"If you think that that's why I absolutely loathe the idea of having mine done -" began Valerie hotly, and broke off at sight of the Inspector.
Mathilda glanced over her shoulder. "Ah, Torquemada in person!"
Joseph went up to the Inspector, saying: "Come in, Inspector! We're just finishing, as you can see."
"Very sorry to have to ask you to submit to this, sir, but -"
"Nonsense! Of course we understand that it must be!" "Well, I think it's absolutely degrading!" interrupted Valerie. "As though one was a common criminal, or something! I never thought I should be so insulted!" Even Joseph's patience showed signs of cracking. He said with a touch of asperity: "My dear child, don't be a silly little goose! Do you want any of us, Inspector? Can you tell me anything, or mustn't I ask?"
"Nothing to tell you so far, sir. I would like to know which of you gentlemen owns this, if you please."
They all looked at the cigarette-case. The monogram was plainly to be read. The Inspector's gaze was fixed on Stephen. Stephen was looking at the case; his harsh face gave nothing away. Joseph, after one glance, cast a swift, startled look at Mathilda, half-questioning, half-appalled.
"Well, it's not mine!" said Roydon.
"It's mine," said Stephen coolly, raising his eyes to the Inspector's. "Where did you find it?"
"Had you mislaid it, sir?"