“Very useful things indeed they are, sir,” said Mrs. Hall.

“And I’m very naturally anxious to get on with my inquiries.”

“Of course, sir.”

“My reason for coming to Iping ,” he proceeded, with a certain deliberation of manner, “was⁠ ⁠… a desire for solitude. I do not wish to be disturbed in my work. In addition to my work, an accident⁠—”

“I thought as much,” said Mrs. Hall to herself.