"I'm sure she must want to be with you at such a time," said Joseph hastily. "We shall be very glad to have her, shan't we, Maud? One only wishes that her visit were taking place under happier circumstances."
"Mummy says she's sure it will all be cleared up satisfactorily, and we just mustn't worry!" said Valerie.
This valuable piece of advice plunged everyone into a state of profound gloom. After thinking it over, Mottisfont said that he didn't see how it could be cleared up satisfactorily.
"No," said Stephen cordially. "Not when you consider that one of us is an assassin."
"I find that remark gratuitously offensive!" said Mottisfont.
"Why?" asked Stephen.
"Now, now!" Joseph intervened. "We mustn't let this thing get on top of our nerves! I myself feel convinced that Nat was murdered by someone from outside."
"You would," said Stephen.
"Damn it all, why not?" demanded Mathilda.
He shrugged. "Windows all latched on the inside."