The safe has been opened between the hours of ten at night and seven o'clock this morning by--" "By either myself, Colonel Ray, or your Grace," I said.
"I am not sure that I am prepared to admit that," the Duke objected quietly.
"It is inevitable!" I declared.
"Only the very young use that word," the Duke said drily.
"I spoke only of what others must say," I answered.
"It is a _cul de sac_, I admit," the Duke said.

"Nevertheless, Mr.
Ducaine, I am not prepared without consideration to accept your resignation.

I cannot see that our position would be improved in any way, and in my own mind I may add that I hold you absolved from suspicion." I held myself a little more upright.

The Duke spoke without enthusiasm, but with conviction.
"Your Grace is very kind," I answered gratefully, "but there are the others.

They know nothing of me.