see you all want to -know my part in the matter. I am afraid there -is no mystery about it, and no great skill. I will -confess that when I found the visiting card on -the floor I thought it was a possible clue, and -worth following up. But when I became -acquainted with Sanders I realised that it was a -mere coincidence.” He bowed slightly to Sanders -with a politeness which was almost a mockery, -and Sanders looked hatred at him. Every word -was putting him in a position of humiliation and -Collins as the hero of the piece, and it was gall -to him.</p> - -<p>Collins continued.</p> - -<p>“The first thing which put me on the track was -the fact that no news had been heard of Lewis. -I was certain that he had nothing to do with the -crime, and yet he had disappeared. His -confusion when asked to go to Leveson Square was -taken to be a sign of guilt, but if there was no -guilt there must be another explanation. He had -not fled instantly. He had gone back to his -lodgings, and paid his bill, and then gone. There -was, therefore, I argued, another reason for -going. It must be connected in some way with Sir -James, especially when he had said that he was -going there on that afternoon. There was a hue -and cry out for him, and he had not come -forward to clear himself. Then he must have a -reason beyond the mere shrinking from publicity.</p> - -<p>“Then it is difficult for a man without friends, -as he appeared to be, to disappear entirely, as he -seemed to have done.</p> - -<p>“If it was anything to do with Sir James, there -might conceivably be a clue at this house. On -the first night I was here as the sun was setting -a ray shone on that portrait of Sir James, and I -saw Lewis looking at me.”</p> - -<p>“What do you mean?” said Mabel, startled.</p> - -<p>“I mean the likeness was unmistakable. The -light was peculiar, and the eyes, nose and -forehead were all that showed up, and there was the -striking family likeness.”</p> - -<p>“I saw the expression on your face,” said -Allery, “and it made me uneasy.”</p> - -<p>“And I saw the look that passed between you -and Miss Mabel,” said Collins with a laugh, “and -it confirmed my suspicions.”</p> - -<p>“Then the ghost, of course, was as clear as -daylight to me. The dress was a good idea, if I may -say so. I found the marks of real feet on the -hearth-rug. When I went from here I did not go -back to London, but kept watch. I thought I -had got you,” he said turning to Watson, “when -the car left here secretly at night; but you were -too cunning, there was only Allery and Miss -Mabel. I suppose that was your doing, Allery?”</p> - -<p>Allery burst out laughing. “We did you -there. We had no idea that anyone was -watching, of course, but we had to take precautions, -so Mabel fetched the car from the garage, and -Watson was waiting there. He was on the floor -of the car, covered with a rug, and I came out -of the front door and joined them. It was in -case any servants were about. We didn’t want -another ghost episode. But how did you pick -up the clue?”</p> - -<p>“I hung around. The night was too wet to -follow the tracks of the car, but twice I saw you -going on the road to Wilton in the evening, and -each time I was further along the road, and on -the second occasion was able to follow up, and -saw the car at the bottom of the hill. I was -certain Lewis, or Sir Ronald, as I now thought it -was, was hiding in the neighbourhood, and knew -a search would simply give the game away.</p> - -<p>“So I came down here and watched, and finally -saw you coming down the hill. I had found out -about this strange service, and calculated that -if a lonely man wanted to come down he would -take the chance when a lot of others were -coming.”</p> - -<p>“Very clever,” said Allery.</p> - -<p>“I think that explains all there is to explain. -But how did you get on the track, Sinclair?”</p> - -<p>“I had my suspicions, but pardon me, I am -not a free-lance like you are, but an official, and -you must allow me to keep my secrets.”</p> - -<p>“Of course,” said Collins, carelessly.</p> - -<p>“What I don’t understand,” said Allery, “is, -why you were so keen on finding out the whole -thing?”</p> - -<p>“Blackmail, I should think,” said Sanders.</p> - -<p>Mabel gave him a look of contempt, and the -rest ignored him.</p> - -<p>“I really couldn’t tell you. I suppose a -problem always fascinated me, and then I thought I -might be of some use, perhaps,” and he glanced -at Mabel.</p> - -<p>“You have certainly cleared up the mystery,” -said Allery.</p> - -<p>“Yes,” said Sinclair, “but we are no nearer to -the question of the murder.”</p> - -<p>“I thought they had got the man,” said Mabel -in surprise.</p> - -<p>“They think they have,” said Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“I suppose it will remain one of those -unsolved mysteries.”</p> - -<p>“By the way, Sir Ronald,” said Sinclair, -starting up, “can I have a word with you, I shan’t -keep you a minute?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, really, Mr. Sinclair, I think he has had -enough for this evening,” said Mabel.</p> - -<p>“I am afraid the matter is very urgent,” -insisted the other.