sely, speaking for the first time since he had entered
Schmidt's office. He was obviously excited, and excitement is a
powerful foe of good resolutions, with which the moral pavement is
littered in Hungary and elsewhere.
"That does not affect the charge of complicity," said Steingall
thoughtfully. "A man may be an accomplice, though the actual crime is
committed at a time and place when he is far distant. It is possible
for an accomplice to be in Paris, or on the high seas, while a victim
is falling under an assassin's knife in New York. A man, or a number
of men, can even be what I may term unconscious accomplices, in the
sense that their actions and instructions have brought about a crime,
though their intent may have stopped short of actual violence. I
assure you, my lord, the arm of the law reaches far when life is taken,
and the death of a popular and prominent journalist like Mr. Hunter
will be inquired into most searchingly."
The detective spoke so impressively that Lord Valletort eyed him with a
species of misgiving, while Count Vassilan, whose knowledge of English
was excellent, had broken out into a perspiration.
A smooth, mellifluous voice suddenly intervened. Otto Schmidt thought
fit to assume a role for which Lord Valletort was manifestly ill
equipped.
"We seem to be dealing with two items which, though related, by
accident, as it were, yet differ widely. The Earl of Valletort is
interested only in his daughter's marriage, Mr. Steingall."
The detective wheeled round on him.
"Precisely, Mr. Schmidt, but it happens, unfortunately, that the
marriage of Lady Hermione and Mr. Curtis was the direct outcome of the
murder of Mr. Hunter. More than that, Mr. Hunter met his death because
of the plot and counter-plot attending the preliminary arrangements for
her ladyship's marriage. The two events, so far apart in their nature,
thus become indissolubly connected."
"And is that why we are to have the pleasure of seeing Monsieur de
Courtois?"
"Yes."
"Perhaps, before he comes, you will be good enough to give us some
idea, informally of course, as to the statement,--or, shall I say
revelation?--he may make."
"It is asking a good deal of a police official," said Steingall,
smiling pleasantly, "but if I am assured that the discussion will
really be regarded as informal, I am ready to speak quite openly."
"It is a characteristic of yours, Mr. Steingall, which has often
commanded the admirat
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