“I think that would be my own view,” said Thorndyke, “especially after what you have told me. Do I understand that John Blackmore was the only person who knew that Jeffrey was in residence at New Inn?”

“The only one of his private friends. His bankers knew and so did the officials from whom he drew his pension.”

“Of course he would have to notify his bankers of his change of address.”

“Yes, of course. And apropos of the bank, I may mention that the manager tells me that, of late, they had noticed a slight change in the character of Jeffrey’s signature⁠—I think you will see the reason of the change when you hear the rest of his story. It was very trifling; not more than commonly occurs when a man begins to grow old, especially if there is some failure of eyesight.”

“Was Mr. Jeffrey’s eyesight failing?” asked Thorndyke.