The theory on which his inquiries had proceeded thus far had failed to produce any results.

His experience warned him to waste no more time on it, and to return to the starting-point of the investigation--in other words, to the letter.

Shifting his point of view, he turned again to Lady Lydiard, and tried his questions in a new direction.
"Mr.Moody mentioned just now," he said, "that your Ladyship was called into the next room before you could seal your letter.

On your return to this room, did you seal the letter ?" "I was busy with the dog," Lady Lydiard answered.

"Isabel Miller was of no use in the boudoir, and I told her to seal it for me." Mr.Troy started.