on the part of John Blackmore that he should have calculated so cleverly, not only the mental process of the porter, but the erroneous reasoning which every one would base on the porter’s conclusions.  For, since the body was actually Jeffrey’s, and was identified by the porter as that of his tenant, it has been assumed by every one that no question was possible as to the identity of Jeffrey Blackmore and the tenant of New Inn.”

There was a brief silence, and then Marchmont asked: 

“May we take it that we have now heard all the evidence?”

“Yes,” replied Thorndyke.  “That is my case.”

“Have you given information to the police?” Stephen asked eagerly.

“Yes.  As soon as I had obtained the statement of the cabman, Ridley, and felt that I had enough evidence to secure a conviction, I called at Scotland Yard and had an interview with the Assistant Commissioner.  The case is in the hands of Superintendent Miller of the Criminal Investigation Department, a most acute and energetic officer.  I have been expecting to hear that the warrant has been executed, for Mr. Miller is usually very punctilious in keeping me informed of the progress of the cases to which I introduce him.  We shall hear to-morrow, no doubt.”

“And, for the present,” said Marchmont, “the case seems to have passed out of our hands.”

“I shall enter a caveat, all the same,” said Mr. Winwood.

“That doesn’t seem very necessary,” Marchmont objected.  “The evidence that we have heard is amply sufficient to ensure a conviction and there will be plenty more when the police go into the case.  And a conviction on the charges of forgery and murder would, of course, invalidate the second will.”

“I shall enter a caveat, all the same,” repeated Mr. Winwood.

As the two partners showed a disposition to become heated over this question, Thorndyke suggested that they might discuss it at leisure by the light of subsequent events.  Acting on this hint—­for it was now close upon midnight—­our visitors prepared to depart; and were, in fact, just making their way towards the door when the bell rang.  Thorndyke flung open the door, and, as he recognized his visitor, greeted him with evident satisfaction.

“Ha!  Mr. Miller; we were just speaking of you.  These gentlemen are Mr. Stephen Blackmore and his solicitors, Mr. Marchmont and Mr. Winwood.  You know Dr. Jervis, I think.”

The officer bowed to our friends and remarked: 

“I am just in time, it seems.  A few minutes more and I should have missed these gentlemen.  I don’t know what you’ll think of my news.”

“You haven’t let that villain escape, I hope,” Stephen exclaimed.

“Well,” said the Superintendent, “he is out of my hands and yours too; and so is the woman.  Perhaps I had better tell you what has happened.”

“If you would be so kind,” said Thorndyke, motioning the officer to a chair.