"Because I told a lie to screen myself from possible danger?"
"Yes; and because you induced Gran Jimboy to lie also. Though how you induced her to perjure herself I can't guess."
"I'll explain if you like," said Lovel coldly. "I see that I must tell the truth sooner or later, and I would rather make you my father confessor than Drek. I run less risk of arrest, you see."
"I don't know, Lovel. If I think you guilty I shall certainly have you arrested."
"My good, sir," cried Lovel with irony, "if I were guilty of murder I should have left this neighbourhood long ago! My staying here proves my innocence."
"I'll wait to hear your story before agreeing to that."
"Very good, Mexton. You shall hear my story, and in addition I will tell you all that took place in the Winding Lane on the night poor, dear Milly was killed. Then," added Lovel with emphasis, "you will be as puzzled as I am."
"Puzzled by what?"
"By the mystery of the case. Who killed Milly I can't tell you; and if I cannot no one else can."
"I don't understand--" began Paul, when Lovel cut him short.