This is a disgrace, and an inconvenience, a nuisance, a----" "That's old Cardlestone," whispered Breton.

"He's always irascible, and I don't suppose we'll get anything out of him.

Mr.Cardlestone," he continued, making his way up to the old gentleman who was now retreating up the stone steps, brandishing an umbrella as ancient as himself.

"I was just coming to see you, sir.

This is Mr.Spargo, a journalist, who is much interested in this murder.