“I have signified that inside—​from Mrs. Bourne.”

“Dear me!” exclaimed Peace. “Not the widow of Dr. Bourne, at whose house a sale has recently taken place?”

“The very same; I am the lady.”

“How very remarkable.”

“Indeed—​in what way?”

“I attended the sale merely as a matter of curiosity—​that is all. I purchased a violin, which I presume was the property of the deceased gentleman.”

Peace went to a side table and produced the violin.

“Yes,” said Mrs. Bourne, “that belonged to my husband. You play, I presume?”

“Yes, a little.”

“Dear me, what a singular circumstance! Are you pleased with your bargain?”