Audrey hesitated, glancing at Madame Piriac, who, in company with the vast Inspector Keeble, was carefully inspecting the floor. She invoked wisdom and sagacity from heaven, and came to a decision.
“Not that I know of,” she answered.
“Then, if you please, who are you?”
“What!” exclaimed Audrey. “You’re in the village of Moze itself and you ask who I am. Everybody knows me. My name is Audrey Moze, of Flank Hall, Moze, Essex. Any child in Moze Street will tell you that. Inspector Keeble knows as well as anybody.”
Madame Piriac proceeded steadily with the inquiry into the carpet. Audrey felt her heart beating.
“Unmarried?” pursued the detective.
“Most decidedly,” said Audrey with conviction.
“Then what’s the meaning of that ring on your finger, if you don’t mind my asking?” the detective continued.
Certainly Audrey was flustered, but only for a moment.
“Mr. Hurley,” said she; “I wear it as a protection from men of all ages who are too enterprising.”