The curtain isabout to go up on the next act. Our
troubles are over, sir, he said, and paused to light hiscigar. Of course hes still
inside, Sergeant, said Vance, a bitimpatiently.
That wouldaccount, too, for his having kept his
guilty knowledge to himselfall this time.
I think Ill drift for a while on the stream of your
theory and seewhat happens.
As he spoke Spotswoode entered the room and looked
about as ifsearching for someone. Now, the thing thats been bothering us most is
that side door.
Butits the right theory, Markham, and its
diametrically opposed tothe sergeants.
Heath, too, was interested, and, though
supercilious, hadexpressed a willingness to go along. Butits the right theory,
Markham, and its diametrically opposed tothe sergeants.
Heath took the lead up the worn steps which led
from the pavement tothe little vestibule. I told you, Markham old thing, it would
takespiritualism to solve this case. Finally they come to an agreement, and proceed
with theiroriginal plan to loot the place. But Skeel comes out of hiding and they
talk itover. We chatted on various matters until ten oclock, when Vance rose andgave
Markham a reproachful look.
The hour is half past nine on Monday
night.
Ill admit I went over his evening suit rather
lovinly.
Heath made a gesture of finality and sank back in
his chair.
Therefore, youve got to give me an opportunity
todemonstrate it before you proceed against Jessup.
But on theside door of this house there is no lock
and key; nor is there a bowin the bolt handle. The door was unlocked, and we stepped
intothe stuffy lower hallway.
Vance sat up and stared athim in
amazement.
On the foot of the bed, at the side toward thedoor,
sprawled the crumpled body of Skeel. Vance crushed out his cigarette and reentered
thebuilding.
Heath, however, was stillsuspicious and, grasping
the doorknob, he tugged at it violently.