Policemen were on guard at the various gaps in the wall, as no one was allowed to enter.

But the detective, by virtue of his office, walked across the bare expanse with the inspector, and trod under foot the black ashes.

There was nothing to be gained, however, by this inspection.

All that could be seen were the destroyed park and the mound where the house had been.

"What of the cellars ?" asked Jennings.
"Well," said Inspector Twining genially, "I suppose there are cellars, but there's nothing in them.