The two men sat for several moments without further speech. The doctor’s features seemed to reflect something of the horror which he undoubtedly felt. The Prince appeared only a trifle bored.
“So that is why,” the former exclaimed hoarsely, “I have been appointed your physician in chief!”
“I had given you the credit, my dear doctor,” the Prince said smoothly, “of having arrived at that decision some time ago. To a man of your perceptions there can scarcely have been any question about it at all. Besides, even Princes, you know, do not give fees of a thousand guineas for nothing.”
Dr. Whiles rose slowly to his feet.
“You know the secret of that murder!” he declared.
“Why ask me?” the Prince answered. “If I tell you that I do, you may find conscientious scruples about remaining here. A man is not bound, you know, to give himself away. Make the best of things, and do not try to see too far.”
The doctor was looking a little shaken.
“If you were mixed up in that affair,” he said, “and if I remain here when my evidence is needed, I become an accomplice.”
“Only if you remain here voluntarily,” the Prince reminded him cheerfully. “Remember that and be comforted. No effort that you could make now would bring you into touch with Mr. Inspector Jacks until I am quite prepared. So you see, my dear doctor, that you have nothing with which to reproach yourself. I will not insult you,” he continued, “by suggesting that a reward of fifty pounds could possibly have influenced your attitude. If you have suffered your mind to dwell upon it for a single moment, try and remember the relative unimportance of such an amount when compared with a thousand guineas.”
The doctor moved to the window and back again.