humble efforts. . . . Admit, like a good fellow, that, had it not been for my assiduousness, the Major would never have been suspected."
Markham nodded slowly.
"And yet, there are some things I don't understand even now. Why, for instance, should he have objected so strenuously to my arresting the Captain?"
Vance wagged his head.
"How deuced obvious you are! Never attempt a crime, my Markham,—you'd be instantly apprehended. I say, can't you see how much more impregnable the Major's position would be if he showed no int'rest in your arrests—if, indeed, he appeared actu'lly to protest against your incarc'ration of a victim. Could he, by any other means, have elim'nated so completely all possible suspicion against himself? Moreover, he knew very well that nothing he could say would swerve you from your course. You're so noble, don't y' know."
"But he did give me the impression once or twice that he thought Miss St. Clair was guilty."
"Ah! There you have a shrewd intelligence taking advantage of an opportunity. The Major unquestionably planned the crime so as to cast suspicion on the Captain. Leacock had publicly threatened his brother in connection with Miss St. Clair; and the lady was about to dine alone with Alvin. When, in the morning, Alvin was found shot with an army Colt, who but the Captain would be suspected? The Major knew the Captain lived alone, and that he would have diff'culty in establishing an alibi. Do you now see how cunning he
