"We must be quick," he whispered, "Layton is already hanged."
"There doesn't seem to be much chance for him," returned Tranter. "It will be a very strong case. No criminal could complain at being hanged on such evidence."
"And yet," said Monsieur Dupont slowly, "so far as the actual crime is concerned, there is not a single trace. Not one single trace. Is it not extraordinary?"
He doubled his fists.
"That luck!" he ground out angrily. "Again that luck!"
"What luck?" Tranter exclaimed.
"If that most unfortunate young man had not come here and made a fool of himself last night, the police might have searched forever without finding a clue. There is no clue here. And there was the rain. The very elements sweep up after the passing of the Destroyer."
"What on earth do you mean?" Tranter cried.
"Hush!" said Monsieur Dupont.
"I am obliged to you, gentlemen," said the inspector. "Your evidence will of course be required at the inquest, of which you will receive notice. I need not detain you any longer."