</p> - -<p>Something in his manner irritated Allery. -“Mr. Sinclair,” he said, “you must remember, -please, you are a guest here, and not on official -duty. Are you not satisfied with the -explanation you have heard?”</p> - -<p>Collins interposed. “Don’t you think you -ought to tell old John and the servants that you -have come home? You know how servants -gossip.”</p> - -<p>“Of course,” said Watson, “I must do that at -once. Don’t disturb yourselves, we don’t want -any solemn announcement. I will just go and -tell him, in an off-hand way. The old fellow will -be very pleased.”</p> - -<p>He got up and went out. Sinclair bit his lip.</p> - -<p>There was a silence when he had gone out.</p> - -<p>Allery cleared his throat.</p> - -<p>“Mr. Sinclair,” he said, “this brings about an -awkward situation. We are rather in your -hands. Your department is searching for Lewis. -You have—if I may say so—unofficially found -him. The question is, if you are satisfied that -he has nothing to do with the crime, will you -consent for us to carry out our plan and let him -go, as we had arranged.”</p> - -<p>“That places me in a curious position. I -can’t give an answer off-hand. I must think it -over.”</p> - -<p>“Take your time,” said Collins pleasantly. -“Have a whiskey and soda?” He rose from the -table and went to the sideboard.</p> - -<p>“Bother, there’s none here. Miss Mabel, may -I act as butler and fetch some, we don’t want -to send for old John just now?”</p> - -<p>“Certainly,” she said with a smile.</p> - -<p>He went out.</p> - -<p>Sanders spoke for the first time since his gross -insinuation.</p> - -<p>“I will go. After what has happened you will -not want me to remain.”</p> - -<p>“That is a matter for you to decide,” said -Mabel stiffly.</p> - -<p>“Oh, that’s all nonsense,” said Allery, “you -two are not going to let this business upset you. -It only needs an apology, and I am sure Sanders -will give that. He was upset, and perhaps a -little jealous,” he added.</p> - -<p>Sanders coloured.</p> - -<p>“Your remark is in doubtful taste,” he said. -“I don’t think any apology would serve in a case -like this.” He rose.</p> - -<p>Sinclair put up his hand. “Stop,” he said -firmly, “I may want you.”</p> - -<p>Sanders turned from red to white. “What do -you mean?” he said.</p> - -<p>“I have no warrant, and cannot make any -arrest. But it would be advisable if you did not -leave this house.”</p> - -<p>“This is about the last straw,” said Sanders, -and sank into his chair.</p> - -</div> - -<div class="chapter" id="ch16"> - -<h2>Chapter XVI. <br> The Criminal Found</h2> - -<p>“He’s a long time getting that whiskey,” -said Allery.</p> - -<p>“I expect he’s having a talk with John and -my brother,” said Mabel. Sinclair sprang -forward in his chair.</p> - -<p>“Good God,” he shouted, and without waiting -for leave, he rang the bell, keeping his hand on -the button in his excitement.</p> - -<p>A maid answered the door.</p> - -<p>“Where is Mr. Collins?” said he at once.</p> - -<p>The maid looked her surprise. She was not -used to being spoken to like that.</p> - -<p>“Mr. Collins and Sir Ronald have gone out for -a run in his car, sir,” she replied stiffly. “Sir -Ronald left a message that they might not be -back for some time.”</p> - -<p>“Why didn’t you come and tell us, Mary?” -said Mabel quietly. She also resented Sinclair’s -interference.</p> - -<p>“He said it would do later on as you were -busy, Miss,” and she looked surprised.</p> - -<p>Allery was quick to notice it, and said:—</p> - -<p>“All right, Mary, thank you. That’s quite all -right.”</p> - -<p>The maid went out. Sinclair’s face was ashy. -He buried his face in his hands.</p> - -<p>“What’s the matter, man?” said Allery -sternly.</p> - -<p>“Matter, he’s gone to his death,” said Sinclair.</p> - -<p>For a moment there was a silence tense and -vital. It seemed as though the horror of these -weeks had come into the room in a living form. -Powers of evil gathered round.</p> - -<p>The shadows deepened at the word. There -was utter and crushing conviction in the tones.</p> - -<p>Mabel was the first to grasp the meaning, and -a flush mounted to her face. “Do you suggest -that my brother, after all you have heard, is a -murderer?” she said in a passionate voice.</p> - -<p>“No, not for a moment,” said Sinclair, “but -before the morning comes he will be murdered, -as his father was murdered, and by the same -hand.”</p> - -<p>“You mean?” said Allery, leaning forward.</p> - -<p>“Exactly. Collins, the cleverest scoundrel we -have had for a generation.”</p> - -<p>“Mr. Collins,” said Mabel, and there was pain -in the voice. “I will never believe that. You -must be mad.”</p> - -<p>Allery rose with a grim look on his face. -“You have said too little or too much. We must -know what you mean.”</p> - -<p>The temporary numbness passed from Sinclair -and he was the man of action.</p> - -<p>“Yes, yes, of course, everything, but not now. -We must act at once. You must trust to my -word. I shall want all your help. First, have -you a car, and a driver?”</p> - -<p>His energy infected the others.</p> - -<p>“There’s our car,” said Mabel.</p> - -<p>“Then get it ready at once,” said Sinclair -abruptly. “Ask questions afterwards.” Sanders, -who had not said a word after his last rebuff, -sprang to his feet. “I’ll go and see to it.”