“‘Why were no inquiries made at Stowmarket to learn what, if any, strangers were in the town on New Year’s Eve?
“‘Most minute investigations should be pursued with reference to Margaret Hume-Frazer’s friends and associates.
“‘Has Fergusson ever been asked if his master received any visitors on the day of the murder or during the preceding week? If so, who were they?
“What is the precise purpose of the knife attached to the Japanese sword? It appears to be too small to be used as a dagger. In any case, the sword scabbard would be an unsuitable place to carry an auxiliary weapon, to European ideas.’
“Now, I wonder if Fergusson is still at the Hall? The other matters must wait.”
Winter returned about the same time as Hume. Brett and the latter dressed for dinner, and the adroit detective, not to be beaten, borrowed a dress-suit from the landlord, after telegraphing to London for his own clothes.
During the progress of the meal the little party scrupulously refrained from discussing business, an excellent habit always insisted on by Brett.
They had reached the stage of coffee and cigars when a waiter entered and whispered something to the police officer.
“‘Rabbit Jack’ is here,” exclaimed Winter.
“Capital! Tell him to wait.”