But her next words gave him genuine food for thought.
She stared at the mantel of the fireplace accusingly.

"It's been going through my mind for the last few minutes that no chimney flue runs up this side of the house!" she said.
Bailey stared.

"Then why the fireplace ?" "That's what I'm going to find out!" said the spinster grimly.

She started to rap the mantel, testing it for secret springs.
"Jack! Jack!" It was Dale's voice, low and cautious, coming from the landing of the stairs.
Bailey stepped to the door of the trunk room.
"Come in," he called in reply.

"And shut the door behind you." Dale entered, turning the key in the lock behind her.
"Where are the others ?" "They're still searching the house.