The Inspector was a little embarrassed.
"No need to give me away like that," he muttered, as they reached the
hall. "Now then, ladies and gentlemen, if you are ready."
They took their places in the automobile and drove off. As they neared the
vicinity of Gayson Avenue, the Professor began to show signs of renewed
uneasiness. When they drew up at last outside the house, he gave a little
exclamation. His face was grave, almost haggard.
"Mr. Quest," he said, "Inspector French, I deeply regret that I have a
statement to make."
They both turned quickly towards him. The Inspector smiled in a
confidential manner at Laura. It was obvious that he knew what was coming.
"Some years ago," the Professor continued, "I bought this house and made a
present of it to--"
"To whom?" Quest asked quickly.
"To my servant Craig," the Professor admitted with a groan.
Lenora gave a little cry. She turned triumphantly towards the Inspector.
"All recollection as to its locality had escaped me," the Professor
continued sorrowfully. "I remember that it was on the anniversary of his
having been with me for some fifteen years that I decided to show him some
substantial mark of my appreciation. I knew that he was looking for a
domicile for his father and mother, who are since both dead, and I
requested a house agent to send me in a list of suitable residences. This,
alas! was the one I purchased."
Quest glanced around the place.
"I think," he said, "that the Professor's statement now removes any doubt
as to Craig's guilt.
Pages:
148
149
150
151
152
153
154
155
156
157
158
159
160
161
162
163
164
165
166
167
168
169
170
171
172