But how did he come to be hidden in the bedroom, and how
did he kill the old lady before she had time to call out or
even rise, seeing that he had the whole length of the room to
cross before reaching her? And again, the escape of the
assassin at this hour did not explain the ringing of the bell.
Cuthbert was deeply interested, and wondered if the mystery
would ever be solved. "I must see Jennings after all," he
thought as the train steamed into Paddington.
And see Jennings he did, sooner than he expected. That same
evening when he was dressing to go out, a card was brought.
It was inscribed "Miles Jennings." Rather surprised that the
detective should seek him out so promptly, Cuthbert entered
his sitting-room. Jennings, who was standing with his back to
the window, saluted him with a pleasant smile, and spoke to
him as to an equal. Of course he had every right to do so
since he had been at school with Mallow, but somehow the
familiarity irritated Cuthbert.
"Well, Jennings, what is it?"
"I came to ask you a few questions, Mallow."
"About what?"
"About the murder at Rose Cottage."
"But, my dear fellow, I know nothing about it."
"You knew Miss Loach?"
"Yes. I saw her once or twice. But I did not like her."
"She is the aunt of the young lady you are engaged to marry?"
Mallow drew himself up stiffly. "As a matter of fact she is,"
he said with marked coldness. "But I don't see--"
"You will in a minute," said Jennings briskly.
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