</p> - -<p>“Good. Can you drive? No, the chauffeur -must do that. I will go, no, no, that won’t do, -I must telephone.”</p> - -<p>“I’ll go,” said Sanders quietly. “If you’ll tell -me where to go.”</p> - -<p>Sinclair looked doubtful. “It’s dangerous -your dealing with a man who will stick at -nothing. Have you a revolver?”</p> - -<p>“Yes,” said Sanders blushing at the -recollection which it conjured up, of the night he had -unworthy suspicions of Mabel.</p> - -<p>“Can you shoot? You are dealing with a crack -shot.”</p> - -<p>“I’m pretty useful,” said the other.</p> - -<p>“Then go.” Sanders went without a word.</p> - -<p>“The telephone, in the hall isn’t it?” he rushed -out and seized the instrument. “Hullo, Trunks. -Scotland Yard priority call. Superintendent -Sinclair,” he said, and hung up the receiver.</p> - -<p>Sanders came in breathless. “We can’t get the -car to start,” he said.</p> - -<p>“Ah, I feared as much, he’s tampered with it,” -said Sinclair.</p> - -<p>He seized the telephone, “Hullo that call -coming through?⸺”</p> - -<p>“All right; give me the police station at -Wilton in the meantime—urgent.”</p> - -<p>He waited a moment with the receiver in his -hand. “Hullo, Superintendent Sinclair here. -That you, Miles?—good. Get the best car at -once, and come here with two men. Armed, you -understand. I take full responsibility. Must -ring off, I’m waiting for the Yard.”</p> - -<p>The bell tinkled, and he got through.</p> - -<p>He issued rapid orders.</p> - -<p>When he put up the receiver, he turned to the -others.</p> - -<p>“There’s one point in our favour. He doesn’t -know he’s suspected. He has always regarded -everyone as a fool. But he’s a clever rogue if -ever there was one, and he’ll take some catching.”</p> - -<p>“But my brother,” said Mabel, “you said he -was in danger.”</p> - -<p>“I am so sorry, Miss Watson. I was so upset -for the moment. There is no immediate danger. -In fact, his one chance lies with keeping your -brother safe, for the moment, but his life is in -danger. I am bound to tell you that I have given -orders for the house in Leveson Square to be -watched, but it may not be there.”</p> - -<p>“What may not be there?” said Allery; “we -are all in the dark.”</p> - -<p>“I know. I will explain, but there’s no time -now.</p> - -<p>“As far as I know he’s gone to London and -he will not spare the car. He may not go direct -in case of some such action as I have taken.”</p> - -<p>Sanders came in.</p> - -<p>“The car will go now,” he said. “Luckily the -chauffeur had spare parts, otherwise it would -have been hopeless, and there was evidently not -much time to tamper with it. I’ll get off, if you -tell me where to go.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, don’t go,” said Mabel with a revulsion of -feeling. “Surely the police can do all that’s -necessary?”</p> - -<p>“I’m going,” said Sanders, and his jaw set -square. There was a long account to settle with -this man.</p> - -<p>“Go direct to London, as hard as you can. -Don’t stop to ask questions on the way. Go to -Leveson Square; here, take my card with you, -and explain to the men on duty there. If you -don’t catch them on the road, and I’m afraid you -have a poor chance, he will have got there first. -They have full instructions to act, but you must -get hold of Watson, and see to his safety if you -can. Good luck to you. Telephone if you can. -Use my name, and they will give you priority.”</p> - -<p>Without even looking at Mabel or saying -good-bye, he went out.</p> - -<p>“Oh, my brother and Mr. Collins! This is -awful; surely there must be some ghastly -mistake!”</p> - -<p>“You must be brave,” said Allery, “and wait -for Mr. Sinclair’s explanation.”</p> - -<p>A sound was heard outside as the car shot out -into the night.</p> - -<p>“Too long a start,” said Sinclair, looking at -his watch.</p> - -<p>John had been hovering at the door, and now -came forward.</p> - -<p>“Can I be of any service, Miss?” he said.</p> - -<p>“No, thank you, John,” said she, “except you -can tell the servants to keep absolutely silent -about anything that is happening. They will -all know in time. Meanwhile I depend on their -loyalty.”</p> - -<p>The old man bowed. “I am sure you may -depend on them, Miss; but can I get you -anything?”</p> - -<p>“Yes,” said Allery, “some strong black coffee -would do us all good. I can see we are going to -have a night of it.”</p> - -<p>“Very good, sir,” said John.</p> - -<p>The sound of a car at the door was heard. -Sinclair opened it, and a policeman in plain -clothes entered and saluted.</p> - -<p>“That’s right, Miles. Our man has gone to -London, at least I think so. A car has just gone -in pursuit, and I have informed the Yard. The -whole route will be watched and patrolled. They -are also watching the house in Leveson Square. -He has taken Sir Ronald Watson with him.”</p> - -<p>The Inspector opened his eyes wide.</p> - -<p>“Yes,” said Sinclair, “we have found Sir -Ronald Watson only to-day.”</p> - -<p>He issued further instructions, with a -description of the car, and its occupants. He gave them -the number, “but,” he said, “he’s altered that, if -I know him.”