“What I meant was that this cloud of suspicion would be swept away and most of us could get back to normal again. It’s no use pretending that we’re enjoying Friocksheim just now.”
Before Westenhanger could say anything further, Nina Lindale appeared, crossing the lawn before them. Eileen beckoned to her.
“Nina, did you borrow my mirror by any chance?”
Nina Lindale shook her head.
“No, never saw it. You mean your silver one with your initials on the back? It was on your dressing-table a couple of days ago.”
“Perhaps Cynthia’s got it,” Eileen conjectured.
“She’s just behind me,” Nina told her. “You can ask her when she comes along. Tell her I’ve gone down to the cove, if she asks. We’re going to bathe.”
She nodded her thanks and took the path leading to the bathing-place. A few minutes after she had gone, Cynthia appeared in her turn; but she also failed to throw any light on the matter of the mirror.
“Sorry I can’t help, but I never set my eyes on the thing. Most annoying to have it go amissing, Eileen. Take mine any time you want it.”
“Thanks. I can’t imagine what’s become of my own, though. It’s not the sort of thing one mislays.”