“Arsenic is an ingredient in Paris Green,” Julia said.
“It’s a vivid emerald,” Tennant added, “so it’s unlikely he ingested the tinted liquid by mistake.”
Eastlake looked stricken. “It’s unfathomable, Inspector. Charles was the last man who would—”
“How well did you know the deceased? Were you friends as well?”
“More social acquaintances, I’d say. Our interests were rather different.” Eastlake smoothed his mustache, squaring his shoulders. “When it comes to art, I’m rather a Philistine, I’m afraid.” Julia thought he sounded proud, not apologetic.
“I’d like to speak to some of his friends and acquaintances,” Tennant said. “Rawlings mentioned he belonged to a club. Which one?”
“That vulgar new one. The Topkapi Club on East Pall Mall.”
“I’ve seen it. I had a drink at the Atheneum and noticed the club’s unusual façade.”
“Indeed?”
Julia heard his surprise and suppressed a smile when Eastlake registered Tennant’s regimental tie and well-cut suit.He’s wondering about a copper who drinks at the Atheneum and dresses like a toff.
Tennant said, “Reports suggest that Mister Allingham was worried of late. Did business concerns weigh on him?”
“Quite the reverse, I’d say.” Eastlake cleared his throat. “Mind you, I’d have given a different answer five years ago. But after Charles took Sidney Allen into partnership, the ship righted itself.”
The door opened, and Mary entered with Sergeant O’Malley. “I persuaded Louisa to rest,” she said.
Eastlake took her hand. “This must be hell for poor Louisa. Appalling. She’s not strong. Not like you, my dear. If there is anything I can do, you must tell me.”
“Of course,” Mary said. She withdrew her hand and returned to her seat by the fireplace.
O’Malley said, “Sir, we’ve searched for the key, but we haven’t got eyes on it. Miss Allingham doesn’t know its whereabouts. Perhaps Mister Eastlake?”
The lawyer looked blankly at O’Malley. “What key?”
“To the chest of drawers in Mister Allingham’s study,” Tennant said. “Any idea, sir?”
“None, I’m afraid.”
“Then Sergeant Armstrong will have to force it,” O’Malley said.
“I insist he calls for a locksmith,” the lawyer said. “There is no need to inflict unnecessary damage on top of everything else.”
“Very well.” Tennant nodded to O’Malley. “The sergeant will see to it.”
Eastlake cleared his throat. “Inspector, is there a reason Scotland Yard is involved?”
Took him long enough,Julia thought.
“Evidence of blackmail has come to light. In a case that ends in suicide, extortion could lead to a charge of manslaughter.”
“Blackmail? Absurd.” Eastlake threw out his chest. “I insist on being present when you open that locked drawer.”
Tennant looked at Mary. “Miss Allingham, is that your wish?”
She nodded.
Julia checked her watch and gathered her things. “Mary, I must leave. But you should follow Mrs. Allingham’s example and rest. I’ll stop back in a few days, shall I?”
“Yes. Please do.” She started to rise, so Julia touched her shoulder to stop her. She leaned over and kissed her cheek.