</p> - -<p>“Very good, sir,” said the Inspector, “we’ll -catch him,” he added cheerfully. It was not -often such a chance came in his way, and visions -of promotion floated before him.</p> - -<p>When he had sent them off, Sinclair came back -to the others.</p> - -<p>“Shall we come into the dining-room?” he said. -“I must remain here where I can be found, -though I would have dearly loved the chase,” -he added sadly. “I don’t expect in the least they -will catch him. But I must try everything.”</p> - -<p>He sank wearily into a seat. “What a day,” -he said.</p> - -<p>The others waited.</p> - -<p>Presently he sat up.</p> - -<p>“Of course you will want an explanation, and -you are entitled to one. It will help pass the -time.”</p> - -<p>“If you are too tired we can wait,” said Mabel, -but she was on the rack. Her brother, the man -who had been her lover, and he who had lately -filled so much of her life and whom she had -grown to respect even if there was no deeper -feeling, were all involved.</p> - -<p>Sinclair started like a tired man, but as he -went on he warmed to his tale.</p> - -<p>“Collins was a deep scoundrel, but like all such -he had two weaknesses. He was so vain that he -could not leave things alone, he must try daring -experiments, and he regarded all mankind as -fools. That was where he made his great -mistake. I don’t expect we shall ever know the -truth, for I am certain he will never be taken -alive.</p> - -<p>“A great amount is still obscure, in fact, it -was only this evening that I was sure I was -right. Otherwise, of course, I should have acted -before. The first indication I had was a very -slight slip, so slight that it was almost instinct -that made me notice it. He was recounting Mrs. -Simmons’ evidence to Boyce and myself, and he -said that she had stated that Sir James had -complained of feeling sleepy. Now I was sure that -she had said nothing of the sort, and I took the -trouble to ask her after, and she was certain he -had never said so. In a curious way this kept on -recurring to my mind, but I dismissed it. Mind -you, I hadn’t the remotest suspicion at the time. -I merely thought it curious.</p> - -<p>“Then, of course, I had a letter from Sir James -the day after the murder.”</p> - -<p>The other two looked at him in surprise.</p> - -<p>“Oh, of course, you don’t know about that.” -He felt in his pocket and produced the letter, -which he read to them.</p> - -<p>“Again I was struck with the fact that he had -been anxious not to have Collins told. It stuck -in my mind, until recalled, in a vivid manner. -I was in his flat, and we were discussing the -evidence of Mrs. Simmons, when he suddenly said -he heard a noise, and went to the door, -dramatically taking his pistol with him.</p> - -<p>“Now, my hearing is very good, and I was -almost certain that there was no one there. -Outside the door he found a piece of paper with a -scribbled message on it. You know what that -was because it has been in the papers. We -searched the flat, but there was no one there. -When we came back he picked up the evidence -from the floor, and was reading it. He handed -it back to me, and I saw that the letter from -Sir James was with the other document. I could -see then that he had got hold of this by a clever -ruse, but I did not think it was anything more -than a trick, though I did not like it.</p> - -<p>“That night I stayed at his flat, and had very -little sleep.</p> - -<p>“I went over the scene at Leveson Square as I -had done many times, and then I recalled that -Collins had asked me to telephone for a doctor, -and remained at the door while I called the old -woman. When I came back he had spread mats -on the floor in order not to obscure footmarks. -He examined the floor himself, and said there -were three sets of footmarks, Sir James’ and the -unknown man’s, and then he said with a laugh, -‘and these, I think, are mine when I stepped to -lay the rug,’ and he took off his shoes, and they -fitted.</p> - -<p>“I was so astounded that I had to help myself -to a whiskey and soda, in order not to show my -feelings, for the marks he found were under -where the rug had been. Since he had spread it -from the doorway, it must have been over the -marks. It may seem surprising, but in the -events which followed, this had entirely gone out -of my mind, but now came back with added -force. It is always said in my profession that -we must never eliminate any possibility, -however seemingly improbable.</p> - -<p>“More or less for idle speculation, I began to -think, as I could not sleep. Facts came -crowding in. Mrs. Simmons had suppressed the fact -that Sanders had come in the afternoon, that I -did not know at the time, but I was sure that -she would not hide a murderer. If that were so, -then, as we found there was no possible means -of leaving the room, and she had seen him go to -his study and lock the door, the murder could -not have taken place then. What remained? It -must have taken place after the door was opened -by us. But the only person who was for a -moment alone with Sir James was Collins. But -the thing was absurd. We should have heard -the shot. I dismissed the whole thing from my -mind. But it would keep coming back. Collins -had turned up at my office at the very moment, -with a plausible story of having been called up -on the ’phone. He would, of course, have been -able to get official paper, and knew my signature -perfectly well. Motive—well, I have been too -long in the service to look for motive till I have -a case.