More negative answers. The Deshima watch was structured to protect the troops, as well as to ensure security. Each man had a built-in alibi should any question of wrongdoing arise. A guard exposed his partner’s misdeeds only at the risk of sharing the punishment.

“Do the officers report to you during their rounds?” Sano asked the guardhouse captains, who assented. “At any time during the night, did anyone look like they’d been in a fight? Did they have blood on their clothes or weapons?”

The captains shook their heads. Nirin said, “Just what are you implying?”

Ignoring him, Sano addressed the gatekeepers. “Did you let anyone or anything out the water gates?”

Nirin stood between his men and Sano, feet planted wide, bow held upright like a spear. “We had nothing to do with the murder. We had no reason to kill Spaen, or cover up for the barbarians.” Angry rumbles of agreement came from the guards.

Hand on his sword, Sano stared Nirin down. “There was a storm that night. Did your men really watch over the island as usual—or sit in the guardhouses and stay dry?”

“If you’re accusing us of negligence, then you owe us an apology.” Nirin spat on the floor just far enough away from Sano’s feet not to constitute an open insult. “We’re not layabouts.” Like you Edo folk, said his scornful glance. “Or liars.”

Someone was lying about something, Sano thought. If the Deshima guards had performed their duties properly, they couldn’t have failed to notice a murder taking place. Their collusion seemed a more likely possibility. But Sano saw no immediate way to break the conspiracy of silence.

“Tell me about Director Spaen’s courtesan, Peony.”

Lewd mutters and laughter came from the guards, while Nirin frowned. “Why are you asking us all these questions anyway? We’ve already told your retainer everything.”

“You have?” Sano experienced an unpleasant jolt of surprise. “When was this?”

“Yesterday. He came here when we were outside practicing archery before going on duty.”

“I see.” With difficulty Sano kept his expression neutral. While he’d been inspecting Deshima and questioning the barbarians, Hirata had disobeyed orders again! And he’d told Sano nothing of this illicit investigation. Last night they’d had a quiet dinner together at the mansion before retiring to their separate chambers. Conversation had been stilted; Hirata had seemed uneasy, and now Sano knew why. Angry with himself for not preventing the incident, Sano decided that he must find something to occupy Hirata’s time. Perhaps Hirata could perform the inspection for which they’d come to Nagasaki.

“Well,” Sano said, “tell me anyway.”