“If you do not mind—I should be much obliged if you would stay.”
I resumed my seat.
“Certainly, if you wish it,” I murmured, as Slack entered with a brisk regulation tread.
“Good afternoon, madam,” he began.
“Good afternoon, Inspector.”
At this moment, he caught sight of me and scowled. There is no doubt about it, Slack does not like me.
“You have no objection to the vicar’s presence, I hope?”
I suppose that Slack could not very well say he had.
“No‑o,” he said grudgingly. “Though, perhaps, it might be better—”
Mrs. Lestrange paid no attention to the hint.
“What can I do for you, inspector?” she asked.
“It’s this way, madam. Murder of Colonel Protheroe. I’m in charge of the case and making inquiries.”
Mrs. Lestrange nodded.
“Just as a matter of form, I’m asking everyone just where they were yesterday evening between the hours of 6 and 7 p.m. Just as a matter of form, you understand.”
Mrs. Lestrange did not seem in the least discomposed.
“You want to know where I was yesterday evening between six and seven?”