Chandler-Powell said, “From what Dr. Glenister said at the scene, and what I myself observed, no doubt you will be interested in the surgical gloves we keep here. The ones for use while operating are kept in the surgical-supplies room in the operating suite, which is kept locked. Latex gloves are also used by nursing and household staff when necessary and this supply is in the housemaid’s cupboard on the ground floor next to the kitchen. The gloves are bought by the box and one box is open, but none of the gloves, either there or in the operating suite, is checked. They’re disposable items used as necessary and thrown away.”

Kate thought, So anyone at the Manor would know that there were gloves in the housemaid’s cupboard. But no outsider would, unless told in advance. There was no evidence at present that surgical gloves had been used, but they would be the obvious choice for anyone in the know.

Chandler-Powell began folding the map and the plan of the Manor. He said, “I have Miss Gradwyn’s personal file here. There’s information which you may need and which I’ve already given to Chief Inspector Whetstone, the name and address of her mother when she gave a next-of-kin and of her solictor. And there’s one other patient who spent the night here and I think she may be helpful, Mrs. Laura Skeffington. At her request I fitted her in for a minor procedure today, although I’m running down the clinic for the long Christmas break. She was in the room next to Miss Gradwyn and claims she saw lights in the grounds during the night. Not unnaturally she’s anxious to leave, so it would be helpful if you or one of your team could see her first. She has already returned her keys.”

Dalgliesh was tempted to say that this information could well have been given earlier. He said, “Where is Mrs. Skeffington now?”

“In the library with Mrs. Frensham. I thought it wise not to leave Mrs. Skeffington alone. She’s frightened and shocked—that’s to be expected. Obviously she couldn’t stay in her room. And I thought you wouldn’t want anyone on the guest landing, so I put the corridor and lift out of bounds as soon as I was called to the body. Later, on Chief Inspector Whetstone’s telephoned instructions, I sealed the room. Mrs. Frensham has helped Mrs. Skeffington to pack, and she has her suitcases with her, ready to leave. It can’t be too soon for her—or indeed for us.”