</p> - -<p>“The next day we went to Leveson Square, and -the Home Office doctor mentioned that the bullet -had only penetrated a little way into the skull.</p> - -<p>“Forgive me for going into all this,” he said -to Mabel.</p> - -<p>“Go on,” she said, bravely. “I must know the -truth.”</p> - -<p>“I was on the alert, then, and I noticed that -Collins started talking about his grievance -against Boyce for letting the Press have details. -As a rule, he would have picked up a point like -that at once. The doctor had suggested a half -charge as the explanation, but another came to -my mind. An air pistol would make -comparatively little noise, especially if one shouted out -something at the same time. The whole -appearance of Sir James was as though he was in a -deep sleep. Here, again, my experience came in. -I had known a similar case in India.</p> - -<p>“The man who did the murder would have to -be certain that he was asleep, or the plot would -fail. There was only one way. Drugging! -You might say why not poison, but here was no -need, and always the risk of poison being found. -A sleeping draught was all that was necessary, -and then I remembered that Collins had slipped -out the remark about Sir James feeling sleepy. -There were two glasses which had contained -whiskey, into which a sleeping draught could -easily have been put.</p> - -<p>“Things were beginning to take shape. I must -confess I had suspicions of Lewis at first, but I -soon dismissed that, and kept it up on purpose.”</p> - -<p>He paused and helped himself to coffee.</p> - -<p>“You must understand,” he continued, “that -I had not a shred of evidence. If I had told my -suspicions I should have been laughed at, and -probably lost my job. Then there came the -complication of Boyce and Jackson. I saw he -was dead set on getting this man proved guilty, -as he was sure we should never get the real man.”</p> - -<p>“Do you mean to say he was going to get an -innocent man convicted?” said Mabel, in horror.</p> - -<p>“Not convicted. He would merely be put back -in an asylum, and I can assure you it happens -far oftener than the public know, that an -innocent man has to suffer. The police argue that -they have got hold of a man with a terrible past, -and that even if he is not the actual culprit he -deserves to be put away. You will find, in these -cases where murder is the crime, he is always -sent to penal servitude for life.”</p> - -<p>“How dreadful,” said Mabel, “I thought our -justice was so good in England.”</p> - -<p>“I am afraid what Mr. Sinclair says is true,” -said Allery. “I have never been mixed up with -criminal cases, but I have heard a good deal. -Please go on.”</p> - -<p>“I saw,” said Sinclair, “that the real clue lay -in the letter I had received, and it was -disquieting that Collins had read it according to my -supposition. The key to the situation lay in -finding Sir Ronald Watson.</p> - -<p>“I kept in touch with Collins’ movements, and -soon learnt of his visits here. I thought he was -here for another reason,” and he glanced -awkwardly at Mabel, “but the mystery he made -of it, led me to think he might have a double -motive. I did not in the least suspect the truth, -but thought he was trying to find the missing -man from this end, if you understand me?”</p> - -<p>Allery nodded. “That’s all quite clear,” he -said.</p> - -<p>“He turned up at my office the other day. I -could see he had something in the wind. Even -with his iron nerve the delay must have been -fretting him, for there was always the possibility -that we should get the man, and then the secret, -whatever it was, would be out.</p> - -<p>“I tried a bluff. I asked him where Wilton-on-Sea -was, and said I wanted to go there. All I -knew was that it was close to this place. He -would not let me go alone, for he did not know -how much I knew, and so we came down, and -watched for those wretched days which have put -years on to my life.</p> - -<p>“I had to pretend to take to drink to throw -dust in his eyes.</p> - -<p>“When he found Sir Ronald in such a dramatic -fashion, I realised that things had come to a -crisis. There was danger, real and personal, in -the air. With supreme bluff he introduced me, -and I must confess he took me completely by -surprise. When I saw Lewis coming, for a moment -all my ideas crumpled like a pack of cards, and -I thought I had made a colossal fool of myself; -but when I realised who it was, I saw the whole -game. He would not let him out of his sight, -nor allow me a word with him.</p> - -<p>“He saw his one chance was to get the -document out of him before I had a chance.</p> - -<p>“But he was one too good for me at the end. -When he slipped out I never thought he would -make a bolt for it like that.”</p> - -<p>He finished his story, and looked at the others.</p> - -<p>Allery was scrutinising the end of his cigar. -Mabel was deeply distressed.</p> - -<p>“You’ve been working pretty hard lately, I -suppose,” said the former.</p> - -<p>Sinclair started: “I am always pretty hard at -work,” he said.