"And fortunately, we have some corroboration," observed Brereton, with a glance at Avice, "for whether Mr. Wraythwaite knows it or not, his meeting with Harborough on the moors that particular night was witnessed."
"Capital--capital!" exclaimed Carfax. "By a credible--and creditable--witness?"
"An old woman of exceptional character," answered Brereton, "except that she indulges herself in a little night-poaching now and then."
"Ah, well, we needn't tell that when she goes into the witness-box," said Carfax. "But that's most satisfactory. My dear young lady!" he added, turning to Avice, "your father will be released like--like one o'clock! And then, I think," he went on bustling round on the new Squire of Wraye, "then, my dear, I think Mr. Wraythwaite here----"
"Leave that to me, Carfax," interrupted Mr. Wraythwaite, with a nod at Avice. "I'll tell this young lady all about that myself. In the meantime----"
"Ah, just so!" responded Carfax. "In the meantime, we have something not so interesting or pleasing, but extremely important, to tell Mr. Brereton. Brereton--how are things going? Has any fresh light been thrown on the Kitely murder? Nothing really certain and definite you say? Very well, my dear sir--then you will allow me to throw some light on it!"
So saying, Carfax rose from his chair, quitted the room--and within another minute returned, solemnly escorting the two detectives.
Before the solicitor and his companions could seat themselves at the table whereat the former's preliminary explanation had been made, Mr. Wraythwaite got up and motioned Avice to follow his example.
"Carfax," he said, "there's no need for me to listen to all that you've got to tell Mr. Brereton--I know it already. And I don't think it will particularly interest Miss Harborough at the moment--she'll hear plenty about it later on. She and I will leave you--make your explanations and your arrangements, and we'll join you later on."
He led the way to the door, beckoning Avice to accompany him. But Avice paused and turned to Brereton.
"You feel sure that it is all right now about my father?" she said. "You feel certain? If you do----"
"Yes--absolutely," answered Brereton, who knew what her question meant. "And--we will let him know."