The crime was an affair of the Sahibs and the less they had to do with it the better, until at all events they were sure which way the wind was setting from Government House.

Of their own initiative they knew nothing.

It was thus only by the discovery of Thresk's letter to Captain Ballantyne, which was found crumpled up in a waste-paper basket, that his presence that night in the tent was suspected.
"It is strange," the Inspector grumbled, "that you did not come to us of your own accord when you had missed your boat and tell us what you knew." "I don't think it is strange at all," answered Thresk, "for I am a witness for the defence.

I shall give my evidence when the case for the defence opens." The Inspector was disconcerted and went away.

Thresk's policy had so far succeeded.