The Second Confesion

“Of course all I had was a hand glass. With the hair and scalp under a microscope some evidence might be found. I suggested that to the Assistant District Attorney, but he showed no enthusiasm. If there had been an opportunity to snip off a piece I would have brought it home with me, but he didn't take his eyes off me. Now it's too late because they were ready to prepare the body for burial' “Was the skull cracked?” “No. Intact. Apparently the medical examiner had been curious too. The scalp had been peeled back and replaced.” “You couldn't swear that he had probably been knocked down before the car struck him?” “Not ‘probably’. I could swear he had been hit on the head, and that the blow might have been struck while he was still ereot-as far as my examination went.” “Confound it,” Wolfe grumbled. “I hope to simplify matters by forcing those people up there to do some work. You did all you could, Doctor, and I'm grateful.” He turned his head. “Saul, I understand that Archie gave you some money for safe keeping the other evening?” “Yes, sir.” “Have you got it with you?” “Yes, sir.” “Please give it to Doctor Vollmer.” Saul got an envelope from his pocket, took some folded bills from it, and stepped to Vollmer to hand them over.

Doc was puzzled. “What's this for?” he asked Wolfe.

“For this afternoon, sir. I hope it's enough?” “But-I'll send a bill. As usual.” “If you prefer it, certainly. But if you don't mind I wish you'd take my word for it that it is peculiarly fitting to pay you with that money for examining Mr Rony's head in an effort to learn the truth about his death. It pleases my fancy if it doesn't offend yours. Is it enough?” Doc unfolded the bills and took a look. “It's too much.” “Keep it. It should be that money, and all of it.” Doc stuck it in his pocket. “Thanks. Anything to be mysterious.” He picked up his beer glass. “As soon as I finish this, Archie, I'll take a look at your face. I knew you'd try to close in too fast some day.” I replied suitably.

After he had gpne I finally reported for Saul and me. Wolfe leaned back and listened to the end without interrupting. In the middle of it Fred Durkin and Orrie Gather arrived, admitted by Fritz, and I waved them to seats and resumed.