Kim said, “And there’s a door from the old pantry through the lean-to conservatory to the garden. That could have been open. Or he could have seen the freezer from the window. Funny, though, him taking an interest like that. It’s only an old freezer. It isn’t even working. It broke in August. D’you remember, Dean? You wanted to use it to store that haunch of venison over the bank holiday and you found it wasn’t working.”

At last something had been achieved. Benton glanced quickly at Kate. Her face was expressionless but he knew that their thoughts marched in step. She asked, “When was it last used as a freezer?”

Dean said, “I can’t remember. No one ever reported that it wasn’t working. We didn’t need it except for bank holidays and when Mr. Chandler-Powell had guests, when it could come in useful. The freezer here is usually plenty big enough.”

Kate and Benton were rising to go. Kate said, “Have you told anyone here about Mr. Boyton’s interest in the freezer?” The Bostocks looked at each other, then vigorously shook their heads. “Then please keep this strictly to yourselves. Don’t discuss the freezer with anyone at the Manor.”

Kimberley, wide-eyed, asked, “Is it important?”

“Probably not, but we don’t yet know what is or could be important. That’s why I want you to say nothing.”

Kim said, “We won’t. Cross my heart and hope to die. Anyway, Mr. Chandler-Powell doesn’t like us to gossip and we never do.”

Kate and Benton had hardly got to their feet and were thanking Dean and Kimberley for the tea and biscuits when Kate’s mobile rang. She listened, acknowledged the call, and said nothing until they were outside. Then she said, “That was AD. We’re to go at once to the Old Police Cottage. Candace Westhall wants to make a statement. She’ll be there in fifteen minutes. It looks as if we may be getting somewhere at last.”

Chapter 11

11