‘He couldn’t give me a definitive answer regarding any consecrated ground on the land. But he did say the diocesan archives would keep a record. He hopes to have an answer for me by Tuesday at the latest.’

‘I spoke with my dad again after you left. He’s adamant his solicitor told him the land and buildings were deconsecrated before the sale of the convent. He was also told there were no grave sites on the land.’

‘If he’s right, the diocesan archives should confirm it and you can start work again.’

‘I hope it’s right, or my dad might have to move in with me,’ he laughed.

‘Your dad lives there?’

‘Yes, in the old chapel.’

It suddenly dawned on her why she’d thought Nick Durham looked so familiar. His father had to be the man with Bella, the Golden Retriever, who went into the old chapel and returned with an umbrella.

‘Hello? Sergeant Tennison? Are you still there?’ Nick asked.

‘Yes. Sorry, I got distracted,’ she replied, wondering why Nick’s father had never mentioned he was the original developer who had bought the convent and its land. ‘I’ve got to go, Mr Durham, I have some paperwork I need to finish tonight. I’ll ring you as soon as I get a definitive answer from the bishop.’

‘Well, thanks for calling . . . oh, before you go, I spoke with our electrician about your wiring. He said he could have a look at it next Saturday.’

‘That would be great, thank you.’ She tried to sound pleased, but her head was full of unanswered questions about Thomas Durham’s behaviour.

‘There is one other thing . . .’

‘I’ve really got to go, Mr Durham.’

‘Will you . . . have dinner with me tomorrow night?’ he asked.

Jane hesitated. She knew it wouldn’t really be proper.

‘Please say yes. If you don’t, I’ll feel totally rejected and might have to hang myself,’ he pleaded.

‘Go on then,’ she said. ‘I can’t resist your charm anymore. I’ll ring you in the morning for the details.’

‘I’ll book a table for two at the Fantail in Farnborough Village. I think you’ll like it,’ he said.

‘I’m sure I will. Speak to you tomorrow.’ She put the phone down, feeling slightly guilty.

Although she liked Nick Durham, she’d only accepted his dinner invitation to learn more about his father, who she strongly suspected was hiding something. She sat at the dining-room table, opened her notebook, and thought hard about the two occasions she had met Thomas Durham, then started to make some notes.