“They went through the entire house,” answered Leslie. “Goodness knows what they were looking for. They wouldn’t let me go with them.”
“What have you told them so far about your movements on Monday evening?”
“Simply that I went for a walk. I wanted to keep Cynthia out of it.”
“You’re sure you met no one who could identify you?”
“I’m afraid not. I was riled and I wanted to walk it off. I went clean across country, away from the roads. I did see a chap with a spade over his shoulder, some labourer going home, I suppose, but he was a good way off and it was getting dark. I remember him because his dog barked.”
“What time?”
“Round about six, I should think. I’d been walking for about an hour.”
“We might trace the fellow. In any case, I’m afraid there’s nothing for it but to give a clear account of your movements, including the time you were with Cynthia. You will gain nothing by holding it back at this juncture. I’ll go now and see this Miss Allen. She may possibly have something to say that throws a light on things. Is it within a walk?”
“Take the Staveley car which brought me,” suggested Fayre. “It’s waiting at the gate and Staveley said I was to use it as I liked.”
“In that case, I suggest that we all meet for lunch at the hotel at Whitbury. We shall be on the spot, then, for the inquest. You’re sure Sybil is not expecting me?”