"Then, why did he not tell me?" Alan burst out angrily. "I saw him last night, yet he said nothing. He knew how anxious Miss Marlow is about the loss of her father's body."
"Not her father," corrected the inspector. "Achille Lestrange was her father."
"What!" Alan started from his seat. "You know that?"
"I know all--the elopement in Jamaica; the kidnapping of Marie Lestrange, whom we know as Sophy Marlow; the coming of Jean Lestrange to blackmail the girl, and--and--all the rest of it. You see, Mr. Thorold, I interviewed Joe Brill this morning, and he told me all about your conversation with that rascal. I am posted up to date, sir."
"Joe Brill had no business to keep me in the dark," said the squire angrily. "He should have relieved my mind and Miss Marlow's.
"Miss Lestrange," hinted Blair.
"No, sir--Sophia Marlow she is, and Sophia Marlow she will remain until she changes her name for mine. Her father is dead, and Jean Lestrange has no claim on her. Sophia Marlow, Mr. Inspector, if you please."
"Well, well--as you please. We shan't quarrel about a name. Have you anything to smoke, Mr. Thorold?"
Alan got him an excellent cigar, and returned to the point.
"Why did Joe keep me and Miss Marlow in the dark?" he asked.