And next? He was assaulted, with
murderous intent. Thirdly, he believed himself to be subjected to
constant surveillance. Was this a delusion? It was not. After
failing several times I myself detected someone dogging my
movements last night at the moment I entered Nicol Brinn's
chambers. Nicol Brinn also saw this person.
"In short, Sir Charles was, beyond doubt, at the time of his
death, receiving close attention from some mysterious person or
persons the object of which he believed to be his death. Have I
gone beyond established facts, Innes, thus far?"
"No, Mr. Harley. So far you are on solid ground."
"Good. Leaving out of the question those points which we hope to
clear up when the evidence of Miss Abingdon becomes
available--how did Sir Charles learn that Nicol Brinn knew the
meaning of Fire-Tongue?"
"He may have heard something to that effect in India."
"If this were so he would scarcely have awaited a chance
encounter to prosecute his inquiries, since Nicol Brinn is a
well-known figure in London and Sir Charles had been home for
several years."
"Mr. Brinn may have said something after the accident and before
he was in full possession of his senses which gave Sir Charles a
clue."
"He did not, Innes. I called at the druggist's establishment this
morning. They recalled the incident, of course. Mr. Brinn never
uttered a word until, opening his eyes, he said: 'Hello! Am I
much damaged?'"
Innes smiled discreetly.
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