The doorbell rang again, and this time, Lindsay ushered in a mutinous-looking Antonis and Ruth, who looked as if she were about to burst into tears. Antonis opened his mouth to say something, but before he could speak, Lindsay offered them both drinks. As she poured their glasses of white wine, Antonis grumbled, “I don’t understand why you asked Ruth and me to come tonight. Jackie killing Alison had nothing to do with us.”

“I explained to Ruth on the phone,” Lindsay sighed. “I have come up with some new evidence about Alison’s murder, and I thought Ruth might be able to cast some light on it, with her having been in the building that afternoon. You know how it is—something that seems perfectly normal at the time can take on an entirely different significance in the light of new evidence. I really appreciate you both coming. Now, if you’d all like to sit down, I’ll give you a brief resumé.”

Antonis frowned, but his curiosity got the better of him and he ushered Ruth toward the sofa. He sat next to her, and Jim joined them. Cordelia chose the armchair facing the door, and Claire sat opposite. Lindsay stationed herself in front of the fire and faced the audience.

“A week ago, Claire asked me to investigate the murder of Alison Maxwell. Ruth, Antonis, I’m sorry I was less than frank with you initially. But I didn’t want to stir up too much attention in case people were put on their guard. I hope you’ll forgive me.” She paused, and took in their reactions. Ruth looked terrified. Antonis was scowling, while a smile played round Cordelia’s lips. Both lawyers gazed intently back at Lindsay.

“I don’t think I need to rehash all the details of Alison’s murder. But I’d just like to remind you all of the timetable on that fatal afternoon. Jackie had been with Alison most of the afternoon. They’d had a row, then they’d kissed and made up in bed. Jackie left about quarter to six because Alison was expecting a visitor. On her way out of the building, she stopped and had a cigarette. She had a lot on her mind and she wanted to be clear about what she was going to say to Claire when she got home.

“At about five to six, Alison’s mother saw Jackie leave the building. Mrs. Maxwell was having problems getting into the building because she couldn’t get any response from her daughter’s entryphone. Eventually, after about ten minutes, someone let her into the block. Some time between five and ten past six, she discovered Alison’s dead body.” Her audience shifted uncomfortably in their seats as she reminded them why they were there.