The detective allowed a moment to pass by before he answered, but at last his words came out clearly:
“I do believe in Mr. Garlett’s innocence. But to err is human, and I shall be able to tell you more as to what I really think and feel after I have made fresh investigations. I’d like, for instance, to have a talk with that Miss Cheale. You never know in a case of this sort who may give you a valuable clue. I take it she will be on our side?”
Dr. Maclean hesitated, a fact which was duly registered by Kentworthy.
“I don’t think Miss Cheale will be able to add much to our knowledge.”
“I suppose the fact has occurred to you, doctor, that this young lady—I mean Miss Cheale—had a certain interest in Mrs. Garlett’s death? She was left, I understand, a thousand pounds.”
“Yes, but she was receiving three hundred pounds a year, and all found,” was the quick answer. “Besides, I feel convinced that she knew nothing of that legacy. It took us all, even Mr. Garlett, entirely by surprise.”
He went to the door and called out: “Jean! Mr. Kentworthy is ready to see you.”
Pale, but absolutely composed, the girl came in. “Mr. Kentworthy would prefer to see you alone,” said Dr. Maclean.
“I should prefer that also, Uncle Jock.”
After her uncle had left the room there came a pathetic eagerness into her manner. She knew that James Kentworthy believed in her lover’s innocence, and she also knew, though she would have scarcely admitted it even to herself, that very few people shared that belief.