“—so I was frightened.” Carolyn went on when the musterer was beyond earshot. “You see there had been another scene that morning—yesterday morning. I can’t believe it was only yesterday—my birthday. Hailey brought me my present. Something I said started him off again. We were alone in my sitting-room. Alfie had just gone out. He—he was all thrilled about his party and he kissed me before he went and was rather possessive. I think that upset Hailey. He was angry and then—violently demonstrative. He said he’d got to the end of his tether—all the old things over again only he was so—so vehement. I wish I was better at explaining myself—I am afraid to tell you exactly what he said because then you may not understand how I can be so certain, now, that Hailey is innocent. You will think I am only saying I know he is innocent because there is nothing else left for me to do.”

“Try me,” suggested Alleyn.