At the time of your
arrest on board the Clasper, the evidence against you was
circumstantially complete, and appeared to be conclusive. Further
evidence of an important nature, however, has since been gathered
by Mr. Drever here, and it has brought new light upon the matter.
You are not, I am happy to say, to be formally charged with the
murder of Lothian; but, in the absence of the proper official--the
procurator fiscal--it is necessary that I, as the senior bailie of
Stromness, should make some inquiry into this case, you see. You
will presently be examined with other witnesses, and you will have
an opportunity of, I hope, clearing yourself of whatever suspicion
is still attached to you. Sit down again, Halcro."
Concluding this speech, Mr. Duke rang a little hand bell that was
on the table, and Macfarlane appeared at one of the doors.
"Just send in Jack Paterson and Steenie Barrie," he said; and
presently the two fishermen were ushered in. Paterson, entering
first, touched his forelock to the magistrate, and similarly
saluted Lieutenant Fox.
"Jack, my man," said Mr. Duke, "just let us know what way ye found
auld Colin's body."
Paterson stepped up to the table, twirling his sou'wester round and
round by the brim between his two big hands.
"Weel, ye see, Mr.
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