"Judging by the way he dropped when I hit him, I expect he saw stars," said Philip.
"Are you leaving here?" asked the inspector.
"Yes, I must. The company which owns these premises intends to pull them down on the first of next month."
"What is your name?"
"Anson."
"Ah! I think I remember hearing something about your mother's death. Very nice woman, I was told. A lady, too."
"Yes, all that, and more."
"Of course, that accounts for your manners and appearance. Have you found some friends?"
The inspector's glance roved from the serviceable portmanteau to Philip's tidy garments, and it was his business to make rapid deductions.
"Yes, most fortunately."