"The outer door was slightly ajar," explained the other suavely. "I pushed it open, as I had an appointment with my friend. I decline to defend myself further, as you seem to suspect me." "Send for the police! Send for the police!" said many voices; and a rough male voice was heard recommending that Prelice--only the voice called him the murderer--should not be allowed to escape. "What nonsense," cried the young man indignantly, raising his voice on hearing so direct an accusation. "I have nothing to do with the matter. I am Lord Prelice, if anyone here knows me." The utterance of a title had a magical effect, and several people began to unmask; amongst these was the aggressive masker who had questioned Prelice. "You can explain to the police," said this man sharply. "Certainly, Captain Jadby." "You know me?" "I saw you in Court to-day, and also in Geddy's Restaurant, Burns Street." Jadby nodded, but did not relax his suspicious manner. "It is strange that you should be here," he said, marching into the room. "Not at all," rejoined Prelice hotly. "I had an appointment to see Mr. Shepworth, and came only a few minutes ago." Jadby took no notice of this speech, but lifted the shaggy red head of the dead man. Apparently he knew who he was, for after a single glance he dropped the heavy head again, and wheeled round with an amazed face. "Steve Agstone," he gasped, "the missing witness!" Prelice also startled, backed against the wall with outstretched hands and open mouth. In a flash he saw how dangerous was the position of the barrister; and indeed many confused voices were muttering as to the guilt of Shepworth. Captain Jadby, letting his eyes fall on the dead man, made himself spokesman for all. "Shepworth murdered him to win the case," he said, nodding. "I ask your pardon, Lord Prelice, for suspecting you." "I would rather you continued to do so," cried Prelice angrily. "It is absurd to think that Shepworth killed this man. Look at him," he pointed to the rigid form in the armchair; "he is incapable of raising a hand." "Miss Chent was also incapable," sneered the captain, "yet----" "She is innocent," stormed Prelice fiercely; "she no more killed her uncle than did Shepworth this witness."