«Did the person claim to be an acquaintance of mine?» he enquired. «I know practically nobody in London, except the friend with whom I was staying in Balham, Dr. Philpots, and I should be very greatly surprised at his practising a jest upon me. He knew very well how distressed I was at the loss of the glasses. My business was to attend a meeting of shareholders in Medlicott's Bank, but the other gentlemen present were all personally unknown to me, and I cannot think that any of them would take so great a liberty. In any case,» he added, «as the glasses are here, I will not enquire too closely into the manner of their restoration. I am deeply obliged to you for your trouble.»
Lord Peter hesitated.
«Pray forgive my seeming inquisitiveness,» he said, «but I must ask you another question. It sounds rather melodramatic, I'm afraid, but it's this. Are you aware that you have any enemy — anyone, I mean, who would profit by your — er — decease or disgrace?»
Mr. Crimplesham sat frozen into stony surprise and disapproval.
«May I ask the meaning of this extraordinary question?» he enquired stiffly.
«Well,» said Lord Peter, «the circumstances are a little unusual. You may recollect that my advertisement was addressed to the jeweller who sold the chain.»
«That surprised me at the time,» said Mr. Crimplesham, «but I begin to think your advertisement and your behaviour are all of a piece.»
«They are,» said Lord Peter. «As a matter of fact I did not expect the owner of the glasses to answer my advertisement. Mr. Crimplesham, you have no doubt read what the papers have to say about the Battersea Park mystery. Your glasses are the pair that was found on the body, and they are now in the possession of the police at Scotland Yard, as you may see by this.» He placed the specification of the glasses and the official note before Crimplesham.
«Good God!» exclaimed the lawyer. He glanced at the paper, and then looked narrowly at Lord Peter.
«Are you yourself connected with the police?» he enquired.