“I believe you have been watching certain of the servants at Liskeard House—Morgan, I mean, and the butler, Winter.” The superintendent glanced at Inspector Blaikie, who nodded. “You may, or may not, have discovered that the man Winter had a very strong personal cause of quarrel with Mr. Prinsep; quite enough, I think, to be the motive of a serious crime.” The superintendent again looked towards Inspector Blaikie, who very slightly shook his head. Then he said to Thomas, “I think you had better tell us all you know.” “Well, to begin with, the butler had a violent quarrel with Mr. Prinsep a few days before the murder, and was practically given notice to leave. That can be proved by the evidence of the maidservants and of Morgan.” “This is the first I’ve heard of it,” said Joan, “and what’s more, I don’t believe it. Winter is a very old and trusted family servant. I am sure Mr. Prinsep would not have given him notice.” “The maids say that the notice was not quite definite, and that Winter was not sure whether he would have to go or not. He spoke to Morgan about it. But the evidence as to the quarrel is quite decisive.” “I think it’s horrible,” said Joan. “I’m every bit as sure that Winter had nothing to do with it as I am about my stepfather. And what if they did have a quarrel? John—Mr. Prinsep, I mean—was always hot-tempered.” “I have not yet told the inspector what the quarrel was about. It was about the girl Winter was engaged to—a girl down at Fittleworth—the head gardener’s daughter, I believe. I understand that Mr. Prinsep had some relations with her, and Winter objected.” At this Joan suddenly went red all over; but she said nothing. The superintendent, who was watching her, said very quietly, “Do you know this girl, Miss Cowper, and can you throw any light on the incident? I am sorry to ask; but—” he paused for her answer. “Of course I know the girl well; but I would rather not speak of it. I had no idea that she was to be married to Winter.” “Very well, Miss Cowper. I see that you do know, and that there is some truth in the story. Can you say that there is not?” “I prefer not to say anything.” “That will do. I see your point, Mr. Thomas. This certainly provides what we have been seeking—a possible motive for Mr. Prinsep’s murder. But, of course, it is merely a possible indication. There is no evidence against Winter, as far as I am aware.” “That, Mr. Superintendent, is entirely your business. I merely gave you what information I had gathered. Tracking down the criminal is fortunately no concern of mine.” “Quite so. And that is the whole of your information?” “Yes. Apart from that I know no more than you know already.”