“I met her at eight at the Carlton. We had dinner. At ten we took a voiture and went to her hotel. There I fell asleep on her sofa and awoke about twelve. I remained till nearly one, when I left for my room. In the dark entry of the house where I live, my way was barred by a man.... But then you know more than I do about what happened from then on.”
“Why did you attempt to draw your pistol?”
“I was nervous. In the past few weeks there have been attempts to injure me.”
The pleasant looking man nodded confirmation to this. The thin man then said:
“We had better get hold of the English lady at once. She is not the most desirable of witnesses, but ... if what monsieur says is supported, he has an undeniable alibi and we can release him.”
“Release me! Of course, you will. What have I done, tell me. What am I charged with?”
“There is no charge yet. You are arrested on suspicion only.”
“Of what?”
The three looked at each other. Then the fat one bent forward dramatically.
“Of murder.”