"I thought
so. Here is what I wrote when the affair was fresh in my mind:--
"'Why were no inquiries made at Stowmarket to learn what, if any,
strangers were in the town on New Year's Eve?
"'Most minute investigations should be pursued with reference to Margaret
Hume-Frazer's friends and associates.
"'Has Fergusson ever been asked if his master received any visitors on the
day of the murder or during the preceding week? If so, who were they?
"What is the precise purpose of the knife attached to the Japanese sword?
It appears to be too small to be used as a dagger. In any case, the sword
scabbard would be an unsuitable place to carry an auxiliary weapon, to
European ideas.'
"Now, I wonder if Fergusson is still at the Hall? The other matters must
wait."
Winter returned about the same time as Hume. Brett and the latter dressed
for dinner, and the adroit detective, not to be beaten, borrowed a
dress-suit from the landlord, after telegraphing to London for his own
clothes.
During the progress of the meal the little party scrupulously refrained
from discussing business, an excellent habit always insisted on by Brett.
They had reached the stage of coffee and cigars when a waiter entered and
whispered something to the police officer.
"'Rabbit Jack' is here," exclaimed Winter.
"Capital! Tell him to wait.
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