After the proceedings were over, Colonel Melrose volunteered to drive Bundle back to Chimneys, and Jimmy Thesiger returned to London.

For all his lighthearted manner, Bundle’s story had impressed him profoundly. He set his lips closely together.

“Ronny, old boy,” he murmured, “I’m going to be up against it. And you’re not here to join in the game.”

Another thought flashed into his mind. Loraine! Was she in danger?

After a minute or two’s hesitation, he went over to the telephone and rang her up.

“It’s me⁠—Jimmy. I thought you’d like to know the result of the inquest. Death by misadventure.”

“Oh, but⁠—”