That wouldn't do--because, according to the evidence, Kitely left his house just before nine o'clock, and he may have been killed immediately.

Supposing Harborough killed him at nine o'clock precisely, Harborough would even then be able to arrive in Norcaster by ten.

What we want to know, in order to fully establish Harborough's innocence is--where was he, what was he doing, from the moment he left his cottage last night until say a quarter past nine, the latest moment at which, according to what the doctor said, the murder could have been committed ?" "Off on one of his poaching expeditions, I suppose," said Bent.
"No--that's not at all likely," answered Brereton.

"There's some very strange mystery about that man, and I'll have to get at the truth of it--in spite of his determined reticence! Bent!--I'm going to see this thing right through! The Norcaster Assizes will be on next month, and of course Harborough will be brought up then.

I shall stop in this neighbourhood and work out the case--it'll do me a lot of good in all sorts of ways--experience--work--the interest in it--and the _kudos_ I shall win if I get my man off--as I will! So I shall unashamedly ask you to give me house-room for that time." "Of course," replied Bent.