"From a man who was one of his intimates, and has reformed; and from
having myself been in the aviation field the day of the tragedy."

"You heard Clephane's remark?"

"I did."

"Hum!" said Harleston slowly. "A man of Clephane's habits will accuse
anyone of anything at certain times. As a matter of fact, I wouldn't
blame Mrs. Clephane, nor any other woman, for chucking such a husband
out of the boat. It's contrary to the Acts of Assembly in such cases
made and provided, but it's natural justice and amply justifiable."

"You don't credit it?" Carpenter asked.

"I can't. Moreover, didn't she change instantly her course of life and
disappear from the gay world?"

"I believe that is so."

"And hasn't she remained disappeared?"

Carpenter nodded.

"Then I'm inclined to give her the benefit of the doubt. I'll trust
her, until I've seen something to warrant distrust--bearing in mind,
however, what you have just told me, and the possibility of my being
mistaken. I reckon I can veer quickly enough if--"

The telephone rang. Carpenter picked up the receiver.