The testator was admittedly sane and responsible; and if the will did not give effect to his wishes--which, however, could not be proved--that was due to his own carelessness in drafting the will and not to any unusual circumstances.
And the problem--which Thorndyke seemed to be considering--was how to set aside that will.
I reviewed the statements that I had heard, but turn them about as I would, I could get nothing out of them but confirmation of Mr.
Marchmont's estimate of the case.

One fact that I had noted with some curiosity I again considered; that was Thorndyke's evident desire to inspect Jeffrey Blackmore's chambers.

He had, it is true, shown no eagerness, but I had seen at the time that the questions which he put to Stephen were put, not with any expectation of eliciting information but for the purpose of getting an opportunity to look over the rooms himself.
I was still cogitating on the subject when my colleague returned, followed by the watchful Polton with the tea-tray, and I attacked him forthwith.
"Well, Thorndyke," I said, "I have been thinking about this Blackmore case while you have been gadding about." "And may I take it that the problem is solved ?" "No, I'm hanged if you may.

I can make nothing of it." "Then you are in much the same position as I am." "But, if you can make nothing of it, why did you undertake it ?" "I only undertook to think about it," said Thorndyke.

"I never reject a case off-hand unless it is obviously fishy.