“Not a bit of it,” vigorously. “Austin caught Richards going through the safe and Richards grabbed the first thing handy—Judith’s shears.” Latimer said nothing, and after a brief pause John Hale continued. “The crime was committed by some one familiar with the habits of our household—the police claim that. No better time could have been selected for rifling Robert’s safe. He was ill in bed, and Agatha and I were attending the French Embassy reception and, by the way, we decided to go only at the last moment—that’s an important point.”
“You mean——”
“Richards was present when I told Agatha that I would take her to the reception, and he left the house immediately afterward.” John Hale was becoming excited again. “Thus, Richards knew that the coast would be clear.”
“Hold on, he was aware that Judith was at home, and the servants, also,” objected Latimer.
“Sure, and he knew that our servants retire early. Anna sees to the closing of the house, and she is very strict with the other servants.” John Hale rose abruptly and emphasized his words by striking his cane against the floor. “And Richards knew that Judith would not be likely to hear him, and if she did—”
“Well, what then?” as John Hale paused.
“He probably had a plausible excuse handy. Oh, he could have manufactured some story which Judith would have swallowed,” retorted John Hale. “Remember, they haven’t been married long.”
Latimer frowned. “Who is going to tell Judith about the theft of her bonds?” he asked, rising also.
“It’s up to you.” John Hale moved uneasily and glanced away from his companion. “Judith came to you about her bonds.”
“Dash it all, John!” Latimer spoke with temper. “I’m damned if I will. Don’t you realize that Judith worships her husband?”