The detective followed the tracks in the carpet along the hall. They were not once missing, in fact it seemed as though they had purposely been made very noticeable so that they might be readily followed.
Co-existing with the depressions in the carpet were the spots of blood.
Without once turning aside they led to the top of the back stairs and down those to the floor below. Through the lower hall they went to the rear door and out of this into the grounds.
From the back door was a straight path that led away in the direction of the river.
Down this path the traces were to be seen.
Pausing in the doorway, the detective said:
“I want you to answer me a few questions.”
Barnes returned:
“Go ahead. Call on me for any information that I can give.”
“Has anybody yet followed these tracks here?”