"He meant what he said. But what it really means is that I won't let him hang that wretched James Hutchings," said Mr. Manley with a noble air.
* * * * *
Three months later, on the first night of Mr. Manley's play, Colonel Grey came upon Mr. Flexen in the lounge of the Haymarket, between the second and third acts. Both of them praised the play warmly, and there came a pause.
Then Colonel Grey said: "I suppose you've given up all hope of solving the problem of Loudwater's death."
"Oh, I solved it three months ago. It was Manley," said Mr. Flexen.
"By Jove!" said Colonel Grey softly.
"Not a doubt of it. I'll tell you all about it one of these days," said Mr. Flexen, for the bell rang to warn them that the third act was about to begin.
In the corridor Colonel Grey said: "Queer that he should have dropped down dead in the street a week before this success."
"Well, he was discharged from the Army for having a bad heart. But it is a bit queer," said Mr. Flexen.
"The mills of God," said Colonel Grey.