Yes, undeniably it was the Major's snuff-box, engraved with "S.H.," his initials, in entwined italics.
The two male searchers, regardless of their small-clothes, now plunged knee-deep into the pond.

For an hour they searched it; searched it from end to end; searched it twice over.
No further discovery rewarded them.
Here was evidence--tangible evidence.

Yet of what?
The Major had visited the pond during his hosts' absence at the theatre, and had dropped these two articles into it.

How, if accidentally?
If purposely, why?
The mystery had become a deeper mystery.
A little after midnight the search was abandoned.

Mrs.Basket administered hot brandy-and-water to the two gentlemen, and the household retired to rest--but not to sleep.
At breakfast next morning, before seeking the Chief Constable, Mr.Basket and the Doctor compared notes.