There, where the book had fallen, plainly imprinted on the carpet, was a white footprint.

M.Formery and the inspector stared at it.
"It looks like plaster.

How did plaster get here ?" said M.Formery, frowning at it.
"Well, suppose the robbers came from the garden," said the Duke.
"Of course they came from the garden, your Grace.

Where else should they come from ?" said M.Formery, with a touch of impatience in his tone.
"Well, at the end of the garden they're building a house," said the Duke.
"Of course, of course," said M.Formery, taking him up quickly.

"The burglars came here with their boots covered with plaster.