When is all this mystery coming to an end, Brereton?
There is one thing dead certain--Harborough isn't guilty in this case.

That is, if Stoner really was killed by the blow they talk of." But Brereton refused to discuss matters that night.

He pleaded fatigue, he had been at it all day long, he said, and his brain was confused and tired and needed rest.

And presently he went off to his room--and when he got there he let out a groan of dismay.

For one thing was imperative--Bent's marriage must not take place while there was the least chance of a terrible charge being suddenly let loose on Cotherstone.
He rose in the morning with his mind made up on the matter.