Grimshaw hesitated again. Why had destiny selected him of all men as an instrument to inflict cruel pain upon a woman already bludgeoned? Always she would associate him with her humiliation, for humbled she must be, whether the chief was summoned from Melchester or not.
“I wish I could spare you the answer to that.”
She retorted shrewdly.
“You raised the question. You must answer it frankly.”
“Very good. Such an investigation as I have indicated will involve the inspector of nuisances.”
“But he is not appointed by me.”
“He also was appointed by the district council. He is a friend of Gridley.”
Lady Selina remained silent. She had just recalled Cicely’s words, repeating what Arthur Wilverley had said. Obviously Arthur knew these unpleasant facts. Grimshaw went on inexorably.
“It comes to this: without your knowledge, without any suspicion on your part, these three unscrupulous men—Snitterfield, Gridley and the inspector of nuisances—aided and abetted by small farmers, who dreaded an increase of rates, have formed a sort of ring. They have all played into each other’s hands and pockets. They have abused grossly the power entrusted to them. And, lastly, their most outrageous misdoings have been done upon your property and often under your name.”
Lady Selina gasped. Grimshaw concluded quietly: