Accumulated irritation exploded into anger. For an instant Landis saw red. He smothered his rage and spoke quietly.
“Where did they go, do you know?”
“I don’t, sir. Just for a drive, I think.” Stimson unbent a little. “They gathered in the billiard-room after you questioned them and I brought them a drink there. They were all rather quiet, eyeing each other. These two unexplained attacks have made us all suspicious, sir, of everyone else in the house. After they had had their drinks, Mr. Allen spoke up and said it couldn’t go on. He swore he knew nothing about Mr. Harrison’s murder nor the attempt on Mr. Graham. After that the others all swore the same thing. Then they made up their minds to forget it. Miss Anita suggested a drive and away they went.”
“Thanks, Stimson. What about the rest of the household?”
“The Harleys have gone up to bed, sir. So have Susan and Helen. I remained in the kitchen in case you wanted anything.”
“Very thoughtful of you,” said Landis. “By the way, can you shoot with a bow and arrow?”
“A little, sir,” said Stimson calmly. “Mr. Joel took me out to the butts one afternoon, when the rest of the family was not at home. He showed me how to hold the bow. I seem to have rather a knack for it.”
Bernard reddened with anger, although there was no impudence in the butler’s tone.
“You’re frank about it,” he growled.