"Why not--on the grounds that I have stated?"
"Because the evidence went to show that everyone connected with the business accounted for their time. Madame Coralie, her husband, Zobeide, Badoura, and Parizade, to give them their fantastical names, were in the room devoted to preparing the wares on or about the very time the murder was being committed, according to the medical evidence. Peri Banou was in the shop, and is the only person who was on the same floor as that of the bedroom wherein the crime took place. Do you accuse her?"
"I don't accuse anyone as yet. I shall go to the shop and ask questions."
Shawe shook his head sceptically. "If things are as you hint, no one will answer any questions."
"Oh, I think so," said Miss Toat, quietly. "I know how to ask questions."
"Madame Coralie may not allow you to enter the shop."
"Give me a five-pound note," said the detective lady, irrelevantly; and after Ralph had placed one in her hand, she continued: "With this I shall buy a few things to make me beautiful for ever"--there was a faint smile on her grey face as she spoke--"between whiles I shall keep my eyes open, and find out what I wish to know."
"If you do, you're a wonder," said the barrister, quickly, for he was very doubtful of the success of her enterprise.
"You can say that," said Miss Toat, in an unemotional tone, "when I indicate the assassin of Lady Branwin. Good-day."
"But when am I to see you again?" asked Ralph, following her to the door.