In the afternoon, when these idlers had one and all set out for the Legislative Assembly, some to work, others still to idle, Mr. Kilshaw felt interest enough in the fate of his late henchman to drop in at the police office on his way to the same destination. He was well known, and no one objected to his walking in and making for the door of the Superintendent's room. An officer to whom he spoke told him that Ned Evans was in custody, and that it was rumoured that some startling discoveries had been made at Benham's lodgings.
"Indeed, sir," said the man, "I believe the Superintendent wished to see you."
"Ah, I dare say," said Kilshaw. "Tell him I'm here."
When he was ushered into the inner room, the Superintendent confirmed the officer's surmise.
"I was going to send a message to ask you to step round, sir," he remarked.
"Here I am, but don't be long. I don't want to miss the Premier's speech."
"Mr. Medland speaking to-day?"
"Of course. It's a great day with us at the House."
"I think it looks like being a great day all round. Well, Mr. Kilshaw, you told me you knew the deceased."
"Yes, I knew Benham."