Biscayne entered, carrying a copy of the morning newspaper. Its report of the two murders were somewhat meager. Commissioner Weston had read the full accounts.
When Biscayne inquired if Cardona had discovered new data, Weston explained that the detective would arrive shortly. In the meantime, he produced the letter which had proclaimed the death of S. H., and gave it to Biscayne to examine.
“We believe that it refers to Silas Harshaw,” declared Weston. “That is Cardona’s belief. I feel that his opinion is correct.”
“It may be,” replied Biscayne quietly. “It is another evidence of Cardona’s method. He chooses the simplest and most direct explanation that he can obtain from a fact.
“This letter states that a man designated as S. H. has died. The initials of Silas Harshaw are S. H. Therefore, it seems to fit. Yet I do not think it would be wise to be too sure on this point.”
Scarcely had Biscayne finished speaking before Cardona himself was ushered into the office.
He had evidently arrived in great haste, but he curbed his impatience when the commissioner began to speak. Weston pointed to the letter which Biscayne held.
“We were just discussing this letter, Cardona,” said Weston. “I was telling Professor Biscayne that we thought S. H. must surely mean Silas Harshaw. Biscayne is doubtful—”
“I should not be surprised,” interposed Biscayne, “if this letter did actually refer to Silas Harshaw. But, theoretically, we cannot accept that belief on the evidence of the letter alone. It may be purely a coincidence.
“I suppose, Cardona, that you may have found some tangible fact about this letter that made you definitely believe it referred to Harshaw?”