“Or there may be some very different cause, Mr. Bardle. But your case is far too weak for an arrest. Besides, we have those last words⁠—the ‘Lion’s Mane.’ ”

“I have wondered whether Ian⁠—”

“Yes, I have considered that. If the second word had borne any resemblance to Murdoch⁠—but it did not. He gave it almost in a shriek. I am sure that it was ‘Mane.’ ”

“Have you no alternative, Mr. Holmes?”

“Perhaps I have. But I do not care to discuss it until there is something more solid to discuss.”

“And when will that be?”

“In an hour⁠—possibly less.”

The inspector rubbed his chin and looked at me with dubious eyes.