‘We understand Roger wasn’t exactly a keen churchgoer. Is that right?’

Peter Tottman smiled again. ‘I think we can safely say he didn’t share the same faith as his wife.’

‘And did that cause any problems among the congregation?’

‘Oh no,’ the Reverend said, with the slightest of laughs. ‘Not in the slightest. Don’t worry, we’re not under the impression that everyone either is or should be a practising Christian.’

‘And do you know of anyone who might’ve had a falling out of some sort with Roger?’

‘Not through the church, no. I understand he was in business. Construction. And he was active on the local council, of course. That’s a surefire way to pick up an odd sort of fan club, I’m sure. But I’m not aware of him falling out with anyone within the local church community. These are good people. Christians.’

‘What can you tell me about Alice Clifton? Is she a good person? A devout Christian?’

‘I’ve known Alice through the church for some time. And yes, she strikes me as a good person.’

‘And what about her relationship status? What’s your understanding of that?’

‘Sorry, I’m not quite sure what it is you’re insinuating.’

‘Are you aware of any — how can I put it — extra-marital exploits on Alice’s part?’

‘I think that’s a question you’d need to put to her, Detective Inspector. I’m not really in the habit of idle gossiping, particularly not about members of my congregation.’

Dexter shuffled awkwardly.

‘I don’t think now’s the time to batten down the hatches,’ Caroline said. ‘This is a murder investigation.’

‘I understand that perfectly well.’

‘Then you can tell me what you know about Alice Clifton and Patrick Walsh, can’t you?’

Peter Tottman looked at her for a few moments before speaking. ‘I’m sorry,’ he said. ‘I’m going to have to ask you to leave.’

14

‘Tell me that didn’t strike you as suspicious,’ Caroline said, as they got into the car and headed back to Oakham.

‘It wasn’t an ideal outcome,’ Dexter said, trying to remain diplomatic as always.

‘You know, I had half a mind to arrest him. I was this close. Then he’d have no choice but to talk. The Police and Criminal Evidence Act doesn’t protect church ministers from spreading social gossip, so far as I understand it.’

‘You wanted to arrest a minister because he didn’t want to get into rumours and hearsay over one of his parishioners?’

‘They aren’t rumours and hearsay. Alice Clifton’s own daughter told us that much. You saw his face when I mentioned Patrick Walsh’s name. There’s something very odd going on there.’

‘Or maybe it just wasn’t the most sensitive line of questioning. Emotions are running high. Religious communities can be quite tight-knit. Perhaps a gentler approach might have worked better.’