</p> - -<p>“You’ve been letting this thing prey on your -mind, I expect, a good deal?”</p> - -<p>Sinclair stiffened. “Do you mean that I have -been imagining things?” he said.</p> - -<p>“It is a most entertaining exhibition of -deduction,” said Allery.</p> - -<p>“Of course, I have not had time to tell you all,” -said Sinclair, “and it may never come out.”</p> - -<p>“It is a wicked lie,” said Mabel. “I will never -believe it.” Her eyes were blazing.</p> - -<p>“I am sorry, Miss Watson,” stammered -Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“I am going to lie down, Mr. Allery,” said she, -and walked from the room ignoring Sinclair.</p> - -</div> - -<div class="chapter" id="ch17"> - -<h2>Chapter XVII. <br> The Wrong Letter</h2> - -<p>In the stillness of the night the sound of a car -was heard. Sinclair went to the door and -waited.</p> - -<p>Out of the blackness the car emerged, and -came to rest at the door. From the inside issued -Sanders. His face was set and grim. Without -a word he walked into the house, and into the -dining-room. Allery was sitting where he had -sat immovable all the evening. Sanders took off -his great coat, and took out his revolver and -tossed it on the table.</p> - -<p>“Let me have a drink,” he said. “I’m done -up.”</p> - -<p>“Tell us all about it,” said Sinclair, pouring -out a drink and handing it to him.</p> - -<p>“Where’s Mabel?” said Sanders to Allery.</p> - -<p>“She went to lie down, but said she wanted to -be called directly there was any news. I sent -for her when I heard the car.”</p> - -<p>Mabel came in looking woefully drawn and -pale. She was in <i lang="fr">négligé</i> costume.</p> - -<p>“Well?” she said in a dull voice.</p> - -<p>“It’s all over. I chased the car, but we had no -chance of catching it. By a sheer fluke at the -little village of Paxton, we saw men standing -about which seemed strange at this hour, and -happened to ask whether anything had happened. -It appeared that a car had smashed up at the -bend. A bad smash.”</p> - -<p>“And Mr. Collins?” said the girl.</p> - -<p>“I should have thought your first thought -would have been for your brother,” said Sanders.</p> - -<p>“Let’s have the news,” said Allery, crossly.</p> - -<p>“I am thankful to say that Watson is safe and -hardly injured at all. I saw him, and he is -coming on as soon as he has made his statement to -the Police. Your Inspector came along, and he -is bringing Watson back.”</p> - -<p>“And the other,” said Allery, almost in a -whisper.</p> - -<p>“Dead!” said Sanders solemnly.</p> - -<p>The silence was broken by a woman’s sobs. -Mabel had thrown herself down on the sofa, and -was weeping bitterly. Sanders was going to her, -but Allery motioned him back. “Let her alone,” -he said. “She has had an awful time of it.”</p> - -<p>“You will be better in bed,” he said gently to -her. “Let me fetch your old nurse.”</p> - -<p>The faithful old servant had been hovering -about all the evening. She came in and put her -arm about the weeping girl, and led her from -the room.</p> - -<p>“Here he is,” said Allery, jumping to his feet, -as the sound of a car was heard. Watson and -the Inspector came in, the former looking very -white and shaken.</p> - -<p>“A bad smash, sir,” said the Inspector to -Sinclair, “they must have been going at a cracking -pace. I have a full statement from witnesses.”</p> - -<p>“Thank you, Miles,” said Sinclair, handing -him a drink. “I will send for you to-morrow, -and there will be a report to draw up. The -matter is more serious than you know. At present -a discreet silence is best, you understand.”</p> - -<p>“Very good, sir,” said the other, almost giving -a wink, and withdrew. There was an awkward -silence in the room.</p> - -<p>“Whatever is the meaning of the whole -business,” said Watson. “I am all in the dark.”</p> - -<p>“Did Collins tell you nothing on the way?” -said Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“No, he came and said that it was absolutely -necessary for us to get to London at once. He -said the honour of my father’s name was -involved, and that the matter must be kept secret, -especially from the police. He hinted that there -was some secret connected with my father’s past -life. He was so insistent that I went blindly -with him.”</p> - -<p>“You have had a lucky escape,” said Sinclair. -“Collins, in my view, was the murderer of your -father.”</p> - -<p>“What!” said Watson, starting forward in his -seat.</p> - -<p>“The others here are sceptical, they cannot -believe it. It all hangs on a document which -your father said he had hidden. He wrote and -told me.” He took the letter from his pocket, -and handed it to Watson, who read it with a -puzzled air.</p> - -<p>“But I don’t understand. He says he hid it -where he once put his will in my presence.”</p> - -<p>“Exactly.”</p> - -<p>“Then why did Collins want to go to London?”</p> - -<p>“To get it, I suppose,” said Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“But it’s not there at all; it’s here,” said -Watson.</p> - -<p>In breathless silence he rose and walked to the -fireplace. Reaching up, he turned the portrait -of Sir James from the wall. Behind was the oak -panelling. Sliding a panel back he put his hand -and drew out some papers, and brought them to -the light.