Olive.
[Quickly.] Sir Fletcher, while you are there, do examine the little clock on the mantelpiece. The case is modern oriental.
Sir Fletcher Portwood.
[Out of sight.] Ah, yes, yes.
Olive.
I gave it to Mr. Allingham some years ago. Count those curious stones round the dial. [To Mrs. Cloys, rapidly but forcibly, dropping her voice.] Mrs. Cloys, I confess I find it difficult to accept Sir Fletcher’s suggestion that you are engaged at this time of night in hunting for fresh air for the bishop. I——
[Upon Sir Fletcher’s disappearance, Claude advances and stands waiting for an opportunity to speak.
Claude.
[Breaking in in a hollow voice.] As Mrs. Fraser’s brother——
[All turn their heads towards Claude again.