Sir Alan was undoubtedly murdered.

The dagger-like attachment to your Japanese sword had been driven into his breast up to the hilt, actually splitting his heart.

To deliver such a blow, with such a weapon, required uncommon strength and skill.

I think I describe it here as 'un-English.'" Brett referred to his scrap-book.

In spite of himself, he felt all his old interest reawakening in this remarkable crime.
"Yes ?" queried Hume.
The barrister, his lips pursed up and critical, surveyed his concluding notes.
"You were tried at the ensuing Assizes, and the jury disagreed.