</p> - -<p>One was a dusty envelope, tied and sealed. -The other was new.</p> - -<p>Picking up the first, Watson said with some -emotion:</p> - -<p>“When we had our last interview in this room, -before I went to South America, my father told -me he had made a will cutting me completely -out, and had left this with Mr. Allery. Isn’t -that so?”</p> - -<p>“That is quite correct,” said Allery. “I tried -to persuade him not to do so, in spite of the -opinion I then had of you, but he would not -make any change.”</p> - -<p>“Well, he told me here, he had made another -dated after that. He said, ‘I am going to hide it -here. No one knows of the existence of this place, -and I am placing you on your honour. If you -come back having redeemed your character, and -with a clear conscience, I will bring out this will, -if I am alive. If I am dead you can produce it, -if you think you have made good.’ He was a -strange man and had curious ideas, but he was -absolutely just.”</p> - -<p>“That accounts for the Will he made some -little time ago, bringing you back,” said Allery. -“I see it all now.”</p> - -<p>“But the other document?” said Sinclair -impatiently. “Of course we supposed it was in the -London house. I thought he would have it with -him, and so did Collins, evidently.”</p> - -<p>Watson picked up the envelope, and broke the -seal.</p> - -<p>Within was a roll of paper, which he unfolded, -and laid on the table.</p> - -<p>The feeling in the room was intense.</p> - -<p>The light shone full on the writing, and the -men leant forward to scan the words. It seemed -almost as though the dead man was with them -speaking from the tomb his awful accusation.</p> - -<p>Watson read in a firm voice.</p> - -<p>“To my son.”</p> - -<blockquote class="letter"> - - <p class="salutation">“My dearest boy,</p> - - <p>“If you ever read this I will have passed - for ever from your sight. I have longed for you - for years, and have bitterly repented the hasty - action which drove you from my side, though at the - time I thought I was acting for your ultimate - good. I pray to God that you may be still alive, - and may return to take your place here.</p> - - <p>“I can write no more as to this as the time is - short. A great menace hangs over me, and I feel - that my life may be taken at any time. I will - be brief.</p> - - <p>“In my capacity of Home Secretary it was - necessary for me to be acquainted with the most - dreadful secrets of crime, and criminals.</p> - - <p>“Among the most baffling problems of modern - times has been the personality of a master - criminal, a blackmailer, forger and rogue, whose - diabolical cunning had eluded the police completely. - Even his name and residence were entirely - unknown, though he had gone under several aliases - for blackmailing purposes. He seemed to know - every shady secret in Society.”</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p>“Webb or Atkins,” said Sinclair excitedly. -“The man we have been trying to find for years.”</p> - -<p>“Go on,” said Allery.</p> - -<blockquote class="letter"> - - <p>“Some few days ago I received a letter from - Sylvester Collins, the Investigator, who was - actually trying to find this criminal. Several of the - highest in the land had been asking me to locate - this man, as their lives were being made a misery - by him. Collins promised to send a report on - the matter. When I opened the letter he sent - me, the whole world seemed to go round, and for - minutes I could not collect my thoughts. Instead - of the letter I had expected, there was a - typewritten document to the Duke of ⸻ demanding - instant payment of a very large sum, and in the - case of refusal a threat that incriminating - documents of the worst character would be sent to - the Duchess.</p> - - <p>“It was on perfectly plain paper, with no - address, but giving careful instructions as to how the - money was to be paid in Paris.</p> - - <p>“Even then I did not grasp the full meaning of - what I read. The note had come by hand, straight - from Collins but within a few moments I received - a letter by hand from the Duke, containing the - note I was expecting from Collins, which, he - said, had evidently been sent to him in error. - There could be only one explanation, however - improbable it appeared. The two letters had - come from the same person.</p> - - <p>“I went at once to the Duke, and in strict - confidence told him of what had happened. He told - me the whole dreadful story.</p> - - <p>“This man Webb—Julian Webb—had been - draining him like a cask.</p> - - <p>“Of course, I could have called in the police, - but such terrible issues were at stake, and the - scandal would have been so profound, that I chose - the other course.</p> - - <p>“I knew the risk and counted the cost. I sent - for Collins, and faced him with the letter, and the - situation. He tried to bluff, and of course denied - the whole thing. I told him quite plainly that if - I put the matter into the hands of the police, as - it was my duty to do, it would mean disgrace - and a long term of penal servitude for him; but - that I was willing to save a scandal, to let him - leave the country after he had handed over the - incriminating documents. I informed him that - when he had gone I should place the whole thing - in the hands of Scotland Yard. He asked me for - a week to consider the matter, and make his - arrangements.