"That's sarcastic, I suppose." Spruce was not at all offended, but accepted the observation as a tribute to his powers. "But I don't mind. On the whole, I am clever enough to get two thousand a year."
"You haven't earned it yet," snapped Vane with a look of dislike.
Spruce started. "Ah, play fair, whatever you do," he protested. "Hench promised me two thousand a year if I told him about that old woman. You heard him, Vane."
"I heard Hench promise to give you that income if the crime was brought home to Madame Alpenny, and his character cleared," said Vane dryly. "There is a difference between telling a thing and proving a thing."
"I suppose that means Madame Alpenny denies her guilt?" said the Nut, turning to the other man. "It is useless for her to do so, as Simon can prove it."
"Oh, I have seen Simon and have brought him down with me," said Hench quietly. "In fact, he is waiting outside to come in when called."
"Then call him at once," said Spruce briskly. "I want to get this business completed and see the last of you. I hate bores."
"Oh, you'll see the last of us sooner than you expect," said Vane grimly.
"Good! You will confer a favour on me when you do cut." Spruce looked round again at Owain. "So you saw Madame Alpenny?"
"Yesterday, at The Home of the Muses. I went up to town especially to see her, as you know."