"What is the meaning of that hat ?" A light gossamer hat, gay with flowers, hung on a peg at the side of the room.
"We thought of that," said Edwards, "and we have left it there.

Whoever comes for that hat has had a hand in the mystery.

We think----" But Transome Kent was no longer listening.

He had seized the edge of the billiard table.
"Look, look!" he cried eagerly.

"The clue to the mystery! The positions of the billiard balls! The white ball in the very centre of the table, and the red just standing on the verge of the end pocket! What does it mean, Edwards, what does it mean ?" He had grasped Edwards by the arm and was peering into his face.
"I don't know," said the Inspector.