They're all right. Well, now, that completes the schedule. As regards
administering the estate--"
A sudden gentle but firm knock at the side-door brought Zillah to her feet
again.
"I know that knock," she remarked. "It's Ayscough, the detective. I
suppose he may come in, now?"
A moment later Ayscough, looking very grave and full of news, had joined
the circle round the table. He shook his head as he glanced at Mr.
Penniket.
"I came on here to give you a bit of information," he said. "There's been
an important development this afternoon. You know the name of this Stephen
Purvis that's been mentioned as having been about here? Well, this
afternoon his brother turned up from Devonshire. He wanted to see us--to
tell us something. He thinks Stephen's been murdered!"
"On what grounds?" asked the solicitor.
"It turns out Stephen had sent Mr. Multenius a rare fine diamond--uncut--
from South Africa," answered Ayscough. "Worth every penny of eighty
thousand pounds!"
He was closely watching Zillah and Melky as he gave this piece of news,
and he was quick to see their utter astonishment. Zillah turned to the
solicitor; Melky slapped the table.
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