He was introduced to a large front bedroom exceptionally well furnished, and then to the lounge, colourful and inviting, which he could consider his own. Having showered and dressed, he was introduced to the dining-room, where he ate a first-class meal with his hostess and her daughter.

When the light was almost gone from the inverted celestial bowl resting upon the world at a lower altitude than the town, he entered the office of the police station to find Constable Mawson at his desk.

“Now, now, Mawson, don’t get up. Smoke if you wish. Both of us will probably do a lot of hard smoking before we’re through.”

“Thank you, sir… Bony.”

Bony drew a second chair to the side of the constable’s desk, and proceeded to manufacture an alleged cigarette.

“The P.M. report come in yet?” he asked.

“Doctor said he’d like to bring it himself. Suggests I ring him when convenient to you.”

“Oh! Considerate. Better call him now.”

Mawson’s hand was beginning to reach for the instrument when its alternating buzzer demanded attention. Mawson lifted the instrument. Bony could hear the distant voice. The policeman looked at him beneath quizzing sandy brows. He spoke with grave politeness.

“Yes, the Inspector is here now. Yes, very well.”

The large sandy-haired hand was cupped about the mouthpiece.

“Miss Answerth wants to speak to you,” he said. “Miss Janet Answerth.”

“Oh! Oh, how d’you do, Inspector Bonaparte. I’m Janet Answerth. I’m so glad you are available. You can spare me a few minutes?”

The voice was soft and theenunciation clear save for a slight lisp. What could have been nervousness in the caller Bony at once unchivalrously attributed to woman’s paving the way to the naming of a want. He was right, too.

“Yes, Miss Answerth. What can I do for you?” he purred.