‘Ah yes,’ he said, ‘of course. I remember now. My cousin, Austin Ponson, told me about you. So you fear my uncle’s end might have been suicide? It is a horrible idea, and you won’t mind my saying that I cannot but think you are wrong. He was not at all that kind of man.’ ‘So I am beginning to think, Mr Ponson. But orders are orders. I have been told to investigate and report, and I must do so.’ Cosgrove agreed and they conversed for some time. Tanner asked a good many questions, but without learning anything of interest. Then at last he came to the real object of his visit. Speaking very much as he had done to Austin, he asked Cosgrove to state his own movements on the fatal Wednesday night. Cosgrove, unlike Austin, got on his high horse. ‘Really, Inspector, I think that’s a little too much. Why should I tell you anything of the kind? What has it to do with the affair?’ Tanner could be direct enough when he saw cause. ‘Why this, Mr Ponson,’ he answered, still watching the other keenly. ‘As you must see, the possibility of suicide involves that of murder also. The question I have asked you is asked in such cases as a matter of course to every one interested.’ Cosgrove started slightly at the last words. ‘Interested?’ he repeated. ‘What do you mean by that? Do you think I was interested?’ ‘Mr Ponson, as reasonable men we must both see that you were interested. You will forgive me—I don’t wish to be offensive—but it is common knowledge that you are in low water financially, and that you benefit considerably under the will.’ ‘Good Heavens!’ Ponson cried angrily, ‘and do you actually mean to say you suspect me of _murdering_ Sir William?’ ‘I mean nothing of the kind, Mr Ponson. I only want to justify myself in asking you the question to which you have just objected.’ Cosgrove did not reply. At last Tanner went on in a courteous tone: ‘Obviously, I cannot force you to answer me, Mr Ponson. But it must be clear to you that should you decline you may raise suspicions which, no matter how unfounded, are bound to be unpleasant. Please don’t think I am speaking threateningly. You can see the matter as clearly as I.’ The Inspector’s moderation appeared to bring Cosgrove, to a decision. He moved nervously, and then replied: ‘I suppose you are right, Inspector, and that I have no cause to resent your inquiries. I haven’t the slightest objection to telling you where I was when you explain yourself as you have just done.’ ‘I am much obliged. It will save me a lot of trouble.’ Cosgrove settled himself more comfortably in his arm-chair. ‘I remember that Wednesday night,’ he began, ‘for I did one of the silliest things that night that I have ever been guilty of, and I think I may say without bragging I am usually as wide awake as most people. But I shall tell you.