`I believe he had a package of some sort, wrapped in brown paper. He left the house again early, in the afternoon. I know that he ate no lunch, sir. I reminded him of this when he returned, and he said he merely wanted a cup of cocoa sent to his room. He left before the unfortunate occurrence at Sir William's car; the thief, sir.'
`He left for the City?'
`N-no, sir, I believe not. As he was leaving, Sir William, who intended to go to the City himself later, offered him a lift in the car. Major Bitton said he did not intend to go to his office. He.. he mentioned that he was going for a walk.'
`What was his manner then; nervous, upset…?'
'Well, sir, say restless.'
`When did he return?'
`I'm afraid I don't remember, sir. Mrs Bitton had brought back the horrible news about Mr Philip, and… ' Hobbes shook his head. He was biting at his lips now, trying to keep calm.
`That's all, thank you. I suggest that you make another effort to wake Sir William before you go.'
Hobbes bowed and closed the door behind him as he went out.
'I think,' Hadley said, turning to his companions, `you two had better go downstairs. I've got to make an examination.. just in case… and I warn you it won't be pretty. There's no good you can do. I want you to be there for Arbor when he arrives.'