"Why not. I was the young man who spoke to Mulligan. I went to Troy in my make-up. I was in the house, and I recognised the body. And the dagger found in the dustbin is mine. Now, what do you say?"
"I say that I'm more certain than ever you ain't guilty," said Jasher doggedly; "you wouldn't put your neck into the noose if you were the man wanted. And you wouldn't have engaged me to hunt you down to get hanged."
"You are very clever, Jasher," said Calvert, with a nervous laugh. "I am innocent, as you say. This woman was killed before nine."
"So the doctor said at the inquest, sir."
"Then, if you will ask my landlady you will find that I was asleep in my room at that time. A messenger came from the theatre asking me to finish the piece as----"
"As Hart was ill. I know that. But did you go later?"
"Yes. I went to keep an appointment with Miss Mason. It was made for half-past nine, and when I got to the villa she wasn't there. I entered the house, and after seeing the dead body I came out, dreading lest I should be accused of killing my cousin. The dagger I left in this house by mistake, so I have no doubt she took it with her to Ajax Villa for some purpose, and was killed with it. Who killed her I am not in a position to say. So you see, Jasher, I can prove an alibi."
Jasher nodded and seemed relieved.
"I'm glad you have so clear a defence, sir," said he heartily. "I should not like to have been the means of hunting you down. But what was Mrs. Brand doing at the villa?"
"Ah! that I can't tell you."