On inquiry for Miss Ackroyd, we were shown into the billiard room.

 

Flora and Major Hector Blunt were sitting on the long window seat.

 

“Good-morning, Miss Ackroyd,” said the inspector. “Can we have a word or two

alone with you?”

 

Blunt got up at once and moved to the door.

 

“What is it?” asked Flora nervously. “Don’t go, Major Blunt. He can stay, can’t

he?” she asked, turning to the inspector.

 

“That’s as you like,” said the inspector dryly. “There’s a question or two it’s

my duty to put to you, miss, but I’d prefer to do so privately, and I dare say

you’d prefer it also.”

 

Flora looked keenly at him. I saw her face grow whiter. Then she turned and

spoke to Blunt.

 

“I want you to stay—please—yes, I mean it. Whatever the inspector has to say to

me, I’d rather you heard it.”

 

Raglan shrugged his shoulders.