“Because,” I said, “there is a time for everything. Inspector Slack has no sense of humour. He took your words quite seriously, will probably cross-examine Mary, and will get out a warrant for my arrest.”
“Doesn’t he know when a fellow’s ragging?”
“No,” I said, “he does not. He has attained his present position through hard work and zealous attention to duty. That has left him no time for the minor recreations of life.”
“Do you like him, Uncle Len?”
“No,” I said, “I do not. From the first moment I saw him I disliked him intensely. But I have no doubt that he is a highly successful man in his profession.”
“You think he’ll find out who shot old Protheroe?”
“If he doesn’t,” I said, “it will not be for the want of trying.”
Mary appeared and said:
“ Mr. Hawes wants to see you: I’ve put him in the drawing-room, and here’s a note. Waiting for an answer. Verbal will do.”
I tore open the note and read it.
“ Dear Mr. Clement .—I should be so very grateful if you could come and see me this afternoon as early as possible. I am in great trouble and would like your advice.
“Say I will come round in about half an hour,” I said to Mary.
Then I went into the drawing-room to see Hawes.