The alley had run between rows of stables in former days when this was
a fashionable quarter, but now these were mostly unoccupied, save for a
few more pretentious ones at the lower end, which were being converted
into garages.

Everywhere were heaps of brick, piles of rain-rotted wood, and
rubbish-heaps.

I took up my burden and placed it at the end of the alley, covering it
roughly with some old burlap bags which lay there. I thought it safe
to assume that the police would look upon the dead man as the victim of
some footpad. It was only remotely possible that suspicion would be
directed against any occupant of any of the houses bordering on the
_cul-de-sac_.

I did not search the dead man's pockets. I cared nothing who he was,
and did not want to know. My sole desire was to acquit Jacqueline of
his death in the world's eyes.

That he had come deservedly by it I was positive. I was her sole
protector now, and I felt a furious resolve that no one should rob me
of her.

The ground was as hard as iron, and I was satisfied that my footsteps
had left no track; there would be snow before morning, and if my feet
had left any traces these would be covered effectively.

Four o'clock was striking while I was climbing back into the room
again. Jacqueline lay on the bed in the same position; she had not
stirred during that hour. While she slept I set about the completion