</p> - - <p>“He is coming to see me to-morrow in Town, - and has agreed to bring the documents with him.</p> - - <p>“I feel that, to such a man, the disgrace and - flight will not appeal, and my life is now in grave - danger. I have promised, perhaps somewhat - rashly, not to reveal anything till I have seen - him, so I can take no steps, but I am writing this - and hiding it where you only will know, and if - you come back, you will know what has happened - to your father.</p> - - <p>“If all is well, I shall myself destroy this when - this danger is past.</p> - - <p>“I can write no more. If you should ever read - this you will know how to act.</p> - - <p>“Good-bye my boy, and think kindly of your - father, who treated you harshly, but has always - loved you.</p> - - <p>“Look after Mabel. If I am dead it is my wish - that she marry Eric, who is a good boy. I have - been very selfish in this matter.</p> - - <p class="endsignature">James Watson.”</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p>Well, here it was at last.</p> - -<p>Every one of the listeners remained lost in -his own thoughts.</p> - -<p>Ronald buried his face in his hands.</p> - -<p>Allery broke the silence. Leaning across to -Sinclair, he took his hand, and said, “I apologise. -You were right and we were wrong, but who -would have suspected it?”</p> - -<p>“Please don’t apologise, Mr. Allery,” said -Sinclair. “It was a terrible shock to me, and as I -told you, it was only last evening that I could -make up my mind.</p> - -<p>“I think everything is clear now. Collins had -no intention of going abroad. He got round Sir -James to give him that week to mature his plans -for as cunning and clever a murder as was ever -planned.</p> - -<p>“The visit in the afternoon, with all its -precautions, was absolutely necessary, so that he -could drug him, though how he managed to get -him to take a whiskey and soda I cannot think. -Probably he promised to agree with everything, -otherwise Sir James would have immediately -sent to Scotland Yard. Sir James’ promise then -held good, and Collins would say he would bring -all the necessary documents. After he had gone, -some misgiving must have come to Sir James. -Perhaps he was feeling drowsy, and suspicion -of evil was growing in his mind.</p> - -<p>“Anyway he wrote that letter, which did not -break his promise, as you see.”</p> - -<p>“There is a possibility, which is like the man’s -daring,” said Allery.</p> - -<p>“Collins may have gambled on Sir James -taking a whiskey after he had gone. There are -tasteless sleeping drugs which could have been -put in the glass. You remember the room was -in partial darkness.”</p> - -<p>“I will go and break it to Mabel. She must -know the truth. It is better that I should tell -her,” and he glanced at Sanders.</p> - -<p>Without another word he went out.</p> - -<p>“What are you going to do about the whole -thing?” said Ronald, turning to Sinclair.</p> - -<p>“I shall have to lay the matter before Boyce, -and of course Jackson must be exonerated, but -I hope that nothing will be done. It would rake -up the whole scandal which Sir James gave his -life to hide, and the man is beyond the reach of -the Law. I see no point in a sensational -disclosure.”</p> - -<p>“I am glad,” said Watson. “I would rather -have it so.”</p> - -<p>Mabel came into the room with Allery. She -held her head proudly, and was dry-eyed, though -very white. She walked straight to Sanders.</p> - -<p>“Eric,” she said. “I have had a terrible lesson, -and I do not suppose I shall ever forget it. I -have misjudged you, and you were right in your -opinion. If you wish our engagement to be -announced, I am willing. And please forgive me -for my temporary madness. I give you my word -it was nothing more. I can never forgive -myself.”</p> - -<p>Allery exchanged glances with the others, who -quietly rose, and slipped from the room.</p> - -<p class="finis">The End</p> - -</div> - -<hr class="x-ebookmaker-drop"> - -<div class="section" id="transcriber"> - -<h2>Transcriber’s Notes</h2> - -<p>This transcription follows the text of the edition published by -Grosset & Dunlap in August, 1926 (by arrangement with E. P. Dutton -& Company). However, the following alterations have been made to -correct what are believed to be unambiguous errors in the text:</p> - -<ul> - <li>Five misplaced quotation marks have been corrected.</li> - <li>The name “Simmonds” has been corrected to “Simmons” (Chapter I).</li> - <li>The word “alseep” has been corrected to “asleep” (Chapter XVI).</li> -</ul> - -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin-top:4em'>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE WRONG LETTER ***</div> -<div style='text-align:left'> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Updated editions will replace the previous one—the old editions will -be renamed. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United -States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. 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