Tidman stared and gasped. "Then you are?"--
"The detective in charge of the Wharf murder case. I am glad to see you, sir," he laid a finger on Tidman's chest, "you have something to tell me no doubt?"
"No," said the Major gasping again, "I have not."
Rupert looked at him suddenly and the Major's small eyes fell before that direct gaze. "Let us go, into the library," said Ainsleigh tranquilly, "we may as well have a long talk before I am arrested."
Tidman jumped. "Arrested," he cried staring.
Something in his looks, made Rodgers take the cue thus offered, "I may have to arrest Mr. Ainsleigh for the murder," he said significantly.
"But that's rubbish, why should he murder Miss Wharf?"
"On account of the fan," put in Rupert grimly.
"I'll never believe that--never," said Tidman vigorously.
Rodgers looked at him sideways. "Well you see," said he in a cheerful voice. "Miss Wharf was strangled with a red and yellow silk tie, belonging to Mr. Ainsleigh."