“Indeed!” Lieutenant Tragg said, his voice showing only a courteous interest. “And what became of Hocksley?”

Karr said, choosing his words carefully, “Hocksley disappeared. He disappeared under suspicious circumstances. He carried away with him a very large sum of money in partnership funds. Fortunately, not all of the partnership funds, but a large amount.”

“So,” Tragg said, “naturally, you felt quite bitter toward Hocksley.”

A gleam showed in Karr’s eyes despite his attempt to control his expression. He said, “The man was beneath contempt.”

“And he took with him a large amount of partnership funds?”

“Yes.”

“In other words, some of your money?”

“Yes.”

“Naturally, you wanted that back.”

“Yes.”