"Yes," Wise said, "according to Madame Parlato, the spirit of your son said that Thorpe is the criminal, and it was as proof of identity that Zizi received the handkerchief."
"Fine," said Crane, nodding his satisfaction, "I think I'll use that séance for the finale of my book, and get it in press at once."
"Do, dear," said his wife, "as far as the handkerchief is concerned. But don't put in the book that Mac killed Gilbert."
"Oh, no, certainly not. In the first place, we're all agreed that though Peter believes that, it is a mistake on his part; that is, it may be a mistake. Don't let it influence you too much, Mr. Wise."
Penny Wise laughed outright. He couldn't help it.
"No, sir," he promised, "I won't!"
"But have you any other suspect?"
"I'd rather not answer that question quite yet, Mr. Crane."
"All right, take your own time. I've confidence you'll do all you can, but my hopes of your success are dwindling."
"Don't feel that way, on the contrary, I'm beginning to see at least a way to look for another suspect."