"Did he go up to the house?"

"Yes, he went into Mr. Fletcher's study."

"Did you hear what happened then?"

"No. As soon as it was safe to do so I went away, of course. I don't know anything more."

Hannasyde shut his notebook, and, looking straight across at Helen, said bluntly: "Mrs. North, are you prepared to state that your visit to Mr. Fletcher was not in connection with these notes of yours?"

"I don't understand. I've told you -'

"I don't think you've told me the whole truth."

"I don't know why you should say that, or what you may choose to suspect, but -'

"I suspect that Mr. Fletcher was threatening to use these notes against you, Mrs. North."

"That's absurd! I tell you he was a friend of mine!"