He argued--'So long as I hold that will, nobody and nothing can
make me give it up nor divulge its contents. But I can bind one person
who benefits by it--Miss Mallathorpe, and for the mother's sake I can
keep the daughter quiet!' Well--he hasn't kept the daughter quiet!
She--spoke!
"10. And last--in all such schemes as Pratt's, the schemer invariably
forgets something. Pratt forgot that there might arise what actually has
arisen--inquiry for Parrawhite. The search for Parrawhite is afoot--and
if you want to get at Pratt, it will have to be through what I firmly
believe to be a fact--his murder of Parrawhite and his disposal of
Parrawhite's body.
"That's all, Mr. Eldrick," concluded Byner who had spoken with much
emphasis throughout. "It all seems very clear to me, and," he added,
with a glance at Collingwood, "I think Mr. Collingwood is inclined to
agree with most of what I've said."
"Pretty nearly all--if not all," assented Collingwood. "I think you've
put into clear language precisely what I feel. I don't believe there's a
shadow of doubt that Pratt killed Parrawhite! And we can--and must--get
at him in that way. What do you suggest?" he continued, turning to
Byner. "You have some idea, of course?"
"First of all," answered Byner, "we mustn't arouse any suspicion on
Pratt's part. Let us work behind the screen.
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