"Wonder when we shall hear from Sir Impey," said Colonel Marchbanks hurriedly.
"Yes, indeed," moaned Mr. Murbles. "I am counting on his influence with the Duke."
"Of course," said Mrs. Pettigrew-Robinson, "he must speak out—for everybody's sake. He must say what he was doing out of doors at that time. Or, if he does not, it must be discovered. Dear me! That's what these detectives are for, aren't they?"
"That is their ungrateful task," said Mr. Parker suddenly. He had said nothing for a long time, and everybody jumped.
"There," said Mrs. Marchbanks, "I expect you'll clear it all up in no time, Mr. Parker. Perhaps you've got the real mur—the culprit up your sleeve all the time."
"Not quite," said Mr. Parker, "but I'll do my best to get him. Besides," he added, with a grin, "I'll probably have some help on the job."
"From whom?" inquired Mr. Pettigrew-Robinson.
"Her grace's brother-in-law."
"Peter?" said the Duchess. "Mr. Parker must be amused at the family amateur," she added.
"Not at all," said Parker. "Wimsey would be one of the finest detectives in England if he wasn't lazy. Only we can't get hold of him."