“I didn’t want Marie to know anything about the business until it was entirely settled and the jewels were in our possession,” said Sorley doggedly, “she never dreamed that I went so frequently to London, for I was often by myself for days, and had my meals alone. When I got the motor bicycle she and the other women more than ever were unable to learn about my movements. Things went on in this way until November last, and I could do nothing with Grison, who was as obstinate as a mule. He then wrote me saying that he wanted to see me on the evening of the thirteenth November, and this time would really make terms. I replied that I would be there at eight o’clock.” “Seven o’clock,” corrected Alan quickly. “Thank you; it was seven, but my memory is not so good as it was, my boy. I went up on my bicycle and saw Grison at the appointed time at Mother Slaig’s. He was as difficult to manage as ever, and I came away about eight, quite angry at my constant failures to get what I desired. I rode back during the night and gained The Monastery as usual. Next day, or rather the day after, I heard through the medium of the newspapers about the murder. Having regard to the time and place and my presence on the spot I saw in what danger I stood, so I held my peace. In one way I fancied that I could not be taxed with the commission of the crime, since I had not the peacock. Then I found it in its old place after the unexpected visit of Miss Grison, and guessed that she had brought it. I guessed also—since I knew that her brother had possessed it—she was setting a trap of some sort. Had I been wise,” he looked frankly at the young men, “I should have told the police at once about the matter; but I saw then, as I see now—and as you, Mr. Latimer, have so plainly set before me that everything was in favor of my guilt.” Dick nodded and pulled his mustache meditatively. “You didn’t improve matter by bolting when Jotty warned you,” he remarked pointedly. “I lost my nerve,” gasped the other man, his pale face becoming still more pale, “and on the impulse of the moment I fled.” “Why did you fly here?” asked Alan, irritated by the problem presented to him as to letting the man go, or handing him over to Inspector Moon. “I have told you twice, my boy; I wish you to help me. Long ago I told you that I believed Louisa Grison was laying a trap for me with that peacock. Now you can see that I was right, and your evidence that I spoke as I did, will help me at the trial.” “At the trial.” Dick looked swiftly at the fugitive. “Then you——” “Yes; I intend to give myself up.” Sorley rose and stood up lean and haggard, yet with something of his old self-assertion, “but before doing so I wish you both to come with me to Thimble Square and see Miss Grison.” “Why?” demanded Fuller, jumping up with an inquiring look. “I desire to face her in your presence, and accuse her of having brought the peacock down to The Monastery to get me into trouble.”